Flight Training

Learning to fly

Where, when, who with and how much?

I am a real Kiwi. I can't fly! I'd really like to learn how especially as I am going to be building a plane. Sound familiar? I have a few thoughts on this and some comments made by others on the topic. There is microlight training available at some airfields also but I think the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is probably the most sensible route to go especially if you think you will be flying any GA aircraft ever. Check it out though as it may make more sense to you to go that route.

Where?

If you live in Canterbury like I do theres a few options:

Christchurch

- Canterbury Aero Club - PPL, CPL & Instrument training at Christchurch International Airport (NZCH) & West Melton (NZWL)

- Christchurch Flying School - PPL at Wigram Aerodrome Christchurch (NZWG)

- Canterbury Aviation - PPL at Christchurch International Airport (NZCH)

Rangiora

Canterbury Aero Club (NZRT) (North Canterbury Branch)

Ashburton (NZAS)

Ashburton Aero Club - No Web site but can be contacted at 03 308 7850
Email: mcac@paradise.net.nz

Timaru (NZTU)

South Canterbury Aero Club

Now! Yeah right. I'm all for jumping right in and getting cracking but theres a small issue of time and money.
Time must be taken from some other activity, work or family time. Its a big ask and you better have others on your side or it will be stressful and you won't enjoy learning to fly.
Take time to seriously think about this. It takes around 50 hrs of flying to get a PPL. Thats the smallest time component. Add in the Pre & Post-flight time study and 'other' time and you will be looking at around 150 to 200 hours you need to find over six months or so. Thats around 7.5 hours a week. Make sure you can free up the time without trouble at home.

Instructors come in all shapes and sizes, ages and both sexes. Go flying with a few or ask others who they would recommend. Young instructors are usually building hours to go flying something bigger so may not be quite as committed to helping others learn for the sake of learning. Having said that there are some young instructors who are teaching as a career. You will soon know if you can learn from someone and if you choose the wrong one move on. You are paying good money to get training make sure you get what you pay for

As the price of oil climbs training rates will increase but at the moment (early 2005) rates are around $160 - $250 hr depending on aircraft flown and the amount of dual time required to become proficient. Total cost for a PPL is anywhere from $7500 to $10,500 as it will depend on the ability and confidence of the student. Break that down over six months and you need $288- $400 per week to train. Still what do you spend on other activities that you can transfer?