FAQ's
Here's some of the questions we get asked frequently.
Is it hard to learn to fly?
Learning to fly is a fun and fulfilling activity and is a lot easier than you might think. Key traits for success include attention to detail, the ability to not become derailed/discouraged by the constraints (weather cancellations, maintenance, etc.), and to take ownership of the journey.
JWA graduates pilots from all walks of life and wide variety of ages from Young Adults in High School getting their Private Pilot license and heading to an Aviation University to Retirees looking to finally fulfill a life-long dream.
What does it take to get a career in aviation?
There are many paths to a career in aviation! Here is Boeing’s outlook
A common path to the airlines involves multiple ratings – starting with the Private Pilot, Instrument, Commercial, Multi-Engine and often includes a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to aid with time building. Costs and times vary depending on many factors – with accelerated flight training usually being the fastest and most cost-effective path.
How long does it take to get the Private Pilot?
The Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) requires a minimum of 40 hours (30 dual instruction and 10 solo) however this is an extremely rare occurrence. At JWA we are tracking in the 15 – 35 hour range for student solo’s and between 55 - 75 hours for completion.
The amount of time taken to complete the hours is simple math. Each lesson yields about 1.0 to 1.3 hours of flying time – depending on a bunch of factors. If a student flew once a week and took 70 hours to complete it would take them about 18 months to complete.
If that same student came in three times a week the odds are good they would complete in less than 70 hours and in a much shorter timeframe.
How much does it cost to get the Private Pilot?
The Private Pilot price ranges with the number of hours taken flying, in ground lessons, and in CFI hours consumed. We typically see total prices in the $16,000 to $20,000 range for the Private Pilot including test fees and ancillaries. This, of course, varies from student to student.
The total cost of learning is based on many factors – with the unit cost of hours being only one. Other factors, such as a standardized curriculum, performance-based culture, well maintained aircraft and an organized school are equally, if not more, important.
What if I’m scared of heights?
Many pilots are scared of heights (I am!) and love flying. Try a discovery flight - you might surprise yourself!
How old do you have to be to learn to fly?
In the USA to solo a glider you need to be 14, and can get your license at 16! For powered aircraft you can solo at 16, and get your license at 17.
