Private Pilot Certificate
Your First Step Into Aviation
Learn to fly and earn your Private Pilot Certificate. Command an aircraft, fly yourself and passengers anywhere in the country, and join the community of pilots who experience the freedom of flight.
- No experience required
- Fly yourself anywhere in the US
- Take passengers with you
- Flexible scheduling available
What Can You Do With a Private Pilot Certificate?
Your Private Pilot Certificate opens up a world of freedom and adventure
Fly Yourself Anywhere
Skip the airlines and fly direct. A 6-hour drive becomes a 1.5-hour flight. Visit family, take weekend trips, or commute to a second home.
Take Passengers
Bring friends and family along for the adventure. Share the magic of flight with the people you care about.
Fly Day or Night
With proper training, fly during daylight or after dark. Night flying over city lights is an unforgettable experience.
Fly Cross-Country
Plan trips to any of the 5,000+ public airports in the US. Land at small grass strips or towered airports.
Share Expenses
Split the cost of flights with your passengers. While you can't fly for hire, cost-sharing makes flying more affordable.
Foundation for More
Your Private Pilot Certificate is the foundation for instrument rating, commercial certificate, and beyond.
Requirements & Prerequisites
Here's what you need to get started on your Private Pilot journey
Age Requirements
- 16 years old to fly solo
- 17 years old to earn your certificate
Medical Certificate
- FAA Third-Class Medical Certificate required
- Basic health requirements (vision correctable to 20/40)
- We'll help you schedule your medical exam
English Proficiency
- Ability to read, speak, and understand English
No Experience Needed
- Start with zero flight experience
- We teach you everything from the ground up
Not sure if you qualify? Schedule a free consultation and we'll walk you through everything.
What's Included in Your Training
A complete training program designed to make you a safe, confident pilot
Ground School
Learn the theory behind flight
- Aerodynamics & principles of flight
- Weather theory & interpretation
- Navigation & flight planning
- FAA regulations & airspace
- Aircraft systems & performance
- Human factors & decision making
Flight Training
Hands-on flying with your instructor
- Basic flight maneuvers
- Takeoffs & landings
- Navigation & cross-country flying
- Night flying
- Emergency procedures
- Solo flight experience
Checkride Prep
Final preparation for your FAA exam
- Written exam preparation
- Oral exam practice
- Practical test standards review
- Mock checkrides
- Final stage check
Your Training Milestones
First Flight
Experience the controls for the first time
Day 1First Solo
Fly the airplane by yourself
15-25 hoursSolo Cross-Country
Navigate to airports on your own
30-40 hoursCheckride
Pass your FAA practical test
45-60 hoursTransparent Pricing
We believe in honest pricing with no hidden fees. Here's exactly what to expect.
Flight Training
Ground Training
Materials & Fees
Costs vary based on how quickly you progress. Faster learners spend less; some students need more practice time.
Not Sure? Try a Discovery Flight
Experience flying firsthand before committing to training
A Discovery Flight is a 30-minute introductory lesson where you'll actually fly the airplane. You'll take the controls, make turns, and see what flight training is really like—no commitment required.
What's Included:
- Pre-flight briefing
- Hands-on flying time
- Post-flight debrief
- Q&A with instructor
Discovery Flight cost is credited toward your training if you enroll.
From Our Private Pilot Graduates
Hear from students who earned their wings with us
"As parents of a son graduating high-school, we didn't know the first thing about Flight School. We couldn't be happier with our son's experience in the Fast Track Program at US Flight Co. The process was seamless, the instructors were excellent, and he was able to complete his training in a year without sacrificing quality. At 19 years old, he is now a CFII at US Flight Co. A proud moment for our family—highly recommend!"
"Pursuing a passion for flying is a significant investment of time and money. I did a lot of research before choosing US Flight Co. and I'm really satisfied with my decision. I was pleased to find great facilities, well maintained aircraft, kind and professional staff, and flexible and efficient scheduling. I started with no experience and was able to pass my private pilot check ride with no problem. The instructors are patient and professional and built my knowledge, skills, and confidence in a way that kept it light and fun the whole time."
"I am currently in the process of obtaining my private pilot's license at US Flight Co, and I couldn't be more impressed. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, making each lesson both informative and enjoyable. The training facilities are top-notch, and the aircraft are well-maintained and modern. I've felt a real sense of progress with every flight, and the team has created a welcoming atmosphere that fosters learning and confidence."
