Pilot training is available on-site at most airports, either through an FAA-certificated (approved) pilot school or through other training providers. An approved school may be able to provide a greater variety of training aids, dedicated facilities, and more flexibility in scheduling. A number of colleges and universities also provide pilot training as a part of their curricula. FAA-approved pilot schools are certificated in accordance with 14 CFR part 141. Commercial pilot training conducted under part 141 requires 190 hours, while training under part 61 requires 250 hours. This difference can save significant time and money.

While smaller flight schools may not find it practical to meet prescribed FAA standards for FAA-approval, many independent flight instructors and individual flight schools still provide high quality training, and offer greater flexibility to adjust lesson content to meet individual student needs. Ultimately you will train to the same FAA standards, and the practical test is the same regardless of whether training was received under part 141 or 61.

Learn more about OGS 141 here. 

Once you have made a preliminary choice of a flight instructor, you need to sit down with your flight instructor and map out a plan.  

1. When and how often you will fly.

2. When you will take the FAA pilot knowledge test.

3. When you should plan to take your FAA practical test.

4. When and how payments will be made for your instruction. 

5. Take and pass your knowledge and practical tests!