Start flying

Private Pilot

Build the foundation for every rating that follows with concentrated ground and flight instruction.

Timeline

As little as 21 days

Estimate from

As low as $9,600

Location

Little Falls, MN

Build my training plan

What this rating includes

The actual training plan.

Published course hours, current estimates, prerequisites, and timing, so you can understand the commitment before you inquire.

40 hours Cessna 172 rental

30 hours dual instruction

10 hours one-on-one ground school

Course option

Accelerated Private Pilot

Published timeline

As little as 21 days

Published estimate

As low as $9,600

Cost breakdown

40 hours Cessna 172 rental at $175/hr: $7,000
30 hours dual instruction at $60/hr: $1,800
10 hours one-on-one ground school at $60/hr: $600
Ground-school course: King Schools $219, Sporty’s $200, or ASA $129
FAA medical estimate: $100

Before you begin

FAA medical is required before solo flight
Written test must be complete before the practical test
Finish the required flight and ground training and receive an instructor endorsement

How the block runs

Your training, step by step.

01
Plan
Share your certificates, hours, and dates.
02
Train
40 hours Cessna 172 rental
03
Train
30 hours dual instruction
04
Train
10 hours one-on-one ground school
05
Checkride
Practical test with an examiner.

Important cost notes

The medical and written test do not need to be complete before training begins.
Examiner fees are additional and aircraft rental is subject to tax.

Travel support

Train here without relocating.

Student housing is available for $30 per night. Student cars are available to residents for $20 per day.

Build my training plan

Questions

Before you call.

What do I need before I start?+

Each course option lists its prerequisites under “Before you begin.” Tell us your current certificates and hours and we’ll confirm your starting point.

Where do I stay while training?+

Student housing is available for $30 per night, and student cars are available to residents for $20 per day.

What can change my timeline?+

Proficiency, weather, aircraft availability, and examiner scheduling all affect completion. Published timelines are planning targets.

How do prepay rates work?+

Prepay aircraft rates apply automatically once your account balance is at least $500.

“There were plenty of options for housing, transportation, and excellent service. I finished my rating and would highly recommend checking them out!”
Brian Pinkney
Build my training plan

Next rating

Instrument Rating

10–14 days

Figures are planning estimates published by Lakes Area Aviation and may change with proficiency, aircraft availability, weather, and examiner scheduling. Prepay aircraft rates require a balance of at least $500.

Your next rating

Build a training plan around your timeline.

Build my training plan