Understanding the FAA Regulations
Part 61 = requirements for PILOTS
Part 141 = requirements for SCHOOLS
Same certificate either way.
Part 61
Flexibility First
- Train at your own pace
- Instructor determines readiness
- Adapt schedule to weather/life
- Pay as you go
- Available at most flight schools
Part 141
Structure & Oversight
- FAA-approved curriculum
- Mandatory stage checks
- Fixed lesson sequence
- Often bundled pricing
- Required for VA/GI Bill & M-1 visa
Hours: Minimum vs Reality
Part 61 Minimum
40 hrs
Private Pilot
Part 141 Minimum
35 hrs
Private Pilot
| Factor | Part 61 | Part 141 |
|---|---|---|
| Lesson Order | Flexible - adapt to conditions | Fixed sequence required |
| Stage Checks | Instructor's discretion | Mandatory at set points |
| Cost Structure | Pay as you go | Often bundled packages |
| VA/GI Bill | Rarely accepted | Usually required |
| M-1 Visa | Case-by-case | Compliant |
| Availability | Nearly every school | FAA-approved only |
Ready to Start Your Training?
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Book Your First Lesson5 Myths Debunked
"Part 141 is better quality"
Reality: Quality depends on the instructor, not the FAR part. The certificate is identical.
"Part 141 is cheaper"
Reality: 5-hour reduction rarely saves money. Most need 60-75 hours either way.
"Part 61 is unstructured"
Reality: Good Part 61 schools use detailed syllabi—just not FAA-mandated ones.
"You must pick one forever"
Reality: Mix and match! Private under 61, instrument under 141, or vice versa.
"Airlines prefer 141"
Reality: Airlines care about certificates and experience—not which FAR part you used.
NYC Reality: Why Part 61 Dominates
We're not Part 141—by design. Our airline pilot instructors believe flexible, student-centered training produces better pilots than rigid checklists.
Flying clubs can also offer excellent Part 61 environments. Organizations like the Jax Navy Flying Club provide member-owned access to well-maintained aircraft.
Which Path Is Right for You?
Which Training Path Fits You?
How predictable is your weekly schedule?
✈️ Choose Part 61 If:
- ✓ Unpredictable work schedule
- ✓ Self-funding training
- ✓ Prefer learning at your pace
- ✓ Training at a local school
- ✓ May need to pause for life
🎓 Choose Part 141 If:
- ✓ Using VA/GI Bill benefits
- ✓ Need M-1 visa enrollment
- ✓ Full-time student availability
- ✓ Thrive with external deadlines
- ✓ Accelerated career program
What Actually Matters
Frequency
2-3x/week minimum. Consistency beats total hours.
Preparation
Study between lessons. Chair fly procedures.
Instructor
Experience + teaching ability matter most.
Budget
Plan for 60-75 hours, not the 40-hour minimum.
For more guidance, see: How to Choose the Right Flight Instructor
Simulator Training Counts
- 2.5 hours AATD count toward PPL
- 20 hours count toward instrument rating
- 50 hours can count toward commercial (Part 61)
- Practice emergencies and procedures risk-free
- Train during weather that grounds aircraft
Ready to Start Training?
Book a simulator lesson with our airline pilot instructors. Flexible scheduling, no bundled packages.
Book Your First LessonFrequently Asked Questions
Official Resources
Your instructor, training frequency, and preparation matter far more than which FAR part governs your school. For NYC working professionals, Part 61 usually fits better.
Stop Researching. Start Flying.
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