Private Pilot

Your First Step into Aviation

Few experiences compare to the freedom and joy of earning your Private Pilot Certificate. Imagine lifting off from your airport, leaving the busy roads behind, and exploring the skies on your own schedule. A Private Pilot Certificate opens the door to weekend getaways, family trips, and the thrill of flying simply for the love of it. Beyond the adventure, it provides practical advantages: the ability to travel faster, access more destinations, and build a foundation for advanced ratings if you choose to pursue aviation professionally. Training in our modern Pipistrel Alpha Trainer aircraft, you’ll enjoy safe, efficient, and confidence‑building flights, while our flexible programs ensure your training fits seamlessly into your schedule and personal mission. For aspiring pilots in the Austin area, this is the most rewarding way to begin your aviation journey.

Train Smarter

Modern Aircraft

Our fleet of Pipistrel Alpha Trainers offers the perfect platform for new pilots. Modern, safe, and economical, with excellent handling and advanced avionics that build confidence from your very first flight.

KBMQ Advantage

Training at KBMQ means less congestion, more time in the air, and a supportive environment for learning. With wide-open skies and accessible airspace, you’ll gain real-world experience without the delays and distractions of busier airports.

Tailored Programs

We understand that every student’s schedule and mission is unique. Whether you’re pursuing aviation for recreation, travel, or as the foundation for a career, our instructors customize training programs to fit your availability and long-term goals.

let’s start flying!

Training Areas

  • Ground training covering regulations, aerodynamics, safety, performance, navigation, weather, radio procedures, and aeronautical decision making. We use the Sporty’s Private Pilot Ground School.
  • Preflight preparation
  • Preflight procedures
  • Airport operations
  • Takeoffs, landings, and go-arounds
  • Performance maneuvers
  • Ground reference maneuvers
  • Navigation
  • Slow flight and stalls
  • Emergency operations
  • Postflight procedures

Eligibility Requirements

  • 17 years of age (can solo at 16)
  • Read, speak, write, and understand the English language
  • Obtain an FAA 3rd class medical or BasicMed
  • Pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge written test
  • Complete a minimum 40 hours of flight training (see below)
  • Pass the check ride with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)

Required Flight Training Time

  • Minimum of 40 hours flight time:
    • 20 hours from a CFI
    • 3 hours cross-country
    • 3 hours night
    • 3 hours simulated instrument meteorological conditions (IMC)
    • 10 hours solo, including 5 hours solo cross-country

Cost Breakdown

The national average for students to get their private pilot certificate is 70 hours. With Austin Aviation’s dedicated approach to instruction, we can get motivated students check-ride-ready significantly faster.

A typical cost breakdown for zero-to-Private:

55 hours airplane rental @ $175/hr$9625
75 hours instruction (flight + ground) @ $80/hr$6000
Check ride with FAA Designated Pilot Examiner$1000
Supplies and Sporty’s Ground School$1000
Total$17,625