Question 1

Can I take a Discovery Flight before committing?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. A Discovery Flight is the perfect way to sit in the pilot’s seat (literally). With one of our CFIs by your side, you’ll get your hands on the controls, and see what makes learning to fly both thrilling and achievable. Whether you're exploring aviation as a career or a lifelong passion, this introductory flight offers a no-pressure, unforgettable introduction to life in the skies.

Still curious? Book your Discovery Flight today and let your aviation journey begin.

Question 2

What happens during a Discovery Flight?

Accepted Answer

First, you meet your instructor. Together, you inspect the aircraft and learn the basics. Then it's time to sit in the pilot’s seat. While in flight, the instructor demonstrates some basic maneuvers. With no pressure you get to experience the thrill of flying firsthand.

Question 3

Do I need any prior flying experience to enroll?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Many of our students begin with zero flight experience. As a Part 61 flight school, OFA specializes in providing personalized, professional flight training that meets you exactly where you are. With flexible scheduling, a self-paced structure, and CFIs committed to your success, we ensure every student has the support and resources they need to fly with confidence.

Question 4

How much does it cost to learn to fly a plane?

Accepted Answer

Earning a private pilot license typically costs $9,000 to $12,000. Costs vary depending on location, flight school, and how often you train. See our Pricing page for more information.

Question 5

How old do I need to be to start flight training?

Accepted Answer

You can begin flight training at any age, but you must be 16 years old to solo and 17 to become eligible to earn your Private Pilot License (PPL). We welcome aspiring aviators of all experience levels and ages. Our flexible, student-centered training allows younger students to ease into aviation under expert guidance. At OFA, students build skills, confidence, and momentum from day one.

Question 6

What is a private pilot?

Accepted Answer

A private pilot is licensed to fly for personal or recreational purposes, carry passengers, and fly most small aircraft, but cannot be paid for flying.

Question 7

How long does it take to earn my Private Pilot License?

Accepted Answer

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours. Most students average 55–70 hours, which takes 3–4 months if flying 2–3 times/week. OFA's program is self-paced so you set your own timetable.

Question 8

Do I need a medical certificate to fly?

Accepted Answer

Not for a Discovery Flight. But yes, you must obtain a Third Class FAA Medical Exam to solo, and move forward with your training.

Question 9

What are the steps involved in getting a private pilot license?

Accepted Answer

Obtain of minimum of 40 hours of flight lessons with an instructor, pass a medical exam, complete the FAA written test, and pass a checkride (flight test).

Question 10

How are lessons structured?

Accepted Answer

Most lessons are 2.5 hours. Cross-country and night flying lessons may be 3-5 hours. The first few lessons focus on safety and emergencies, then progress to solo preparation.

Question 11

What are the flight maneuvers I’ll learn?

Accepted Answer

Power-on stalls
Power-off stalls
Simulated engine failure
Takeoffs & landings (normal, soft, short field)
Steep turns
S-turns & turns around a point
Slow flight
Unusual altitude recovery
Cross-country flight planning

Question 12

What happens after I earn my Private Pilot License?

Accepted Answer

You can pursue advanced ratings:

Instrument Rating: Fly in low visibility using instruments only.
Commercial License: Get paid to fly.
Multi-Engine Rating: Fly larger twin-engine aircraft.
CFI Certification: Become a flight instructor.

Question 13

How many years is flight school?

Accepted Answer

You can become a private pilot in a few months to a year, depending on how often you train. Advanced licenses or careers like airline pilot can take two to four years.

Question 14

How long does it take to learn to be a private pilot?

Accepted Answer

Most people earn their private pilot license in four to six months, depending on how often they train and their personal schedule.

Question 15

Is 30 too old to become a pilot?

Accepted Answer

No way. People can start flight training in any decade of life. As long as you meet the medical and training requirements, you can pursue your pilot license. It's never to late to learn to fly.

Question 16

What is the salary of a pilot per month?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the type of flying. Airline pilots often earn $5,000 to $20,000 per month and up, while private or charter pilots may earn less. Pay increases with experience.

Before You Fly,
Let's Clarify

Frequently asked questions

Can I take a Discovery Flight before committing?

What happens during a Discovery Flight?

Do I need any prior flying experience to enroll?

How much does it cost to learn to fly a plane?

How old do I need to be to start flight training?

What is a private pilot?

How long does it take to earn my Private Pilot License?

Do I need a medical certificate to fly?

What are the steps involved in getting a private pilot license?

How are lessons structured?

What are the flight maneuvers I’ll learn?

What happens after I earn my Private Pilot License?

How many years is flight school?

How long does it take to learn to be a private pilot?

Is 30 too old to become a pilot?

What is the salary of a pilot per month?

Before You Fly, Let's Clarify

Frequently asked questions

Can I take a Discovery Flight before committing?

What happens during a Discovery Flight?

Do I need any prior flying experience to enroll?

How much does it cost to learn to fly a plane?

How old do I need to be to start flight training?

What is a private pilot?

How long does it take to earn my Private Pilot License?

Do I need a medical certificate to fly?

What are the steps involved in getting a private pilot license?

How are lessons structured?

What are the flight maneuvers I’ll learn?

What happens after I earn my Private Pilot License?

How many years is flight school?

How long does it take to learn to be a private pilot?

Is 30 too old to become a pilot?

What is the salary of a pilot per month?

Before You Fly,
Let's Clarify