Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How much does it cost to learn to fly?

The cost varies depending on a number of factors such as the type of aircraft you chose to learn in, how quickly you learn, and the amount of time you can devote to learning to fly. Pilots that closely follow the training syllabus and diligently prepare for each lesson tend to spend less. A good faith estimate of the costs associated with obtaining a Pilot Certificate can be found on our website by clicking here.

Q. Is there any minimum age limit to begin flight training?

You must be at least 16 years of age to obtain a Student Pilot Certificate.

Q. How long will it take me to get my pilot's license?

The Private Pilot Certification Course is entirely self-paced. However, customers that train two or more times per week can expect to complete their training in three to four months. The shortest time we have observed is 17 days! Allow six to eight weeks for the Sport Pilot Certificate.

Q. Do I have to attend a ground school in a formal classroom setting?

No. Using the multimedia, Cessna Computer Based Instruction (CBI), you can complete almost all of your ground training in the comfort of your home or office. The ground course CBI "kit" contains all of the training materials and includes one computer CD for each flight lesson as well as a course syllabus, navigation tools, a pilot logbook, a flight manual for the aircraft, and a companion textbook. Don't have a computer at home? No problem. We have a bank of computers at each flight school. You are most welcome to use one of ours. Some people actually choose to do their ground lessons at the flight school immediately before each flight.

Q. Can I train on weekends?

SkyVenture Aviation is open seven-days-a-week. Flight training is conducted at any time by appointment. We understand you may have a very busy schedule, so we will make every effort to see that you can fly when it is convenient for you. Many of our customers will fly either before or after work, on weekends, or a combination of both.

Q. What kind of airplane will I learn to fly?

SkyVenture Aviation operates Cessna Pilot Centers. The aircraft you learn to fly most likely be a new or late model Cessna 172 SP, also known as a "Skyhawk". As a Cessna Pilot Center, you are guaranteed to have access to new and late model aircraft. Other options include the Cessna 152 and for the Sport Pilot Certificate, the Evektor SporStar. The Evektor SportStar may also be used for the Private Pilot Certificate. Click here to view our aircraft

Q. Can I bring a friend along for the "Discovery Flight"?

No. Since the Discovery Flight is a flight lesson, our insurance carrier will no longer allow passengers to accompany pilots in training during the flight portion of a lesson.

Q. If I take the "Discovery Flight", is there any obligation to take additional lessons?

The Discovery Flight is your opportunity to see if learning to fly is right for you. You are under no obligation to purchase additional lessons, merchandise, or services.

Q. If I decide to enroll in a Pilot Training Course, do I have to pay for the entire course "up front" before I start?

SkyVenture Aviation does not require pre-payment for flight training. You are welcome to pay as you go by check or major credit card. Many of our customers take advantage of low-interest student loans.

Q. What financing options are available for flight training?

Perhaps the most attractive financing option at the moment is offered through Bank of America in conjunction with the Airplane Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Current rates are below 9%.

Q. How can I apply for a student loan for flight training?

We are happy to assist you in processing your loan application upon request. Simply give us a call or send us an email.

Q. What documents must I have in order to start my training?

No documents are required for your Discovery Flight, but to formally enroll in a course of training you must produce a government issued photo ID (Driver's License), and either a copy of your birth certificate or valid U.S. Passport.

Q. Can I use my Veteran's Benefits (VA) for flight training?

SkyVenture Aviation, Inc. is an approved school for Veteran's Benefits in the state of Arkansas. Check with your VA counselor to learn the limits of your specific benefits. Generally speaking, VA will not pay benefits for training leading to the issuance of a Sport Pilot or Private Pilot Certificate. But once you've earned your Private, it is common for VA to pay up to 60% of the costs of obtaining and Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, Multi Engine Rating, Flight Instructor, Airplane Single, Flight Instructor, Instrument Airplane and Flight Instructor, Airplane Multi Engine. Qualified Veterans Click here for more information..

Q. I am not a U.S. citizen. May I enroll as a flight student at SkyVenture Aviation, Inc.

Yes. SkyVenture Aviation, Inc. is authorized to accept non-immigrant students through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The enrollment process is fairly simple and takes approximately four weeks to complete in most cases. It is a two-step process.

First you should apply for an “M-1” Visa allowing you to visit and reside in the U.S. for up to one year while receiving flight training at a properly authorized flight school (such as SkyVenture Aviation, Inc.). Our school will issue an “I-20” document that will be the basis of your M-1 Visa. We do not charge a fee for issuing the I-20.

All non-U.S. citizens must still be granted approval to begin flight training from the U.S. Transportation Security Agency (TSA) including legal resident aliens. This TSA approval may be requested on-line at: www.flightschoolcandidates.gov. It will be our pleasure to assist you with these applications at no cost to you. Click here for more information.