Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about learning to fly
Join us in the sky
What are the requirements to get a pilot's license?
There are three basic requirements for learning to fly powered airplanes in
the United States:
1. You must be at least 16 years old to solo an aircraft and 17 years old to
obtain a private pilot's certificate (you may begin training at a younger age).
2. You must pass a third class medical exam (similar to a routine physical check-up).
Click here to find a FAA Medical Examiner in your area.
3. You must be able to read, speak, write and understand English.
As a pilot, you'll be governed by the regulations set up by the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA). The more responsibility you take on as a pilot, the more
stringent the FAA requirements become. For more information on requirements
for specific ratings and certificates, click on Flight Training - Certificates
or Ratings.
Can I go on a flight to see if I like it?
Most likely learning to fly is something you've often thought about and have
wanted to do for a long time. If you have never been in a small aircraft you
are welcome to take a familiarization flight, however, for most people this
is not necessary. The individual consultation that Century offers should fulfill
your interest in flying as well as answer all of your questions. A familiarization
flight is 'fun' but should not be considered a flight lesson. You must be enrolled
in the school to begin learning how to fly and begin "logging" hours
towards your pilot's certificate.
How long does it take to get a pilot’s certificate?
Most people will achieve their private pilot's certificate between 55-65 hours
of flight time. This includes time spent with a flight instructor (dual) and
time spent flying alone (solo). How long the course will take is up to you.
Century Air offers one-on-one instruction so you are able to schedule classes
and flights at your convenience and availability. Usually three to four hours
of flying time per week is a good learning rate and should average a six-month
program for the private pilot applicant. Full time students should be able to
complete the private pilot program in 8-10 weeks and/or the professional program
(private, instrument, commercial and multi-engine) in 6-7 months.
How much does it cost?
Flight training costs will vary from student to student. You should expect to
spend between $8,500 to $9,000 for a legitimate private pilot training program.
If you want to become a career pilot you can expect to spend between $25,000
to $30,000 for a professional program. For additional information regarding
costs for a particular training course, please contact us via e-mail or call
to set up a consultation.
Should I attend an aviation university if I want to be a career pilot?
Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to go to an aviation university
to become a career pilot. It is important to get a four-year degree, however;
it is not a requirement to obtain your degree in aviation. In some situations
it may be more beneficial to obtain your degree outside of aviation, as this
offers you an alternate or secondary career choice.
Do you have student loan programs?
Century is approved to offer students loans through SLM Financial Corporation,
a Sallie Mae Company. You may contact us for additional information
and applications, or you can go to http://www.salliemae.com
to download the information or fill out the application on-line.
Century is also affiliated with Pilot Finance and Keys
Loans for students. For more information on loans programs, please
contact a Century Air representative.
Can I fly jets?
Student pilots must begin training in single engine aircraft and acquire many
hours of flight training and experience before considering training in a jet
aircraft.
What are your rates?
Students must enroll in a training course and pay a course fee. Each course
has a minimum number of required hours (set by the FAA for approved schools),
and an average number of hours for completion. Each course requires a tuition
deposit towards training (usually 1/3 the minimum course cost) before beginning.
The amount of time it takes to complete a flight training course is solely up
to you. There are no guarantees for completion and you must complete each stage
of training and final exams to graduate the course.
Course brochures offer costs for each training course. You may request a brochure
by contacting us (via phone or e-mail), or you may schedule a consultation to
receive a full introduction to the flight training courses including cost and
requirements. Century Air offers hourly aircraft rentals to certificated pilots.
If you are interested in renting specific types of aircraft, please contact
us for information and rental rates.
When are classes starting?
At Century Air you will not attend weekly scheduled ground school. Ground school
requirements are met through audio-visuals, self-study and one-on-one instruction
with your assigned flight instructor. You will personally schedule the ground
classes at your own convenience, whether you are a full or part time student.
Can I fly during the winter months?
It is a misconception that you cannot fly during the winter. Century offers
flight training year round. It is important for pilots to get experience flying
in all seasons and different types of weather environments. During instrument
and advanced training you will have many opportunities to fly in actual conditions
(in the clouds). Although we have many clear flying days in the Northeast, we
are fortunate to experience four seasons of weather allowing us to produce more
experienced pilots.
What are your hours?
Century Air offers flight training seven days per week. One-on-one flight instruction
allows a flexible training schedule which may include early morning, daytime
and late evening hours. Century Air office and dispatch hours are Monday-Friday
between the hours of 8AM-8PM and until 6PM on weekends. Consultations are available
during office hours.
What type of aircraft do you have?
Century Air offers a variety of aircraft for students and renters. Student pilots
will be trained in Cessna 172's and/or Piper aircraft. We have a large fleet
of these aircraft specifically for student training. Additional aircraft types
are available for Commercial and Multi-engine training which include a Cessna
172RG and Piper Twin Comanche. A variety of other aircraft are also available
for rental to school graduates and certificated pilots.
How do I get started?
Contact us to schedule
an appointment for a free consultation. During the consultation you will be
introduced to the training programs, facilities, airplanes and all other aspects
of what makes Century a first rate flight school. You will meet with a school
representative and be able to discuss your aviation goals and have all your
questions answered. Whether you desire to fly for pleasure or for a career,
this is an education into your future.
Consultations may be scheduled 7 days per week.
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