Learn to Fly
The TAEFC operates as an FAA Certified Part 141 Flight School. Students complete their flight training with a TAEFC approved, FAA Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI). The minimum hours to complete training in our curriculum is 35. However, an average person should conservatively anticipate receiving a Private Pilot Certificate in approximately 70* flight hours.
How do I get started?
1. Discovery Flight
A discovery flight is a great way to see and learn the airplane, get a chance to fly, and see if becoming a pilot is something that you would be excited about. Bring this COUPON to the flying club or ask a fellow member to take you flying!
2. Ground School
Completing ground school and passing the written test first will help prepare you for the flight training portion, saving you time and money once in the air. Check the Ground School page for details on materials and upcoming classes.
3. Solo
It’s time to take to the skies! Your instructor will teach you the basics of flying an airplane, how it works and how to control it. Then you will work on landing the airplane and eventually work towards your first big milestone, solo!
4. Private Pilot Checkride
After solo comes cross country flying, more solo practice and then preparing for your checkride. This final pilot exam consists of a ground and flying portion with an FAA examiner. You and your instructor will work to prepare you fully so there are no surprises, making it a breeze to you finally becoming a private pilot!
5. Instrument Rating
Both as a student and private pilot, you will find that those pesky clouds keep you from getting to where you want to go. For those reasons, most start working towards their instrument rating. After ground school and flight training, adding an instrument rating allows you to fly into Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC).
6. Commercial License
Want to take your piloting to the next level and become a master of the airplane? The commercial pilot’s license teaches you skills to master the airplane and enables you to be paid for your services with some limitations.