Question 1

What is the difference between Part 61 and Part 141 School?

Accepted Answer

Part 61 schools tend to have more flexible schedules. While Part 141 schools are more structured. Most International students train in a Part 141 school, but if they are enrolled in a college program and on an F-1 Visa, training in a Part 61 school is allowed and more recommended.

Question 2

Can I do my training in a tourist Visa B1/B2?

Accepted Answer

Under 9 FAM 402.5-5(J)(7) (U) (a) Aviation Training, All flight training for initial training or subsequent training that will result in a certificate or rating must be undertaken on an F or M visa. This includes FAA, EASA, and other equivalent certificates. Training under a tourist visa is NOT allowed.

Question 3

How long does TSA approval takes?

Accepted Answer

TSA clearance is required before starting flight training. It typically takes 1-3 Weeks. But in some cases, it may take longer.

Question 4

Is it hard to learn how to fly?

Accepted Answer

It's challenging, but completely doable with consistency. The key is showing up, staying disciplined, and trusting the process.

Question 5

When do I fly solo?

Accepted Answer

Usually, after 10–25 hours, depending on your progress and instructor approval.

Question 6

Can I take my friends and family in the airplane while flight training?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as there is an instructor on board. Student pilots are not allowed to take passengers while flying solo. A good recommendation to maintain proficiency and support the learning process is, if the other student and instructor allow it, to backseat other flights.

Question 7

Do I need to be good at math?

Accepted Answer

Not really. You'll use basic concepts, but most of the training is practical and procedural.

Question 8

What can I do with my Private Pilot License?

Accepted Answer

You can fly for personal leisure, take passengers, and build experience. It’s also the first step toward a professional pilot career.

Question 9

Can I make money with a Private Pilot License?

Accepted Answer

No. You cannot be paid to fly. For that, you’ll need a Commercial Pilot License and a work authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Question 10

Can Volyra help me choose the right school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. That’s exactly what we’re here for. We help you understand your options and choose based on your goals, not just what’s available.

Private Pilot

SEL (Single Engine Land)

Minimum Required Flight Hours:

40 Hours per 14 CFR Part 61.109 (a)

Average cost as of 2026:

$18,000 - $20,000 Dollars

Minimum Age:

17 Years old per 14 CFR Part 61.203 (a)

Minimum Medical Certificate:

FAA 3rd Class

Typical Duration:

3-6 Months

About Private Pilot

Takeoffs and landings

Slow flight and stalls

Steep turns

Ground reference maneuvers

Emergency procedures

Solo flights and cross-country navigation

​ Most students come in thinking it’s only about flying. In reality, it’s about learning how to manage risk, understand your environment, and make safe decisions under pressure.

Timeline

Analyze what career path is most suitable for your needs. Either going through a college program, a Part 61 or Part 141 school. Note: Part 61 schools can't be part of the SEVP (Student Exchange Visitor Program). Only Part 141 schools can issue an I-20, which is then used to obtain an M-1 Visa.

After determining your desired career path, obtain the required documents for obtaining a Visa: I-20, acceptance letter, etc. Then schedule an appointment at your local U.S. Embassy. You may have two appointments: one for fingerprints and another for the interview.

Prepare for travel to the United States. This involves gathering documents, supplies, clothes, medication, etc. ​ Recommended: Before traveling, consider enrolling in the Private Pilot Training Pre-Arrival course. This program helps students with:

A ground school designed to build your foundation while guiding your transition from Spanish to English aviation training.

The program begins in Spanish and transitions progressively into full English instruction.

Navigate FAA & TSA requirements (IACRA, MedXPress, FTSP)

After completion, students receive an endorsement to take the PAR knowledge test.

After arriving in the United States, make sure to complete:

IACRA application in order to obtain a student pilot certificate.

Take your knowledge test at a PSI testing center

Attend a physical examination with an AME (Aviation Medical Examiner)

Obtain STA FTSP approval from TSA.

Continue with the requirements listed under 14 CFR Part 61.109 (a):

40 hours of flight time, of which 20 hours have to be with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight training.

3 hours of nighttime flying that includes a one cross-country flight of over 100 nautical miles total distance; and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop.

3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane on the control and maneuvering of an airplane solely by reference to instruments.

3 hours of flight training with an authorized instructor in a single-engine airplane in preparation for the practical test, which must have been performed within the preceding 2 calendar months from the month of the test.

10 hours of solo flight time in a single-engine airplane, consisting of at least: 5 hours of solo cross-country time.

​Recommended: Practice real-world oral exam scenarios, identify weak areas, and build the confidence needed to succeed on your practical test with the Private Pilot Checkride Oral Readiness program. Most students underestimate this stage. This is where preparation truly makes the difference.

Complete a practical test, also known as the "Checkride," with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). This test would consist of: ​

An oral examination of the areas listed in the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) & deficiency areas in the knowledge test.

A flying portion in which the student would show mastery of the procedures and maneuvers required for the license.

Not sure where to start? We'll help you figure it out.

Plan Your Path

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Part 61 and Part 141 School?

Can I do my training in a tourist Visa B1/B2?

How long does TSA approval takes?

Is it hard to learn how to fly?

When do I fly solo?

Can I take my friends and family in the airplane while flight training?

Do I need to be good at math?

What can I do with my Private Pilot License?

Can I make money with a Private Pilot License?

Can Volyra help me choose the right school?

Most students come in thinking it’s only about flying. In reality, it’s about learning how to manage risk, understand your environment, and make safe decisions under pressure.

Analyze what career path is most suitable for your needs. Either going through a college program, a Part 61 or Part 141 school.

Note: Part 61 schools can't be part of the SEVP (Student Exchange Visitor Program). Only Part 141 schools can issue an I-20, which is then used to obtain an M-1 Visa.

Prepare for travel to the United States. This involves gathering documents, supplies, clothes, medication, etc.

Recommended:
Before traveling, consider enrolling in the Private Pilot Training Pre-Arrival course. This program helps students with:

Recommended:
Practice real-world oral exam scenarios, identify weak areas, and build the confidence needed to succeed on your practical test with the Private Pilot Checkride Oral Readiness program. Most students underestimate this stage. This is where preparation truly makes the difference.

Complete a practical test, also known as the "Checkride," with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). This test would consist of:

Not sure where to start?

We'll help you figure it out.