Buzzard Air Service Flight School
By Appointment Only - Contact us for pricing
The Pathway to becoming a Pilot
1. STUDY and Pass your Written test
2. Learn to fly
3. Take Oral and Flight Test
FAQs
Getting my Private Pilot License
This information is based on "average" industry data. Each person can experience different outcomes.
1. How much does it cost?
Average $10,000-$12,000.
2. How long does it take?
Minimum of 40 hours, average 65-75 hours, flying 2-3 times a week.
3. Is there an age limit?
Minimum of 16 years old to fly solo and 17 years old to take your pilot tests. You can learn to fly at almost any age.
4. What tests do I have to take?
A written, oral and flight test.
5. My friend has a plane, can I log time with them?
If they are a CFI(Certified Flight Instructor), yes, otherwise, no.
6. Are there prerequisites?
You must "be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language." A medical, which is like a doctor's checkup. You must also fill out the "MedXPress" (health survey).
7. What if I have health concerns?
There are waivers for certain health conditions see FAA.gov and flightphysical.com.
8. What's the FAA?
The Federal Aviation Administration is the regulation and oversight agency of aviation. They will grant you your Pilot License.
9. Can I use my personal doctor for the Medical?
If they are a FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). If not, you can find one through www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator.
10. When and where can I fly?
When weather allows at Buzzwick airport W87 Carleton and Custer airport TTF Monroe.
11. Is there financial assistance?
There are scholarships available at AOPA.org and by searching online. Buzzard Air does not offer financial assistance or open accounts.
12. Do I need my own insurance while learning to fly?
Not when flying with an instructor, but before you are the pilot in command i.e. on your own, liability and hull coverage is required. See our office insurance flyer.
13. Do I need a college degree?
No, the FAA does not require a college degree to obtain any Pilot ratings. Why pay over $100k at a college when you can obtain the same ratings at a private flight school for about half the cost and time.
Are you an approved Flight School?
Yes, we are a Michigan Approved Flight School, Part 61.
After obtaining a Pilot License
1. What can you do with a Pilot License? — As a private pilot you have the ability to explore and experience the world. As a professional pilot you have the opportunity to enjoy what you love and be paid for it.
2. How do I become a professional Pilot? — It takes advanced ratings and over a thousand flight hours to become a professional pilot.
3. What are the incomes levels for professional pilots? — $50K-$250K.
4. Where could I find employment? — Airlines, flight schools, government agencies, military, cargo, corporate, aero surveying, banner towing, etc...