Most airports offer pilot training conducted either by a flight school or individual freelance instructors. A school usually provides a wide variety of training, more experienced staff, facilities, social functions, and flexible scheduling. Some may even be affiliated with a college or university who allows college credit hours for flight training.

   A freelance instructor normally provides a ""personal" service. But make sure they are covered on a workman's compensation insurance program. Once you hire an instructor, he in effect, becomes your employee – you may be responsible for his safety!!

   An "FAA-approved school" or "141" school. This highly rigorous credential requires the school, it's management and their aircraft to meet very high standards. There are several advantages in an FAA-approved school: pilots may obtain certification with fewer minimum hours, less money and on a more organized method of training. Don't be confused. If a school is FAA-Approved, you should see an FAA Air Agency Certificate hanging on the wall in the lobby. Aero-Tech offers 141 training for ratings from Private Pilot through Airline Transport Pilot.

   There are some very poor 141 schools, and there are some very good freelance instructors. However, a school must maintain at least an 80% student pass rate to maintain their school credentials. A flight instructor is not required to maintain a minimum pass rate. In fact, they are not required to instruct a minimum number of hours or to have any student ever complete a certification. Without a credential, you don't know what quality standard you may receive.

   Your decision on where to take flight training will affect the rest of your life. Do your homework. Visit the airport. Ask the same questions to see what answers you get, but also allow the airport to tell you about the unique training features they have to offer. We think you'll find Aero-Tech is affordable, a great value and our instructors are patient in helping you to become the best pilot you can be.

   When it comes to the financial obligations, don't make the mistake of simply calculating the hourly rate. A professional flight instructor, working from an established curriculum will save you many hours (and dollars) over an instructor who is not as organized.  The more professional the school, the better your chances of completing your certificate on time and on budget.