Flight Training FAQ
General Flight Training Questions
Where are you located?
Cape Air Flight Training provides flight training through Cape Air Charter at Cape Girardeau Regional Airport, located at 4331 John E. Godwin Jr. Memorial Drive, Scott City, Missouri 63780.What areas do you serve?
We serve student pilots from Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Scott City, Sikeston, Perryville, Poplar Bluff, Southeast Missouri, Southern Illinois, and Northeast Arkansas.What types of flight training do you offer?
We offer Discovery Flights, Private Pilot Certificate training, Instrument Rating training, Commercial Pilot training, Certified Flight Instructor training, flight reviews, proficiency training, aircraft rental, and instructor-led training.Do I need any flying experience before starting?
No. Many students begin with no aviation experience at all. A Discovery Flight is a great first step if you want to experience flying before beginning a full training program.What aircraft will I train in?
Students train in a Cessna 172N equipped with modern avionics, including Dual GI 275, GTN 650, and GFC 500 autopilot.Are your instructors FAA-certified?
Yes. Flight training is provided by FAA-certified flight instructors who help students build the knowledge, skill, confidence, and discipline needed for safe flying.Discovery Flight Questions
What is a Discovery Flight?
A Discovery Flight is an introductory flight lesson for people who want to experience flying. You will meet with a flight instructor, learn basic aircraft and cockpit concepts, and experience flight from the pilot’s seat.Who should book a Discovery Flight?
A Discovery Flight is ideal for first-time flyers, future student pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to see what flight training is like before committing to a full program.How much does a Discovery Flight cost?
A Discovery Flight is $250.Can a Discovery Flight be given as a gift?
Yes. A Discovery Flight makes a memorable gift for birthdays, graduations, holidays, anniversaries, or anyone who has always wanted to experience flying from the pilot’s seat.Will I get to fly the airplane during a Discovery Flight?
During a Discovery Flight, you have the opportunity to take the controls under the supervision of an FAA-certified flight instructor. The instructor remains in control of safety throughout the flight.Can a Discovery Flight count toward flight training?
In many cases, introductory flight time may be logged when conducted with a certified flight instructor. Ask your instructor how the flight may apply if you decide to continue training.Private Pilot Training Questions
What is a Private Pilot Certificate?
A Private Pilot Certificate allows you to fly as the pilot in command under applicable FAA regulations. It is the most common starting point for people who want to become pilots.How long does it take to become a private pilot?
The timeline depends on weather, scheduling, student preparation, aircraft availability, and how often you fly. Students who train consistently and study between lessons usually make faster progress.How often should I fly during training?
Flying consistently is one of the best ways to make steady progress. Many students benefit from flying multiple times per week when their schedule allows.What affects the total cost of private pilot training?
Total training cost can vary based on flight frequency, preparation, weather, aircraft scheduling, instructor time, and how quickly the student becomes proficient. Published rates and estimates are intended to help students plan realistically.Do I need to pass a written test?
Yes. Private Pilot students must complete the required FAA knowledge test, flight training, and practical test requirements. Your instructor can help you understand the steps involved.Instrument Rating Questions
What is an Instrument Rating?
An Instrument Rating allows a pilot to fly by reference to instruments and operate under Instrument Flight Rules when properly trained, rated, current, and operating within applicable regulations.Why should I get an Instrument Rating?
An Instrument Rating can make you a more capable and confident pilot. It is especially valuable for pilots who want to improve weather decision-making, cross-country capability, and overall precision.Do I need a Private Pilot Certificate before beginning Instrument Rating training?
In most cases, students pursue an Instrument Rating after earning a Private Pilot Certificate. Your instructor can help you understand the proper training sequence for your goals.What skills are taught during Instrument Rating training?
Instrument training includes aircraft control by reference to instruments, navigation, procedures, approaches, communications, weather awareness, and safe decision-making in the instrument environment.Commercial Pilot and CFI Training Questions
What is Commercial Pilot training?
Commercial Pilot training is for pilots who want to continue beyond private and instrument flying and develop the skills required for commercial pilot privileges under FAA regulations.Who should consider Commercial Pilot training?
Commercial Pilot training is appropriate for pilots who want to pursue professional aviation opportunities or continue building advanced flying skill and proficiency.What is CFI training?
CFI training prepares qualified pilots to become Certified Flight Instructors. This training focuses not only on flying skill, but also on teaching, communication, lesson planning, and safe instructional technique.Why become a Certified Flight Instructor?
Many pilots become flight instructors to teach others, build experience, strengthen their own aviation knowledge, and continue progressing toward professional aviation goals.Aircraft Rental and Instructor Rate Questions
What does “wet rate” mean?
A wet aircraft rental rate means fuel is included in the hourly aircraft rental rate. Applicable taxes and other training-related costs may still apply.What is the aircraft rental rate?
The Cessna 172N aircraft rental rate is listed on the Training Programs and Pricing page. Visit that page for the most current aircraft rental and instructor rate information.What is the instructor rate?
Instructor time is billed separately from aircraft rental. Visit the Training Programs and Pricing page for the current instructor rate.Are aircraft rental and instructor time the only costs?
Aircraft rental and instructor time are major training costs, but students should also plan for items such as study materials, FAA testing fees, medical certification if required, and other training-related expenses.Flight Reviews and Proficiency Training
Do you offer flight reviews?
Yes. We offer flight reviews for pilots who need to meet FAA flight review requirements or want to refresh their skills with an instructor.Do you offer proficiency training?
Yes. Proficiency training is available for pilots who want to improve confidence, sharpen skills, practice procedures, or return to flying after time away from the cockpit.Can I train if I already have a pilot certificate?
Yes. Pilots who already hold a certificate can pursue additional ratings, complete flight reviews, improve proficiency, or work with an instructor on specific skills.Getting Started
What is the best first step?
If you are new to aviation, the best first step is usually a Discovery Flight. If you already know you want to begin training, contact us to discuss your goals, schedule, and the best training path.How do I book a Discovery Flight?
You can book a Discovery Flight by calling 573-335-6631 or by using the contact form on the Discovery Flight page.How do I ask about flight training programs?
You can call 573-335-6631 or use the contact form on the Training Programs page to ask about Private Pilot training, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot training, CFI training, flight reviews, or aircraft rental.Ready to Start?
Ready to take the next step? Call 573-335-6631, book a Discovery Flight, or contact us about flight training programs and pricing.
With expert instructors and advanced resources, we equip aspiring pilots with the skills and confidence to thrive in aviation.
A Discovery Flight opens up a whole new world of possibilities, whether as a hobby or a career in aviation.
