FAA 0–1500 Flight Hours
The ultimate pathway for US Citizens: From zero experience to airline-ready pilot in ~24 months, with priority hiring as a Flight Instructor.
Zero to Airline Pilot Career Track
Designed for future pilots with no prior experience, the 0–1500 Program fast-tracks your way to the airlines. You will complete your PPL, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot License, Multi-Engine Rating, and Flight Instructor certifications.
Once certified, you can build up to 1500 total hours—including approximately 1300 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC)—by working as a Flight Instructor at Flying Academy.
Priority Hiring Advantage
Graduates of this program receive priority consideration for Flight Instructor positions at Flying Academy, allowing you to earn a salary while building the critical hours needed for airline employment.
Ground Training & Practical Tests
Throughout the 0–1500 program, you will complete theory for PPL, IR, MEP, CPL, and CFI. The FI rating includes dedicated preparation to meet Flying Academy’s instructor standards. Our Virtual Online Campus enables you to attend theory from home under Part 61.
Flight Training Roadmap (~24 Months)
Private Pilot License (PPL)
~ approx. 3 Months. Master the basics of flight, navigation, and solo operations.
- Part 141: 35 Flight Hours / Part 61: 40 Flight Hours
- Solo Flights & Cross-Country
Instrument Rating (IR)
~ approx. 3 Months. Learn to fly solely by reference to instruments.
- Part 141: 35 Dual Hours / Part 61: 40 Hours + 50 XC PIC
- Precision Approaches & Holds
Commercial Pilot (CPL) + MEL
~ approx. 4 Months. Achieve professional standards and multi-engine proficiency.
- CPL: Advanced maneuvers & complex aircraft
- MEL: 10 Hours min. dual flight in Twin Engine
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII)
~ approx. 1 Month. Transition to the right seat and learn to teach.
- CFI: 10 Hours flight training
- CFII: 5 Hours flight training
- Employment Phase Begins: Build hours as an instructor
Practical Skill Tests
Practical exams are taken in the aircraft after passing the written tests. For the 0–1500 program, there are six practical examinations:
- PPL(A)
- IR(A)
- MEP(A)
- MEP(A) IR
- CPL(A)
- FI(A)
What must the applicant demonstrate?
- Operate the airplane within its limitations
- Complete all maneuvers smoothly and accurately (per FAA standards)
- Exercise sound judgment and airmanship
- Apply aeronautical knowledge
- Use emergency procedures and maintain safe operations
- Maintain positive control at all times
Finance Your Training
US citizens and legal permanent residents can access tailored financing solutions through our partners, Stratus Financial and Flight Training Finance.
Cover your tuition and flight costs with flexible repayment plans designed specifically for student pilots.
Requirements
Minimum Age
Must be at least 17 years to start (18 for CPL).
Medical
Hold a valid FAA Class 2 Medical certificate.
English
Fluently read, write, speak, and understand English.
Why Choose Flying Academy
Experience world-class aviation training with comprehensive support and resources
Innovative LMS
Access all study materials through our updated Learning Management System from anywhere.
International Community
Train with peers from the USA & Europe in a multicultural environment.
Modern Fleet
Top-of-the-line aircraft, including glass cockpit avionics and twin-engine trainers.
Experienced Instructors
Talented CFI/CFII/MEI mentors focused on safety and professional standards.
US & Europe
Experience diverse training environments and airspace types across continents.
Virtual Classrooms
State of the art virtual classrooms with live instruction for flexibility.
Career Support
Guidance from zero hours all the way to your airline interview preparation.
Progress Monitoring
Interactive coursework, stage checks, and carefully monitored milestones.
Our Locations
Train at our premier facilities in the USA