Private Pilot Training

The Private Pilot Certificate, internationally referred to as the Private Pilot License, allows students to obtain the foundational knowledge and skills for all future aircraft pilot training. Earning your private pilot’s license is your first step into the world of flight.

Getting Your Private Pilot License (PPL)

  • Vegas Aviation’s flight training program unlocks a world of opportunities for personal travel, recreational flying, and further certifications in aviation.
  • We provide a structured curriculum to guide you through mastering safe and confident flight operations, step-by-step.
  • Benefit from a dedicated flight training schedule tailored for optimal learning and skill development.
  • Following the attainment of your Private Pilot Certificate, many individuals pursue additional endorsements, ratings, or advanced certifications

Why Choose Vegas Aviation Flight School?

  • Safety First: Your safety is our top priority. We maintain rigorous safety standards and adhere to all FAA regulations to ensure that you receive the highest level of instruction in a safe and supportive environment.
  • Experienced Instructors: Our team of FAA-certified flight instructors brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. They are dedicated to providing personalized instruction tailored to your learning style and pace.
  • State of the Art Facilities: Train in a fleet of aircraft equipped with the latest avionics technology and safety features, including our Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD). This simulator enables aspiring pilots to build confidence, and log hours regardless of the weather.
  • Flexible Scheduling: We understand that everyone has unique commitments and schedules. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your busy lifestyle. Whether you prefer to fly during weekdays or weekends, we’ll work with you to create a customized flight training plan.

Private Pilot License FAQ

  • Age:  Must be at least 17 years old.
  • Language Proficiency:  Proficient in English.
  • Medical Certificate:  Hold a valid FAA-issued medical certificate.
  • Flight Hours:  Log at least 40 hours of flight time*. This includes at least 10 hours of solo flying, five hours of which must be dedicated to cross-country flights.
    *Note: 40 hours is a very ambitious schedule. The national average to complete a PPL  is 70 hours.
  • Knowledge Test:  Pass a written knowledge exam with a grade of at least 70%.
  • Practical Test:  Pass an oral exam and take a practical flying test (known as a check ride) administered by an FAA-designated evaluator.

FAQ: Private Pilot License Costs

1. How much does it cost to obtain a private pilot license (PPL)? The expenses for a private pilot license (PPL) typically range between $15,000 and $20,000.

2. What are the primary expenses associated with obtaining a PPL? Main expenses include flight instruction fees, aircraft rental costs, study materials, examination fees, and medical examination expenses.

3. How can I minimize the costs of getting a PPL? To reduce expenses, consider options like joining flying clubs, applying for scholarships, searching for discounted rates, time-building with other students and efficient studying methods.

4. Are there ongoing expenses once I obtain a PPL? Yes, ongoing costs include aircraft rental, fuel, and periodic medical certificate renewals.

5. Does the type of aircraft used for training impact costs? Yes, the type of aircraft used for training can influence costs, with newer and more complex aircraft generally incurring higher expenses.

6. How long does it take to obtain a PPL, and does duration affect costs? 

7. Can I estimate the total costs of obtaining a PPL beforehand? Yes, flight schools often provide breakdowns of costs to help prospective students estimate expenses.

8. Are there any hidden costs associated with PPL training? Be aware of potential hidden costs such as retesting fees and unexpected medical expenses.

9. Where can I find more information about PPL costs and training? For further details, reach out to flight schools, aviation organizations, and explore online resources.

The national average for students to complete their private pilot training is approximately 70 hours of total flight time. However, it’s important to note that this duration can vary significantly depending on individual factors such as aptitude, learning pace, weather conditions and availability for training.

Alongside loans from private banks and credit unions, Sallie Mae provides loans for aviation school, including flight training. Private flight school finance firms like Stratus Financial are also available. Additionally, some flight schools offer their own financing options or scholarships to aid with training expenses.

No, our flight school welcomes students with any level of experience, from total beginners to those with prior flying experience.
  • These guys have been great to work with for my limited flights. Thanks so much!

    Eric Hill Avatar Eric Hill

    I'm currently doing instrument training, and this school has provided me with such a positive environment I can't wait to see whats to come!

    Aria D Avatar Aria D

    Fantastic flight with Haylee. Great fun and super accommodating CFI. Came out for a trip while I was a student and got to give a private tour of the... read more

    Jason Costa Avatar Jason Costa

    One of the best flight schools in Vegas! Their airplanes are up to date with modern avionics and prices are some of the best in the valley! Plus they have... read more

    Hans Bafna Avatar Hans Bafna

    Great experience, instructor is top notch and the plane was in good condition.

