Flight Training Programs

Experience the thrill of flight for the first time! A discovery flight is the perfect introduction to aviation and the first step in your pilot journey. During this exciting session, you'll:

• Participate in a brief ground instruction about flight basics
• Experience a pre-flight walk-around inspection of the aircraft
• Take the controls under my supervision during portions of the flight
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Urbana area from above
• Have all your questions about flight training answered

This 30-60 minute experience is ideal for anyone curious about learning to fly or looking for a unique adventure. The time logged during your discovery flight can be counted toward your pilot certificate if you decide to continue training.

The Private Pilot Certificate is your ticket to the skies and the foundation of your aviation journey. This comprehensive program covers all the skills and knowledge needed to fly safely as pilot-in-command of a single-engine aircraft.

Training includes:

• Ground school covering aerodynamics, weather, navigation, regulations, and more
• Flight maneuvers, takeoffs, landings, and emergency procedures
• Cross-country flight planning and navigation
• Night flying operations
• Preparation for FAA written exam, oral exam, and flight test

Most students complete their private pilot training in 6-9 months with a minimum of 40 flight hours (national average is 60-70 hours). Upon completion, you'll be able to fly yourself, family, and friends virtually anywhere in the United States in good weather conditions.

The Instrument Rating is a crucial next step after your Private Pilot Certificate, greatly enhancing your capabilities and safety as a pilot. This rating allows you to fly in clouds and low visibility conditions, relying solely on your aircraft's instruments.

Training focuses on:

• Instrument flight procedures and regulations
• Advanced weather theory and meteorology
• Instrument navigation using VOR, GPS, and ILS systems
• Instrument approach procedures at various airports
• Handling in-flight emergencies in instrument conditions
• Air traffic control procedures and communications

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time. Most pilots complete this rating in 3-6 months, depending on frequency of training. With an instrument rating, you'll significantly increase your ability to complete trips safely and reliably.

The Commercial Pilot Certificate is your gateway to professional flying careers. This advanced program builds on your private pilot skills, developing a higher level of precision, knowledge, and professionalism required for paid flying positions.

Training includes:

• Advanced aircraft maneuvers and precision flying techniques
• Complex aircraft operations (with retractable landing gear and controllable pitch propeller)
• High-performance aircraft experience
• Advanced flight planning and operating procedures
• Commercial regulations and responsibilities
• Night and cross-country operations at a commercial standard

The FAA requires at least 250 total flight hours for the Commercial Certificate. This program typically takes 3-6 months to complete after obtaining an instrument rating. Upon completion, you'll be qualified to fly for compensation or hire in various commercial operations.

The Flight Review (formerly known as Biennial Flight Review or BFR) is required for all pilots every 24 calendar months to maintain their flying privileges. This is not a test or check ride, but rather an opportunity to refresh your skills and knowledge with a certified flight instructor.

A standard Flight Review includes:

• Minimum 1 hour of ground instruction covering regulations and safety topics
• Minimum 1 hour of flight training reviewing maneuvers and procedures
• Focus on areas that need improvement or refreshing
• Review of recent changes in aviation regulations or procedures
• Emphasis on risk management and aeronautical decision making

I tailor each Flight Review to the individual pilot's experience level, type of flying, and specific needs. My goal is to ensure you leave not just legally current, but confident and proficient in your flying skills.

The Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) is designed for instrument-rated pilots who need to regain their instrument currency or want to sharpen their instrument flying skills. Unlike the Flight Review, the IPC is specifically focused on instrument procedures and operations.

A comprehensive IPC includes:

• Review of instrument flight rules and procedures
• Instrument flight planning and weather considerations
• Instrument navigation and approach procedures
• Recovery from unusual flight attitudes using only instruments
• Holding patterns and instrument departures
• Simulated instrument emergencies and equipment failures

The IPC typically takes 2-3 hours to complete, including both ground and flight time. Upon successful completion, you'll have renewed confidence in your instrument flying abilities and will be legally current to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR).