Quality Score
Fair
Base (15) + components above = 63
About
Glass Cockpit Aviation is a Part 61 flight school based in Boise and Twin Falls, Idaho, offering training from the sport pilot level through instructor ratings in single-engine aircraft. Specializing in advanced aircraft, instrument, accelerated, and simulator training, GCA features a modern fleet including Sling NGTs, Cessna 172s, Piper Archers, and a Piper Aztec, along with an FAA-approved Redbird AATD simulator.
Estimated PPL Training Cost
| Line item | Hours | Rate (range) | Subtotal (range) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cessna 172M (Skyhawk) (cheapest in fleet) | 70h | $80 – $310/hr | $5,400 – $21,700 |
| Flight instruction (dual) | 42h | $35 – $145/hr | $1,500 – $6,050 |
| Ground instruction | 20h | $35 – $145/hr | $725 – $2,875 |
| Estimated Total Range | $7,700 – $30,600 | ||
Instruction Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Training for a Private Pilot Certificate at Glass Cockpit Aviation is estimated to cost $7,700 – $30,600. to see the full breakdown with exact aircraft rental and instructor rates.
No, Glass Cockpit Aviation 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, Glass Cockpit Aviation 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.
Glass Cockpit Aviation's training fleet includes the Cessna 172M (Skyhawk), Sling NGT, Cessna 172E (Skyhawk), Piper PA-28-181 (Archer II), Piper PA-23-C (Aztec), Cessna 172N (Skyhawk), and Cessna 172L (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.
Yes, Glass Cockpit Aviation has the following flight training device: Redbird SD. Ask the school which ratings the device count toward and how many hours you can log.
No, Glass Cockpit Aviation does not charge a fuel surcharge. The published rental rates are your actual hourly cost.