One on one ground school helps you prepare for your written exam

Instrument Training is

also available in our FAA

approved PCATD Simulator

**We have a Designated Pilot Examiner on Staff**

FAQs

Northern Skies Aviation is an FAA 141 and VA Approved flight school.  Compared to other flight schools without 141 Approval, we are held to a much higher standard for training. Our aircraft are required to have a more rigid maintenance and inspection program; our instructors are required to undergo recurrent training on a regular basis; our school and records are inspected regularly by FAA inspectors.  Because of this extensive inspection and recurrent training, we are authorized to provide flight training with lower minimum required flight times.  This allows you to get your license faster and with less expense.  

Visit SallieMae or Pilot Finance for information on the Alternative Student Loan

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LEARNING TO FLY

Q:  How long does it take to get a pilot's license?
A:  As little as a few weeks.  The private license requirements start at a minimum of 35 hours of flight time.  Your availability and progress will determine the amount of time you invest.  On average a person flying 2-3 times per week will finish a private license in approximately 4 months.

Q: How much does it cost to learn to fly?
A: It depends on what license you're training for.  We will provide you with a detailed cost sheet for each rating you are interested in.  Flight training is generally comparable in costs to most other recreational hobbies such as boating, skiing or golfing.

Q:  Can I train in the evening or on weekends?
A:  YES.  We have 5 full and part time flight instructors available to accommodate most any schedule.  Transportation and Housing at a discounted rate are also available.

Q:  Can the average person afford to own an aircraft?
A:  A used piston aircraft can be purchased for about the price of a high end car. Also, opportunities exist to be a part owner which can provide the benefits of ownership with greatly reduced expenses to you.

Q:  Do you have to have thousands of dollars in cash to undertake flight training?
A:  NO.  Anyone with average means can learn to fly.  There are also several financing options available as well as a pay as you fly option.  The best way to get started is an inexpensive introductory flight.  This gives you a real 'hands on' experience to flying with an instructor by your side.  Introductory flights start at $55.  Contact us to schedule!

Q:  Can I rent an aircraft to fly after I get my license?
A:  YES.  You can rent our aircraft on an hourly basis for personal use once you have your license.  You will also be able to rent an aircraft at most any airport offering aircraft rental.

Q:  What can an aircraft do that a car cannot?
A:  A LOT!  Private airplanes can land at one of over 12,000 airports located in the U.S. alone.  The airlines are restricted to as few as 500.  This means you can land closer to your destination rather than several hours worth of driving away.  Helicopters are more versatile yet, being able to land most anywhere with landowner permission.  In a car, you are restricted by traffic; In an aircraft, you can make your own 'highway'.  And like it or not, cars are restricted to speed limits, which generally are a fraction of the speed of what most aircraft can travel.

Q:  What physical requirements are needed for a pilot's license?
A:  People often make the mistake of believing that they need to meet the same demanding physical requirements as astronauts to be a pilot.  The truth is that wearing glasses as well as several physical handicaps do not necessarily prevent you from flying.  Being in general good health and at least 16 years old are the only requirements.  There are no upper age limits as long as you can pass the periodic physical examinations, which are only required every 2 to 3 years depending on age.  Also, a physician certified by the FAA must perform the exam.  There are several physicians in the Billings area who are able to perform flight physicals and we can provide that list of names to you.

Learning to fly can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences of your life.  It can give you the freedom to travel to far away places and open a whole new world of opportunity and pleasure.
 It is a step which, once taken, will never be regretted.

"For once you have tasted flight you will forever walk with your head turned skyward.  For there you have been and there you long to be."  Leonardo DaVinci