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Any tips on how to become a pilot?

I am in 9th grade and I want to know how to become a pilot and get the 3,500 hours to get the license in the NYC area.

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ian’s Answer

Certainly! Becoming a pilot is an exciting journey, and I’m here to guide you through the process. Here are some steps to help you achieve your dream of becoming a pilot in the New York City area:

Start Early: It’s great that you’re already interested in aviation at such a young age! Begin by learning about different types of aircraft, airports, and the basics of flight. Familiarize yourself with aviation terminology and concepts.
Education and Eligibility:
High School: Focus on your studies and maintain good grades. A strong educational foundation is essential.
Age Requirement: You must be at least 16 years old to solo an aircraft and 17 years old to obtain a private pilot certificate.
Medical Certificate: Obtain an FAA medical certificate from an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). This step is crucial before starting flight training1.
Find a Flight School:
Research flight schools in the New York City area. Look for schools that offer private pilot training.
Visit local flight schools and talk to instructors. Find one you enjoy working with and who aligns with your learning style.
Flight Training:
Book a Flight Simulator Lesson: Start with a flight simulator lesson to get a feel for flying.
Discovery Flight: Take a discovery flight with a local flight school. This introductory flight will give you hands-on experience in the cockpit.
Regular Training: Once you’re ready, start regular flight training sessions. Aim to fly 2-3 times per week to build consistency and proficiency.
Private Pilot Certificate Requirements:
Flight Hours: You’ll need a minimum of 40 flight hours, including at least 20 hours of flight training with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight.
Cross-Country Flights: Complete at least 3 hours of cross-country flight training and 5 solo cross-country flights.
Night Flying: Log at least 3 hours of night flight training, including one cross-country flight.
Written Exam: Study for and pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test (written exam).
Checkride (Practical Exam): After meeting the flight hour requirements, take a checkride with an FAA-designated pilot examiner to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
Cost-Efficiency Tips:
Consistency: Flying 2-3 times per week helps retain skills and reduces overall training time.
Study Smart: Use study materials and online resources to prepare for the written exam.
Choose Wisely: Select an experienced and compatible flight instructor to optimize your learning experience.
Remember that becoming a pilot requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for aviation. Keep your eyes on the sky, and best of luck on your journey! 🛩️✈️12.
Thank you comment icon I appreciate this, thank you for the advice. Logan
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Wayne’s Answer

Logan - First off you do not need 3500 hours. Most airlines require a minimum of 1200 to 1500 hours to get an interview. What you will need is a ATP (Airline Transport Pilots) License.
You need a minimum of 40 flight hours to get your private pilots license. In reality it will be closer to 70 hours to get your private pilot license.
One of the first things to do is to see if you qualify for a 1st Class Medical. This medical is good for 6 months and is the medical that is required for an Airline Transport Pilots Rating. A 2nd Class Medical is required for the Commercial Pilots License and is good for 1 year. A 3rd Class Medical is required for the Private Pilots License, and is good for 2 years. With the Medical Certificate, if you have a 1st Class Medical and do not renew it at 6 months - it becomes a 2nd Class Medical and if not renewed at 1 year -it becomes a 3rd Class Medical and expires 2 years after date of original issue.
You need a minimum of 250 flight hours to get your commercial pilots license. Once you get your commercial license you can "fly for hire" and earn money flying.
Most people will get a Flight Instructors License to build their pilot time.
You should have somewhere around $25,000 to $40,000 saved to get your flight instructor rating. You should strive to fly 2-3 times per week. This will keep you current so you do not have to spend a lot of time "relearning" your prior lessons.
Here is a link to an aviation school in the New York area: https://www.aviator.nyc/cost-of-private-pilot-certificate/#:~:text=What%20Factors%20Affect%20the%20Cost,range%20from%20%2412%2C175%20to%20%2432%2C250
The cost of renting an aircraft without the flight instructor is around $150 per hour.
Contact a flight school in your area and visit with them. Most schools have a reduced rate introduction flight lesson which lasts about 1 hour and you get to fly the aircraft.
The other is get a degree and join the military and let them pay for your flight training. Contact a military recruiter in your area and they will explain the requirements.
Best of luck on your journey.
Regards, Wayne
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the help. Logan
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Kimberly’s Answer

Interest in aviation is an exciting opportunity. I would start out reading any books, magazines, and videos to familiarize yourself with everything that goes into it as far as terminology, mechanical parts, and the different types of planes whether it’s commercial, military, or private. I would also start with looking into taking a class from Udemy online. Some are free, but no certification while others have a fee, but you would be “certified” as in, you passed the course, not a license to fly. This will give you a basic foundation and the ability to decide if you really want to pursue aviation before deciding where to take the required classes and how much you’re willing to spend at an accredited college or school. Go over the financial budget with your parents and do a lot of research. Good luck and don’t be afraid to spread your wings.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Logan
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