The Best Online Ground Schools and How to Choose in 2024

Learning to fly will change your life, there is no doubt about that. But getting started can seem daunting.

Before the actual flying lessons begin, there is a fair bit of ground training and theory you have to go through. Ground school is where your aviation education truly begins. It’s like the foundation of a house. You’ll learn the essential theory that every pilot needs to know.

Below, we’ll list a few of the best options you currently have when it comes to the theoretical part of flight training, which can all be completed from the comfort of your home, at your own schedule, using online e-learning. These have been picked based on their comprehensiveness, teaching approach, user feedback, and proven success.

Overview

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary table of all the mentioned ground schools:

The 8 best online ground schools for private pilots

Now let’s dive in!

(We’ve had the chance to personally review some of the courses mentioned, we include a link to the in-depth review when applicable)

What is ground school and ground training?

Before you begin taking flying lessons, you’ll need to complete some ground training. Ground school is basically the theoretical part of your flight training, where a student pilot is introduced to the basics of flight and a variety of theoretical and practical subjects. This includes learning about things like weather patterns, aerodynamics, navigation and air law, so students are well-versed in the language of aviation when they begin their actual flying lessons.

Even though this article focuses on ground schools for private pilots, many students also take part in ground school for commercial and other pilot licenses.

Online vs. classroom courses

In general, ground schools may be classified depending on who is providing the course and where it is given.

On one hand, we have the traditional flight schools offering in-house ground instruction. These schools, while intensive and professional, are usually quite pricey, and may only offer the private pilot part of ground school as a first step for students enrolled in a professional/commercial pilot training program.

These live classes could also be taught in a flying club where private pilot instruction is given. These will usually be less expensive, but often lack the professional quality and student support of traditional flight schools.

Another option is taking an online private pilot ground school. This makes the course available to students who don’t live near a traditional training center, or simply already have a busy schedule that doesn’t allow for frequent in-class lectures.

These programs may be cheaper than traditional flight schools, but require self-discipline to work well so you can study on your own without instructor oversight.

It doesn’t really matter whether you go to an actual school or sign up for an online course when it comes to learning the material, but there can be some obvious advantages and disadvantages to each, as we will discuss below.

Ground school vs Test prep

Full ground school courses are akin to a virtual classroom, providing an extensive curriculum that covers all aspects of pilot training. These courses are thorough, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the necessary material. On the other hand, test prep courses are targeted at students who have completed ground school.

Choosing between an online test prep course and a comprehensive ground school for pilot training is similar to a student deciding whether to review course summaries the night before an exam or engage in in-depth study throughout the semester.

Test prep courses in pilot training are like reviewing summaries. They focus on key points and exam questions, offering a condensed version of what’s essential for passing the test. This approach is beneficial for recalling specific details and can be effective if the student already has a foundational understanding of the material. However, it lacks the depth and breadth of knowledge that comes from a more thorough study.

The drawback of relying solely on test prep courses is their limited scope. They prepare you for the written exam but may not equip you with the holistic knowledge required for safe flying and the practical aspects of piloting.

Importance of choosing the right course for pilot training

Choosing the right course is like picking the right co-pilot: You want it to be tailored to your learning style, suit your schedule, and be able to guide you effectively through this journey. The right course will not just prepare you for exams, but will instill a sense of confidence and competency, making you ready for any challenges in the cockpit.

The subjects range from understanding the principles of flight, learning about weather patterns, diving into navigation techniques, to decoding the language of aviation – yes, there’s such a thing. They prepare you for the written FAA exams and create a knowledge base that you’ll tap into every time you fly.

Different courses have different strengths. Some may excel at visual learning aids, others might have extraordinary instructors, and a few might offer unique tools for practicing your skills. It’s essential to pick the one that resonates with you and helps you understand and retain the necessary knowledge.

Don’t be surprised if the material feels tough at times. It’s a lot to take in, especially if you’re new to the world of aviation. But remember, every pilot has been where you are now. Keep pushing forward. It’s worth it.

How to choose a Private Pilot Ground School: 5 questions to ask yourself

When deciding which ground school to choose, there are many factors to consider. Here are some of the most important questions you should ask yourself when looking for a ground school:

1. What is your budget?

There are a few tradeoffs to consider though when it comes to attending a physical ground school vs online ground school. One is cost. In-person schools can be much more expensive than online courses, especially when you add the price of transportation, gas and lodging to the cost of tuition. That’s not a big deal if you live nearby or have some more money to spend on school, but if you’re on a tight student pilot budget, this could be prohibitive.

The cost for a private pilot ground school can vary greatly depending on which kind of training you want to do. For instance, following a physical in-class ground course can cost anywhere from $700 in a flying club, to a few $1000 in a professional flight school.

Depending on your budget, you may want to look at an online ground school course, which usually costs between $250 and $400. This will save you more dollars to use on Avgas!

2. How much time do you have?

Another consideration is the availability, schedule and convenience of ground schools. If you have special scheduling needs because of work or family commitments, attending a live class might not be an option for you. While there are some in-class ground schools that would allow following part of the course online (through distance learning, for example), these will be more expensive and less likely to offer a quality online platform that would match a good dedicated e-ground school.

