Learn to Fly at Skypark

What Does It Take to Learn to Fly?

People 16 to 60 have learned to fly here at Skypark. Men or women, young or old, it does not matter. If you want to learn to fly, Skypark is the place for you. Your training will be divided into flying the aircraft and ground training to learn the basics behind how airplanes fly. Over the years our instructors have found that starting with the flying and then adding in the ground training when appropriate is the quickest and easiest way to learn to fly. Let’s take a quick look at how your training will proceed starting with the ground training.

There are certain fundamentals that you will learn in your ground training such as how an airplane flies and the basics of flying. As your ground training progresses you will study the “rules of the road” that define the safe operating procedures of all aircraft, weather basics, and navigation. Don’t worry if it’s been a while since you’ve been in school, your instructor will be there to assist you every step of the way.

How Much Time Does It Take?

The minimum time required for a private pilot license is 40 hours. Most students will need a little bit more time to hone their flying skills. Here at Skypark, we find that 40-60 hours is a more realistic time frame in which to complete the training for a private pilot’s license. Our instructors don’t just train you to the minimum levels of ability. It’s the goal of our flight school to train you to a higher level of ability, ensuring that you are a safe, capable, and confident pilot.

How Often Should I Fly?

As a student, you’ll find that the more times per week you can fly, the quicker you’ll receive your license. We find that flying 2-3 times per week is optimal. This allows you to rapidly build your piloting skills and lets you complete your license in around 6 months.

“But, what if I can only fly on weekends?” Don’t worry, our flight instructors will work around your schedule. We have an instructor to fit your particular schedule and learning needs.

Flight Training Phases

Pre-Solo:

• Preparing the aircraft for flight
• Maneuvering the aircraft on the ground
• Takeoffs
• Turning the aircraft
• Climbs and descents
• Landing the aircraft

Solo:

The first time you take to the air by yourself is an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Throughout the solo phase of your training you’ll be flying the aircraft by yourself. Initially you will practice solo take off and landings at our airport under the watchful eyes of your instructor. Later you’ll solo to nearby airports and practice on your own. The goal is to build your confidence and continue to hone your flying skills.

• Supervised solo flights at Skypark
• Flying solo in our practice area
• Flying to nearby airports and returning to Skypark

Cross Country:

• Dual cross countries that develop your navigational skills
• Solo cross countries that hone these skills and build your confidence

Night Flying:

• Night takeoffs and landings
• Night cross country

Check Ride Prep:

• Reviewing and polishing all of the skills that you’ve learned