Quality Score
Good
Base (15) + components above = 70
About
At Western Air’s newest location based at KCFO, you will learn to fly in a unique environment that combines the structure of a towered airport with the laid back atmosphere of a small town airport. This experience will allow you to receive quality pilot training while benefiting from the comfort of a low-traffic airport environment. Our flight training programs are set in a casual setting that model a “hands-on” approach, ensuring that all students receive the knowledge that is required to be a safe and competent pilot. As with all of our locations, flying lessons at Western Air Flight Academy are available 24 hours-a-day, rain or shine.
Estimated PPL Training Cost
| Line item | Hours | Rate (range) | Subtotal (range) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cessna 172N (Skyhawk) (cheapest in fleet) | 70h | $70 – $290/hr | $5,000 – $20,200 |
| Flight instruction (dual) | 42h | $40 – $160/hr | $1,675 – $6,725 |
| Ground instruction | 20h | $30 – $110/hr | $550 – $2,200 |
| Estimated Total Range | $7,300 – $29,100 | ||
Instruction Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Training for a Private Pilot Certificate at Western Air Flight Academy is estimated to cost $7,300 – $29,100. to see the full breakdown with exact aircraft rental and instructor rates.
No, Western Air Flight Academy 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, Western Air Flight Academy 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.
Western Air Flight Academy's training fleet includes the Cessna 172N (Skyhawk), Cessna 172R (Skyhawk), Cessna 172S (Skyhawk), Piper PA-28 (Archer), Piper PA-28-LX (Archer), Cessna 182T (Skylane), Diamond DA40, Diamond DA20 (Katana), and Piper PA-44 (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, Western Air Flight Academy has the following flight training devices: Redbird FMX, Redbird SD, PFC GTX, and PFC CRX MAX. Ask the school which ratings the devices count toward and how many hours you can log.
No, Western Air Flight Academy does not charge a fuel surcharge. The published rental rates are your actual hourly cost.