How to Get a Private Pilot License

For aspiring pilots, earning a Private Pilot License (PPL) is the first significant milestone. At Paragon Flight, we offer a comprehensive and structured PPL program to guide you from your initial interest to becoming a confident, certified pilot.

What is a PPL?

A PPL allows you to fly single-engine aircraft under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), meaning in clear weather conditions. This certification is ideal for those looking to fly recreationally or as the foundational step toward a professional aviation career.

Before beginning your certification, you must:

Be at least 17 years old.
Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
Obtain at least a Third-Class FAA Medical Certificate.
Pass a TSA background check.

PPL Training at Paragon Flight

Our PPL program is divided into three progressive stages, each building upon the last to ensure comprehensive learning and skill development. Starting with a Discovery Flight, you’ll experience flying firsthand under the guidance of a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI).

This is followed by an onboarding meeting to discuss your goals, schedule, and receive a personalized training plan, which will include:

Stage 1: Fundamentals of Flight Training (20–30 Flight Hours)

Learn the basics of flight, including aircraft operations, navigation, communication, and FAA regulations, culminating in a stage check to assess readiness for solo flight.

Stage 2: Advanced/Solo Flight Training (10–15 Flight Hours)

Enhance competence and confidence with solo flights, cross-country navigation, and night flying.

Stage 3: Examination and Checkride Preparation (10–15 Flight Hours)

Refine skills and knowledge in preparation for the FAA checkride, which includes both a practical flight test and an oral examination.

Why Train with Paragon?

Paragon Flight consistently ranks among the top flight schools in the United States and has earned the AOPA Distinguished Flight School award, placing us in the top 5% of more than 700 schools evaluated nationwide. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to safety, instructional quality, and student success.

Here’s what sets Paragon Flight apart:

Dual FAA Authorizations:

We are proud to operate under both FAA Part 141 and Part 61 regulations. This enables us to accommodate a wide range of students, including international applicants eligible for M-1 visas, veterans utilizing GI Bill benefits, and those seeking tailored instruction to fit their schedules.

Experienced Instructors:

Our FAA-certified instructors bring thousands of flight hours and backgrounds in military, airline, and professional instruction. Their diverse expertise ensures that students receive comprehensive training, mentorship, and insights into real-world aviation careers.

Advanced Equipment:

Train on a fleet of Technically Advanced Aircraft with Garmin G1000 or G3X Touch avionics, preparing you for the systems used in today’s commercial and corporate aircraft. Our facilities also feature state-of-the-art simulators, including the ALSIM AL172, which provides realistic and safe training scenarios.

Ideal Training Locations:

With campuses in Fort Myers and Punta Gorda, Florida, and LaGrange, Georgia, students benefit from over 300 days of flyable weather for consistent training. Towered and non-towered airports, long runways, low air traffic, and proximity to cross-country destinations are ideal for both beginner and advanced training.

Individual Support:

From admissions and financial support to scheduling and job placement advising, Paragon provides one-on-one guidance every step of the way. Many graduates continue as flight instructors, building valuable experience while accumulating hours toward Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification.

Ready to Take Off?

If you’ve been wondering how to earn your Private Pilot License, Paragon Flight is here to guide you every step of the way. With expert instruction, advanced aircraft, and a proven training structure, we provide everything you need to succeed in the cockpit and beyond.

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