Getting Started
Finding a Flight School
-
AOPA’s Flight School Finder is an online directory that lets you search by state, zip code, within a radius from that location, or the school’s name.
Scholarships
-
AOPA Flight Training Scholarships can be used for flight training expenses in pursuit of a primary pilot certificate or advanced rating. In 2019, AOPA gave away more than $1 million in scholarships to high school students, teachers, and adults in flight training.
-
Are you interested in pursuing flight or a career in aviation or an aviation-related field? We encourage well-rounded individuals who are involved in their school or community and interested in the world of aviation to apply for an EAA scholarship.
-
Whirly-Girls International is a nonprofit, educational and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation.
Medical Certificate
-
A step by step guide on how to get a Medical Certificate and what to expect during the AME examination.
-
The FAA MedXPress system allows anyone requesting an FAA Medical Clearance or Medical Certificate to electronically complete an application.
-
Search for an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in your area. This tool provides an up-to-date listing of AMEs, based on search criteria you select.
Student Pilot Certificate
Student Pilot Gear
-
Choosing the right helicopter headset is crucial for both comfort and communication. Whether you’re a student pilot or a seasoned pilot, here’s a breakdown of the best helicopter headsets on the market today.
-
It’s no secret of the importance of a logbook— it’s more than just a record of flight hours, it’s a tool for tracking progress, preparing for checkrides, and ensuring compliance with FAA regulations. Here’s the logbook I continue to use as a flight instructor, and recommend to my students.
-
As a flight instructor, I recommend kneeboards very early on. They’re great for holding the start-up checklist hands-free, having paper to write frequencies/manifold pressure limits, and eventually holding your iPad during instrument training.
-
The Helicopter Flying Handbook is designed as a technical manual for applicants who are preparing for their private, commercial, or flight instructor pilot certificates with a helicopter class rating.
-
From essential flight gear to study materials, being well-equipped lets you focus on learning, not scrambling for equipment.