FAQ
Is there a way to experience a “lesson" to see what flying is like?
Our Introductory flight will get you up in the sky for a hands-on learning experience at the controls of an aircraft. For a more in-depth learning experience, join us for a Discovery Flight. Discovery Flights include ground lesson + Introductory Flight.
What are the eligibility requirements for a student pilot?
Speaks, reads and writes English proficiently. There is no age requirement to begin training.
I am not a U.S. Citizen. Am I still able to obtain my private pilot's license?
Yes, as long as you have been cleared through TSA. Destin Flight Works has been approved by TSA to train non U.S. Citizens.
Is it difficult to learn to fly?
People of all ages and abilities learn to fly every day. But while flying isn’t a difficult skill to learn, a student must be willing to stick with it until they meet all the requirements.
What’s the best way to get started?
A great way to see if flying is right for you is to start with an Introductory or Discovery Flight. However, Destin Flight Works always welcomes consultations with one of our highly-trained Certified Flight Instructors. Note: If the student chooses to continue with lessons, both “experiences” will count toward the student’s Private Pilot requirements.
How many required hours are involved in earning a Private Pilot’s License?
At a minimum, the FAA requires a student to have at least 40 hours of flight time, under Part 61 flight training, including 20 hours with an Instructor and 10 hours of solo flight. The national average is between 50 and 60 hour before attempting to pass the FAA check ride.
What is the average cost for earning the private pilot license?
The cost of flight training varies widely. A private pilot license can cost between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on type of airplane used, instruction rate, and the pace at which a student is able to learn. Other factors include ground school rate, learning materials and testing fees.
How is the training scheduled?
Our Administration Team will be glad to schedule your first lesson. After gaining a rapport with one of our Certified Flight Instructors, students will schedule future lessons directly with the CFI and DFW aerocalendar after personal creation of username and password.
Can a student purchase a logbook through Destin Flight Works?
Destin Flight Works recommends visiting Amazon.com to purchase a small logbook.
If a student begins in a C172, are they able to switch to a C150 (and vice versa)?
Yes. it takes about one extra flight to switch but they are very comparable.
When does a student need a student pilot certificate?
Prior to solo flying
How does a student obtain a student pilot certificate?
Complete an application through the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website and have it certified by an Instructor OR (you can also do paper using, FAA form 8710-1 and submit it to a Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), an FAA-designated pilot examiner, an airman certification representative associated with a part 141 flight school, or a certificated flight instructor.) Paper process will take much longer and is not preferred.
Do you still hold lessons during inclement weather?
Yes, on days when weather does not permit flying, the student is able to meet with their Instructor to complete ground school.
What are Destin Flight Works business hours? Can a student fly any earlier or later than that?
Our Administration Staff operates Monday-Friday 8:00am – 5:00 pm. However, students are able to fly with our Certified Flight Instructors seven days a week; depending on their individual schedules, the student will be paired with an Instructor who can accommodate their schedule.
Is there an age requirement to get a Private Pilot’s License?
The Federal Aviation Regulations requires an individual to be at least 16 years of age to operate an aircraft solo, and 17 years of age to obtain a Private Pilot certificate. There is not an age limitation on beginning flight lessons with a certified flight instructor.
Is there a weight limitation on Destin Flight Works aircraft?
Depending on configuration and fuel aboard, our Cessna 172M, 172S, and 182T aircraft will reach their maximum payload capacity with three (3) adults of average weight, which includes the pilot.
Does a student pilot automatically have the privilege of cross-country flying after soloing?
No. An instructor must have reviewed the pilot’s preflight planning and preparation for solo cross-country flight and determine that the flight can be made safely under the known circumstances and conditions. The instructor must endorse the student pilot’s logbook prior to each cross-country flight, stating the pilot is considered competent to make the flight.
Can a student pilot fly with a passenger?
The FAA prohibits students from carrying passengers on solo flights. This will be printed on the student Pilot Certificate (license).
What other licenses and ratings can I earn?
After achieving a private Pilot’s license, an individual can train for an Instrument rating, a Commercial rating, Instructor rating, or Airline Transport Pilot. Destin Flight Works owns and operates both Single Engine and Multi Engine aircraft.