Sport Pilot

Earning your Sport Pilot certificate opens up a world of adventure! As a Sport Pilot you will be able to explore the United States under blue skies. Training to be a sport pilot is a combination of aeronautical knowledge and experience and consists of learning how to maneuver and control the airplane during takeoff and landing, fly long distances to other airports, and communicate with Air Traffic Control (ATC). Lessons are generally two hours long and consist of both flight time and ground instruction. Our instructors will teach you everything you need to be a safe and confident pilot.

Requirements

Summary Requirements for Sport Pilot Certificate

  • At least 17 years of age

  • Third class medical certificate or a valid driver’s license

  • FAA written test (passing grade is 70)

  • FAA practical (oral and flight) exam

  • Flight training as listed below:

Flight Hour Requirements for Sport Pilot Certificate:
(All times are the FAA Part 61 minimums, expect more like 30-40 hours)

At least 20 hours total flight time that includes:

At least 15 hours flight training (dual) that includes:

  1. At least 2 hours cross-country flight training in a single engine airplane

  2. 10 takeoffs and landings to full stop

  3. At least 2 hours flight training in a single engine airplane within 2 calendar months preceding the practical exam

At least 5 hours solo flight time in single engine airplane that includes:

  1. One solo cross-country flight of at least 75 nautical miles total distance, with a full stop landing at a minimum of two points and one segment of the flight consisting of a straight-line distance of at least 25 nautical miles between the takeoff and landing locations

Estimated hours and costs for completion:

  • Total flight hours on sport pilot curriculum: approximately 30-40 flight hours including about 20-25 hours dual and 10-15 hours solo

  • Total ground lesson hours (no FAA minimum): 20-25 hours dual

  • Supplies: $1,000

  • Examiner’s fee: $1,000

  • Total cost on sport pilot curriculum (includes airplane rental and dual instruction) - approximately $7,000 -$10,000 depending on aircraft used