Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions.
Common questions about learning to fly with us. If yours isn't answered here, contact us.
Getting started
Do I need any experience to start?
None. Most students start with a discovery flight ($199), where you take the controls with an instructor on your very first flight.
When can I start?
We're a new flight school at Lawrence Municipal Airport, opening in early December 2026. We're booking discovery flights and lessons now. Contact us to reserve your first date.
How old do I have to be?
There's no minimum age to take lessons. You must be 16 to fly solo and 17 to earn a private pilot certificate.
Do I need a medical certificate?
You'll need an FAA medical certificate before your first solo. A third-class medical is enough for a private pilot. You can take lessons with an instructor before you have one, but we recommend getting it early.
Is it hard to learn to fly?
It takes effort, but if you can learn to drive, you can learn to fly. Flying consistently and preparing for lessons matter more than natural ability.
Can I learn to fly if I wear glasses?
Yes. Many pilots wear glasses or contacts. Your medical certificate may require corrective lenses while flying.
Time & cost
How long does it take to get a private pilot license?
The FAA minimum is 40 flight hours. Most students nationwide finish around 60–75 hours. Flying two or three times a week, that's typically 4–6 months.
How much does it cost?
The total depends mostly on how many hours you fly. See our flight training cost guide for a full breakdown, and contact us for current rates.
Do I have to pay for everything up front?
No. Most students pay as they go, lesson by lesson.
Does my discovery flight count toward my license?
Yes. Time with a certificated flight instructor can be logged toward your pilot certificate.
Training
Do I need to take ground school?
You need to pass the FAA knowledge test, so you'll need to learn the material. Most students use an online ground school plus one-on-one ground lessons with their instructor.
How often should I fly?
Two to three times a week is ideal. Once a week works, but usually takes more total hours because more time goes to review.
Can I fly in the winter?
Yes. Cold, dense air is great for aircraft performance and winter often brings smooth, clear days. Expect more weather cancellations, so scheduling flexibility helps.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We reschedule. Safety always comes first, and your instructor will often turn a weather day into a productive ground lesson if you'd like.
Can I fly with a passenger once I'm licensed?
Yes. As a private pilot you can carry passengers and share operating expenses with them.
The airport
Where are you located?
At Lawrence Municipal Airport (KLWM), 492 Sutton Street, North Andover, MA — near I-495, about 25 miles north of Boston.
Is KLWM a towered airport?
Yes. KLWM has an air traffic control tower, so you'll learn to talk to ATC from your first lesson.
Is there parking?
Yes, there's parking at the airport. We'll send details when you book.
How do I get there from Boston without a car?
Take the MBTA Commuter Rail Haverhill Line to Lawrence, then a short rideshare. See flight training near Boston.
Get started
Schedule a discovery flight.
Take the controls with a certificated flight instructor over the Merrimack Valley. No experience needed. Now booking lessons starting early December 2026.