How long should I book for a lesson?

Most lessons are scheduled for about one hour of flight time but often take closer to two hours, because your instructor briefs you before and after each flight. Specialized instruction like a flight review may take longer. If a lesson runs long or short, instructors on Skyfarer can make a Post-Lesson Adjustment through the platform.

How should I compare instructor pricing and value?

Look beyond the hourly rate: a cheaper rate that takes twice as long to reach your goals costs more overall. Check what's included (some rates include aircraft access and fuel), and weigh instructor quality — a well-qualified instructor makes training safer, more efficient, and more rewarding.

How long does learning to fly take?

FAA Part 61 requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight training for a Private Pilot Certificate — at least 20 with an instructor and 20 solo — but most students finish in 60 to 80 hours depending on lesson frequency, study habits, aircraft type, weather, and airport. Discuss a training plan with your instructor to keep progress steady.

How do I choose a flight instructor?

Each Skyfarer listing shows the instructor's background, certifications, specialties, and student reviews. Ask plenty of questions — finding the right fit matters.

Can I carry passengers?

Student pilots may not carry passengers on solo flights, though friends or family may join dual lessons with instructor approval. Recreational and sport pilots may carry one passenger; private pilots and above may carry as many passengers as the aircraft legally seats within performance and weight-and-balance limits.

What kinds of aircraft can I fly?

Most Private, Sport, Instrument, and Multi-Engine training happens in two- or four-seat single-engine airplanes with fixed gear, cruising around 100 mph. If you don't have access to an airplane, choose an instructor who does — listings show available aircraft types.

How often should I plan to fly?

For Private Pilot training, plan 2-5 training sessions per week to stay on track despite weather or maintenance cancellations. Many instructors offer off-peak early-morning or evening availability for extra flight time.

Is it okay if I can’t train full-time?

Yes. Tell your instructor your availability and they can build a schedule around it. Consistency matters more than intensity — regular, steady training leads to better retention and smoother advancement.

If I trained under another instructor or school, do I have to start over?

No — all of your previous flight hours and experience still count. Your new instructor reviews your logbook and current proficiency and picks up where you left off; what matters is flying to FAA standards.

How do I book and what does it cost?

Select a time and click Request to book — you aren't charged until the instructor accepts. Instructors on Skyfarer set transparent, competitive pricing, and payments are by credit or debit card.

What happens after booking?

Once your booking is accepted you get an email confirmation and can message your instructor directly through Skyfarer. After the session you can leave feedback and book your next lesson. Bookings are backed by secure payment protection and support from the Skyfarer team, with all messages kept in your Skyfarer inbox.

Flight Instructors & Schools > Flight Instructors > Client-Centric Catered Instruction (CFI, CFII)

Client-Centric Catered Instruction (CFI, CFII)

Bespoke aviation instruction and services for the discerning and privacy-conscious client; Open to traveling. - As an active airline pilot and retired U.S. Navy flight instructor, I have an extensive background in aviation and am eager to pass my knowledge on to you. I’m also an independent flight instructor (CFI, CFII) with a passion for helping others reach their full potential in the skies. My focus is on building students' confidence, especially in areas where you might feel uncertain or insecure. Allow me to leverage my extensive experience to guide you toward becoming the aviator you aspire to be. Whether you’re a complete beginner curious about flying (know little to nothing) or a seasoned aviator, I'll create a custom training plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. So, bring your curiosity, desire to learn, and your best attitude, and I’ll do the rest. I'd enjoy helping you reach your goals in aviation, whatever they may be, and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you! My training and services include but are not limited to: • Customized ad hoc training specially and specifically designed for you and your unique needs! • Biennial Flight Reviews and Instrument Proficiency Checks • Private, Commercial, Airline Transport, Certified Flight Instructor Training • Single-/Multi-Engine, Instrument Rating • Sport and Recreational Pilot • Ultralight and Light Sport Aircraft • Complex, High-Performance, Turbine • High/Low Altitude Flight • Mountain Flying • Amateur-/Home-Built Flight Testing • Aircraft Ferry • Human Factors and Crew Resource Management • Maneuvering Flight, Basic Aerobatics, Spins, Upset Recovery Training • Formation, Multi-Aircraft Coordinated Flight • Missionized, Task-Oriented, Tactical Aviation • Night Vision Device Training and Operations • Training Curriculum Development and Implementation • Aviation Operations Consulting

Sporty's Pilot Training Courses — modern flight training for modern pilots

Details

StateWashington
CFI InsuranceYes
Aircraft Access for Pilot TrainingYes
Open to traveling across the countryYes

