How to Learn to Fly a Piper

Understand your options regarding flight school. You may choose to learn at a Part 61 school--these require a minimum flight time of 40 hours and offer more flexibility for part-time students. You may opt to learn at a Part 141 school--these call for a minimum flight time of 35 hours, and offer certain advantages with regard to benefits like government-subsidized training. Another option is to learn at a nationally accredited training institution--recommended for those seeking to fly professionally.

Develop a list of schools to examine. You can find flight schools in your area by tapping the resources of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association website (see Resources below).

Visit each school so you can take a look at its training fleet. Make sure that the school's training aircraft show signs of proper care and maintenance--well-maintained aircraft are important for safe flight. Ask questions about maintenance policies and procedures.

Take an introductory lesson before you commit. This can help give you firsthand experience in a couple of crucial areas. You'll be able to see if the school's aircraft is up to snuff. You'll also be able to evaluate the instructor and get a sense of his or her capabilities.

Make room on your calendar. On average, it takes 60 to 75 flight hours to obtain the private certificate you'll need to fly your Piper.