Pilot Training Opportunities

Learn to Fly – The Private Pilot Certification

For many individuals a private pilot license is ideal as both a starting point and end game as it affords the holder the opportunity to fly family and friends. As a private pilot you may elect to rent an aircraft. purchase an aircraft, or join a “flying club.”

Certification Requirements and Cost:

  • Minimum age to fly – we suggest a minimum age of 15
  • Minimum age to fly solo – 16
  • Minimum age for Private Pilot Certificate – 17
  • Minimum flight hours required for Private Pilot Certificate – 40 (Most achieve their PPL around 60-75 hours)
  • Hourly instructor rate – $75
  • Hourly plane rental rate – $175 (includes fuel)
  • Timeframe to achieve Private Pilot Certificate – 2-8 months
  • Full list of requirements are listed under FAA Part 61.103
  • Total cost – $8,000-$12,000

Green Mountain Flight Training believes in teaching where students receive straightforward feedback and an honest appraisal of skills. It sets us apart from other schools. We strive for each and every student to comfortably and confidently reach their personal aviation goals.

Instrument Rating

An instrument-rated pilot is not limited by weather. Because instrument flight training involves learning to control and navigate an aircraft solely by reference to the flight and navigation instruments, students learn an array of advanced skills. While following “instrument flight rules” (IFR) this training affords greater insight into the air traffic control system while acquiring the skills to pilot an airplane without being able to see outside! It’s challenging. It’s rewarding. It opens new doors to adventure. Please note that some of the requirements for an Instrument Rating may be carried over from training from the Private Pilot Certificate, including simulated instrument flight time, and Pilot in Command cross country time.

Rating Requirements and Costs:

  • Private Pilot or Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • Minimum age – 17
  • Minimum flight hours required for Instrument Rating:
    • 50 hours Pilot in Command cross-country time
    • 40 hours actual or simulated instrument flight time
    • 15 hours of instrument flight training
  • Hourly instructor rate – $75
  • Hourly plane rental rate – $175 (includes fuel)
  • Timeframe to achieve Instrument Rating – 4-6 months
  • Total cost – $8,000-$12,000
  • Full list of requirements are listed under FAA Part 61.65

Commercial Pilot Certification

Want to get paid to fly? Then Commercial Pilot Rating is for you! However, the opportunity to become gainfully employed in aviation – whether towing banners or working for a regional or national airline – is not the sole reason to become a commercial pilot! Commercial Pilot training involves a tightening of flying skills, and a strengthening of aeronautical knowledge. In addition, the commercial license is a required credential for those interested in becoming a flight instructor, working as a ferry pilot, or serving as a professional aviator.

Certification Requirements and Costs:

  • Private Pilot Certificate
  • Minimum age – 17
  • Minimum flight hours required for Commercial Certificate:
    • 250 total flight hours, including…
    • 100 hours Pilot in Command
    • 50 hours cross country
    • 20 hours flight instruction
    • 10 hours of instrument flight training (waived if Instrument Rated)
  • Hourly instructor rate – $75
  • Hourly plane rental rate – $175 (includes fuel)
  • Timeframe to achieve Commercial Certificate – 4-6 months
  • Total cost – $12,000-$14,000
  • Full list of requirements are listed under FAA Part 61.129