1. Ground School First
An online ground school will give you the basic knowledge you need and prepare you for the mandatory FAA written test. King Schools and Jeppesen both make good courses, but I believe "The Finer Points Ground School" offers the best "bang for the buck".
- You should order this and start using it immediately, even before we start flying.
- Make sure to take your FAA written test as soon as you're prepared so it doesn't become an obstacle to taking your practical test later.
2. What We'll Be Flying
If you have access to a suitable airplane, we can definitely use that for your training. If not, we'll use a Cessna 172 from the Deer Valley Skyhawks Flying Club, based out of Deer Valley Airport.
Club Manager: Tom Bliss
602-625-6815 — Let Tom know you will be flying with me.
3. Instruction & TSA
My rate is exactly the same as the flight schools, for both flight and ground instruction.
Student Pilot License
Required before you solo. There is no cost. We will sit down together at a computer and fill out the online form on the FAA website.
TSA Clearance
Since 9/11, I must confirm every student is a US citizen before we fly. Show me either:
- A current Passport, OR
- Driver’s License + Birth Certificate
Non-US citizens require advanced TSA clearance before beginning training.
4. FAA Medical Exam
You must pass an exam with an FAA medical examiner before you can solo. For a private pilot license, you only need a Third-Class Medical Certificate.
Personal Recommendation
I personally use J Burr Ross for my medical exams.
5. Essential Gear
Aviation Headsets
I highly recommend buying a noise-cancelling headset to make communication much easier. Please buy the best you can reasonably afford.
David Clark
H10-13.4 Passive
Not Noise Cancelling
Lightspeed
Zulu 3 ANR
Active Noise Reduction
Bose
A30 ANR
Active Noise Reduction
Order online at MyPilotStore.com or pick up locally at their warehouse:
15887 N 76th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85260.
Foreflight & iPad Setup
You will need an iPad with a subscription to Foreflight. We will use this for notes, flight planning, weight and balance, and more.
- Specs: Minimum 128 GB memory, biggest screen you can afford.
- Consult First: If you don't own an iPad, please consult with me before buying. I'll also help you pick a matching kneeboard.
- Software: You only need the Basic Plus version for private pilot training.
Wait to buy the app!
I will send you a link to purchase Foreflight that gives you a 10% discount and connects our accounts.