Program Summary

Getting Started Checklist

Privileges and Limitations

As a Private Pilot, you may:

  • Act as pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft for which you are rated. If you rent our aircraft, this will include those aircraft for which you have completed a rental checkout.
  • Fly for pleasure, personal travel, or business travel.
  • Carry passengers and share the flight expenses equally.
  • Fly day or night in visual meteorological conditions (generally at least 3 statue miles of visibility, and well clear of clouds).

You may not:

  • Carry passengers for compensation or hire (requires a Commercial Pilot certificate).
  • Fly in instrument meteorological conditions (requires an Instrument Rating).

FAA Training Requirements

  • Minimum 40 hours of flight time, which includes:
    • 10 hours of solo flight time, including:
      • 5 hours of solo cross-country flight time
    • 20 hours of flight training from an instructor, including:
      • 3 hours of instrument flight training
      • 3 hours of night flight training
      • 3 hours of training in preparation for the FAA Private Pilot Practical Test
  • Complete an instructor-administered Pre-Solo Knowledge Test
  • Pass the FAA Private Pilot Airman Knowledge Test
  • Pass the FAA Private Pilot Practical Test (includes a knowledge and skills evaluation)

  • Register for an account on our scheduling and billing system, Flight Circle.

  • Gather proof of U.S. citizenship: unexpired U.S. Passport, or a U.S. birth certificate. If you are not a citizen, you must submit an application to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and obtain authorization to train. We’ll also need a copy of your driver’s license.

  • Download the ForeFlight app onto your iPad and iPhone. Click here for guidance on selecting a device.

  • Download and review our Private Pilot Syllabus and Pre-Solo Knowledge Test.

  • Download and review the latest version of the FAA Airman Certification Standards.

  • Purchase the Sporty’s Private Pilot Learn To Fly course.

  • Schedule your orientation session. All orientations are conducted and billed as regular ground instruction. During the orientation your instructor will:

    • Collect your proof of U.S. Citizenship (or, if you are not a citizen, review and make copies of your passport and VISA)
    • Complete the online application for your FAA Student Pilot Certificate.
    • Review all Holladay Aviation policies and procedures.
    • Schedule your first flight lesson.

  • Schedule an appointment with a FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for a Third Class medical certificate. You do not need this certificate to begin training, but it is required to complete the training program.

    • If your goal is to earn a Commercial Pilot certificate and seek employment as a pilot, you should seek a First Class medical certificate.

  • Begin flight training.