Flight Training
& Pilot Services
We are a full service flight training center offering transition training from other aircraft types into the Cirrus aircraft. We also offer ab initio (beginning) Private Pilot training as well as training for the Instrument Rating.
Learn to fly in one of our modern Cirrus SR20 Perspective+ equipped aircraft, the latest state-of-the-art and most user friendly navigation and avionics technology.
Cirrus Standardized Training Center
Your pilot license will open up a new world of adventure and fun, where your journey becomes much more than just “getting there!”
The airplane acts as a time machine that transforms an otherwise long trip into a short, enjoyable hop. As a pilot, you can come and go on your own schedule, enjoy the delightful pleasure of looking down on grid-locked traffic, and the delays and hassles of ordinary transportation.
Another benefit of personal flight is a new, rich sense of fulfilment, doing something that only 5% of the population has ever experienced.
What to expect when you learn to fly!
As with any other skill you master, flying is a one step at a time process. It can be learned by just about anyone who is willing to invest the time, study and effort to master this skill.
Pilot training involves two phases: ground training and flight training. Ground training includes flight rules and regulations, flight planning, navigation, radio procedures, and weather.
Flight training takes place in the airplane and focuses on the skills required to safely control the aircraft.
We emphasize a safe and fun learning environment.
Your private pilot’s license is your ticket to a new world of adventure, fun and efficient travel! In addition to being able to share the joy of flying with your family and friends your business travel becomes another opportunity for enjoyment and efficiency as you travel above “the maddening crowds!”
Getting your license requires that you:
- Be at least 17 years old
- Receive flight training and endorsement from an authorized flight instructor
- Pass a basic physical (The FAA 3rd Class physical examination)
- Complete a minimum of 40 hours of flight time consisting of dual instruction and solo flight. The average time to complete the course for most individuals is 65-80 flight hours.
Pass the FAA Private Pilot knowledge written exam and take a practical test consisting of an oral exam and a flying test.
In addition to building your pilot skills and confidence, an instrument rating opens up many more opportunities to fly when you would otherwise be grounded due to weather. Every pilot we know says that getting their instrument rating was one of the most fulfilling things they’ve ever done as a pilot and “made me feel like a real professional!”
To get the coveted instrument rating you need to:
- Hold at least a current private pilot certificate
- Have logged the following:
- At least 50 hours of cross country time as pilot in command
- A total of 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time
- Pass the FAA knowledge and practical test consisting of an oral exam and a flying test
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Advanced Training
Scanlon Aviation is owned and operated by Patrick Scanlon, a CFII and Cirrus Standardized Instructor who specializes in training students in technically advanced aircraft.
Experience
Scanlon Aviation is owned and operated by Patrick Scanlon, a CFII and Cirrus Standardized Instructor who specializes in training students in technically advanced aircraft.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
We use a Cirrus SR20 and a Cessna 172 SP for training They both have four seats, advanced avionics and are very easy to fly.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 10% savings for “block time” for prepayment for 10 hours of flight time.
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.
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.
Please call us at 415-897-9787 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.