Aviation Blog - Oshkosh Aviation

A CFI looks back on the 7 biggest mistakes he made from student pilot to flight instructor — and the simple fixes that would have made a real difference.

A pilot career isn't a straight line. Here's how to stop comparing yourself to others, stay motivated, and make the most of every phase of your aviation journey.

Your child wants to fly. Here's what parents need to know about pilot training paths, costs, medical requirements, and how to support them at every step.

Your first flight lesson as a CFI changes everything. Here are 6 things you'll realize the moment you hand over the controls to a student for the first time.

How much does a CFI certificate cost? Dan spent $5,586 — often the least expensive pilot milestone. Full breakdown of exams, instruction, and flight hours.

Commercial pilot certificate cost breakdown: $12,050 from a real pilot's logbook. See how time-building strategy and flying club membership kept costs down.

Instrument rating cost breakdown from a real pilot: $13,815 total. See how switching from a flight school to a flying club made a significant difference.

A real-world private pilot cost breakdown: $21,650 from first lesson to checkride. See every dollar spent on flight time, instructor fees, supplies, and exams.

What does it really cost to become a pilot? We break down the key variables — location, aircraft type, training frequency, and more — so you can plan your budget.