How your training unfolds.
We build toward your certificate in three stages, each with a clear goal so you always know what you're working toward.
What's a discovery flight?
It's a fun scenic flight around LA where you take the controls and fly the plane for the first time. We'll go over some basics on the ground, then go fly, so you can see if you even like it before jumping into lessons.
Do I need any experience or background to start flying lessons?
No, not at all. I didn't have any experience in flying either. My discovery flight was my first time in the cockpit of an airplane. After that, I was hooked.
What can I do with a Private Pilot Certificate?
Fly yourself, your friends, and your family virtually anywhere in the country.
Why train with Chadd?
You get access to a full fleet of Piper Archers and Cessnas (or we can fly your plane), so your training isn't limited to one airplane. If one goes down for maintenance, we just switch to another. Every lesson is one-on-one and personalized to how you learn best. It's pay-as-you-go, so I'm earning your business every step of the way, with zero commitment required. You're also joining a community, not training in isolation. With Hot Shot, we do group study sessions, checkride prep, and there are time-builders at every level to share the costs of flying should you want. It's the best of both worlds.
How much does it actually cost to get a Private Pilot Certificate?
Check my Cost page. There were a lot of little expenses I wasn't expecting, exam fees, flight insurance, medical, ForeFlight, and more. So I put every single thing I paid for during my training there for you to see. My goal is to be as transparent as possible so you aren't surprised by any cost.
Can I pay as I go, or are there blocks or upfront payments?
Pay-as-you-go. It's the best way. You only pay for the lessons and flight time you actually use. No locked-in commitment.
How am I charged for the hourly plane rental?
By the hour the plane is actually on and running. The Cessna 152 is $140/hr and that includes fuel, so if we fly a 2-hour lesson and the plane runs 1.1 hours, the charge is $140 × 1.1. My instruction fee ($65/hr) is added on top of that.
What's the time commitment?
I'd recommend no fewer than two lessons a week. Any less and you start having to relearn during lessons. You need 40 hours of flight time minimum, though most students take around 50–70. The more consistent you are, the fewer hours you'll need in the long run.
How long does it take?
Anywhere from 3 to 12 months, depending on your consistency.
Can I train while working full-time?
Absolutely. That's how I did it. Mornings, evenings, weekends - we'll make it work.
Is it safe?
Yes. The Hot Shot planes are incredibly well maintained. Most pilots agree they're the best maintained at Van Nuys. Safety is the biggest thing for me: if anything's off, we're not going up in the air. I work to instill those risk-mitigation skills in my students every single lesson.
What is a medical certificate and do I need one?
Yes. Before you solo, you'll do a physical with an FAA-authorized doctor.
What airport do you fly out of?
I'm based out of Van Nuys (VNY), and that's where the fleet is. But I live in Culver City, so if you'd rather learn in your own plane out of any of the LA airports such as Santa Monica (SMO), Whiteman (WHP), Hawthorne (HHR), Torrance (TOA), etc., I'm happy to meet you where you are.
What other services do you offer?
Private Pilot training, Commercial Pilot training, and Flight Reviews.
What ratings do you have?
Commercial Airplane Single-Engine Land with an Instrument Rating, and CFI.
That's exactly what this form is for.
No pressure, just leave your info and I'll text you back. Ask me anything about learning to fly in LA.