Quality Score
Good
Base (15) + components above = 73
About
Ridgeline Aviation is a Bozeman, Montana-based flight school and charter service offering flight training from private pilot through CFI/CFII/MEI certifications, charter flights, aircraft management, and maintenance services. Voted Best Flight School in the Northwest Mountain Region by AOPA 2021-2023.
Estimated PPL Training Cost
| Line item | Hours | Rate (range) | Subtotal (range) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cessna 172N (Skyhawk) (cheapest in fleet) | 70h | $80 – $320/hr | $5,600 – $22,400 |
| Flight instruction (dual) | 42h | $45 – $170/hr | $1,775 – $7,150 |
| Ground instruction | 20h | $45 – $170/hr | $850 – $3,400 |
| Estimated Total Range | $8,200 – $32,900 | ||
Instruction Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Training for a Private Pilot Certificate at Ridgeline Aviation is estimated to cost $8,200 – $32,900. to see the full breakdown with exact aircraft rental and instructor rates.
Yes, Ridgeline Aviation 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, Ridgeline 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.
Ridgeline Aviation's training fleet includes the Cessna 172M (Skyhawk), Cessna 172N (Skyhawk), Piper PA-18 (Super Cub), and Diamond DA42 (Twin Star). 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, Ridgeline Aviation 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, Ridgeline Aviation does not charge a fuel surcharge. The published rental rates are your actual hourly cost.