Quality Score
Good
Base (15) + components above = 73
About
Rick Aviation is a full-service Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) and FAA-approved Part 141 Pilot School located at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (KPHF). Founded in 1978 by former U.S. Air Force serviceman John Bombaro, Rick Aviation offers flight training, aircraft maintenance (FAA Part 145-certified Repair Station), JetA and 100LL fuel, and a wide range of FBO amenities. The flight school trains students under both Part 61 and Part 141 and is approved to offer GI Bill education benefits.
Estimated PPL Training Cost
| Line item | Hours | Rate (range) | Subtotal (range) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cessna 172N (Skyhawk) (cheapest in fleet) | 70h | $90 – $360/hr | $6,300 – $25,200 |
| Flight instruction (dual) | 42h | $35 – $130/hr | $1,375 – $5,450 |
| Ground instruction | 20h | $35 – $130/hr | $650 – $2,600 |
| Estimated Total Range | $8,300 – $33,300 | ||
Instruction Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Training for a Private Pilot Certificate at Rick Aviation, Inc. is estimated to cost $8,300 – $33,300. to see the full breakdown with exact aircraft rental and instructor rates.
Yes, Rick Aviation, Inc. is approved for both Part 61 and Part 141 training. Part 141 uses a structured, FAA-approved curriculum with stage checks and lowers the minimum hours for a Private Pilot Certificate from 40 to 35. Part 61 is self-paced with no required syllabus. Ask the school which path fits your schedule.
No, Rick Aviation, Inc. 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.
Rick Aviation, Inc.'s training fleet includes the Cessna 172N (Skyhawk), Cessna 172P (Skyhawk), Piper PA-28R-201 (Arrow III), and Piper PA-44-180T (Seminole). 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, Rick Aviation, Inc. has the following flight training device: Redbird LD. Ask the school which ratings the device count toward and how many hours you can log.
No, Rick Aviation, Inc. does not charge a fuel surcharge. The published rental rates are your actual hourly cost.
Contact
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