How Much Does Pilot Training Cost?

The overall cost of flight training depends on your goals.

Private Pilot License: Expect to spend approximately $15,000–$20,000.

Instrument Rating: Adding an instrument rating after earning your Private Pilot License typically costs another $14,000–$16,000.

Commercial Pilot License: If your goal is to become a commercial pilot and be paid to fly, expect approximately $65,000–$75,000 total for your Private Pilot, Instrument, and Commercial training.

Beyond the Commercial Pilot License, costs can vary significantly. Many pilots begin working in positions that allow them to earn money while building flight hours. Whether the goal is to fly for an airline, a private operator, or a charter company, those jobs can allow pilots to continue accumulating the experience required for the next stage of their career.