The Cost of Flight Training

There is no simple answer to the question, “What does flight training cost?” It varies greatly with each student and how often they can train. Knowing how to make the most efficient use of your time and money can substantially lower your overall cost.

Ways to reduce the cost of flight training

1. More than half the cost of flight training is the airplane rental, so it makes sense to focus your money-saving efforts on the airplane. Generally speaking, aircraft with traditional analog gauges are less expensive than those with newer “glass cockpits.” If saving money is a priority, learn to fly with analog gauges, then make the easy transition to glass after you've earned your license. If you are on a budget, take control and don't let yourself be pushed into a more expensive aircraft without good reason. It is your money and your decision.
2. Find a compatible instructor. An ideal instructor loves to teach, and the right one for you will teach each lesson in the way you learn best. Compatible scheduling availability matters too. If you don't feel comfortable after a lesson or two, find another instructor who better suits you.
3. Study! It is amazing how much you can reduce the cost of flight training if you study and show up to each lesson prepared. Review the suggested material and go over the maneuvers in your head before you arrive at the airport.
4. Fly frequently. Ideally you would fly 2 to 3 times per week throughout your training. Realistically, try to fly as often as possible — at least once per week.
5. Take advantage of simulators — both loggable training devices and desktop simulators. They're great for teaching systems, techniques, emergencies, and instrument procedures, and can realistically reduce your overall time and cost.
6. Apply for scholarships. They're available and commonly go unused. AOPA is a great starting point to see just how many and varied these scholarships can be.
7. Join a flying club or flight school with a strong social community. It's one of the best places to meet other pilots and find people to study with.
8. Find a mentor who has already earned their certificate — ideally a pilot who is doing what you want to do in aviation. Their experience and guidance will help you greatly.
9. Work as an intern — aircraft cleaning, front desk dispatch, and so on. You'll learn a lot by being immersed in the flight training environment.
10. Speak with your employer about education benefits. Many companies reimburse employees for training; ask your HR department whether flight training is eligible.
11. Come up with a plan. Sit down with your instructor and build a training plan tailored to your needs. Set goals on your calendar, stick with them, and review about once a month.
12. Use “recycled” training materials. Used books and materials save a lot of money — just make sure you're buying a current edition, since FAA rules change regularly.
13. Consider purchasing your own aircraft. If you're committed to learning to fly, owning an aircraft — and possibly leasing it back to a busy school when you're not using it — can help offset the cost of training.
14. Join AOPA for free as a student pilot, active military member, or AV8RS youth member. Its flight training resources, helpline, and videos can reduce your overall cost of learning to fly.
15. Ride along. Get permission from other students and CFIs to sit in the back seat and learn by observing — without the stress of controlling the aircraft.

The bottom line

Keep the cost of flight training to a minimum by being an advocate for yourself: find a great instructor, fly frequently, use a lower-cost aircraft with traditional gauges, and take advantage of simulators.

What's next?

You'll start by working toward your Private Pilot certificate. For current aircraft rates, see aircraft pricing; to understand what drives cost under Part 61 vs. Part 141, read How Much Does It Really Cost to Become a Pilot?

Additional material recommended but not required

• Ground school materials
• Ground school
• Miscellaneous training items (iPad mini, ForeFlight subscription, etc.)