Flight Training Central published more than 200 content pieces in 2024 and hosted several monthly themes throughout the year including IFR month in February and Learn to Fly month in May. Throughout the year, readers enjoyed articles, video tips, quizzes, industry news, and webinars and took advantage of Flight Training Central’s updated Flight School Directory to locate nearby training facilities. Quizzes proved to be the most popular category with several appearing in our top 10 list as pilots are always testing their knowledge.
You can stay up-to-date with the latest from Flight Training Central and gain access to the popular ebook, Learn to Fly: A Comprehensive Guide to Private Pilot Training, by signing up for the free email newsletter.
Enjoy these top 10 posts from 2024 and safe flying in the New Year!
9. Pilot’s Guide to VFR Flight Following—If “flight following” is a new term, don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s not exactly a staple in many Private pilot training programs although many pilots may be receiving the servce and not even realize. Bottom line is that it’s a service that every VFR pilot should take advantage of and it could even be a lifesaver.
8. Understanding and Executing IFR Holding Procedures—Maximum holding speeds in knots indicated airspeed (KIAS) have been designated for specific altitude ranges. Often pilots can avoid flying a holding pattern or reduce the length of time spent in the holding pattern, by slowing down on the way to the holding fix.
7. Video Tip: Airport Runway Signs and Markings—All airports with ATC control towers in the U.S. (and many non-towered airports) use a standard set of pavement markings and elevated signs to call out important parts of an airport runway. In this video, we’ll explore the location and meaning of each in a simulated 3D airport environment so that you’ll be well prepared when operating at a large airport.
6. Quiz: Flying the Traffic Pattern—A firm understanding of the proper terminal area procedures is essential for staying safe as you depart or approach the airport. Use this quiz to test your flying knowledge of airport traffic patterns, landing directions and appropriate techniques for operating around the airport.
5. Pilot’s Guide to Airspace—The purpose of the different airspace rules is safety. Some areas of the US have more flights than others. Therefore, the FAA has implemented classes of airspace to reflect this activity. The level of control goes from zero in some areas to considerable control around congested, big city, airports that serve considerable airline traffic.
4. The Five Most Frequently Missed Test Questions—Thousands of simulated Private Pilot written exams are completed every month in Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course, but certain topics consistently trip up aspiring aviators. Here are the five most often missed questions from August 2024 on the simulated Private Pilot Knowledge Test.
2. Quiz: Airplane Weight and Balance—Calculating the airplane’s weight and balance is a mandatory task you must complete before every flight. Many of an airplane’s performance, handling, and structural characteristics are a function of weight and balance, not to mention the safety risks associated with operating an overloaded or out-of-balance airplane.
1. How to Schedule Your FAA Knowledge Test: A Step-By-Step Guide—The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) utilizes a third-party testing provider, PSI Services, to administer all FAA written tests. PSI exams are available at a number of testing locations throughout the US and abroad and can be scheduled online. Many local flight schools or FBOs host testing centers so you may not have to travel very far.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/06134651/top-posts-2024.png10001250Flight Training Central Staffhttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngFlight Training Central Staff2024-12-30 08:55:342024-12-06 13:47:33Top posts from 2024 at Flight Training Central
The Permit is only required for international flying—it is not required while flying in the U.S. using VHF radios.
If your future aviation plans include international travel, or you’re pursuing a professional aviation track, take the time to obtain your Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RR).
In the U.S., the FCC issues a RR for pilots, but it is only required for international flying—it is not required while flying in the U.S. using VHF radios. RR holders are authorized to operate most aircraft and aeronautical ground stations. They can also operate marine radiotelephone stations aboard pleasure craft (other than those carrying more than six passengers for hire on the Great Lakes or bays or tidewaters or in the open sea) when operator licensing is required.
While it is not likely you’ll be asked to present your RR when traveling abroad or entering the U.S., the requirement to possess the license remains. And if you’re an aspiring professional pilot, airlines and other professional pilot employment opportunities will likely require that applicants possess the Permit regardless of your flying responsibilities. You can apply electronically with the FCC by completing form #605 – https://www.fcc.gov/licensing-databases/forms#605.
The license is a one-time acquisition with no expiration. The permit fee is $35.
To obtain your Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit:
Many training airplanes also include an autopilot in the panel, but it’s not something you’ll use much during primary training. After the checkride, though, there’s a real benefit in learning how to incorporate the autopilot into your flying. It’ll reduce fatigue on longer trips, and you’ll find it’s an integral part of instrument training should you decide to expand your skills and add an instrument rating.
