Wondering how long it will take to earn your wings?
So, you’re ready to start your aviation journey—but how long will it take before you’re flying solo, earning certifications, or even making a living in the skies? The truth is, the timeline depends on your schedule, training frequency, and personal commitment. Whether you’re training full-time or balancing flying with work or school, here’s what you can expect.
Full-Time Flight Training
Total Estimated Time: 1 to 2 Years
If you’re fully committed and training regularly, you can progress from zero experience to becoming a professional pilot in as little as a year. Here’s the breakdown:
- Private Pilot License (PPL): 3 to 6 months
- Instrument Rating: 2 to 4 months
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): 6 to 12 months
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI): 2 to 4 months
Full-time students benefit from consistent practice and faster knowledge retention, which keeps momentum strong and minimizes delays between lessons.
Part-Time Flight Training (While Working or in School)
Total Estimated Time: 2 to 4 Years
Life’s busy — and many aspiring pilots train part-time while juggling school, jobs, or family responsibilities. This path offers flexibility but takes a bit longer:
- Private Pilot License (PPL): 6 to 12 months
- Instrument Rating: 4 to 6 months
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): 12 to 24 months
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI): 4 to 6 months
The key to success with part-time training is consistency. Even if you’re only flying a few times a week, steady progress and time management can still get you to your goal.
What Affects Your Training Timeline?
Several factors can influence how quickly you move through your flight training. Weather plays a big role—poor conditions can ground flights, particularly in regions with seasonal weather patterns. Instructor availability is another important factor; being able to stick to a consistent training schedule helps you avoid delays and maintain momentum. Most importantly, your personal commitment will have the greatest impact. The more frequently you fly and study, the faster you’ll build skills, retain knowledge, and progress toward your certifications.
How Much Time Will Flight Training Take Each Week?
At Summit Aviation Spokane, we schedule most lessons in 2-hour blocks. A typical session includes:
- Pre-flight briefing
- 1 to 1.5 hours of flight time
- Post-flight debrief and review
Most students fly 2–3 times per week, which allows for steady progress without disrupting your work, school, or personal life. This flexible structure makes flight training accessible—even for those with a packed schedule.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Whether you’re diving in full-time or taking a more gradual approach, Summit Aviation Spokane is here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced instructors, flexible scheduling, and structured programs are designed to help you succeed—at your own pace.
Want to learn more about our programs and timelines? Visit our Courses page or contact us to schedule a discovery flight today!
