Start Your Journey in the Sky
Path to Your Private Pilot License
The Private Pilot License (PPL) is where it all begins. Designed for hobbyists, leisurely flyers, and those exploring aviation for the first time, this program gives you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to fly safely and independently. Whether you dream of weekend getaways, personal travel, or the thrill of flight, this is your ticket to the pilot’s seat.
Let's Get You To The Runway
Required Items for Every Pilot’s Journey
Every pilot’s journey begins with the right foundation. From proof of citizenship to your FAA Medical Certificate, Aviator Pro enrollment, and meeting age requirements, these essentials ensure you’re cleared for takeoff. The only question is—are you ready to begin your journey?
Proof of Citizenship
Present either a valid U.S. Passport or a U.S. Birth Certificate with a valid state or federal ID.
FAA Medical Certificate
You’ll need an FAA Medical Certificate before your first solo flight (about halfway through training). Don’t worry—we’ll help you schedule and complete this step.
Aviator Pro Enrollment
Upon starting, students are required to enroll in Aviator Pro, our at-home study software designed to prepare you for the FAA Written Exam.
Age Requirements
You can begin training at any age, but you must be 16 to solo an aircraft and 17 to earn your Private Pilot Certificate.
Your Questions, Answered
Private Pilot License FAQs
Curious about what it takes to earn your Private Pilot License? We’ve answered the most common questions students ask before starting their training.
How often will I fly?
Most students fly every day to keep skills sharp and progress quickly. Based on your specific goals and availability, we can build a schedule that works best for you.
How long does it take to earn a Private Pilot License?
On average, students can complete their PPL in as little as 3-6 months when training full-time. Part-time students may take longer depending on scheduling and flight frequency.
Who will be teaching me?
With us, you’ll have a dedicated Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) for each rating. Your instructor will personally guide you through both flight training and ground school, ensuring you get one-on-one support every step of the way.
What kind of planes will I fly?
Nationwide Aviation’s PPL students train in single-engine aircraft like the Piper Warrior or Cessna 172—safe, reliable airplanes trusted worldwide for flight training.
How much does it cost to earn a Private Pilot License?
Exact pricing varies by location and pace, but most PPL programs cost between $16,000–$20,000. Financing options are available to make training more accessible.
Do I need any experience before starting?
No prior experience is required; you can start at any age as long as you can touch the pedals. You’ll start from zero, and Nationwide provides everything you need—from ground school to flight instruction—to take your first solo and beyond.
Your First Big Milestone
What You’ll Accomplish with a Private Pilot License
By completing your Private Pilot License, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to fly safely on your own. You’ll master takeoffs, landings, navigation, and communication—everything needed to operate an aircraft independently.
More than that, you’ll accomplish the lifelong dream of becoming a pilot, opening the door to personal adventures, new perspectives, and making lifelong memories.
Your First Big Milestone
What You’ll Accomplish with a Private Pilot License
By completing your Private Pilot License, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to fly safely on your own. You’ll master takeoffs, landings, navigation, and communication—everything needed to operate an aircraft independently.
More than that, you’ll accomplish the lifelong dream of becoming a pilot, opening the door to personal adventures, new perspectives, and making lifelong memories.
Hear from Our Students
Real Stories from Aspiring Pilots Like You
Nothing speaks louder than the experiences of those who’ve trained with us. From first solo flights to earning their licenses, read about our students' experiences in achieving their goals in the sky.
"Nationwide aviation brought me in as a lifestyle flyer student and I had no prior education on being a pilot. I trusted nationwide because of their strong reputation within the flying community and their staff of top notch ownership and instructors. After earning my private pilot and instrument ratings through the school, Trevor helped me find and purchase our first airplane. We have since used that airplane to fly over 100 hours per year with our friends and family all across the country. The freedom of flying yourself on your own schedule into airports commercial flights can’t get to is an unbeatable luxury for us. Our family is grateful to nationwide for providing me with the skill, proficiency and relationships necessary to continue to use my airplane to travel to destinations my family couldn’t go otherwise. Thank you, Nationwide!"
John Peterson (Private Pilot)
"My training experience at Nationwide Aviation has been such an amazing experience. As a flight attendant, I appreciate how the Primary Pilot Program accommodates my work schedule. I simply submit my schedule each month, and the team customizes my training days accordingly. The program’s flexibility allows me to advance toward my pilot goals without compromising my current career. The instructors are highly knowledgeable, professional, supportive, and genuinely invested in each student’s success. I’m so grateful to be part of a program that makes pursuing my dream of becoming a pilot both possible and enjoyable."
Brynna Pollack (Private Pilot)
“After years in Major League Baseball, I was ready for a new challenge that matched the excitement and precision I loved on the field. Aviation gave me that, it’s about discipline, focus, and the pursuit of excellence. Working with Nationwide Aviation has reignited that same competitive spirit in me, reminding me what it feels like to strive for greatness every day. Their professionalism, passion, and commitment to safety and service have made this experience truly exceptional.”
Dillon Gee (Private Pilot)
Modern, Reliable Training Aircraft
A Fleet Built for Every Stage of Training
From single-engine trainers to multi-engine models, our airplanes are maintained to the highest standards, giving our students safe, dependable, and career-ready flight experience.
Piper Warrior
A proven, reliable single-engine trainer, the Piper Warrior is the perfect aircraft to safely build your solid foundation in aviation.
Cessna 172
Combining stability and simplicity, students rely on the Cessna 172 for consistent performance as they progress through their ratings.
Tecnam P2006T
The twin-engine Tecnam P2006T prepares students for advanced ratings, bridging the gap from single-engine training to multi-engine proficiency.
Making Flight Training Affordable
Financing Options That Put Your Goals Within Reach
We know flight training is a big investment, but it shouldn’t hold you back. That’s why we offer flexible financing options designed to fit your budget.
Whether you’re training full-time or part-time, we’ll help you find a way to make your aviation dreams achievable.
Ready to see what flying is really like? Get in the pilot’s seat and see how it’s done with a certified instructor by your side. Book yours now and see if becoming a pilot is right for you!
Your First Step Into Aviation
Book Your Discovery Flight Today
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