How Do I Become a Private Pilot?

If you’ve ever looked up at a passing airplane and thought, “I want to do that someday,” you’re in the right place. Earning your Private Pilot License (PPL) is the first major milestone in your aviation journey—and it’s more achievable than you might think. At Summit Aviation Spokane, we’re here to make the path to the cockpit clear and attainable.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to becoming a private pilot.

1. Begin Your Training

You can start flight training as young as 16 years old, and even solo an aircraft at that age. Many pilots begin early, but there’s no “perfect age” to start—just the right time for you. Whether you’re a student, career-changer, or aviation enthusiast, starting with a discovery flight is often the best way to get a feel for flying.

2. Take Ground School

Before you can take to the skies confidently, you’ll need to understand the why behind flight. Ground school covers important topics like navigation, weather, FAA regulations, and aerodynamics. At Summit Aviation, we offer both in-person and online ground school options to fit your schedule and learning style.

3. Get Hands-On Flight Experience

Once you’ve started ground school, you’ll begin flying with an instructor—this is where the real excitement begins. Training sessions are usually scheduled in 2-hour blocks, which include a mix of flight time and pre/post-flight briefings. You’ll learn essential maneuvers, communication procedures, and emergency protocols, all while building the experience needed to fly solo.

4. Pass the Tests

After completing your training and ground school, you’ll take a written knowledge exam to demonstrate your understanding of aviation concepts. Once you pass that, you’ll move on to your checkride—a practical test with an FAA examiner that includes an oral exam and a flight portion. Pass that, and you’ve officially earned your wings!

5. Enjoy the Freedom of Flight

With your Private Pilot Certificate in hand, you can fly for fun, take friends and family on trips, or explore new destinations from a whole new perspective. While you can’t be paid to fly with a PPL, it’s the foundation for many exciting opportunities in aviation—whether you’re flying for recreation or planning to pursue more advanced certifications.

Ready to Start Your Aviation Journey?

Becoming a private pilot is one of the most rewarding challenges you can take on. Starting early and choosing a flight training program that fits your lifestyle will help make the process smoother—and more enjoyable.
At Summit Aviation Spokane, we’re here to guide you from your first lesson to your first solo and beyond. Contact us today to book a discovery flight and take the first step toward earning your wings.