    Ben Cadenbach Avatar Ben Cadenbach

    This was my first ever flight adventure here with Vegas Aviation! Our pilot Alex, who’s an amazing pilot, definitely made it an impeccable experience. While on the flight, we learned... read more

    Alodia Avatar Alodia
  • Went on a couple flights with Vegas to learn the area and flying around Class B. The instructor, Haylee was great! She was knowledgeable, professional and made navigating the... read more

    Pete Avatar Pete

    5 Stars - Amazing Experience from Start to Finish! I had a fantastic experience with my aviation school here in Vegas! From the moment I walked in, everyone was incredibly friendly... read more

    Johnatan Dias Avatar Johnatan Dias

    Discovery flight was an 11/10 experience for me! I showed up early and started throwing a bunch of questions at one of the pilots at the desk, Kevin, and he... read more

    Jaylen Leonard Avatar Jaylen Leonard

    Hablé para tener información y Roxana es muy profesional en atención al cliente pronto estaré con ustedes.

    OG ZS Avatar OG ZS

    This has got to be one of the best flight schools around. There isn’t a single thing I would change!

    Tate Hughes Avatar Tate Hughes

    Airplane🔥

    Zombie Jr Avatar Zombie Jr
  • This is by far the best flight school in Las Vegas. Stand by mechanics, professional staff, and most importantly, PASSIONATE flight instructors. Mitch, Brandon, and Dorian has taught me everything... read more

    Tj Singleton Avatar Tj Singleton

    Love the CFIs and I’m learning a lot here while studying for my private license!

    Zion Byrd Avatar Zion Byrd

    Vegas Aviation is great, and my experience here so far has been amazing. The planes are well maintained and I’ve always felt safe during my lessons. My flight instructor Heather... read more

    Joey Custy Avatar Joey Custy

    Hands down best flight school in Las Vegas. They have the best flight instructors, staff, planes, and service in the industry. I have been working on my private pilot license... read more

    Daniel Miller Avatar Daniel Miller

    After looking into all the fight schools in Vegas, I decided on Vegas Aviation and I am happy with my decision! Adrian is very knowledgeable and a great teacher! Him... read more

    Michael Colley Avatar Michael Colley

    Had an amazing first experience in the sky with Flore. Best instructor I could’ve asked for. Thank you 🙏

    Tybo Launois Avatar Tybo Launois
  • Did a discovery flight and the instructor, Alex, was so friendly, knowledgeable and professional. There’s nowhere else that I know of that you will find a discovery flight for $25.... read more

    Lindsay Keeping Avatar Lindsay Keeping

    Always a great time at vegas aviation. Got my first solo here and the flight instructors are very nice and knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend anyone to fly here. 🤙🏽

    KMaster808 BOT Avatar KMaster808 BOT

    Had an amazing experience with Vegas Aviation. Pricing was more than fair. Instruction was to the point and taught in a fun and simple way to understand. The people at... read more

    Derek Bird Avatar Derek Bird

    Had a great intro flight back in May. I will definitely reach back out to schedule flying lessons once I start with the online training

    Gideon Shalev Avatar Gideon Shalev

    Good day! Getting my pilots license has something that has been on my mind for years, I was inspired by movies, video games, and etc. I just turned 40 years old... read more

    Wesley Wiley Avatar Wesley Wiley

    Deric, my flight instructor, is amazing. The school is incredibly professional.

    Jonathan Baron Avatar Jonathan Baron
  • I’ve moved a couple times because of work and kept up with my flight growing as I did and Vegas Aviation was the best school by far!

    Michael Motta Avatar Michael Motta

    Leo and Loius went above and beyond to get my C206 fixed with short notice. You can feel they care about their customers and they will go the extra mile... read more

    Mathis Riiber Avatar Mathis Riiber

    If you are looking for an amazing CFI check Haylee out! I cannot tell you get level of professionalism and over kind heart is everything anyone could ask for in... read more

    Living Niecey Avatar Living Niecey

    I came to Vegas aviation to complete a multi add on with an accelerated timeline. Every person I interacted with was professional and focused on helping me achieve my goal.... read more

    Lucas Rhea Avatar Lucas Rhea

    Hands down the best flight school in the area! Their flight instructors are experienced, knowledgeable, and truly passionate about aviation. They have a talent for breaking down complex concepts, making... read more

    Lauren Rosen Avatar Lauren Rosen

    Rented a plane here. Process was smooth. Plane was ready and air worthy. Would recommend to anyone looking to rent for a good price!

    Peter Nerveza Avatar Peter Nerveza
  • Vegas Aviation is top notch. I switched over to VA from another school in the valley to finish my PPL and immediately felt right at home. The rates are... read more

    Matt Nissen Avatar Matt Nissen

    Great place great people highly reccomend take an intro flight and discover the wonderful world of general aviation! Had an excellent time going up in one of the beautiful... read more

    Andrew Kushner Avatar Andrew Kushner

    Vegas aviation is simply amazing. Louis and Jennie are the best. They take care of me every time I’m in town. I recommend this flight school to anyone. Check them... read more

    Heidi Nam Avatar Heidi Nam

    Vegas Aviation's team went above and beyond in helping me achieve my goal of becoming a private pilot. This flight school is deeply committed to safety, and they work diligently... read more

    zachary page Avatar zachary page

    I have been to few different school in Vegas, but Vegas Aviation is the best flight school ever. One of the thing I love about Vegas Aviation is that they... read more

    Takemi Matsuda Avatar Takemi Matsuda

    Fantastic service! Had my transponder replaced in a day because the buttons on the old one weren't working, so I couldn't switch out of VFR to pick up VFR Flight... read more

    Ross Modglin Avatar Ross Modglin
  • Amazing experience! Everyone was very welcoming and encouraging. Very professional environment. Luke my flight instructor did an amazing job guiding me through my discovery flight. I look forward to continuing... read more

    Jason Futterer Avatar Jason Futterer

    First time flying on a small aircraft! Great experience, smooth flight overall.

