Frequently Asked Questions
- Where are you located?
- We are located at Carlisle Airport (N94) in Carlisle, PA. It is a privately-owned, 4000' paved general aviation airport with full services available. It is several miles away from downtown Carlisle and in close proximity to I-81.
- What does it cost?
- The Federal Aviation Administration mandates that private pilots have at least 40 hours of flight time in order to take the private pilot checkride. This is split between dual (with an instructor) and solo flight. The total cost is usually in the $8,500 to $10,000 range, though this may vary depending on aptitude, frequency of training, study habits, and other factors.
- What else is involved?
- To earn your pilot's certificate, the FAA requires you to pass three exams. One is a written test consisting of 60 multiple choice questions. Second, you will pass an oral and flight test by a Designated Pilot Examiner The written test may be taken at any time, while the check ride is conducted at the conclusion of training.
- About halfway through your training, you will also take an open-book pre-solo exam given by your instructor.
- What kind of airplane do you operate?
- We currently have a 1976 Piper Warrior (160 HP). This is a safe and cost-effective training aircraft that has extremely docile flying characteristics. It will allow you to experience flight training in a stable and forgiving platform. It is outfitted with ADS-B In/Out, which greatly increases safety of flight.
- What materials will I need to purchase to get started?
- We recommend the following textbooks. You can purchase them from us, on Amazon, or download several for free as pdf's online:
- The Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
- The Airplane Flying Handbook
- FAR/AIM (most recent year)
- You may want to purchase an E-6B flight computer, sectional plotter, and headset. You will also want to consider purchasing a recent model iPad if you do not already have one.
- What is the process? How do I schedule?
- Once you contact us, we will determine your needs and set up an orientation with an instructor. Your instructor will schedule your first few flights. After that, you will be given a username and password on our scheduling program and can schedule your own flights from there.