Private Pilot Training Requirements

Private Pilot Training Alaska

Pilot Requirements

  • There is no minimum age to requirement for flight instruction; however, a student must be at least 16 years of age to solo and at least 17 years of age before he/she can take the FAA Practical Exam.
  • Must be able to proficiently read, speak, write and understand English.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Must pass a 3rd Class Medical Exam.

 

Required Tests

  • Pre-Solo Test
  • FAA Written Exam
  • FAA Oral Exam
  • FAA Practical Exam

Overview



When training for a Private Pilot’s License, the student learns all basic maneuvers pertinent to operating an aircraft. Additionally, students learn aeronautical decision making, communication, FAA rules, weather, aerodynamics, navigation and physiological effects of flight. A Private Pilot’s License is considered a “license to learn” and it gives pilots the opportunity to gain time and experience before applying for higher licenses and ratings.


While flying, Private Pilots may carry passengers and they may fly in all classes of airspace. However, Privates may not fly for hire and if they do not have an Instrument Rating, they may not fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).



Hour Requirements

 

  • Must have at least 40 hours of total flight time.
  • 20 hours of flight time must be with an instructor.
  • Must have 3 hours of cross-country training with an instructor.
  • Must have at least 10 hours of solo flight.
  • Must have 5 hours of solo cross-country time. This will include a cross country flight of at least 150 nautical miles, with full stop landings at 3 airports and with one leg of the flight being at least 50 nautical miles. One of the airports must have an operational control tower where the pilot will perform 3 takeoffs and landings.
  • Must have 3 hours of night flight. This will include a cross country flight of at least 100 nautical miles and 10 take offs and landings.   
  • Must have 3 hours of simulated instrument flight.
  • Must have 3 hours of flight training in preparation for the FAA Practical Exam within 60 days preceding the date of the test.

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