Outstanding points. I too was getting worked up earlier as it seemed that some of the posters were blaming the pilot for maintenance issues that were clearly out of his control.
As far as cost go, here is one local flight schools cost breakdown for their Part 61 program. This does not include the tuition cost for a 4 year graduate degree, such as Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. (That there is some Ivy League book learn'ns) Do the everyday divers spend this much???
PRIVATE PILOT
40 hours minimum $6,400.00
Ground school as needed @ $42.00/hr
Written Test $165.00
Flight Test $500.00
Books & supplies $500.00
Total $7,565.00
INSTRUMENT RATING
40 hours minimum $6,600.00
Ground school as needed @ $42.00/hr
Written Test $165.00
Flight Test $500.00
Books & supplies $150.00
Total $7,415.00
COMMERCIAL PILOT
170 hours minimum $28,050.00
Ground school as needed @ $42.00/hr
Written Test $165.00
Flight Test $500.00
Books & supplies $150.00
Total $28,865.00
* The above flight hours from the Private, Instrument, and Commercial meet the requirements of 250 hours (under Part 61) for a Commercial Certificate.
Total Cost for Private, Instrument, and Commercial is estimated to be a minimum of $43,845.00 depending on which aircrafts are used. Joe D.
I am only hear to learn how to please the Divers with my pilot'n abilities and whatnot...