Welcome to the L2F (“Learn to Fly”) Newsletter. We’re here to help you in your journey of becoming a pilot!

We’ve recapped the various kinds of licensing options for pilots over the last few weeks, and one thing all pilots need to know is airspace. This week we’re kicking off a series on the all-important airspace classifications, which happen to look like upside down wedding cake!

“Part 61 flight school” vs. “Part 141 flight school” … what does that even mean? We explain more in our second article!

This week we’re opening up the feedback loop, and inviting you to send us your questions about learning to fly, please send them our way via: [email protected].

Let’s dive in!

Wedding Cake in the Sky? No, it’s “Airspace”!

Airspace classifications form the backbone of aviation safety and order. Each airspace class, from the highly controlled Class A to the more relaxed Class G, plays a pivotal role in shaping the skies. Understanding these classes is non-negotiable for aspiring pilots, providing a roadmap for safe navigation and ultimately maintains the skies as a secure and open expanse for the aviation community.

Understanding the terms “Class B, C, and D airspace” can often be a mystery, but here’s your definitive guide to the classes of airspace A through G!

The FAA classifies airspace according to altitude and types of operations conducted. Alphabetically, from A to G, airspace is ranked from most to least restrictive. For example, sport pilots may only fly in class E and G airspace without an endorsement (F being special use), and Class A airspace is reserved almost exclusively for long-haul flights between towered airports carrying passengers or cargo.

CLASS A: THE HIGHWAYS OF THE SKY

Class A airspace initiates its jurisdiction at Flight Level 180 (18,000 feet above sea level), extending upwards to an impressive FL 600. Only those operating under instrument flight rules (IFR) are permitted to soar in this high-altitude highways of the sky. Class A is almost exclusively inhabited by commercial airliners and other IFR-equipped aircraft on long haul journeys. What sets Class A apart is the stringent Air Traffic Control (ATC) it’s monitored by. Pilots navigating this airspace lean heavily on their instruments and ATC guidance to ensure precise routing and separation from other traffic. Student, recreational, and sport pilots may not fly at this altitude, and private pilots may only enter Class A airspace with an instrument rating.

Next week we’ll explore Class B, “Big and Busy”…

What is the difference between Part 61 and Part 141 flight training schools, and which one is right for you?

Part 141 and 61 aren’t exactly self-explanatory. You might have heard the terms thrown around in the aviation world, considering they refer to two different flight training paths, but what’s the real difference between the two?

Summing it up briefly: Part 61 is more flexible, while Part 141 is stricter and more structured. The caveat is that Part 61 students will need more flight hours to obtain both their PPL and Instrument Rating.

The terms get their names from the different parts of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, which is where aviation laws outlined by the FAA can be found. Part 61 can be found under the regulations regarding Airmen, while Part 141 can be found under the subchapter regarding pilot schools. In short, this means Part 141 defines laws for institutions, while Part 61 deals with pilots and flight trainers themselves.

To meet Part 141 requirements, flight schools must follow a set structure and syllabus. The regulations of Part 141 schools may be more strict and demanding, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Part 141 students can obtain their PPL with 35 flight hours and 5 solo hours.

Part 61 flight schools are often smaller, and more customizable. The syllabus can be modified and the structure is less strict than Part 141 training. However, the flight requirements are more demanding. To obtain a PPL, you’ll need 40 flight hours, and 10 solo hours.

Picking between the two paths is a personal choice. Both open opportunities for obtaining your Private Pilot’s License and beyond. If you wish to seriously pursue aviation as a career, and want to complete your training quicker, Part 141 is probably the way to go. Additionally, some Part 141 schools may have access to federal financial aid for eligible students, or financing programs, which could make your goal of becoming a pro pilot more accessible.

If your goal is to fly as a hobby, and you prefer a less rigid curriculum at the expense of a slower pace, then Part 61 is probably for you.

All reputable schools will offer help with scholarships; and guidance on how to make your training as efficient as possible.

The L2F Newsletter is crafted by seasoned pilots and experienced instructors, all with one common goal: to empower your dream of soaring high.

We're not just sharing information; we're sharing wisdom, insights, and the kind of guidance you can only get from those who are already living the dream you aspire to.

Buckle up, because with L2F, you're never alone on your flight training adventure!

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