$12,500…. A number I have yet to tell my wife. LOL….. I started on Oct 6 of 2020, and I took my check ride on July 21, 2021. That dollar amount includes some extra things that I bought that I could have gone without. I treated myself to a Bose A20 headset right before my check ride which I already had a Kore aviation set that would have been ok.

I did this my last year teaching. Most of my flights were on the weekends when weather would cooperate. I flew out of Easterwood (Texas A&M University) at Brazos Valley Flight Services. I was able to fly some Cessna 150s, but mostly 172 models. Cost depends on the plane, and what avionics are in it. Most of my flying was on steam gauges cause those planes were cheaper than the G1000.

Costs are not getting any cheaper. The average student takes between 60-75 hours to get their PPL. I did mine in 52 (the minimum is 40).

I am now part of the flying club in an airport close to Easterwood that we have a PA-28 with a 180 in it. Very comparable to a Cessna 172, but low wing.

I get to fly enough to stay current for passengers, but changing careers (while making my life way better) cost a little disposable income to be able to get my instrument rating. I’ll get there, but it will take time. I’d be happy to share more. Drop your email and I’ll be happy to chat. We could even go fly if you’re close enough.