Learn To Fly
Bay Air's flight school offers unparalleled training. After becoming a Cessna Pilot Center (CPC) four years ago, we have quickly become the industry leader on the west coast of Florida. We provide a state of the art modern fleet of aircraft for training while maintaining a comfortable friendly atmosphere. We encourage you to stop in for a cup of coffee and to enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow pilots. All of our aircraft are maintained by Bay Air in our fully staffed service department. This level of service offers a safety record second to none.
Our five full time certified flight instructors (CFI) provide training with Cessna's interactive computer based curriculum which allows for study at home on your schedule. Our instructors are able to track your progress and to monitor your strengths and weaknesses as you advance through the program.
Cessna Pilot Center students earn their private pilot certificates in 28% less time than the national average saving you time and money!
We are able to provide several options for your flight training needs. Our flight line boasts two G1000 Cessna 172's, a G1000 Cessna T182, a G1000 Cessna T206 (six place), and a Light Sport G300 Cessna Skycatcher 162. These state of the art Cessna aircraft are perfect for the sophisticated pilot with full color glass panel screens. All are equipped with Garmin navigation equipment, the industry leader for innovation and technological advances
Additionally, we have several old school Cessna aircraft as well as a Piper Archer (which we have upgraded with Garmin 430's and collision avoidance) if you are looking for that old familiar feeling.
We offer training top to bottom. Obtain your private pilot's license and begin the next step. Bay Air has the aircraft and staff to advance you through the highest rating: Airline Transport Pilot.
Training Facts
Flight training can begin at virtually any age. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates that a student pilot must be 16 years of age to fly solo and 17 years of age to obtain a license. The FAA also requires a minimum of 40 hours to obtain a Private Pilot's License. Twenty of these hours will be with an instructor, 10 of them will be solo, and the other 10 will be either dual (with an instructor) or solo. However, the national average to complete the Private Pilot's License is approximately 55 hours.
All flight training is done with an FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) who will guide you through your training in an organized and customized program.
Flying lessons are a challenge, yet many of our students enjoy the rewarding feeling as a return. It takes most people around 8 months to obtain their Private Pilot's License (they fly an average of two times a week).