Frequently Asked Questions

Can I learn how to fly?

Absolutely YES! Of course you can learn how to fly!

How old do I have to be to take flying lessons?

Student pilots succeed best when they are highly motivated themselves to take lessons. We recommend starting at or after age 15. A student pilot may not solo until they are 16 years old - to begin much earlier than 15 may be frustrating for the student pilot who has to wait until they reach their 16th birthday to take their solo flight. The minimum age to receive your Private Pilot's License is 17. We highly encourage interest in aviation in youth! We invite you to take an introductory ride, visit our hangar to check out the airplanes, and talk with us and your instructors about your interest in flying at any age.

What are the steps to getting a pilot’s license?

To obtain a pilot's license you will have to pass an FAA flight physical, apply for a student pilot certificate, take a written test, complete your flight lessons, and take an oral exam and a practical flying exam.

What documentation do I need to begin my lessons?

For U.S. citizens, you will need a proof of citizenship document, either a current U.S. Passport, or an original Birth Certificate AND a government issued photo ID.   If you are not a U.S. Citizen you will have to register with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to obtain authorization. We can provide you with information to assist you or you can visit the TSA website or Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) for more information.

How many hours does it take to learn to fly?

The Federal Aviation Regulations state that a person who applies for a Private Pilot Certificate must log at least 40 hours of flight time. The national average is 65 hours. You and your instructor will determine the best lesson schedule for you, including frequency and length of individual lessons. Once you hit that all-important solo flight sign-off, you can continue to earn the required hours at your own schedule and pace until your instructor believes you are ready to complete the process.  

What will I need to start my lessons?

Proof of citizenship and an appointment with us is all you will need to start. It’s that simple!

How safe are flying lessons?

Flying lessons are VERY safe! Our instructors have tens of thousands of hours of instruction time in many different types of aircraft. Our training aircraft have two sets of controls so the instructor is always at the ready to assist the student pilot with any training opportunity that arises during a lesson. Our aircraft are carefully maintained by certified mechanics who are highly experienced in single- and multi-engine airframe and powerplant maintenance methods. We occasionally will reschedule a student pilot's lesson due to routine aircraft maintenance or weather. This is completely normal in the flying world. If you have any other questions, please feel free to talk with us at any time.

Can my doctor give me a flight physical examination?

Only if your personal physician is an FAA approved Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). If not, you can find an AME here.

What if I had a Pilot’s License and haven’t flown in years?

Can I come back?

You miss it, don't you?! Well, of course you can come back! You need a current Medical and Biennial Flight Review (BFR) with one of our instructors. They will take all the time you need to brush up on your knowledge and skills to get back in the sky!

Is Renters’ Insurance required?

Renters’ Insurance is not required by Red Sky Aviation. However, it is always a good idea to have. Renters’ Insurance covers a pilot’s out-of-pocket cost in the event a renter damages our aircraft.

Is Red Sky Aviation a flying club?

We are not a flying club. There are no membership dues or other hidden fees. At Red Sky Aviation, you fly when you want and you pay only for instruction and flight time.