FAQ2023-11-14T15:34:01+00:00

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it usually cost to earn a CPL?2025-05-13T21:29:42+00:00

To earn a CPL, you must have accumulated at least 250 total flight hours throughout the PPL, IR, and CPL training.  Thus, the total cost to complete it will vary according to the flight hours you completed during the PPL and IR ratings.  The cost for the CPL generally ranges from $43,000 to $47,000, again depending on the training hours you need to accumulate the hours and achieve proficiency.

Is the training for a CPL more challenging than for a PPL?2025-05-13T21:29:42+00:00

Yes, the CPL training is more advanced and includes complex maneuvers and decision-making skills essential for commercial operations. It prepares you for the demands of professional flying.

How many flight hours do I need to obtain a CPL?2025-05-15T16:21:31+00:00

You must accumulate a minimum number of total flight hours to qualify for a Commercial Pilot License, including specific requirements like night flying and cross-country experience. For more information, see the table on the Commercial Pilot License page, or speak with an AV8 flight instructor.

What does a Commercial Pilot License allow me to do?2025-05-13T21:29:42+00:00

A CPL allows you to be compensated for flying. This means you can work as a pilot in various roles, such as flight instructor, cargo transport pilot, or even airline pilot.

How much does it usually cost to earn an IR?2025-05-13T21:30:04+00:00

The total cost varies by individual, but generally ranges from $18,000 to $20,000, depending on the training hours you need to achieve proficiency.

Does having an IR make me more employable as a pilot?2025-05-13T21:30:05+00:00

Absolutely! Many commercial operators require an Instrument Rating for their pilots, so having one can greatly enhance your job prospects in aviation.

What are the requirements for obtaining an IR?2025-05-15T15:51:35+00:00

To earn an IR, you’ll need a minimum number of hours of cross-country flight time as well as hours of actual or simulated instrument time. You’ll also complete additional ground school focused on IFR operations. See the table on the Instrument Rating page, or an AV8 Flight School instructor for additional information.

Why should I get an Instrument Rating?2025-05-13T21:30:06+00:00

An Instrument Rating allows you to fly in various weather conditions using only instruments for navigation. This significantly enhances safety and opens more flying opportunities.

How much does it usually cost to earn a PPL?2025-05-13T21:30:52+00:00

The total cost varies by individual, but generally ranges from $15,000 to $17,000, depending on the training hours you need to achieve proficiency.

How long does it typically take to earn a PPL?2025-05-13T21:30:52+00:00

The time it takes varies by individual, but generally ranges from a few months to over a year, depending on your schedule and frequency of training sessions.

What are the main requirements to get a PPL?2025-05-15T16:13:10+00:00

To get a PPL, you need to complete a minimum number of flight hours, pass a written knowledge test, and successfully complete a checkride with an FAA examiner. See the table on the PPL page, or an AV8 Flight School instructor for additional information.

What can I do with a Private Pilot License?2025-05-13T21:30:52+00:00

With a PPL, you can fly for personal enjoyment, carry passengers, and operate aircraft in good weather conditions. However, you cannot be compensated for your flying services.

Is there any ground school requirement in Part 61?2025-05-13T21:28:24+00:00

Yes, you must complete ground school instruction covering essential aviation topics, even though the structure is less formal than in Part 141.

How many hours do I need for a Private Pilot License under Part 61?2025-05-13T21:28:25+00:00

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours for a Private Pilot License under Part 61, but many students may log longer hours as they gain experience.

What makes Part 61 different from Part 141?2025-05-13T21:28:25+00:00

Part 61 offers more flexibility in your flight training. Train at your own pace, tailor learning to fit your personal goals and work one-on-one with instructors who adapt lessons to your needs.

Is there financial aid or financing available for the Part 141 program?2025-05-13T21:28:25+00:00

Yes! Here are a few Financial Aid highlights and providers. Learn more quickly and easily by getting in touch with us.

Can I earn college credits while training under Part 141?2025-05-13T21:28:25+00:00

Yes! AV8 Flight School is a Flight Training Affiliate with Liberty University. Contact us for details and get started here.

