Private Pilot Requirements

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Cessna 35388, pictured at Lewisburg, West Virginia, with its new paint scheme - 2001

The applicant for a private pilot's license (in powered aircraft) must:

       1. Be at least 17 years of age
       2. Be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language.
       3. Hold at least a third class medical certificate.
       4. Pass a computerized knowledge test
       5. Pass a practical test, of oral quizzing, and actual flying.
 

He must demonstrate knowledge of:
 

      1. VFR (Visual Flight Rules) navigation
      2. Weather
      3. Safe and efficient operation of the aircraft
      4. Basic Aerodynamics
      5. Stall and spin awareness
      6. Accident reporting requirements and procedures
 

He must have experience and training:
 

   1. At least 20 hours of instruction from an authorized instructor, and
   2. At least 10 hours of solo flight time.
   3. At least 40 hours total flight time. *

   For more details see FAR 61.102 through 117
 

*   This 40-hour minimum was established many decades ago. Although the minimum number of flight hours required for a Private Pilot certificate has not changed, the addition of other requirements has pushed the average up to 60 to 70 hours, depending on where you get your statistics.
 

    When the forty-hour minimum was established, there was no requirement to learn radio navigation, or communication, night flying, instrument flight, or flying in a radar environment. Here at Eagles' Wings, most students average about 60 hours. One thing is for sure: you will have 50% more useful learning experiences in 60 hours than in 40.
 

Flying is partly knowledge, partly skill, and partly judgment, plus a good measure of self discipline!