Into the blue

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Samuel Taylor
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  "Once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return."- Leonardo Da Vinci

A stimulating pastime, a unique form of exploration and a commercial skill - piloting has much to offer those who take the time to master it. Yet how does one go about obtaining a pilot's license on a busy military schedule and an Airman's paycheck? The answer can be found at the Dover Air Force Base, Del., aero club.

The Aero club offers Team Dover members a chance to obtain their private pilot's license at their own pace, with the added benefit of Tuition Assistance covering some of the expenses.

"Our club conducts the training required to fly single and multi-engine planes; we also help students prepare for the Federal Aviation Administration checklist," said Joe Nickle, the manager of the aero club with the 436th Force Support Squadron. "Our team of instructors offer one-on-one training and can accommodate a variety of schedules."

The process begins at the base education center where those interested in the program can discuss their options to schedule and pay for the training. The minimum age to obtain a license is 17.

Once those details are set, the next step is to become an aero club member. The initiation fee is $35, and monthly dues are $25. Membership includes flight training, aircraft rental and insurance benefits. Membership is valid at every aero club in the Air Force, and on several Army and Navy bases as well.

Once a student begins flight training, they are expected to complete at least 35 hours of ground training, incorporating tests, classroom lessons and videos, and 30 hours of flight training, incorporating navigation, instrumentation and radio communication. According to Nickle the average time required to complete flight training is nearly half the 80-hour national average, saving Team Dover time and money.

The typical cost to receive a license ranges from $5,000 to $8,000 before TA for the training, instructor fees and plane rental. However, the price is largely dependent on how quickly and earnestly a student works. Service members expecting a deployment can coordinate with the club and education office to discuss payment options.

"Students can begin any time and progress at their own pace; it's best to consistently complete training to prevent skills from deteriorating early on, and to keep the cost down," said Nickle.

Ground and flight lessons typically last from one to two hours. Once students progress through ground training, the sky becomes their new classroom, and flight instructors like J.J. Jillek become their mentor.

"We won't let someone in the plane until we're completely confident in their skills and knowledge; safety is our primary concern," said Jillek.

After several lessons with the instructor, students are afforded the opportunity to fly solo, relying on the skills they've learned throughout the course. For students like Cody Scheers, the experience can be taken in stride.

"I feel completely confident that I will land the same way I took off - without a scratch," said Scheers.

For those not ready to jump in feet first, the aero club also offers 20-30 minute introductory flights for $40.

"Introductory flights are great for those who have never flown in a small aircraft before; plus they can see if flight training is something that appeals to them," said Jillek.

Weather permitting, the average student at Dover AFB completes their training in approximately five months; the average civilian student may wait as long as two years. With their license in hand and their eyes turned skyward, they are free to ascend into the wild blue yonder.