Expert: Jeff Davis - 9/27/2005

Question
i am currently a sophmore in high school, and have been interested in flying for quit a while now (about3 years). i would like to know what the requirements are to get my pilots license. also the average price for the license, if i need to join the air force, or any aviation associations to own an airplane without selling my house ;) also about how long will it take to get my license, and if you have any suggestions on aviation achool's arround Los Angeles.
thank you so much for your help  

Answer
According to Allexperts, my first answer disappeared before it was sent, so I'll try to do it over.  First, the regulations require passing a written test, getting a physical exam from an FAA-designated physician who can issue a medical certificate, and at least 40 hours of flight time, of which at least 20 must be solo.  Hardly anyone can achieve the required proficiency in that amount of time, the average is about 60 to 70 hours.  As for the cost, depending upon what kind of airplane you learn in, figure on (ballpark) about $75/hour for solo flight and $100 with an instructor.  If you budget 20 hours of solo and 45 hours of instruction at those prices, it works out to $6,000.  How long it takes will depend on how often you fly; I would recommend trying to fly at least twice a week if you're able.  If you do that, you can figure on being licensed in something between six months and a year.  You have to be 16 to solo (this comes pretty early in the process) and 17 to get your private license.  As for the Air Force, get your license first and consider the military option after college.  The Air Force requires a degree for officer (and flight) training, and they will look favorably upon an applicant who already knows how to fly.  I can't give you advice about whether the Air Force is for you, that is more of a lifestyle decision than a flight training issue.  I'm not sure what you mean by aviation associations, are you talking about flight clubs?  A flight club is a relatively small group that pools its resources to buy one or more airplanes, and then rents to members at favorable rates.  It may be an option after you get your license, ask around at whatever airport you're flying from.  I can't help you with flight schools in the LA area, I'm on the opposite end of the country.  A formal flight school is one of the two primary options for training, the other being an independent instructor or FBO (Fixed Base Operator).  Both have their pros and cons, but I like the latter method, mainly because you're more likely to get an experienced instructor, as opposed to a new one who is building time toward that airline job.  You ask a lot of good questions, good luck with your training.  Ask me more questions when you have them, that's what we're here for.