Quality Score
Fair
Base (15) + components above = 61
About
RAM Aviation is a Part 61 flight school founded in 2000 by Rob Markword, offering training from Private Pilot through CFI, Instrument, Commercial, and ATP certificates. Based in Healdsburg, CA, RAM Aviation provides personalized flight instruction in a variety of aircraft including the Piper Tomahawk, Piper Cherokee, and Diamond DA40.
Estimated PPL Training Cost
| Line item | Hours | Rate (range) | Subtotal (range) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Piper PA-38 (Tomahawk) (cheapest in fleet) | 70h | $110 – $440/hr | $7,700 – $30,800 |
| Flight instruction (dual) | 42h | $40 – $160/hr | $1,675 – $6,725 |
| Ground instruction | 20h | $30 – $110/hr | $550 – $2,200 |
| Estimated Total Range | $9,900 – $39,700 | ||
Instruction Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Training for a Private Pilot Certificate at RAM Aviation is estimated to cost $9,900 – $39,700. to see the full breakdown with exact aircraft rental and instructor rates.
No, RAM 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, RAM 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.
RAM Aviation's training fleet includes the Piper PA-38 (Tomahawk), Piper PA-28 (Cherokee), and Diamond DA40. 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 RAM Aviation. Some schools have basic Aviation Training Devices that may not be in our database. Ask them directly.
No, RAM Aviation does not charge a fuel surcharge. The published rental rates are your actual hourly cost.