If you’re used to learning independently and prefer a more flexible approach when it comes to scheduling and taking classes, an online ground school might be a good fit for you since this can take place at whatever time and location is most convenient for you.

3. Where do you live?

In addition to flexibility, another factor that will determine which ground school to choose is geographical location. For instance, if you live near a traditional flight school or flying club offering top-notch private pilot instruction and support, it may be more convenient for you to attend an in-person ground course there.

If you’re a commuter and live far from a traditional flight school, taking an online course might be your best option. Think this over carefully before choosing one method or the other because it determines what type of ground school to pick up.

4. What are your goals? What do you want to get out of your training?

Another factor that may influence your decision is the goal you have for your training. For instance, if you’re looking to become a professional pilot then choosing a ground school within a larger flying school may be a good option, as this could serve as a stepping stone to get you started on your professional pilot career. The people you meet during your ground school training could be instrumental in helping you get started and even provide recommendations for jobs or other opportunities that would otherwise be difficult to find.

When planning out a career in aviation as a pilot, you probably also have a considerably higher budget set apart for training.

On the other hand, if your goal is to simply get the training under your belt, but not necessarily turn it into a career, an online school will likely be more affordable and convenient for you. It allows you to go at your own pace and offers more flexible scheduling options when it comes to taking your exams or written test.

5. What is your learning style?

You also have to consider your learning style. Do you prefer to study with the help of visuals and audio or are you more of a book learner? Do you need to interact with other students and instructors or can you learn independently?

All of these factors come into play when choosing a ground school. If you’re very independent, can learn from visual material on your PC and don’t need a lot of instructor interaction, an online school might be the right choice for you.

On the other hand, if you prefer some more guidance and the ability to ask someone a question as you’re going along throughout your training, then a physical ground school might be more useful for you.

Some extra tips on choosing the right ground school course for your needs

If you’re still unsure about which ground school to choose, here are some additional tips that may be of help during your search and decision process:

FAQs about ground school

How much does a private pilot ground school cost?

The cost of a private pilot ground school can vary significantly based on several factors, such as the type of instruction (traditional classroom vs. online), the depth of the curriculum, and the reputation of the institution or instructor.

• Traditional Classroom Ground Schools: Traditional ground schools, usually held at local flight schools or colleges, involve in-person lectures and hands-on training. These courses might span several weeks or even months, often taking place on weekends or evenings, hence why they are usually more expensive. Costs for these physical courses generally range from $300 to $600, with some premium institutions charging more. This price often includes textbooks, charts, and other necessary materials.
• Online Ground Schools: With the advent of technology, online ground schools have surged in popularity due to their flexibility and, often, more affordable rates. Thanks to the increased efficiency of online learning materials, you can save a lot of money compared to physical instruction. In general, an online ground school course will cost you between $150 and $400, with some excellent options priced around $270.

How long does a private pilot ground school take to complete?

The duration varies based on the course structure and the student’s pace. While traditional ground schools might last several weeks with scheduled classes, online courses like the ones mentioned above are self-paced, allowing students to complete them as quickly or leisurely as they prefer.

It’s mandatory to complete at least 40 hours of ground school instruction before qualifying for the practical exam. This requirement can be fulfilled through in-person classes, online courses, or one-on-one sessions with a flight instructor.

Is attending ground school mandatory for taking the FAA written exam?

While the FAA doesn’t mandate attending a formal ground school, they require proof of knowledge before taking the written exam. This proof typically comes from an endorsement by an instructor, which you obtain after completing a ground school.

Attending a ground school is essential for this. It provides foundational knowledge required for the FAA written test. Completing a ground school and passing this exam are prerequisites for the FAA Private Pilot Practical Test.

Are online ground schools as effective as traditional classroom settings?

Online ground schools have gained popularity due to their flexibility and adaptability to individual learning paces. They can be as effective as traditional classroom settings, provided the student remains disciplined and the course content is comprehensive. Many online courses, such as Rod Machado’s eLearning Ground School, offer detailed content that rivals, if not exceeds, traditional classroom teachings.

What topics does a private pilot ground school cover?

A comprehensive ground school will delve into topics such as flight principles, aircraft mechanics, federal aviation regulations, navigation techniques, and meteorology, ensuring students are well-prepared for both the FAA written exam and real-life flying scenarios.

Conclusion

Picking the right ground school is an essential first step in every pilot’s aviation journey, whether it’s just for fun or as the first step in an exciting professional career.

Ultimately, this is an important decision that should not be made without taking into account all of the relevant factors involved, most of which we have touched upon above. If you’re still unsure about which ground school to pick, don’t hesitate to contact us, we’d be happy to help any way we can.

Remember, it’s not a race. Learning is continuous in the world of aviation. You’re not just checking boxes to pass exams: you’re gathering knowledge and skills that will ensure your safety and the safety of others when you’re thousands of feet above the ground. So take your time, explore the options, and choose the course that will mold you into the best pilot you can be.

And finally, don’t forget to enjoy the process. After all, you’re learning to do something that humans have dreamt of for thousands of years – to fly. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of taking off into the sky, and that’s a feeling you’ll get to experience over and over again.

Let us know in the comments below what your favorite ground school is! Have any questions? We’ll be happy to answer where we can.