Aircraft Category

Single Engine Land
Multi Engine Land
Aerobatic
Light Sport

Held Pilot Certifications*

CFI (Certificated Flight Instructor)
CFII (Instrument Flight Instructor)
MEI (Multi-Engine Instructor)
Multi Engine Rating
Commercial ASEL (Airplane Single Engine Land)
Commercial AMEL (Airplane Multi Engine Land)
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
Tailwheel Endorsement
High-Performance Endorsement
Complex Endorsement
High-Altitude Endorsement
Glider Rating
Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)
SPI/Sport Pilot CFI (Sport Pilot Instructor)
ATPI/ ATP-CFI (Airline Transport Pilot Instructor)

Training Stages (Can offer)

Private Pilot License (Certificate) - PPL
Instrument Rating - IR
Commercial Pilot License (Certificate) - CPL
Multi Engine Rating - MER
Certified Flight Instructor - CFI
Certified Flight Instructor Instrument - CFII
Multi-Engine Instructor - MEI
Airline Transport Pilot - ATP
Sport Pilot License (Certificate)
Unmanned Aerial System - UAS (/Drone)
Tailwheel Endorsement
High-Performance Endorsement
Complex-Airplane-Endorsement
High-Altitude Endorsement

Specific Aircraft Access

Cessna 206

Aircraft Experience (Instructed in)

• Light Single- and Twin-Engine Cessna and Piper products • Tactical jets • Beechcraft King Air 350

Aircraft Experience (Piloted)

BE350 King Air (Single Pilot Certified); Numerous light-medium single- and twin-engine aircraft; Rockwell Twin Turbine Commander, Bellanca Citabria, Schweitzer gliders; Various homebuilt/experimental aircraft to include FLS Microjet (BD-5J); Grumman F-14A Tomcat, Boeing F/A-18A-F Super/Legacy Hornet, T-45A Goshawk, Boeing 757/767, Airbus A300/310

Home Airport(s)

Serving the greater Portland, OR and Southwest Washington area. Will travel based on the specific needs of the client. Common-use airports include but are not limited to: 1W1 – Columbia Gorge Regional Airport (1W1), Hood River, Oregon KTTD – Portland-Troutdale Airport (TTD), Troutdale, Oregon KVUO – Pearson Field (VUO), Vancouver, Washington KSPB – Scappoose Industrial Airpark (SPB), Scappoose, Oregon KHIO – Portland-Hillsboro Airport (HIO), Hillsboro, Oregon KPDX – Portland International Airport (PDX), Portland, Oregon

Pilot Training Provided

Certificates/Ratings Flight Lessons
Ground School
Intro/ Discovery Flight
Checkride Prep
Safety Pilot
Time Building
Spins, Upset Recovery
Aerobatics
Formation
Aircraft/Avionics-Specific Training
Mountain/Backcountry Flying
Cross-Country Flying
Flight Planning (VFR, IFR)
Currency Training
Aircraft/Insurance Checkout

Type Ratings Held

• Beechcraft King Air 350 • Airbus A300/310 • Boeing 757/767

Pricing - Hourly Rate

• Ground Instruction: $80/hour lecturing/teaching; $60/hour tutoring • Consultations: Complimentary first meeting and consult then $60/hour (one hour minimum) • Flight Instruction: $250/event (minimum daily fee)

Additional Notes

• All prices are negotiable and subject to change based on the specific needs of the client. • Flight Instruction is charged by event regardless of length.

Location

Reviews (0)

Reviews of Tom L from their other listings (3)

5 · 3 reviews across all of Tom L's listings

I booked some time with Tom, because my Instrument Currency has lapsed, and I want to arrive at my upcoming IPC prepared. Tom and I went through what an IPC is, and as requested, he spent some time probing me with some questions to help assess my readiness. It was just what I was looking for, plus I got to hear a story of a real-life NORDO experience from him!
Steve K.•December 2024•
Tom was very professional and gave me some great advice regarding brushing up on some of my rusty pilot knowledge. We had a great conversation and I highly recommend Tom for your aviation needs.
bberisford•September 2024•
PS
Tom helped me figure out the next steps in my aviation journey. I reached out to him for guidance, and he provided clear and practical advice on how to prepare for both high-performance and complex endorsements. He broke down the process for each one, and ensured I knew exactly what to expect. Tom also took the time to explain what it's like to pursue an instrument rating and gave me a solid understanding of what's involved.
Paul S•August 2024•

About

Hello, I'm Tom L.ID VerifiedEmail Verified

I became a pilot in 1993 and Aviation has been my career ever since. I began as a flight instructor for a major university while seeking my bachelors degree before being accepted to the US Navy. There, I flew and began instructing in tactical jets for nearly 20 years. In my off time I enjoyed being a freelance flight instructor at the local airfield. I learned so much about flight instruction during this period of my life. After the Navy I did a short stint with a Part 135 operation before being hired at a major Airline which is what I currently do for employment. I reside in the Pacific Northwest and own a 1978 Cessna U206G which I try to regularly fly.