Choosing the right aviation school is important for anyone interested in becoming a pilot. The type of flight training program offered is relevant for the type of pilot license required. The quality of aviation training provided also makes a big difference in the learning experience and in the time required to earn a license.
It is a good idea to spend some time researching different aviation schools. Nowadays it is almost a requirement for a flight training center to have a website. This makes it easier to find information about the licenses they offer, their aviation training schedules, their planes and their instructors.
In the US, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established certain aviation training standards that are followed by FAA approved aviation centers. A flight school approved by the FAA is designated as part 141. If the aviation school also has a part 61 approval, it can train students to be flight instructors.
A flight school may offer dual pilot licenses or certificates. Therefore, prospective pilots can get a national license required to operate an aircraft in their country as well as a license to operate an aircraft in another country. For example, some schools in the USA offer a FAA certificate, which is required for pilots in the USA and a Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) certificate, which is required for pilots in Europe.
Students first gain the FAA certificate and then train in Europe with a partner school to pick up the JAA certificate. The schools offering dual certificates are usually large and the program is more expensive than getting a single certificate. It is worth it though, since the qualified pilot can work in both the USA and Europe.
The location of the aviation school usually influences the selection decision. Many people prefer to attend a flight training academy near their home. This way there is no need to relocate or to make a long, tiring drive every time for a flying lesson.
Another important consideration is the training fee. A flight training program is not inexpensive, but the fees should be considered in balance with the quality of instruction. Paying more for quality instruction may prove preferable in the long run to cutting corners on a cheaper course with indifferent instruction.
An aviation school usually employs several experienced flight instructors. Make sure you receive constructive instruction from the one assigned to you. If this is not the case, you should ask for a different one.
