Private Pilot Flight Training in San Diego & Riverside
Ready to Get Your Private Pilot Certificate?
Welcome!
A Private Pilot certificate also know as the Private Pilot License (PPL) is for those who have always dreamed of flying. It is the starting point for paths to bigger jobs like airline pilot, bush pilot, or cargo hauler. You can pilot a plane anywhere, day or night, under visual flight rules (VFR). Ever dreamed of flying to a top winery or seafood spot in the bay-area? Do you and your buddies crave a quick ski run to Big Bear or Tahoe?
Why Train with Red Horse Aviation in San Diego and Riverside?
Training with Red Horse Aviation goes beyond simply meeting FAA requirements. Instruction is rooted in a more traditional, detail-oriented approach that emphasizes precision, discipline, and the foundational skills often overlooked in modern flight training.
Operating in the diverse and demanding airspace of Southern California, you will gain experience navigating complex Class B environments near San Diego, while also developing strong cross-country proficiency over the high desert and mountainous terrain surrounding Riverside. This combination builds not only technical skill, but true situational awareness.
In addition to standard training, we place a strong focus on the fundamentals—aircraft control, decision-making, and procedural knowledge—that many programs no longer emphasize. The result is a higher level of confidence, sharper communication with ATC, and the ability to manage the varied “microclimates” that define this region.
By the time you reach your checkride, you are not just prepared to pass—you are trained to operate with a level of proficiency and awareness that sets you apart.
Things you'll Learn
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Aircraft control, takeoffs/landings, traffic patterns
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Airspace, weather basics, and cross-country planning
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Radio communications and aeronautical decision-making (ADM), and more.
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Solo flight achievements and checkride prep
Training Structure
Part 61 training program combines ground lessons, flight sessions, and a structured syllabus that can be tailored to the student needs. Along with the ACS (Aviation Certification Standards).
Prerequisites
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You must be 17 or older at the time of your checkride, it’s recommended you to begin at age 16 or older.
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Able to read, speak, write and understand the English Language.
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Pass an FAA Medical exam
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Complete a ground training course (in person or online).
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Complete required flight training.
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Pass the FAA Private Pilot written test.
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Take and pass the FAA final Practical Test.
Minimum Flight Requirements
- Minimum 40 hours (hrs.) total flight time (National average is 65 to 75 hrs.)
- 20 hrs. of dual flight time (with an instructor), of this is:
- 3 hrs. of cross-country flight training
- 3 hrs. at night with 10 takeoffs and landings
- 100 nautical mile (nm.) night cross-country flight
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3 hrs. of instrument training
- 3 hrs. preparing for the FAA checkride (within 2 calendar months)
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10 hrs. of solo flight time (without an instructor)
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5 hrs. of cross-country flying
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150 nm. cross-country flight
Frequently Asked Questions About Private Pilot Training