    Kai Fuji Avatar Kai Fuji

    Planes are ok but there is a nice amount of them. I do wish they were newer but that just being picky. Love the instructors a lot and the facility... read more

    Savitar Avatar Savitar

    I enjoyed my flight training experience for my Commercial Multi Add-on with Brandon. I appreciate the quality instruction and great maintenance team! Culture is very welcoming and supportive!

    Glynis Olgado Avatar Glynis Olgado

    Great place! Multiple trainer plains always available to reserve. I am getting my private pilot license here and so far it has been a great experiece. My CFI instructor Adrian... read more

    Zaid Haque Avatar Zaid Haque

    From the moment I walked into VA, I felt welcomed with open arms. The VA team is extremely friendly and professional. And a HUGE shout out to Brad, my flight... read more

    Jonathan Martínez Avatar Jonathan Martínez
  • I took my first discovery flight with Flore who was an amazing instructor. She was thorough throughout the entire flying procedure and I learned so much. Thank you Vegas Aviation... read more

    Matthew Sanchez Avatar Matthew Sanchez

    Student here great school excellent instructors, great environment

    Hunter Rutherford Avatar Hunter Rutherford

    What I think makes Vegas Aviation great is the quality of people they hire. They genuinely care and are there to help. Heather took me on and got me to... read more

    Mark Zinkel Avatar Mark Zinkel

    Adrian was a amazing instructor and he made me feel very comfortable with being behind the yoke, I found a new passion with aviation and I'm excited to learn more.

    Joseph Avatar Joseph

    A great flight school. My instructor, Amber, is very knowledgeable, patient with me, and a joy to fly with. She’s perfectly happy to go at whatever pace I’m comfortable... read more

    Matthew Watson Avatar Matthew Watson

    Great place to learn how to fly!!

    Brad Sh Avatar Brad Sh
  • Awesome experience!! Had a great time on my 1st flight !✈️ everyones nice and helpful and want to see you succeed !

    uii sonoda Avatar uii sonoda

    With out a doubt the best aviation school in Vegas! The team clearly takes pride in what they do! Adrian, takes the time to explain everything as best as... read more

    Egg Avatar Egg

    I had a great experience today with the team at Vegas Avation. Everyone was friendly and made me feel welcome right away. Paniau is the man , he was... read more

    Dominico McIntosh Avatar Dominico McIntosh

    Did the discovery flight with my son for his birthday. Awesome flight. My son got to control the throttle and control the yoke all the way up to the time... read more

    Daniel Isfalt Avatar Daniel Isfalt

    Adrian is a wonderful and very patient flight instructor I highly recommend him for the new students who are seeking a pilot license. He got lots of skills as... read more

    Viable Insurance Avatar Viable Insurance

    I moved here recently and needed to get checked out at a flight school. Initially I chose Vegas Aviation because it seemed the most normal. After a quick and easy... read more

    Mikey Trahan Avatar Mikey Trahan
  • Vegas Aviation has it all. Great planes, awesome training, and the industries best maintenance and repair. They offer pilot training for all levels of students, airplane rentals that are maintained... read more

    Ray Greene Avatar Ray Greene

    I’m not local and need a flight school to help with a one-off instructional flight. I’ve been a CFI for 20 years and have seen a wide variety of flight... read more

    Josh Lorenz Avatar Josh Lorenz

    Flore the instructor was very excellent, instructions quick but clear for someone like me since I'm a combat veteran with similar pace

    Mighty Titan Avatar Mighty Titan

    I highly recommend Vegas aviation flight school to anyone looking to learn flying from scratch or getting another rating. They are flexible and work with your learning needs. Having their... read more

    Jasin B Avatar Jasin B

    Great staff, instructors and maintenance team. Would recommend if anyone is interested in flight training in Vegas 🙌

    Heather Richards Avatar Heather Richards

    I’ve got to say that Vegas aviation is by far the BEST flight school in the valley. I used to train at cactus but after making the switch, I wouldn’t... read more

    Michael Delk Avatar Michael Delk

Ready to Become a Private Pilot?

Achieve your dream of becoming a private pilot.  Our friendly and knowledgeable instructors offer personalized lessons to help you achieve your  goals of becoming a pilot.