Why Become a Pilot?
A combination of factors such as mandatory retirement ages, COVID-induced early retirements, and the surging demand for pilots, indicates a pilot supply challenge in the aviation industry. Forecasts from experts suggest that, within the coming year or two, global demand for pilots will outstrip the available supply, and this trend is expected to persist over the next decade.
- Pilots needed in the next 10 years
- 280,000
- Pilots over 50 years old
- 38%
- Pilots retiring in the next 10 years
- 45,000
- Growth in pilot demand
- 39%
The time is now
Start training today
Contrary to popular belief, training to become a pilot is easier than ever. All it takes commitment, dedication, and a strong passion to study and gain the necessary skills.
- Fly for fun.
- Earning your wings let's you see the world in a new perspective. It's fun and the views are breathtaking.
- Develop your skills.
- Training to a pilot means developing and strengthening your critical thinking skills and aeronautical decision making.
- Fly for a career.
- As pilot demand goes up, so does pilot salaries making becoming a pilot a lucrative career choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the requirements to start flying?
Be at least 16 years old (14 years old for operating a glider or balloon). Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language. You do not need an FAA medical certificate from an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for the first few lessons, but you will need get your medical certificate prior to soloing.
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What is a Discovery Flight?
A short introductory flight for anyone interested in learning about flying or taking the first step toward earning their pilot's license.
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What should I bring to training?
You've completed a Discovery Flight and are ready for your first lesson. A couple of basic things to have when starting flight training are: A headset and extra batteries (because you never know when your batteries can fail), a logbook, and a pen and paper for notes. Of course, you don't need to go out and buy a headset right away, we have rentals. Once you're more established with flying, you can build your flight bag as recommended and have the necessary tools you'll need for the rating you're working on.
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What is a typical lesson like?
For the minimum time of 2 hours, if you and the instructor go flying, you will have a short ground lesson and flight lesson brief, then fly and debrief at the end. The beginning ground lesson will cover the expected plan. Then your instructor will make sure that you have all of your documents uploaded to Flight Schedule Pro as well as the condition and availability of the aircraft. You will both then head out to the airplane for your flight lesson. Once you come back, you’ll debrief on the ramp, before heading back in to go over what you’ll be doing on your next lesson. Depending on how far you are in the syllabus and weather, you may have to receive ground instruction for an entire lesson.
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What is ground school?
Classroom learning. You will study aviation related topics such as aerodynamics, airport rules, aircraft instruments, and weather. This is one on one with your instructor. However, if there are enough students a group class will be offered.
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How many hours does it take to get my private pilot license?
That matters on your availability and how often you can fly. The FAA minimum for the private license is 40 hours but the national average is just over 65 hours.
Visit Pitcairn Flight Academy LLC Today
We cordially invite you to explore the world of aviation with Pitcairn Flight Academy LLC, conveniently located in Pottstown, PA. Our team of knowledgeable experts are eager to assist you on your aviation journey. We're here to guide you through your aviation aspirations, ensuring your journey is both memorable and successful. Join us at Pitcairn Flight Academy LLC in Pottstown.
KPTW - Heritage Field Airport
Pottstown, PA 19464
What are you waiting for?
Book a discovery flight
Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime! Book a discovery flight and start enjoying flying today. Give us a call or contact us through our website.
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First Steps
- Every pilot starts their journey by reaching out to a flight school and doing an introductory discovery flight. Take the first step and reach out to Pitcairn Flight Academy.
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You Fly
- During the flight, you have the controls! You fly the plane with an instructor showing you the ropes. Find out what it really looks like in the cockpit during landing.
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Learn More
- Speak with your instructor during your first flying lesson and see what's required. Learn more about the training process and what to expect throughout the training process when you meet with an instructor.
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See If You Like It
- If you've been dreaming about flying, this is your chance to see first hand if this is right for you. Flying isn't for everyone so a discovery flight is the best way to see if it's a good fit.
