Expert: Jeff Davis - 3/2/2005

Question
I am interested in getting a pilot license but I have no clue where to begin. I have no training what so ever. Is there any credible areas that I can research that will give me proper guidence on exactly what I need to do and everything that it will require. Thank you for your time.

Answer
The AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) has an excellent site at www.AOPA.org.  The home page has a link called Learn To Fly that contains all of the basic information a prospective pilot would need.  Browse through it to get some idea of what's required, then go down to the local airport (one that airlines don't serve) and ask somebody the same thing you asked me.  Most aviation people LOVE to talk about what they know, and telling a group of them that you want to learn about flying is like tossing bread into a pond full of bream.  That will get you a lot of information, but be cautious, pilots also have a habit of spreading misinformation.  Finally, after you've checked the AOPA site and questioned the locals, write back to me with specific questions that you're not sure about, and I'll give you the straight scoop.  Good luck!