So, you’re thinking about getting your pilot’s license, and now the big question is where to start? There are a lot of options out there, and it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is the best fit for you. That’s why we want to share our story and the factors that helped us pick the right flight school for us. But first, let’s talk about what we prioritized in a flight school.
When we were looking for a flight school, these were the things that were most important to us:
Proximity to home
Pricing and availability
A female instructor with decent availability
Part 61 school over Part 141 school
Checkride pass rates of previous students
Now, it’s important to note that these are what we prioritized, and it may not be the same for everyone. That’s why we encourage you to figure out what your priorities are for a flight school and have questions ready to ask before committing.
Factor 1: Location, Location, Location
One of the biggest priorities for us was finding a school close to home. With our busy schedules, we didn’t want to spend a ton of time on the road. We wanted a school that was a quick and convenient drive away.
Factor 2: Money Matters
Another factor we took into consideration was pricing and availability. We were working full-time while getting our licenses and certifications, so we didn’t have a ton of extra cash to throw around. We wanted to find a school that was affordable and had decent availability, without sacrificing the quality of training.
Factor 3: A Instructor Who Gets Us
Having a female instructor with good availability was also a priority for us. We wanted someone who we felt comfortable with and who could work around our schedules. We didn’t want to have to plan weeks in advance just to get a lesson on the books.
Factor 4: Part 61 or Part 141?
We chose to go with a Part 61 school over a Part 141 school because of our full-time commitments to our own businesses. Part 61 schools offer more flexible scheduling and a personalized training experience, which was important to us. However, it’s important to note that Part 141 schools have a more structured program, which can be beneficial for those who need a set schedule.
Factor 5: Previous Student Success
Finally, we asked about the checkride pass rates of previous students. We wanted to know the school’s success rate and the quality of training they provide. A high pass rate is a good indicator that the school has a solid training program and experienced instructors.
In conclusion, choosing a flight school is a personal journey and depends on your individual needs and priorities. We hope that by sharing our journey, we’ve given you some insight into what to look for when picking the right school for you. The most important thing is to figure out what your priorities are and have questions ready to ask before committing. Good luck, and happy flying!