This week’s tip looks at the basic features of Garmin’s popular GFC 500 autopilot, including how to turn it on and use airspeed, vertical speed, altitude and heading modes.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/26110514/Garmin-autopilot.jpg10001250Bret Koebbehttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngBret Koebbe2024-12-26 10:00:192024-12-26 12:02:59Video tip: how to fly with the Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot
Sporty’s Flight Maneuver Spotlight series highlights the various maneuvers you’ll practice during your flight training experience and be expected to demonstrate on your checkride.
The Lazy Eight maneuver is part of Sporty’s 2025 Commercial Pilot Training Course and includes a narrated video animation, along with step-by-step instructions that include performance standards and common errors. Study them while on the ground or print them for quick reference in the airplane.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/09104056/lazy-eights.png10001250Flight Training Central Staffhttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngFlight Training Central Staff2024-12-23 08:55:362024-12-09 14:08:25Lazy Eights—Sporty’s Flight Maneuver Spotlight
As a pilot, your medical certification is essential not only for your career but also for ensuring the safety of everyone on board. With the growing prevalence of weight management medications, it’s important to understand how these drugs can affect your medical status and what steps you need to take to remain in compliance. In this Pilot Minute video, Federal Air Surgeon, Dr. Susan Northrup, explains how weight loss medication can be approved by your AME. You may view the list of acceptable weight loss medications here.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/19093318/pilot-minute-weight-loss.png484902Flight Training Central Staffhttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngFlight Training Central Staff2024-12-20 08:55:512024-11-04 15:16:28How weight loss drugs may affect your medical
Private pilots have an average of 76 hours when they complete their certificate.
A few years ago, I went back through a bunch of practical tests I had given and came up with some averages of how many hours people had when they completed practical tests. With a couple more years of tests completed, I figured was time to update the sample size and see where the data falls with more input.
The goal was to answer the question, how many hours does a pilot typically have when they complete a private or commercial pilot certificate and instrument rating? So, I compiled hours for each event from each practical test I have given through the end of 2023 and this is what I found.
Private pilots have an average of 76 hours when they complete their certificate.
While the FAA minimum is 40 hours (less potentially in an FAA-approved 141 program), few complete their certification at that low of hours. Most take a few more hours.
I then broke down the difference between those who completed their training in a 141 program versus in more traditional 61 pilot training.
78 hours were the average for 141 private pilots; and
72 hours were the average for 61 private pilots
When it came to instrument ratings, the numbers flipped.
Instrument pilots average of 141 hours to get to the completion of an instrument rating.
In this case, those who completed their instrument ratings in 141 programs did so on average with significantly fewer hours.
127 hours were the average for 141 instrument ratings; and
253 hours were the average for 61 instrument ratings
[Editor’s Note: To be eligible for an instrument rating under Part 61 (§ 61.65), the applicant must have 50 hours of cross-country flight time as pilot-in-command. Part 141 does not have this requirement.]
When it came to initial commercial pilot certifications, the 141 pilots again had fewer hours on average than those who complete their certifications under part 61 training.
320 hours were the average for 141 initial commercial single-engine certificates; and
382 hours were the average for 61 initial commercial single-engine certificates
A more specific example related to initial commercial pilot certificates issued for applicants who completed a multiengine commercial certificate as their initial commercial certification. All but one of my sample sizes did this in a 141-training program.
Applicants for initial commercial multiengine certificates did so at an average of 200 total hours of flight time.
Applicants for initial commercial multiengine certificates did so at an average of 200 total hours of flight time.
This is an example of how 141 programs do shine and end up having the products of their training complete their initial commercial pilot certification at significantly lower hours than the total 250 hours that would be required for pilots who do not complete their training in a 141 program. This allows them to then proceed from this point frequently to an added commercial single-engine certification and on to a CFI certificate after that.
There are a few other points of data here that I collected that may be of some interest, relating to how much PIC time, how much total instrument time, how much simulator time, or even how much overall instruction was received for students on average and broken down between students in 141 versus 61 training programs. Feel free to dig through the data points here and see what you find interesting.
I can’t say that this data is an example of what happens everywhere, but with a general sample size and a variety of locations where I provide tests, I thought it was at least an interesting set of data to share.
You may be reading this and thinking about how you compare to these numbers. Whether you have more or less hours than these averages. But in the end, does it really matter?
It isn’t about the hours, it is about when you were proficient and had the knowledge, skills, and risk management abilities to meet the requirements for the particular certificate or rating. Plus, if you are doing the training for a career path goal, they are all hours that count toward that eventual ATP certificate anyway. And that one requires a few more hours on top of these.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/05122725/average-hours.png10001250Jason Blairhttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngJason Blair2024-12-16 08:55:562024-12-16 10:01:43How Many Hours is Average to Earn a Pilot Certificate?
