Private Pilot Certificate

Licensed to Fly

Whether set on a career in aviation or flying for fun, our Part 61 training program can be customized to fit your schedule.

Program Requirements

In order to start on your Private Pilot Certificate, you’ll need to meet these requirements:

  • Be at least 16 years old to solo.
  • Be at least 17 years old to obtain a Private Pilot Certificate (PPL).
  • Be able to read, write, speak and understand English.
  • Be able to obtain at least a 3rd Class Medical Certificate.
  • Receive and log ground training from an authorized instructor.
  • Accumulate and log a specified amount of flight time from an authorized instructor.
  • Pass an FAA Written Knowledge Test.
  • Pass a Practical Test consisting of both an oral examination and a flight test during what is called a “checkride.”
black and white photo of CFI's in hangar

Own the Skies

Getting your private pilot certificate is one of the best ways to start your career in aviation. Your Private Pilot Certificate will give you the freedom to start flying, whether for pleasure or to further your career aspirations. Once you’ve earned your certificate, you will probably want to take the next logical step – an Instrument Flight Rating.

Get ready for an exciting life in the skies

Flying with Sierra Charlie Aviation

Full preparation for a career in Aviation

Customized support from Certified Flight Instructors

More in-the-sky time than other flight schools

Don't Just Take Our Word for It

Garth S

Garth S

Chandler, AZ

“Sierra Charlie Aviation is a top notch flight school. Excellent instructors, excellent planes (and plenty of them), and a friendly, professional, supportive culture in which to learn.”

Andrew P

Andrew P

Scottsdale, AZ

“The instructors are smart, friendly and patient. The students at the school seem happy to be there and are very positive, which is refreshing. And the aircraft (C172’s) are top-notch. That was one of the big selling points for me. Safe, newer and well-taken care of airplanes.”

Patrick N

Patrick N

Scottsdale, AZ

“From my first interaction with Sierra Charlie, they have been a dream to work with! Luke reached out first after I emailed about the Multi-Engine Add-On, very easy to talk to and very helpful.”

David O

David O

Scottsdale, AZ

“Unlike other places, their planes are brand new and have the Garmin G1000 cockpit. So if you’re looking for flight lessons or a flight school in Phoenix or Scottsdale, I highly recommend Sierra Charlie Aviation.”

Melissa B

Melissa B

Scottsdale, AZ

“After spending a lot of time researching all of the flight schools in Arizona and Texas, I’m so glad I chose Sierra Charlie Aviation. The owner of the flight school, Scott, has an excellent team of experienced flight instructors with an evident passion for flying!”

Bricen B

Bricen B

Scottsdale , AZ

“I started my flight training at Sierra Charlie Aviation in January. […]They have all brand new C172S models with g1000s, a student pilot’s dream. Although the aviator program was rigorous the training I received was impeccable. Witnessing it firsthand, I can agree that the culture is different and it is by far the best school I have ever attended! 10/10”

Alexis P

Alexis P

Scottsdale, AZ

“Best flight school ever! After doing a few discovery flights at schools throughout the valley, I am so happy I went with Sierra Charlie!”

Madilyn R

Madilyn R

Scottsdale, AZ

“Sierra Charlie Aviation is a 10/10 would recommend flight school! I called them to ask about what career program they had available and as luck would have it they were launching their Aviator Program! Joe, the VP offered a tour same day.”