How many flight hours do I need for a Private Pilot License under Part 141?2025-05-13T21:28:25+00:00

You can obtain a Private Pilot License with as few as 35 flight hours under a Part 141 program, provided you meet all proficiency standards.

What is the Part 141 Training Program?2025-05-13T21:28:25+00:00

The Part 141 Training Program is a structured flight training curriculum approved by the FAA. It follows specific lesson plans and offers a more organized approach to learning, which can help students complete their training more efficiently.

How do I get started?2025-05-13T21:28:25+00:00

It very easy to get started. All you need to do is bring in a US passport or birth certificate. If you’re a permanent resident or under an eligible visa, you just need to gain TSA approval. We can help assist with that process. While not required until you solo, we do recommend everyone to get their aviation medical before begin training. Reach out to us! Our staff will start the process for you of becoming an AV8 student. Try a discovery flight to see if flying is for you. Contact 952-944-2628 to learn more about our school. We can set a time to meet with you in person.

What are the requirements to start flight training?2025-05-13T21:28:25+00:00

To start training at AV8 you will need to obtain an FAA medical certificate and show proof of citizenship with either a passport or birth certificate and a valid driver’s license.

Can I flight train if I am not a US citizen?2025-05-13T21:28:26+00:00

Yes! If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to apply to flight train on fts.tsa.dhs.gov. Please apply to flight train at Hummingbird Aviation. We are still in the process of updating our brand on this website currently.

How do I become an airline pilot?2025-05-13T21:28:26+00:00

To be hired as an airline pilot, you will need 1,500 hours of flight time and your Private, Instrument, and Commercial certificates. During your flight training for these certificates, you will build about 250 hours of flight time. After this training is completed, most pilots choose to become flight instructors to build the rest of their flight time.

Is there an age requirement for your programs?2025-05-13T21:28:26+00:00

You can start training whenever you want. You’ll need to be 16 before you can solo, 17 for your private license, and 17 for your instrument, and 18 for your commercial and other certifications. If you want to get into our University program, you can start the summer after you complete your sophomore year of high school.

How much does flight school cost?2025-05-13T21:28:26+00:00

It depends on the rating you’re pursuing. For a private pilot’s license, it usually costs between $15,000-$16,000. If you want to become a commercial pilot the entire program will cost between $70,000 and $80,000.

How long does flight school take?2025-05-13T21:28:26+00:00

A student who is available to fly 4 to 5 times a week can complete their training in as little as 12 months! The average student who flies 2 to 3 times a week will complete their training in 1 to 2 years.

Is it hard to become a pilot?2025-05-13T21:28:26+00:00

Anyone can become a pilot! Becoming a pilot takes time and dedication, but the reward of flying is unlike any other experience in life.

Is becoming a pilot worth the cost?2025-05-13T21:28:26+00:00

Starting out as an airline pilot the average salary is around $90,000 per year and only goes up from there! If you like the idea of having flight benefits, traveling the world, and being paid very well all while working a maximum of 1,000 hours per year, then I’d say being a pilot is definitely worth it!

Am I required to carry aircraft renter’s insurance?2025-05-13T21:28:26+00:00

While aircraft renters’ insurance may not be required for you as a pilot, it is an important consideration. Learn more about aircraft renters insurance here.

How is payment made?2025-05-13T21:28:27+00:00

All you need to do is deposit funds to your account and maintain a positive balance ongoing. You can pay with a credit card via our scheduling system, or you can drop off a check. Essentially, you put funds into your account and then fly them off. You’ll be permitted to schedule flights as long as your account balance is positive.

Who should I contact with additional questions?2025-05-13T21:28:27+00:00

Please feel to reach out to us at any time 952-944-2628 or info@av8flight.com. We’re more than happy to answer your questions and guide you towards achieving your dreams!

Who should I contact with Air Tour questions?2025-05-13T21:28:27+00:00
How much do pilots earn yearly?2025-05-13T21:28:27+00:00

Pay ranges greatly in aviation but the average commercial pilot makes more than $120,000 per year. Senior pilots have been known to make over $400,000 annually!

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