Become a Private Pilot
Carry more passengers and fly more types with this most versatile pilot’s certificate.
Comparing Pilot Types
There are three basic pathways to becoming a pilot here in the U.S.: You can become a full-blown Private Pilot, you can get there a bit faster and cheaper by becoming a Sport Pilot, or you can fly on your own as an Ultralight Pilot.
Here’s a quick comparison of the restrictions and privileges in each category
|
Private Pilot |
Sport Pilot |
Ultralight |
|
|
Minimum Training Time |
40 hours |
20 houra |
No legal minimum |
|
Passengers |
No limitb |
1 |
0 |
|
Max. Aircraft Speed |
No limitb |
138 mph (120 kts.) |
63 mph (55 kts.) |
|
Max. Aircraft Weight (Land) |
No limitb |
1,320 lbs |
254 lbs |
|
Max. Aircraft Weight (Sea) |
No limitb |
1,430 lbs |
254 lbsd |
|
Fly at Night |
Yes |
No |
No |
|
Instrument Flight |
Yesc |
No |
No |
|
Multiengine Aircraft |
Yesc |
No |
No |
|
Pilot Certificate Required |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Medical Certificate Required |
Yes |
No |
No |
a - Minimum times vary by aircraft type.
b- Larger, higher-powered aircraft may require an additional certification known as an individual type rating.
c - Additional rating required.
d- Excluding floats and safety equipment.
Become a Sport Pilot
Recreational flying for you and a friend, with no medical certificate required.
Become an Ultralight Pilot
Fun flying, low and slow. The simplest and most inexpensive way to fly.