Flight Training Overview
Allow Red Arrow Flight Academy to guide you to becoming a pilot with our renowned flight training. Our program is meticulously designed to take aspiring pilots from the fundamentals to the heights of flight capability. Guided by our expert CFIs, you'll experience a blend of comprehensive ground school education and hands-on flying, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the art and science of aviation.
From the thrill of your first solo flight to mastering advanced maneuvers, our step-by-step program instills confidence, knowledge, and the skills necessary to fly safely and competently. We would love to be the ones to make your flight dream a reality. Email us or stop by if you’re interested.
It All Starts with Your PPL
Becoming a certified pilot with Red Arrow Flight Academy, like many other achievements, has a process. Here's a breakdown of the key stages in your path to obtaining a Private Pilot Certificate (PPL):
Kickstart your flight training by enrolling in our Private Pilot Program. Begin the process by filling out our application form and emailing the required documents to info@flyredarrow.com. For in-person enrollment, bring a photo ID (driver's license) and proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate).
Upon arriving at our office, our front desk team will assist you in completing additional paperwork and integrating you into our online system. You'll receive a flight kit, including a backpack with an online ground course and essential materials for your at-home training.
Once the paperwork is complete, we'll match you with an experienced CFI who will guide you through the remaining stages of the program. Your instructor will become your mentor, providing personalized instruction tailored to your learning style and pace.
Immerse yourself in our comprehensive ground school education. Learn the ins and outs of aviation, covering navigation, weather patterns, regulations, and more. This foundational knowledge is essential for a well-rounded understanding of flying
Transition from the classroom to hands-on flight training. Experience the feeling of taking control of the aircraft under the guidance of your instructor. Master basic maneuvers and gain confidence in handling the aircraft.
Achieve a significant milestone by completing your first solo flight. This transformative experience marks your growing independence and proficiency as a pilot.
Complete the FAA written exam, demonstrating your theoretical understanding of aviation. Prepare with the guidance of your instructor to ensure success.
Undergo a checkride with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. This test assesses your ability to apply theoretical knowledge and execute practical flying skills.
Upon successful completion of the written exam and checkride, you'll be awarded your Private Pilot Certificate. This certification opens doors to further advancements in your aviation journey.
After Your PPL
Our training course offering extends well beyond the PPL. No matter where you're starting from, our courses cater to every aspiring aviator's needs. We offer a range of ratings, including Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII). We also offer High-Performance Endorsement Training.
At Red Arrow, we prioritize hiring our own, so once you become a CFI, you have the opportunity for a full-time job as an instructor on our team to build up your flight hours. From there, you have numerous career options, such as flying for a regional or legacy airline, air freight/cargo shipping, corporate charter flying, or agricultural piloting. Let us guide you to success in the next phase of your pilot career.
Budget Considerations
As you embark on your aviation journey, understanding budget considerations is crucial. At Red Arrow Flight Academy, we operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, eliminating the need for down payments or long-term contracts. Whether you're pursuing a Private Pilot License or advancing to a Commercial Pilot License, we aim to provide clarity on the costs associated with flight training. Please note that prices may vary, as the duration of training can differ for each student.
Financial Support: We recommend exploring scholarship opportunities through organizations such as AOPA, EAA, and other aviation affinity groups. Additionally, we are partnered with Mertize and Stratus Financial to provide financial loan assistance. For students looking to pursue flight as a career while earning a university degree, we have a partnership with Purdue Global University offering great discounts, as flight training counts for university credits.
*Military students can also leverage their Post 9-11 GI Bill® for flight training. However, a private pilot certificate is NOT covered by the Post 9-11 GI Bill®. You must hold a private certificate to access these benefits.
Certification and Beyond
At Red Arrow, we're committed to guiding you toward a fulfilling career in aviation. Beyond earning your Private Pilot License, our training programs open doors to diverse and exciting career opportunities.
- Private Pilot Certificate
Approx. 2-3 MonthsThis foundational course covers the basics of flying, navigation, and communication, equipping students with the skills needed for solo flights and preparing them for advanced certifications. - Instrument Rating Approx. 2-3 MonthsPilots learn to fly in various weather conditions using only instruments, a critical skill for enhancing safety and efficiency in flights, especially in adverse weather and low visibility.
- Commercial Certificate Approx. 2-3 MonthsBuilding on the private pilot's license, this certification allows pilots to operate aircraft commercially, enhancing skills in complex flight operations and expanding employment opportunities in aviation.
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Approx. 2-3 MonthsThis certification trains pilots to become educators, focusing on teaching methodologies, student assessment, and flight training techniques, enabling them to instruct aspiring pilots effectively.
- Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) Approx. 2-3 MonthsSpecializing in instrument flying, this certification allows instructors to teach navigation using instruments, essential for flying in poor weather conditions and advancing flight safety.
- Aviation Specialization Time to Completion VariesPilots can pursue specialized training in areas like aerobatics, agricultural aviation, or airline transport, tailored to their career goals and interests, further refining their expertise.
- Charter Pilot Time to Completion VariesTraining focuses on operating non-scheduled flights, offering flexibility and requiring strong decision-making skills to manage varied flight operations, from short local trips to international charters.
- Airline Pilot Time to Completion VariesThis ultimate certification level involves rigorous training for flying large commercial aircraft, emphasizing advanced navigation, safety procedures, and crew management, leading to a career in major airlines.
Flight Program Application
If you are interested in enrolling in one of our flight programs, please download and fill out this application. You may bring it in to our office or email it to us at info@flyredarrow.com
DownloadCan You Become a Pilot?
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Becoming a pilot can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Take our quick quiz to find out what kind of instruction you prefer, how you might approach flight training, and see if flight lessons with Red Arrow are for you.
Contact Us
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Let's Get You In The Air
8063 Airport Rd
Santa Teresa, NM 88008
All other times by appointment