Time to Get Your Private Pilot License? Begin Your Flight Training Today!
- ethannarber
- Feb 4
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 6
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to get your Private Pilot license and be able to hop in a plane and take off all on your own? It's not as far off or as difficult as you might think. This article will help you discover the easy steps to get in the air and start your flight training today. Whether you are looking to start your steps into a career in aviation as a professional pilot, or simply at a point in your life where you're looking to finally accomplish that dream of flight, I am here to help!
I am a Certified Flight Instructor based in Des Moines, Iowa, and I am here to help you accomplish your aviation goals, no matter what they may be. This article will be geared towards people who would like to utilize me as their independent Flight Instructor, but all paths into aviation are relatively the same, and I will be sure to cover some of those other pathways. My instruction and Private Pilot syllabus is a "train at your own pace" type of instruction. Many flight schools will require up front payments and strict scheduling practices, but flying with me is purely at your own desired pace. Sometimes finances and budgets require a little time, and there is nothing wrong with that. No up front payments, schedule as you are able, and we can knock out your private pilot training based purely on your needs!

I. Where Do I Start?
For someone who is wanting to just get into their flight training, talking to a local instructor or calling a local flight school is your best option. The instructor (whether independent or at a flight school) will talk to you and likely meet with you in person to run over the basics to get started and confirm that training is right for you.
For training with me personally, I would like to meet in person to go over a few of the basic requirements and pre-training activities that will need to be done. With Narber Aviation, you will need to either have your own airplane to train in, or, become a member of the Central Iowa Flying Club.
Joining CIFC is quick and easy. Click on that link above to take you to the application page, where you will be guided through filling out your membership application. I am happy to assist with helping you get your application submitted. You will also need proof of insurance to apply and join CIFC. There are many options to get coverage for insurance, and I can help point you in the right direction for getting a policy set up before your training.
If joining CIFC and starting your training with me through this path, you will also be required to set up an Airport Badging appointment for Des Moines International Airport. This will be included in your membership application, and someone from CIFC will be in contact with you to set up this appointment, which must be done at the airport. It consists of an open-book computerized test that must be completed, and a $125 fee to receive your badge. This badge will allow you access to the airplanes and hangars at the airport. This is a quick and easy step.
II. Obtaining Medical Certificate and Student Pilot Certificate
Another requirement before actual flight training can occur is obtaining an FAA Medical Certificate and Student Pilot Certificate. This process will be assisted with your Flight Instructor providing guidance on getting these things accomplished. I will walk you through what we have to do to verify your identiy, get you set up in the IACRA system, and getting your Medical Certificate Exam with an FAA AME set up. We will want to start this process expeditiously, as it could take 2-3 weeks to fully complete all of these steps before training can begin.
III. Begin Flight Training
Now the fun begins...! Once you have successfully set yourself up at a flight school, or with Central Iowa Flying Club if training with me, and you have received your Medical Certificate and Student Pilot certificate, you are ready to begin your journey to your Private Pilot Certificate! At this point, I will walk you through what to expect with your training curriculum and get you set up with all of the necessary materials that you will need for your ground and flight training.
As previously mentioned, the training will be completely at your pace. This offers the most flexibility and freedom for you to obtain your Private Pilot certificate. At minimum, you are required to have at least 40 hours logged before you are eligible to take your Practical Test with a DPE for your certificate.
Don't wait any longer to start your aviation journey to a Private Pilot Certificate! Train at your own pace with Narber Aviation with personalized and professional flight training services. Contact me TODAY to get started. I am happy to talk with you to answer any additional questions you may have. Click the Email Me Now button below to send me an email and get in touch.
There are many options for flight training in the Central Iowa area. From local flight schools to other independent Certified Flight Instructors. I will deliver the best personalized and professional flight training and help you accomplish your goals!
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