Questions and Answers...

You probably have a driver's license issued by your state government which permits driving privileges. Similarly, the federal government, through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), governs pilot privileges and requires specific experience, written tests, and flight tests to earn a pilot's license (called a certificate).

Flying an airplane is somewhat more complex than driving a car, because you are controlling altitude (up and down) in addition to left-right movement. It is also more exhilarating because you have the freedom of three dimensional movement, greater speed, and unbelievable panoramas. Flight training is a pursuable goal that will provide lifelong satisfaction and pride.

How long will it take me to learn to fly?

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 hours — an age old regulation dating to the 1940’s. The national average today is approximately 90 hours including both dual and solo flying. Click here to see a partial list of the formal requirements.

How much will it cost me?

Cost of learning to fly is dependent on a person’s learning curve. It varies from one person to another. When we meet, the total cost of the program will be explained to you before any lessons are scheduled. We do not require a down payment; you pay as you go.

What are the steps in learning to fly?

Call me, Luigi J. Bottini, CFII, Chief Pilot, on my cell at: (315) 525-8615 or at my home on: (315) 336-6120 or e-mail me at: lbottini@twcny.rr.com. We will meet for approximately one-half hour and all of your questions will be answered.

What does a first solo consist of?

When your instructor decides you are ready, he will ask for your medical/student license, sign the back, and get out of the airplane. Then you're off! On first solo, you are usually instructed to make three takeoffs and (obviously!) three landings.

When can I solo?

You will probably get to make your first solo flight after about 20 hours of training. Your instructor will decide when you're ready.

What is ground school?

This may be done by home study; VCR tapes or CD’s sold by many companies. Here at Galaxy Aviation we teach a ground school for the same cost. It is tutored, one on one, at your convenience of time and at your learning pace. The final computerized exam by Lasergrade Testing is given here at our school. Ground study is the first important step in getting your pilot’s certificate.

Do I have to go to ground school?

No, as long as you learn the necessary information you can study at home or one-on-one with your instructor. When you have your instructor's recommendation, you can take the written test. We offer LaserGrade, which allows you to be tested right here, on-line, with immediate grading.

What is the flight test?

The flight test takes place during an actual flight and involves an oral question-and-answer session, flight planning and demonstration of flying skills. You are tested by an FAA (or designated) examiner.

When can I take my friends flying?

On the orientation flight - straight and level - you may take someone with you and the instructor to enjoy the flight. Also, on a dual cross-country flight, which is a flight of 50 or more miles, it would be a shame to go with an empty back seat.

Do I learn to fly in the clouds?

You are required to fly at least 3 hours, all instruction time, with a view limiting device that simulates flight in the clouds.

What is the best time of year to learn to fly?

Each season has its advantages - summer provides long days; fall and winter allow improved flight performance due to cool air; spring combines a little of both advantages. So, whenever you get the urge to take flight, it is probably the right time.

Do I fly at night?

You need a minimum of 3 hours of dual training at night broken down in two or three sessions.

How do I learn to fly in the clouds?

Once you've earned your private license, you can start building your "cross-country pilot in command" time. When you have logged about 50 hours, you can begin instrument flying lessons. In order to get your instrument rating, you have to pass another written test and another flight test.

What kind of airplane will I learn on?

This will vary among flight schools, but special training aircraft are made by Beechcraft, Cessna and Piper. Here at Galaxy, we have two Piper Cherokee's.

What are the physical/medical requirements for flying?

Before your first solo flight, you must have a physical examination given by a FAA designated doctor. We have them available at the school.

Learning to fly and earning a pilot certificate is fun. Begin today!