Myths About Learning

There are a lot of misconceptions about what it takes to learn to fly. Here are some of them:


"Only people with perfect vision can be pilots."
This isn't true anymore. Many pilots wear glasses. The legal minimum requirement is 20/30 corrected - only slightly better than is required for a driver's licence.

"It takes a lot of money to learn to fly."
Not really. Many student pilots fly only once a week and pay as they go. You don't need to pay a lot of money up front (unlike some other flying schools). A Recreational Pilot Permit can cost as little as $3900 (+GST).

"You have to fly a lot to keep your license."
There is no legal minimum number of hours you must fly per year to hold a Recreational Pilot Permit or Private Pilot's License. For insurance purposes you must fly on a regular basis to operate the Club's aircraft. For instance, a pilot with 75 hours experience would have to fly at least once every 60 days.

"Flying is only for young guys."
Wrong. Almost anyone can learn to fly. Retired couples are taking up flying as an enjoyable hobby. The legal minimum age is 16, and there is no upper limit provided you can pass a standardized medical.

"Learning to fly is too dangerous."
No. Our aircraft are constructed and maintained to rigid federal specifications. They are checked and re-checked to ensure that they are mechanically and structurally safe. The Calgary Flying Club emphasizes safety above all else and our training reflects this. Safe planes and safe pilots make flying the safest form of transportation.

"Ground School is very difficult."
There is a lot to learn but our ground school and flight training are designed to take you through the material one step at a time. You'll likely find the subjects facinating and fun! Your training is personalized and we only progress to new material when you're ready.

"It takes a long time to get a pilot's license."
Nope. Everyone learns at their own rate, depending upon their time and money. The course can be completed in anywhere from six weeks to one year. Many students attend work or school full-time while getting a license.