FAQ'S

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do I have to be to take flight lessons?

You may take flight lessons at any age as long as you are tall enough to reach all of the flight controls. You must be 16 years old to solo and 17 years old to receive your Private Pilot Certificate.

How long does the training take?

That depends on you. If you fly 2-3 times per week, you should be able to complete the Private Pilot Course in 6-7 weeks.

How much does the training cost?

        See our COSTS page for a more detailed description of the costs.

How many times per week should I fly?

We recommend flying 1-2 times per week. Any less than that and your retention level starts to decrease, which could result in having to fly more than necessary to catch up. Any more than 1-2 times per week could result in overloading yourself. We recommend finding a good balance between your work schedule, home schedule, and your training schedule.

Is a Ground School required before I can get my Private Pilot Certificate?

No. You will get the required ground training from your instructor. However, we periodically offer Ground Schools for the students who want the more in-depth training that the Ground School provides. Contact us if you are interested in attending our next Ground School.

What is the difference between part 61 training and part 141 training?

Very little. Part 61 training is what you will find at most flight schools nationwide. Part 141 training is found at most large and more expensive flight colleges and at few local flight schools. FAA regulations dictate the required training that you must receive as well as the prerequisites for the check-ride. Both part 61 and part 141 have the same training requirements. However, part 141 training utilizes a specific criteria and syllabus for the students. In other words, you must do certain lessons in a certain order to complete the training. The advantage of part 61 training is the flexibility that is afforded the student pilot and the instructor to vary the training as needed when issues such as pilot skill or the weather demand some flexibility. The advantage of part 141 training is the availability of financing through a 141 program.

Does Springs Aviation charge club dues or membership dues?

NEVER! We think those charges are a rip-off. Why should we charge you money each and every month if you aren’t flying? Enough said?

What is the difference in training at an airport with a control tower verses an airport without a control tower?

A lot! Meadowlake is a true general aviation airport. We believe it offers the best environment and best value for our students. When you train at an airport with a control tower, you will be immersed in the Air Traffic Control system right away which can be overwhelming for a new student. At Meadowlake, you begin with the basic radio work and then transition later to the towered airport in Colorado Springs. At that point you will get familiar with obtaining ATIS information, talk to Clearance Delivery, Ground Control, the Tower Controller, and Departure Controllers. By the time you are ready to solo, you will be proficient and comfortable talking on the radio.

Absolutely. We are the only flight school in Colorado Springs that offers the lasergrade FAA written test. Call for an appointment.

Can I access the facility after hours?

Sure. As a student or renter, we will explain how it works.

The Introductory Flight is a 30-40 minute flight that is designed to give a prospective student pilot a chance to actually fly the airplane before making the investment in flight training. You will have the controls as much as you like during this flight. We do reserve this flight for non-pilots only.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept Cash, Checks, Visa, and MasterCard, as well as any Gift Certificate you might have. Sorry, but we cannot charge our services to an account.