Quality Score
Fair
Base (15) + components above = 64
About
Colonial Air is the largest Fixed-Base-Operator at New Bedford Regional Airport (EWB) in New Bedford, MA, operating since 1973. We offer aircraft rentals, pilot training, A&P maintenance, fuel, hangar space, tie-downs, and line services for the aviation community.
Estimated PPL Training Cost
| Line item | Hours | Rate (range) | Subtotal (range) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cessna 152 (cheapest in fleet) | 70h | $55 – $220/hr | $3,900 – $15,400 |
| Flight instruction (dual) | 42h | $40 – $160/hr | $1,675 – $6,725 |
| Ground instruction | 20h | $30 – $110/hr | $550 – $2,200 |
| Estimated Total Range | $6,100 – $24,300 | ||
Instruction Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Training for a Private Pilot Certificate at Colonial Air is estimated to cost $6,100 – $24,300. to see the full breakdown with exact aircraft rental and instructor rates.
No, Colonial Air operates under Part 61. Training is self-paced: you and your instructor set the curriculum rather than following a pre-approved syllabus. The FAA minimum for a Private Pilot Certificate under Part 61 is 40 flight hours, though most students need 60 to 70.
No, Colonial Air does not have a Designated Pilot Examiner on staff. When you're ready for your checkride, you'll need to book with an independent DPE. Ask the school if they can point you to one nearby.
Colonial Air's training fleet includes the Cessna 152, Cessna 172N (Skyhawk), and Cessna 172S (Skyhawk). Having multiple types in the fleet keeps your training on track if one plane is down for maintenance. Ask the school about current availability and any additional charges per aircraft.
No flight simulators are listed for Colonial Air. Some schools have basic Aviation Training Devices that may not be in our database. Ask them directly.
No, Colonial Air does not charge a fuel surcharge. The published rental rates are your actual hourly cost.