Scanlon Aviation | FAQ | Cirrus Flight Training | Learn To Fly | CSIP | Marin | San Francisco

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a way to “try out” a lesson to see what flying is like?
Yes. We offer a $99 introductory flight in our Cirrus SR20 that allows you to experience a sample flight lesson with an FAA certified instructor. You’ll actually get to fly the airplane! The introductory flight includes 30 minutes of ground instruction and 30 minutes of aircraft time.

How long does it take to obtain a Private Pilot certificate?
That depends on how often you can fly each week. Typically, if a student schedules two lessons each week, training can be completed in five-six months. You will maximize the efficiency of your training by flying on a regular basis. By doing so, you will retain more knowledge between lessons and thus progress faster. However, we can tailor the program to fit your needs. Many of our students take one lesson a week or several, depending on their schedules. A typical lesson lasts two hours and includes both ground and flight instruction.

Do I need any special skills to begin training?
The most important element in learning to fly is desire! You don’t need any special skills to get started. You’ll learn all that is required during the course of your training with Scanlon Aviation.

In what aircraft will I train?
We use our Cirrus SR20 for training The Cirrus SR20 has four seats, advanced avionics and is very easy to fly.

What will my first lesson be like?
Your instructor will introduce you to the general aviation airplane you’ll learn to fly. You’ll be briefed on the instruments and controls. After this pre-flight briefing, you’ll both take off. Once aloft, under the close supervision of the instructor, you’ll take control of the airplane. It will be unlike anything you have ever experienced before. It is an exhilarating feeling, one not easily described in words. You’ll find the experience challenging and rewarding and you’ll be impatiently anticipating the next flight.

How much ground instruction will there be?
Each lesson will include ground instruction before and after the flight. There will also be longer ground instruction sessions as needed throughout the course. The number of hours of ground instruction is typically about half of the flying hours required to complete the course; however, the time required for both ground and flight instruction will vary by individual.

Is there an age limit?
Yes. While you can take flying lessons at any age, a student pilot must be 16 to solo and 17 to be eligible for the Private Pilot certificate. Otherwise, there are no other age requirements.

Are there any health/medical requirements?
Yes. A student pilot, to be eligible to solo, must obtain a medical certificate by undergoing a physical from an FAA-designated physician who is certified to issue them. These physicians are called Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs), and they are typically family or occupational health doctors who practice at area clinics and hospitals. If you are in good health, obtaining a medical is not difficult, and it’s fine if you wear glasses or contacts. Please discuss any significant health history or current medical conditions with your instructor to determine if there will be an issue obtaining a medical. A list of local AMEs will be provided by your flight instructor upon request.

How much will it cost to get my Private Pilot’s license?
Costs will vary depending on your rate of skill development and the time and effort you devote to training. Although the minimum requirements state 40 hours of flight time, most people accomplish it in 65-80 hours of flight time.

How do I pay for lessons?
When you enroll in our flight school, you will start an account with us. You may pay by cash, check, or credit card after each lesson or make deposits on your account. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. We also offer a 15% savings for “block time” for prepayment for 10 hours of flight time.

After I get my Private Pilot certificate, can I rent an airplane on my own?
Yes. After earning your private pilot certificate, you can rent the same airplane model without any additional instruction. You can also receive additional instruction to rent other aircraft. The time required for these aircraft “checkouts” will vary by pilot and type of aircraft.

What can I do with my pilot’s license?
The airplane is a time machine. It can turn once long trips into a short hop. Think in terms of hours instead of miles as you soar above traffic jams to visit friends and family otherwise too inconvenient by ordinary travel. Meet with clients and operate your business more efficiently. Lake Tahoe, Monterey, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas are all within easy reach.

How do I get started?
Please call us at 415-717-1189 to set up an appointment to meet with our flight instructor to discuss your aviation goals. They will be able to answer all your aviation training questions.