Top posts from 2024 at Flight Training Central
/in News, Tips and technique/by Flight Training Central StaffSign-up for our free newsletter.
Flight Training Central published more than 200 content pieces in 2024 and hosted several monthly themes throughout the year including IFR month in February and Learn to Fly month in May. Throughout the year, readers enjoyed articles, video tips, quizzes, industry news, and webinars and took advantage of Flight Training Central’s updated Flight School Directory to locate nearby training facilities. Quizzes proved to be the most popular category with several appearing in our top 10 list as pilots are always testing their knowledge.
You can stay up-to-date with the latest from Flight Training Central and gain access to the popular ebook, Learn to Fly: A Comprehensive Guide to Private Pilot Training, by signing up for the free email newsletter.
Enjoy these top 10 posts from 2024 and safe flying in the New Year!
10. Video tip: how to recover from a spin with Patty Wagstaff – Join Patty Wagstaff in her Super Decathlon aerobatic airplane, as she explains how it’s possible to enter a spin, and then the proper recovery.
9. Pilot’s Guide to VFR Flight Following—If “flight following” is a new term, don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s not exactly a staple in many Private pilot training programs although many pilots may be receiving the servce and not even realize. Bottom line is that it’s a service that every VFR pilot should take advantage of and it could even be a lifesaver.
8. Understanding and Executing IFR Holding Procedures—Maximum holding speeds in knots indicated airspeed (KIAS) have been designated for specific altitude ranges. Often pilots can avoid flying a holding pattern or reduce the length of time spent in the holding pattern, by slowing down on the way to the holding fix.
7. Video Tip: Airport Runway Signs and Markings—All airports with ATC control towers in the U.S. (and many non-towered airports) use a standard set of pavement markings and elevated signs to call out important parts of an airport runway. In this video, we’ll explore the location and meaning of each in a simulated 3D airport environment so that you’ll be well prepared when operating at a large airport.
6. Quiz: Flying the Traffic Pattern—A firm understanding of the proper terminal area procedures is essential for staying safe as you depart or approach the airport. Use this quiz to test your flying knowledge of airport traffic patterns, landing directions and appropriate techniques for operating around the airport.
5. Pilot’s Guide to Airspace—The purpose of the different airspace rules is safety. Some areas of the US have more flights than others. Therefore, the FAA has implemented classes of airspace to reflect this activity. The level of control goes from zero in some areas to considerable control around congested, big city, airports that serve considerable airline traffic.
4. The Five Most Frequently Missed Test Questions—Thousands of simulated Private Pilot written exams are completed every month in Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course, but certain topics consistently trip up aspiring aviators. Here are the five most often missed questions from August 2024 on the simulated Private Pilot Knowledge Test.
3. Pilot’s Guide to BasicMed: Expansion Allows for Six Passengers —The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act (H.R. 3935), amends BasicMed by increasing the number of allowable passengers in a covered aircraft to six (up from five); increases the allowable number of seats to seven (up from six); and increases the maxium certificated takeoff weight to 12,500 pounds (up from 6,000 pounds).
2. Quiz: Airplane Weight and Balance—Calculating the airplane’s weight and balance is a mandatory task you must complete before every flight. Many of an airplane’s performance, handling, and structural characteristics are a function of weight and balance, not to mention the safety risks associated with operating an overloaded or out-of-balance airplane.
1. How to Schedule Your FAA Knowledge Test: A Step-By-Step Guide—The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) utilizes a third-party testing provider, PSI Services, to administer all FAA written tests. PSI exams are available at a number of testing locations throughout the US and abroad and can be scheduled online. Many local flight schools or FBOs host testing centers so you may not have to travel very far.
How To Obtain Your FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
/in Career/by Eric RadtkeThe Permit is only required for international flying—it is not required while flying in the U.S. using VHF radios.
If your future aviation plans include international travel, or you’re pursuing a professional aviation track, take the time to obtain your Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RR).
In the U.S., the FCC issues a RR for pilots, but it is only required for international flying—it is not required while flying in the U.S. using VHF radios. RR holders are authorized to operate most aircraft and aeronautical ground stations. They can also operate marine radiotelephone stations aboard pleasure craft (other than those carrying more than six passengers for hire on the Great Lakes or bays or tidewaters or in the open sea) when operator licensing is required.
While it is not likely you’ll be asked to present your RR when traveling abroad or entering the U.S., the requirement to possess the license remains. And if you’re an aspiring professional pilot, airlines and other professional pilot employment opportunities will likely require that applicants possess the Permit regardless of your flying responsibilities. You can apply electronically with the FCC by completing form #605 – https://www.fcc.gov/licensing-databases/forms#605.
