Sport Pilot

Affordable Flying Available Now 

Recently the Federal Aviation Administration created a new category of pilot called the Sport Pilot.  This initiative has dramatically reduced the cost of learning to fly.  Sport Pilot certificates require as little as 20 hours of instruction from an FAA certified flight instructor.  The holder of a sport pilot license may fly a light sport aircraft (a 2 place aircraft weighing less than 1320 lbs) unlimited distances within the United States , in good weather, during daylight hours.

Along with the new pilot rules, the FAA created a new category of aircraft called the Special Light Sport Aircraft (SLSA).  These new airplanes offer brand new aircraft with modern technology for far less than the traditional certificated aircraft (Cessna, Piper, etc.)  Plus, they cost far less to operate. 

In addition to new sport pilot candidates, this new Sport Pilot License is available to current and former pilots who have not had their medical denied.   

How much does it cost to become a Sport Pilot?

The FAA requires 20 hours of flight training (15 hours dual with an instructor and 5 hours solo) prior to taking what’s called a check ride – your final exam.  Each individual learns differently and at a different pace, however flying consistently (two or three times per week) and diligently studying your written material, should keep your costs to a minimum.    

The cost of a full sport pilot course for a student who progresses through the course in the minimum time is approximately $3,495 (SportPlanesFlorida.com pre-paid block program). This includes both the cost of aircraft rental and hiring your instructor. This is tremendous savings when compared to the typical $8,000 -$12,000 required for a private pilot certificate at most flight schools.

 What are the basic "qualifications"?

The fundamental qualifications for becoming a sport pilot are quite simple. Remember, the main idea behind the sport pilot movement is to open up the exciting world of recreational aviation to many more enthusiasts. We love aviation and want to share that joy with you and many others!

Accordingly, the qualifications are modest:

• At least 17 years of age

• Valid state driver's license

• Proficient in the English language

• Be able to affirm general good health and not using substances or medications that impede judgment, cognition, or motor skills

 What do I need to start my flight training?

A desire to learn and a driver’s license
For the most part, you can show up for your first flight lesson with nothing but a primed eagerness to enjoy an exhilarating experience! The airplane and fuel are included in your price of instruction, so all you need are yourself, your learning skills, and your desire for FUN!

Just bring your valid state driver's license and get started!

 Once I’ve learned to fly, where can I fly?

Once you've achieved your sport pilot certificate, you'll likely find yourself exploiting every possible opportunity to get out and FLY!

You might plan an ambitious coast-to-coast trip, hopping your way across the country through clear-weather routes. Maybe you'll fly away with a friend for a weekend getaway or spend a few hours practicing at the local airport. Or maybe you’ll take in scenic vistas from above. Whatever the plan -- however simple or grandiose -- it will center on enjoying the world from a different perspective, and feeling the exhilaration, freedom, and satisfaction of flying an aircraft yourself.