Top 7 Myths About Pilot School: Debunked

If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a pilot but aren’t sure if you can handle pilot school or flying, you are not alone. Many aspiring pilots are discouraged by myths and misconceptions that make pilot training seem intimidating or out of reach. Let’s take a moment to bust some of the most common myths about flight school.

Myth 1: Pilot School Requires A Huge Time Commitment

At East Bay Flight, we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate students who work or have other time commitments. Students often can take lessons on weekends or after typical work hours. Flight training also can be completed at your own pace, whether that means full-time training or just taking it one lesson at a time. 

Myth 2: You Have To Be Rich To Attend Pilot School

Pilot school is an investment, but our goal at East Bay Flight is to make flight training as cost-effective and convenient as possible. While you can pay as you go, it’s also helpful to know that some grants and scholarships may be available to help cover the costs of pilot school. The Federal Aviation Administration has a list of resources for those who want to become a pilot, which can be accessed at https://www.faa.gov/education/grants_and_scholarships/aviation.

Myth 3: You Have To Possess Advanced Math & Science Skills

Although pilots need to understand certain principles of physics and basic calculations, the math and science involved are usually straightforward. Instructors teach students what they need to know without requiring advanced math or science knowledge. Many people who don’t consider themselves “math people” go on to become successful pilots.

Myth 4: You Must Have 20-20 Vision

While good vision is important, you don’t need perfect eyesight for a private pilot certificate. Many pilots wear corrective lenses or contacts, and most pilot schools will accept students with vision corrected to 20/20. Certain types of vision impairments may require extra testing, but vision issues generally don’t disqualify someone from becoming a private pilot.

Myth 5: Pilots Must Be In Peak Physical Condition

While this might be true for Navy and Air Force aviators, this is not a requirement for hobby pilots. It's true that pilots must meet certain medical standards, but peak physical fitness is not a requirement. As long as you can pass the required medical exam, which assesses general health and mental well-being, you’re likely to be eligible for training.

Typically, to obtain an FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate, private pilots must have vision of at least 20/40 in each eye with or without corrective lenses. Additionally, you must be able to hear (in both ears) well enough to hear conversations six feet away. Your blood pressure must be no higher than 155/95 and you cannot have a medical condition that causes dizziness or balance issues. 

In some cases, you may be able to receive a medical exemption if you don’t quite meet these requirements. As a side note, you also must be able to speak English proficiently enough to speak easily with air traffic controllers.

Myth 6: Piloting An Aircraft Is Too Dangerous

While flying does involve some risk, pilot school is highly focused on safety and training students to handle all kinds of situations calmly and effectively. The aviation industry has strict safety standards, and students are taught emergency procedures to prepare them for unexpected situations. Flying becomes safer with proper training, which is exactly what a certified flight instructor provides.

Myth 7: You Must Have A College Degree

Many people mistakenly believe that you must have a college degree to become either a private pilot or a commercial pilot. Some major airlines may show preference to pilots with a degree, but this is not a requirement. We certainly do not require a degree for flight instruction, and for a private pilot, this is never a requirement.

If you plan on taking more advanced aviation courses and working toward an aviation career, you don’t need a college degree for many types of piloting. For instance, a certified flight instructor does not need a college degree. Pilots that tow banners, handle crop dusting or even complete aerial surveys typically don’t need a degree.

Even most regional airlines won’t require a degree. Many large airline carriers will give preference to an airline pilot with a degree, but this is not true across the board. If you do have your heart set on becoming a pilot for a major airline, this is a long-term process and a degree will give you an edge, but you also can work toward earning your degree as you acquire the flight hours and other requirements necessary to work for a major carrier. 

Book A Discovery Flight!

One of the best ways to determine if pilot school is a good fit for you is to take a Discovery Flight. During this experience, you will spend 1.5 hours with one of our certified flight instructors, including a full hour in the aircraft. After takeoff, you will actually do most of the flying and learn how pilots maneuver an aircraft. We recommend this as a first step for anyone interested in pilot school.

At East Bay Flight, we can help you become a private pilot as well as help you earn your instrument rating. Our team also can help you become a commercial pilot and a certified flight instructor. We also offer Rusty Pilot training for those who attended pilot school long ago and need a refresher. Contact us at any time to ask questions about our flight training or sign up for pilot school!