Learning to fly is an exciting goal, and earning a Private Pilot License (PPL) is the first step toward both recreational flying and a professional aviation career. While learning to fly can feel intimidating at first, the right training makes all the difference. For beginners pursuing a PPL in Florida, Paragon Flight Training offers the best training environment, with a clearly defined, supportive process that builds confidence from day one.

Start With a Discovery Flight and Personalized Onboarding

Every student begins with a Discovery Flight, which serves as an introduction to both flying and the Paragon training environment. During this experience, students tour the school, learn what it takes to become a pilot, and fly the aircraft with an FAA-certified flight instructor. It is a hands-on way to see if flying is right for you before committing to training.

After the Discovery Flight, students meet with the Paragon team to discuss goals, timelines, and expectations. At this stage, students receive a detailed written cost estimate and are paired with a primary flight instructor. This early planning ensures clarity, transparency, and a training plan that fits each student’s schedule.

From there, Paragon’s private pilot training follows a stage-based structure that allows students to build skills gradually while always understanding what comes next. This organized approach helps beginners stay motivated, track progress, and move forward with confidence rather than feeling overwhelmed.

Stage One: Fundamentals of Flight Training

The first formal stage of training focuses on building a strong foundation over 20 to 30 flight hours. Students are introduced to core concepts such as aircraft systems, principles of flight, airport operations, airspace, radio communication, weather, FAA regulations, checklist usage, and basic flight maneuvers, including takeoffs and landings.

Before flying solo for the first time, students complete an official stage check with a designated check instructor. This evaluation confirms readiness for solo flight while also reinforcing training standards and building confidence in a structured testing environment.

Stage Two: Advanced and Solo Flight Training

In the second stage, students refine their skills and gain greater independence in the aircraft. This phase typically includes 10 to 15 flight hours and focuses on improving landings, navigation, and decision-making.

Students prepare for solo cross-country flights and complete a supervised night cross-country flight. A second stage check ensures you are progressing at the right pace and are prepared for more advanced solo responsibilities.

Stage Three: Examination and Checkride Preparation

The final stage of PPL training centers on building consistency, refining skills, and preparing for FAA testing. During this phase, you will complete final solo requirements and focus on both the FAA oral exam and flight test.

Before the official checkride, students complete Paragon’s End-of-Course flight, a comprehensive evaluation that closely mirrors the FAA practical exam. Passing this final internal assessment confirms that the student is fully prepared to earn their Private Pilot License.

Once the FAA exams are successfully completed, you officially become a certified private pilot.

Start PPL Training With Confidence at Paragon Flight

At Paragon Flight Training, the stage-based training model benefits beginners by breaking complex skills into manageable steps. Each lesson builds on the last through a combination of simulator sessions, flight training, and academic instruction. Regular evaluations help identify strengths, address challenges early, and ensure consistent progress.

Combined with experienced instructors, modern aircraft, Florida’s favorable weather, and a supportive pilot community, this approach makes Paragon Flight one of the best PPL flight schools in Florida for beginners. Contact us for more information or to schedule your Discovery Flight today.