What is a Private Pilot Certificate?
A Private Pilot Certificate is the second-most held pilot certificate in the US. This certificate is the first step in becoming a professional pilot, and the certificate needed for most hobbyist or pilots for sport. Pilots at this certificate level are trained in safe solo operation of small general aviation aircraft. This training includes things such as maneuvers, emergency procedures, takeoffs and landings, navigation, and cross-country flights.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a Private Pilots Certificate one must meet the following criteria from the FAA:
- be at least 17 years old
- hold an FAA Student Pilot, Sport Pilot, or Recreational Pilot certificate
- hold a least an FAA third-class medical certificate
- be able to read, speak, and understand the English language
- pass the FAA written Aeronautical Knowledge test
- receive flight training and appropriate endorsements from an authorized instructor
- pass the FAA Private Pilot Practical test
What am I Allowed to Do with a Private Pilot Certificate?
As a private pilot you can engage in many facets of civil aviation. This freedom allows you to travel across the country or even the world without having to use commercial aviation to get there. You can take your friends or family to another airport to enjoy lunch, or just for the thrill of the experience. Become involved in one of the many organizations that are made up of private pilots that engage in every facet of aviation.
What am I Allowed to Fly with a Private Pilot Certificate?
The simple answer is any aircraft that you are appropriately rated for. This means that you must have had training in that category and class of aircraft. A category of aircraft would be, for example, airplane or helicopter. A class can be defined by single engine, multi-engine, land, or sea. Most private pilots start with airplane, single-engine land category and class ratings on their certificates. This means that even though you trained in a Piper Archer, you can act as the pilot-in-command of a Cessna C172, as they both are of the same category and class. Some aircraft may require additional training and endorsements. These include tailwheel and high-performance airplanes.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Private Pilot?
The answer to this depends on several factors, including weather, student availability for training, and financing. Motivated students in a fast-track program finish on average in three months. Students that are less available could take much longer.