The license is a one-time acquisition with no expiration. The permit fee is $35.
To obtain your Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit:
Video tip: how to fly with the Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot
/in Video Tips/by Bret KoebbeMany training airplanes also include an autopilot in the panel, but it’s not something you’ll use much during primary training. After the checkride, though, there’s a real benefit in learning how to incorporate the autopilot into your flying. It’ll reduce fatigue on longer trips, and you’ll find it’s an integral part of instrument training should you decide to expand your skills and add an instrument rating.
This week’s tip looks at the basic features of Garmin’s popular GFC 500 autopilot, including how to turn it on and use airspeed, vertical speed, altitude and heading modes.
The video clip below is from Sporty’s 2025 Instrument Rating Course
Lazy Eights—Sporty’s Flight Maneuver Spotlight
/in Flight Maneuvers/by Flight Training Central StaffSporty’s Flight Maneuver Spotlight series highlights the various maneuvers you’ll practice during your flight training experience and be expected to demonstrate on your checkride.
The Lazy Eight maneuver is part of Sporty’s 2025 Commercial Pilot Training Course and includes a narrated video animation, along with step-by-step instructions that include performance standards and common errors. Study them while on the ground or print them for quick reference in the airplane.
How weight loss drugs may affect your medical
/in News/by Flight Training Central StaffAs a pilot, your medical certification is essential not only for your career but also for ensuring the safety of everyone on board. With the growing prevalence of weight management medications, it’s important to understand how these drugs can affect your medical status and what steps you need to take to remain in compliance. In this Pilot Minute video, Federal Air Surgeon, Dr. Susan Northrup, explains how weight loss medication can be approved by your AME. You may view the list of acceptable weight loss medications here.
How Many Hours is Average to Earn a Pilot Certificate?
/in Personal stories/by Jason BlairPrivate pilots have an average of 76 hours when they complete their certificate.
A few years ago, I went back through a bunch of practical tests I had given and came up with some averages of how many hours people had when they completed practical tests. With a couple more years of tests completed, I figured was time to update the sample size and see where the data falls with more input.
The goal was to answer the question, how many hours does a pilot typically have when they complete a private or commercial pilot certificate and instrument rating? So, I compiled hours for each event from each practical test I have given through the end of 2023 and this is what I found.
Private pilots have an average of 76 hours when they complete their certificate.
While the FAA minimum is 40 hours (less potentially in an FAA-approved 141 program), few complete their certification at that low of hours. Most take a few more hours.
I then broke down the difference between those who completed their training in a 141 program versus in more traditional 61 pilot training.
When it came to instrument ratings, the numbers flipped.
Instrument pilots average of 141 hours to get to the completion of an instrument rating.
In this case, those who completed their instrument ratings in 141 programs did so on average with significantly fewer hours.
[Editor’s Note: To be eligible for an instrument rating under Part 61 (§ 61.65), the applicant must have 50 hours of cross-country flight time as pilot-in-command. Part 141 does not have this requirement.]
When it came to initial commercial pilot certifications, the 141 pilots again had fewer hours on average than those who complete their certifications under part 61 training.
A more specific example related to initial commercial pilot certificates issued for applicants who completed a multiengine commercial certificate as their initial commercial certification. All but one of my sample sizes did this in a 141-training program.
Applicants for initial commercial multiengine certificates did so at an average of 200 total hours of flight time.
Applicants for initial commercial multiengine certificates did so at an average of 200 total hours of flight time.
This is an example of how 141 programs do shine and end up having the products of their training complete their initial commercial pilot certification at significantly lower hours than the total 250 hours that would be required for pilots who do not complete their training in a 141 program. This allows them to then proceed from this point frequently to an added commercial single-engine certification and on to a CFI certificate after that.
There are a few other points of data here that I collected that may be of some interest, relating to how much PIC time, how much total instrument time, how much simulator time, or even how much overall instruction was received for students on average and broken down between students in 141 versus 61 training programs. Feel free to dig through the data points here and see what you find interesting.
I can’t say that this data is an example of what happens everywhere, but with a general sample size and a variety of locations where I provide tests, I thought it was at least an interesting set of data to share.
You may be reading this and thinking about how you compare to these numbers. Whether you have more or less hours than these averages. But in the end, does it really matter?
It isn’t about the hours, it is about when you were proficient and had the knowledge, skills, and risk management abilities to meet the requirements for the particular certificate or rating. Plus, if you are doing the training for a career path goal, they are all hours that count toward that eventual ATP certificate anyway. And that one requires a few more hours on top of these.