Discovery Flight Special!
Curious about flying? Get $25 off your introductory Discovery Flight when you mention this offer!
Getting started with flight training is an exciting journey! Below you'll find some information about the process, requirements, and locations where I typically instruct.
Service Area
I primarily instruct out of Samuels Field (KBRY) in Bardstown, KY. However, I am flexible and can often accommodate students at nearby airports, including Bowman Field (KLOU) and Clark Regional (KJVY), generally within about 50 miles of KBRY. Check the map below for locations. Click on an airport marker to inquire about training there. If your preferred airport isn't listed, feel free to contact me to discuss possibilities.
The Process
- Start with a Discovery Flight to experience controlling an airplane firsthand.
- Begin ground school (theory, regulations, weather, navigation) concurrently with flight lessons (maneuvers, takeoffs, landings, etc.).
- Pass a medical exam administered by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
- Pass a pre-solo knowledge test given by your instructor before flying alone.
- Pass the FAA Private Pilot Aeronautical Knowledge Test (written exam).
- Demonstrate your knowledge and skills to an FAA examiner during a practical test (checkride) to earn your certificate.
Requirements
To be eligible for a Private Pilot Certificate (Airplane), you generally need to:
- Be at least 17 years old (or 16 to solo).
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.
- Hold at least a third-class medical certificate.
- Receive required ground and flight training endorsements from an authorized instructor.
- Meet the aeronautical experience requirements (specific flight hours).
- Pass the required knowledge and practical tests.
Planes and Pricing
Flight training is conducted primarily using the following aircraft based at Samuels Field (KBRY), provided through MaxAir, Inc. Both aircraft are IFR certified with modern Garmin avionics and ADS-B In/Out.
Piper Warrior (N5898V)
Rate: $150/hr (wet)
IFR Certified w/ Garmin Avionics & ADS-B In/Out.
Piper Archer (N47544)
Rate: $160/hr (wet)
IFR Certified w/ Garmin Avionics & ADS-B In/Out.
Rates are subject to change. Reduced rates may be available for block time purchases. Please confirm current rates when scheduling. Instruction can also be provided in other suitable aircraft, including your own.
What to Expect
Flight training is a rewarding but demanding process. Scheduling is flexible, typically 1-3 lessons per week, but consistency is key to progress and managing costs. Each lesson usually combines ground instruction (briefings) with flight time. The FAA minimum is 40 flight hours, though the national average is closer to 60-70 hours. Crucially, consistent self-study for ground school topics significantly aids learning and efficient use of instruction time.
Estimated Costs (Private Pilot Certificate)
Below is a streamlined cost breakdown based on the FAA minimum requirements, though your individual experience may vary:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Rental (40-50 hrs) | $6,000 - $7,500 |
| Flight Instruction (40-50 hrs) | $1,600 - $2,500 |
| Ground Instruction (15-20 hrs) | $600 - $1,000 |
| Study Materials & Supplies | $300 - $500 |
| Medical Exam, Knowledge & Practical Tests | $1,000 - $1,300 |
| Total Estimated Range | $9,500 - $12,800 |
These are estimates only. Flying more frequently often leads to better retention and can reduce overall costs. We can discuss a more personalized estimate based on your goals and learning pace.
Practical Flight Training Resources
Essential links and tools to guide you through your flight training:
-
Medical Certification: Getting your medical certificate is a crucial first step.
- Find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) - Locate an authorized doctor near you.
- FAA MedXPress - Submit your application online *before* your AME appointment.
-
Core Knowledge & Regulations: These are the foundational documents.
- Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK) - Covers aerodynamics, systems, weather theory, and more.
- Airplane Flying Handbook (AFH) - Focuses on maneuvers, procedures, and techniques.
- FAR Part 61 - Certification: Pilots, Flight Instructors, and Ground Instructors.
- FAR Part 91 - General Operating and Flight Rules.
- Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) - Official guide to basic flight information and ATC procedures.
-
Testing & Checkride Standards: Know what to expect for your exams.
- Airman Certification Standards (ACS) / Practical Test Standards (PTS) - The official "blueprint" for your checkride.
- Find a Knowledge Testing Center (PSI) - Schedule your FAA written/knowledge exam.
- Consider reputable ground school courses (e.g., Sporty's, King Schools, Gleim - search online) for structured knowledge test prep.
-
Weather & Flight Planning: Essential tools for pre-flight preparation.
- AviationWeather.gov (ADDS) - Comprehensive aviation weather products.
- Leidos Flight Service (1800wxbrief.com) - Official weather briefings and flight plan filing.
- Practice using flight planning tools like ForeFlight, Garmin Pilot, FltPlan.com, or SkyVector.
-
Practice & Proficiency: Supplement your training.
- Home flight simulators (Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane) can help reinforce procedures and concepts (but don't replace instructor-led training).