Expert: David Bidwell - 7/23/2004

Question
I'm interested in going to aviation school and learning to fly private planes. It's been something I've wanted to do for a long time, but I really want to learn more about planes, how they work etc. Can you recommend any books I could read, or any websites to visit? I was also curious as to what age training can begin, and what kind of careers pilots for private planes can have? How long would it take for me to study and get a pilot's license? And how many different types of license are there? Thank you so much for your help, Holly Price

Answer
Hi Holly,
You ask many questions, I'll do my best.
First off, for reading, I strongly recommend "Stick and Rudder" by Wolfgang Langewiesche.  This book is considered the Bible by many.  You may also want to check with the Pilots organization AOPA (www.aopa.org)  They are loaded with info and offer a great magazine called "Flight Training"  They also have links to many sites.  As for careers in flying, you must obtain a commercial license to earn money.  There are basically five license certificates and many, many, different type ratings that can be obtained.  You should start with the private pilot, then instrument and then commercial.  From there you will know enough to decide what, if any ratings ( ex. seaplane, multi-engine etc.) you want to pursue.  The amount of time it takes depends on what you want to achieve.  If you have aspirations of flying for the airlines, you will need a college degree.  I would suggest an aviation college such as Embry-Riddle Aviation University (www.erau.edu) Finally, I suggest that you visit your local airport and talk to a flight instructor there.  They can put you on the right path.
I hope that I was able to help.  Good Luck,
Dave Bidwell