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Flight Training
Facts vs. Fiction

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The Truth About Flight Training

There’s a lot of noise out there about flight training. Some of it’s well-intended. Some of it’s not.

This page is here to clear up the most common misconceptions, so you can make decisions with real information.

Common Flight Training Myths

Fact: Most people don’t qualify at the minimums.

  • The FAA minimums are just that - minimums. In real life, most people need more reps, more hours, and a stronger feel for the airplane to pass a checkride.
  • Why this matters:
    Training should move at your pace, not someone else's. You want to feel solid when you’re the one in the pilot seat.

Fact: Prices on most websites are based on unrealistic timelines.

  • Prices you see on other websites are usually based on perfect, best-case scenarios. Real training depends on things like how often you fly, how quickly you learn, and life schedules. Most people spend more than the minimum because they need more time to gain the skills.
  • Why this matters:
    Planning around realistic numbers avoids frustration later and helps you stay in control of your budget.

Fact: Checkrides depend on examiner availability.

  • It doesn't matter how good you're flying, if an examiner is booked, you have to wait. At most flight schools, you’ll have to wait about 4 months to get your checkride scheduled. At D&J, we’re able to schedule your checkride within 2-3 weeks.
  • Why this matters:
    Waiting four months to schedule a checkride kills momentum. Thanks to our great relationships with local DPEs, we keep you moving forward.

Fact: Neither one is “better” across the board.

  • Part 141 and Part 61 are two different ways the FAA allows training to be structured. The "better" one for you depends on how you learn, how often you fly, and who’s teaching you.
  • Why this matters:
    The right setup is the one that fits your life – not a label on the door.

Fact: Not all aircraft are maintained to the same standard.

  • How an airplane is maintained – and how consistently you fly the same one – makes a real difference. Available, reliable, well-cared-for aircraft mean fewer interruptions and more time in the sky.
  • Why this matters:
    Less downtime and fewer surprises makes a better flight training experience.

Fact: People pause training all the time.

  • Life happens. People pause training for work, money, family, or just to catch their breath. Taking a break doesn’t mean you’ve failed or have to start over – it just means you need flexibility.
  • Why this matters:
    Your flight training should fit into the realities of your life. It doesn’t have to be nonstop to move you forward.

Fact: People start flying at all ages.

  • We see students who starting their first careers, professionals transitioning into second careers, and folks who waited until life lined up a little better. Being older often means you bring focus, discipline, and perspective to training.
  • Why this matters:
    There’s no expiration date on learning to fly.

Fact: There is a whole team on the ground helping things run smoothly.

  • Instructors, maintenance, and the team on the ground all play a role in helping your flight training. You’re still responsible for your progress, but you’re not left to figure everything out alone.
  • Why this matters:
    Having people in your corner makes hard things feel doable.
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Your Next Step

Most people don’t commit their entire future based on a website.

Come check out our airplanes, talk to our team, and see what flying with us feels like.

You’ll know if we’re the best team for you.

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One Last Thing

We’ve seen too many people get frustrated or discouraged because what they were told upfront wasn’t realistic.

That’s why we commit to always giving you accurate information and honest feedback.

If that’s what you want from your flight school, then you’re in the right place.

Let’s fly.