Primary Flight Training
Private Pilot
01
License to Learn
Everyone starts here! A Private Pilot certificate allows individuals to fly for personal and recreational purposes either alone or with passengers. Private pilots cannot be compensated for their flying services but can carry passengers and share the expenses of the flight. The requirements for obtaining a private pilot certificate include a minimum number of flight hours, passing written and practical exams, and meeting medical standards.
A Private Pilot certificate can be earned with a minimum of 40 hours through Part 61 or 35 hours through Part 141. The national average for earning a Private Pilot is 75 hours, however, it all depends on your availability and individual learning process!
Instrument Rating
02
Fly in the Clouds
A pilot's instrument rating is an certification that allows pilots to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR) and in conditions of reduced visibility, relying primarily on cockpit instruments for navigation and aircraft control. An IFR rating is an essential for a career pilot, and a proactive safety measure for recreational pilots!
An instrument rating can be earned with a minimum of 50 hours of cross-country PIC through Part 61 or 35 hours of simulated instrument through Part 141. Much of this time can be logged with a safety pilot or in an approved simulator, making it a more cost effective rating!
Commercial Pilot
03
Get Paid to Fly
A commercial pilot certificate authorizes individuals to fly aircraft for compensation or hire. Commercial pilots can work as flight instructors, charter pilots, aerial photographers, and other aviation-related professions. To obtain a commercial pilot certificate, candidates must meet specific flight experience requirements, pass written and practical exams, and hold a valid medical certificate.
A Commercial Pilot certificate can be earned with a minimum of 250 cumulative hours through Part 61 or 190 hours through Part 141. These hours do include 50 hours of cross country PIC, 10 hours of TAA or complex time, and 10 hours of simulated instrument for those without an Instrument Rating.
Advanced Ratings
04
Level Up Your License
Takeyour flying beyond the basics. Searching for top-notch multi-engine training? Sky Trails is proud to offer Multi-engine Commercial add-on, Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) training, and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification, all hosted in our Diamond DA42.
Aspiring Flight Instructor? Let our experienced instructors mentor you to become a confident, knowledgeable, and market-competitive CFI.
Looking for something beyond the beaten path? Expand your skills with our Tailwheel endorsements, Single-Engine Seaplane ratings, and Mountain Flying courses, and experience aviation from an entirely new perspective.
