Program Summary

Getting Started Checklist

Privileges and Limitations

As a Sport 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 or personal travel.
  • Carry one passenger and share the flight expenses equally.
  • Fly in day visual conditions only (generally at least 3 statue miles of visibility, and well clear of clouds).

You may not:

For more information see: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-61#61.315

FAA Training Requirements

  • Minimum 20 hours of flight time, which includes:
    • 5 hours of solo flight time, including one solo cross-country flight of at least 75 nautical miles total distance
    • 15 hours of flight training from an instructor, including 2 hours of training in preparation for the practical test
  • Complete an instructor-administered Pre-Solo Knowledge Test
  • Pass the FAA Sport Pilot Airman Knowledge Test
  • Pass the FAA Sport Pilot Practical Test (includes a knowledge and skills evaluation)

Remember these are just the FAA minimum requirements! Actual flight time to prepare for the practical test varies; the national average is 80 hours according to FAA data.

Even though no simulated instrument training is required by FAA other than to prepare the student for solo cross country, students training for a Sport Pilot certificate at Holladay Aviation will receive the same 3 hours of instrument training as Private Pilot students. Sport Pilot students will also receive some instruction on night flying operations, even though this is not required by FAA.

  • Contact us to schedule your orientation. This may be combined with a Discovery Flight, if you have no previous flight experience. During the orientation your instructor will:

    • Collect your proof of U.S. Citizenship (see below)
    • Complete the online application for your FAA Student Pilot Certificate.
    • Review all Holladay Aviation policies and procedures.
    • Schedule your first flight lesson.

  • Gather proof of U.S. citizenship: unexpired U.S. Passport, or a U.S. birth certificate. We’ll also need a copy of your driver’s license. We are no longer accepting foreign students.

  • Purchase a pilot log book. We recommend this one, which you can order online from a variety of vendors or purchase from our friends at Aircraft General Supply, conveniently located near Craig Airport.

  • Download the ForeFlight app onto your iPad and iPhone. Click here for guidance on selecting a device. If you use an Andriod smartphone and tablet, you will need to download the Garmin Pilot app.

  • Review the Training Guides section of our website.

  • Purchase a headset.

  • Begin flight training.