"Us Flight Co is a top flight school in Des Moines. I have been pursuing my private pilots license while finishing my senior year of high school. Because of navigating high school classes I was matched one on one with an instructor. This has been a great match and I appreciate the one on one learning I am receiving. US Flight CO's fleet of aircraft is diverse and expanding. As a student you have plenty of hours for flying and ground instruction. There is also flexibility to work with your school classes or employment hours."
"I started my aviation journey with US Flight Co last October and have been really pleased with the company as a whole, the administrative team, the instructors (S/O to Josh!!) and the pace of the program. About 8 months in, I'm preparing for my commercial check ride and hope to complete my CFI rating by next month."
"US Flight Co has been amazing with my aviation journey so far! Started flying at the end of 2024, currently working towards my instrument rating. They have been super flexible and easy to work with, considering I'm in the fast track program with a full time job. Instructors are safe, knowledgeable and fun to fly with. I look forward to continuing my aviation journey with them!"
"I Joined US flight Co about 10 hours into my PPL and have been with them since. My experience has been nothing but positive and they have far exceeded my expectations. They have great Instructors, reliable aircraft, great availability, and most importantly it's all at a very reasonable price. The instructor cadre are very clearly experts in their field and are passionate about ensuring their students are safe pilots and well prepared for their checkride. Aircraft rentals at US flight Co are well priced and well maintained. TLDR: Great people, fantastic instructors all at a reasonable price!"
"I have gone through other schools where I couldn't keep an instructor or the school didn't have their stuff together. US Flight Co has been the complete opposite - professional, organized, and committed to student success."
"Absolutely amazing crew of people. Great instructors who are all willing to help, even if they are not your primary instructor. Very relaxed environment and very personable people to train with. If you are looking for quality instruction look no further."
"After having talked with several different flight schools and also several discovery flights, I chose US Flight Co because they were able to answer my questions and address my concerns with a unique approach rather than cookie cutter answers. They actually listened to me and adapted their training to fit my schedule. Whether you are going all the way to the airlines or just looking into a new hobby, US flight Co and the CFIs are genuinely interested in working with you as an individual."
"Went on a discovery Flight here. Super nice facilities and Jaden my instructor was AMAZING! Would highly recommend. You can tell the instructors care and love their jobs! I wouldn't go anywhere else!"
"Having tried both flight schools based in Des Moines, I can honestly say this is the better of the two"
"I'm working to overcome a fear of flying! Jared has been more than helpful and patient with me. I highly recommend US Flight Co for anyone looking to overcome their fears or learn to fly!"
"I took part in the airline fast track program. It has been an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. I have worked with several CFIs and they are all top notch."
"Flight co has been super flexible with my schedule and has a great team of instructors who are very capable and knowledgeable. I had a great experience obtaining my private pilots license with them!"
Free Private Pilot Starter Guide
Everything you need to know before your first flight lesson
Our 20-page guide covers what to expect, how to prepare, common mistakes to avoid, and insider tips from our instructors.
What's Inside:
- Step-by-step training roadmap
- Cost breakdown & budgeting tips
- What to expect on your first lesson
- Medical certificate guide
- Glossary of aviation terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about earning your Private Pilot Certificate
How much does flight training cost?
Our programs range from $8,000 for add-on ratings to $85,000 for our comprehensive Fast Track Airline Program. We offer flexible payment plans and financing options to make your aviation goals achievable. The exact cost depends on your chosen path and how quickly you progress through training.
How long does it take to become a commercial pilot?
It depends on your schedule and chosen program. Our Fast Track Airline Program can take you from zero experience to career-ready in 9-12 months with full-time commitment. Traditional part-time training typically takes 18-24 months. We offer both accelerated and flexible pacing options to fit your lifestyle.
What are the requirements to start flight training?
To begin private pilot training, you must be at least 16 years old (17 to take the checkride), be able to read, speak, and understand English, and hold at least a third-class medical certificate. We'll guide you through the medical certification process. No prior aviation experience is required!
Do you offer financing or payment plans?
Yes! We partner with several aviation-specific lenders and offer in-house payment plans. Many students also use federal student loans, VA benefits, or personal financing. Our team will work with you to find the best financing solution for your situation.
Can I train part-time while working?
Absolutely! Many of our students train part-time around their work schedules. We have instructors available 7 days a week with flexible scheduling. While part-time training takes longer than full-time programs, we'll create a training plan that works for your availability and goals.
Still have questions?