Texas Flight Services, Inc.

What does it take to get my license? Have you ever thought to yourself how incredible it would be to fly? Imagine all the destinations, adventures and memories that flying would bring to your life. Once you've tried flying there's simply no other way to travel - high above traffic, direct to the destinations of your choice and without the hassles of airport security lines or surly cabin staff - just pure enjoyment for you and your passengers. If you've ever thought that flying your own plane is something that you'd like to do, we can help you chose the aircraft right for you. Getting your pilot's license is one of the most fun and gratifying achievements in life - and it's easier to do than you think. How long will it take? Getting a private pilot's license requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight training, with a nation-wide average of about 60-70 hours, as well as attendance at ground school. Depending on your schedule, you can get your license in about 3 months, by taking lessons 2-3 times per week - or spread out the learning over a longer time to fit your needs. Weather does play a role, as when you're early in your training, your instructor will only take you up on days that have good weather. For the 'ground school' work - or theoretical aspect of your training, you have multiple options - from self-taught, multi-media courses, to formal classes, to 'cram course' over several weekends - or just plain old independent book study. How much will it cost? As a starting estimate, budget $35 per hour for your flight instructor's time (your 'CFI', in aviation lingo), $500-$1,000 for materials, course and fees, and $100-$175 per hour for aircraft rental, depending on the plane you choose. Adding it all up, you should budget between $7,000-$10,000 for your Private Pilot's license, recognizing that exact figures will vary. We also allow you to pay as you go even though we do offer discounts for 10 hour blocks.