Private Pilot

How to Become a Private Pilot in Lewistown, Montana

If you're wondering how to become a pilot in Montana, you're not alone. Earning your Private Pilot License (PPL) is one of the most rewarding accomplishments in aviation — and it starts with understanding the eligibility requirements and FAA training standards.

At Heading Aviation in Lewistown, MT, we guide you step-by-step through the entire process.

Are You Eligible to Become a Private Pilot?

To begin Private Pilot training under FAA regulations, you must:

• Be at least 17 years old to earn a Private Pilot Certificate
• Be at least 16 years old to solo an aircraft
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English

If you meet these basic requirements, you’re eligible to begin flight training in Lewistown.

Step 1: Schedule a Discovery Flight

Your first step is meeting with an instructor.

We recommend scheduling a Discovery Flight in Lewistown, Montana to:

• Experience flying firsthand
• Meet your instructor
• Learn how training works
• Ask questions about cost and scheduling

👉 Contact us or schedule your discovery flight

We’ll help you navigate the entire process of becoming a pilot.

Step 2: Obtain Your FAA Medical Certificate

To earn a Private Pilot License, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires you to hold at least a Third-Class Medical Certificate.

Here’s how to get one:

  1. Create an account on FAA MedXPress

  2. Complete your online medical application

  3. Schedule an appointment with an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)

  4. Receive your medical certificate

You can search for an Aviation Medical Examiner near Lewistown or elsewhere in Montana through the FAA AME locator.

Obtaining your medical early in training is highly recommended.

FAA Private Pilot Flight Training Requirements

According to FAA regulations (Part 61), you must complete the following minimum training requirements to earn your Private Pilot Certificate.

Minimum Total Flight Time: 40 Hours

Most students complete training between 50–60 hours depending on frequency and consistency.

Dual Instruction Requirements (Minimum 20 Hours)

You must receive at least 20 hours of flight training with a certified flight instructor, including:

• 3 hours of cross-country flight training in a single-engine airplane
• 3 hours of night flight training in a single-engine airplane, including:

  • One cross-country flight over 100 nautical miles total distance

  • 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop
    • 3 hours of flight training by reference to instruments
    • 3 hours of flight training within 2 calendar months preceding your practical test (checkride)

Solo Flight Requirements (Minimum 10 Hours)

You must complete at least 10 hours of supervised solo flight time, including:

• 5 hours of solo cross-country time
• One solo cross-country flight of at least 150 nautical miles total distance, including:

  • Full-stop landings at three different airports

  • One leg of at least 50 nautical miles
    • 3 takeoffs and 3 landings to a full stop at an airport with an operating control tower

How Long Does It Take to Get a Private Pilot License?

Training time varies based on:

• Frequency of lessons
• Weather conditions in Montana
• Study habits
• Personal motivation

Students who train 2–3 times per week typically finish faster and more efficiently.

Start Your Private Pilot Training in Lewistown, MT

If you’re serious about becoming a pilot in Montana, the best time to start is now.

Heading Aviation provides structured, syllabus-based flight instruction in Lewistown designed to help you progress efficiently and confidently.

👉 Schedule Your First Lesson