Blog

Updated Jun 26, 2025

What We Did

We distributed a nationwide survey, targeting student pilots, private pilots, instructors, and those currently enrolled in aviation programs.

Questions focused on:

• Where and how respondents began their training
• Common obstacles (financial, logistical, emotional, instructional)
• Satisfaction with their programs and instructors
• What they wish they had known earlier

What We Found

1. The training process is inconsistent, with many switching instructors multiple times.
2. Students rely heavily on fragmented information sources with little guidance.
3. Key blockers include cost, instructor turnover, and a lack of clear syllabi or expectations.
4. Digital tools are being used — but often without strategic understanding of their full value.
5. Most respondents are eager to improve their experience and open to solutions.

Sample Characteristics

Training Information Source

• Internet is the #1 source: While local outreach—such as airport visits and school contact—still plays an important role, the internet has become the leading way pilots discover options.
• Networks play a big role: A significant portion relied on recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues when making their decision.
• Formal education pathways are less common: Only a small number began through structured programs like school partnerships, college aviation departments, or the military.

How and Why Pilots Train

• Nearly 75% of respondents received their training from independent instructors or small local flight schools, highlighting the dominance of more personalized, community-based training environments.

• The primary driver behind flight training was career-focused, though a significant number also pursued it recreationally.

Training Satisfaction & Continuity

• Flight training disruptions are common, with over two-thirds of respondents reporting they had to pause their training at some point.
• 42% of respondents rated their satisfaction at 3 or below, highlighting significant room for improvement in the overall training experience.
• While many respondents leaned positive, only about one in four gave the highest satisfaction rating.

Reasons for Pausing Training

• Financial challenges and scheduling issues are among the top reasons students pause their flight training.
• Instructor and aircraft availability, along with difficulty finding the right training, also significantly impact training continuity.

 What Pilots Wish They Knew

• Mentorship and peer support top the list: Nearly half of respondents felt they lacked access to relatable guidance or a support network during their training.
• Choosing the right instructor or school remains unclear: Many pilots struggled with identifying quality instruction — a key early decision that impacts their entire journey.
• Financial uncertainty is a major concern: A large number of respondents wanted more help understanding training costs and financing options.
• Motivation and confidence matter: Emotional factors like burnout and self-doubt were nearly as prevalent as knowledge gaps, suggesting a need for more student support.

What Would Make Training Better

Q: What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far in your flight training
(Open question - 177 total responses)

1. Instructor Consistency & Professionalism Many respondents emphasized the importance of having professional, reliable, and consistent instructors. Comments often referred to instructor turnover, lack of availability, or inexperience. Trainees expressed a strong desire for more engaged mentors who are not just building hours but invested in their students' success.

2. Financial Support & Affordability Cost continues to be a major barrier. Respondents said their experience would be significantly better with more affordable rates, or flexible payment plans. The financial stress impacts student satisfaction and progress.

3. Training Clarity & Structure Pilots called for clearer communication around stage checks, checkrides, and curriculum expectations. Especially in Part 141 programs, there’s a clear gap in understanding timelines and requirements. Many feel lost or unsupported in navigating their next steps.

4. Aircraft/Operational Reliability Some highlighted operational delays due to poor maintenance or lack of aircraft availability. These logistical frustrations cause training interruptions and reduce the quality of the overall experience.

5. Study Resources & Peer Support A small group desired structured study support, access to practical study tools, and opportunities to collaborate or learn with peers.

Related Articles

• Choose the Right Flight Instructor
• Determine Your Pilot Goals