Required Tests

Passing scores on 2 written tests are required to complete the commercial training course. The FAA test may be waived for holders of certain powered aircraft certificates. A pre-solo written test must be successfully completed prior to solo flight. At the end of either the Commercial or Private Pilot Course, an FAA check ride must be completed by the student. Pilot licenses are issued immediately after the successful completion of the flight check ride.

Course Materials

At enrollment, each student will be provided with the following materials:

• Certificate of Enrollment
  
• Preflight and Inflation Checklist
  
• Curriculum outline and training syllabus
  A list of required and optional study materials are available to students desiring additional written materials. Cost of additional study materials is between $50 and $100, depending on the reference material selected.

Equipment

Our FAA Certified Repair Station services all major brands of hot air balloon systems, making it possible for the student to complete his training using the balloon equipment of any number of balloon manufacturers. Those opting to use Adventure Flights equipment will be trained in balloons made by Aerostar International, the world's oldest and largest manufacturer of hot air balloons. Adventure Flights is proud to be a West Coast Distributor for Aerostar. For those wishing to purchase their own system, we have a wide variety of new and used balloons of all makes in stock for immediate delivery. Additionally we specialize in renovating used balloon systems and generally have several in stock at bargain prices.

Check Ride

Check rides with an FAA Designated Examiner are free, however, the student must pay the hourly charge for the use of the balloon, equipment and crew. Should an FAA examiner not be available, private FAA Designated Examiners usually charge $250 for the check ride.

Transportation and Lodging

Lodging is available on-site in a self-contained travel trailer at a nominal fee of $15 per night. Accommodations are also available in various local motels at approximately $45 per night.

Additional Flight Training/Tutoring

If required, additional flight hours are $180 to $275 per flight hour depending on the size of the balloon being flown. The hourly charge includes equipment, crew, chase truck, fuel, insurance, etc.. Tutoring for FAA written tests and ground school (beyond the 25 hours included with the course) is available at $35/hour.

Discounts

· Discounts from 10% to 25% for the course are available if the student buys a new or used balloon from Adventure Flights.

· Students with previously properly documented balloon flight training will be offered a reduction in fees appropriate to their experience level. The discount will be estimated after a flight test evaluation has determined which portions of the balloon training curriculum have been met.

· A discount of $250 will be given to students who purchase both private and commercial training together.

Advanced Courses