I know nothing about how to start my training.

It can be a crazy maze to sort out but your flight instructor will help you understand how to make it happen.  If you do NOT have a flight instructor selected, just contact us.  We would be happy to help you understand how to make your dream of flying happen.  When we chat, rest assured that we will NOT be pushing you towards anything but the answers you need to be successful.  We will give you a couple of instructors that you may want to consider talking to and scheduling a discovery flight with.  If we can give you one piece of advice, it would be to take your time and interview a few instructors.  Do not settle on the first one you meet and assume that what you see is what you get. 

How much does it cost?

This is always a hard question to answer but here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• We do not set the price for the instructor.  They are independent and can charge whatever they choose.  However, they all charge by the hour and the range can be anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour.  Cheaper is not always better.  Expensive doesn't always mean they are the most qualified.  The rates are based on so many factors that we couldn't possibly list them all.

• You will need to rent an airplane.  This cost is above and beyond what your instructor will charge.  Most training aircraft will range from $100 to $150 per hour to use.  You only pay for the time the engine runs and will include fuel and oil.  

• Sometimes you have an instructor AND an airplane to pay for and sometimes you just have a plane to pay for.  That depends on the stage of your training.

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With all of that in mind, the FAA says that you need 40 hours before you can get a private pilot certificate.  However, few can pass the final test with just 40 hours.  The national average is around 55 hours.  

Who manages the instructors?

The Ramona FTC is a place where independent flight instructors and students can conduct their training.  Each instructor manages their own operation.  However, we DO want to hear from you if you have concerns about a particular instructor.  We have no issues showing instructors the door if they do not conduct themselves in a manner that exemplifies the professional pilots they are. 

I need some guidance.

Your flight instructor will always be your best source for your flying aspirations but if you would like an unbiased discussion about where to proceed, please contact us.  If you aren't happy and enjoying your flight training, then something is not right and we want to know.