Sterling Flight

While in operation we have accumulated the following list of FAQ’s and their answers. If your question isn’t on here, or you want more clarification, please contact us.

Learning to fly FAQ’s

How much does it cost to get your Private Pilot’s License?

The cost of getting your license is outlined as follows:
Aircraft (Tecnam Bravo): $3,960.00
Instruction: $1,350.00
Books & Supplies: $400.00
FAA Medical: $100.00
FAA Exams: $495.00
Total Cost: $6,305.00 This cost can vary due to changes in aircraft, time taken, etc.
We also offer Sport Pilot training which is significantly cheaper than a full Private Pilot License. Contact us for more info on the Sport License.


How long does it take to get a license?

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time to obtain the Private Pilot Certificate. These hours are a combination of instruction and solo time. By flying frequently and studying diligently at Sterling Flight or at home it is possible to finish with the minimum number of hours. However, some students will require additional hours in order to work on a specific task and gain additional experience. We have found that, on average, it takes a student 65 hours of flying in order to obtain their license. Although it is possible to finish within 40 hours the student must be motivated, enthusiastic, and very conscientious to obtain rating with the minimum number of hours.

If you are training regularly, three to four times a week, it is possible to obtain your license in four to six weeks. However if you prefer to train only once or twice a week the duration of the course will be between four to six months.


Why should I choose Sterling Flight as opposed to other flight schools in the area?

Although there are many things that make us different the following are some of the most important things we offer.

Trips: We offer trips that allow you to broaden your knowledge base while splitting the cost with other students. Photos from these trips can be found in the Photos section.

Airport: The Concord Airport (KCCR) is one of the best airports to learn to fly at. This airport allows you to learn at a towered airport without the high traffic volume that you find at all other airports in the area and it is close to designated practice areas. Additionally the local weather allows for year round training.

Instructors: Our team of instructors may seem small, but they are the best around. We do not hire instructors that are looking to build time in order to get a job as an airline pilot, instead our instructors are teaching because it is a passion of theirs. This process has allowed us to achieve a 95% pass rate for our students.

Aircraft: We have a very diverse training fleet. We offer Cirrus, Cessna, and Piper training aircraft. Additionally we have an on-site FAA repair station which allows us to keep our aircraft well maintained.


How are aircraft rental charges computed? Do they include fuel?

Aircraft rental charges are calculated at an hourly rate and tracked by a meter on the plane in tenths of an hour. Charges are rounded up to the nearest tenth of an hour. We rent our aircraft “wet” meaning fuel costs are included.


Is ground school required? How much does it cost?

Ground school is not required, but it is highly recommended. The course costs $225. It meets twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6PM to 9PM, for eight weeks.


How do I get started?

Come in and visit us! We can almost always send you up on an introductory flight when you come in. Flights as low as $59.50!