The first step in becoming a pilot is to obtain your Private Pilot Certificate (PPL). This journey is challenging, fun, and incredibly rewarding. A Private Pilot Certificate allows you to fly your family and friends to new destinations, bypass traffic, and enjoy weekend trips to the mountains.

Learning to fly combines acquiring aeronautical knowledge, flight proficiency, and flight experience. At Leading Edge Flight Training, our comprehensive Private Pilot Certificate (PPL) program is designed to support you every step of the way. Private Pilot Certificate and Private Pilots License are the same thing. The correct term is Certificate but is also commonly referred to as License.

Private Pilot Certificate Requirements:

• Be at least 17 years of age.

  • May start training and complete the solo requirements once you are 16 years of age.

• Be able to read, speak, and understand the English language.

• Obtain at least a current third-class medical certificate.

• Complete a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, including:

  • 20 hours of flight training with an authorized instructor.

  • 10 hours of solo flight time, including:

    • 5 hours of solo cross-country flight time.

    • One solo cross-country flight of at least 150 nautical miles with full-stop landings at three points, with one segment over 50 NM.

  • 3 hours of cross-country flight training.

  • 3 hours of night flight training, including:

    • One night cross-country flight over 100 nautical miles total distance.

    • 10 takeoffs and 10 full-stop landings at night.

  • 3 hours of flight training by reference to instruments.

  • 3 hours of flight training within the two calendar months prior to the check-ride.

• Pass a 60-question written exam and a practical test with an FAA examiner.

Our program at Leading Edge Flight Training ensures you receive top-tier instruction and ample hands-on experience. You’ll start with ground school, covering topics like aircraft systems, weather theory, and navigation. Your flight training will teach you the fundamentals of flight, including takeoff and landing procedures, flight maneuvers, navigation, and emergency procedures.

Throughout your training, you’ll be guided by certified flight instructors (CFIs), and you’ll also have opportunities for stage checks with different CFIs to ensure you’re progressing optimally. These progress checks are designed to refine your skills and prepare you for the final checkride.

Upon meeting all the requirements and passing the FAA tests, you'll earn your Private Pilot License, opening up a world of opportunities. Whether you aim to fly for leisure or pursue a career as a professional pilot, this certification is your gateway. You can fly for fun or work towards becoming a cargo pilot, corporate pilot, airline pilot, or any other professional role in aviation.

Ready to take the first major leap in your flight training journey? Schedule your Private Pilot Certification course with Leading Edge Flight Training today and embark on a path to the skies!