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FAA Data Shows Student Pilot Numbers on the Rise

Student certificates issued in 2023 jumped 24 percent compared to the year before, according to agency data.

The FAA issued 69,503 student pilot certificates in 2023, up 24 percent from 2022. [Credit: iStock]
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Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA issued 69,503 student pilot certificates in 2023, marking a 24 percent increase from 2022, with peak issuance occurring in June and August.
  • To make steady progress in flight training, students are advised to fly at least twice a week, with three times being ideal.
  • When selecting a flight school, it is crucial to research the availability of airworthy aircraft and active instructors relative to the number of students to ensure consistent training.
  • Prospective students should anticipate potential waiting lists for training and inquire about aircraft rental policies for solo flights after certification.
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Does it seem like there are more student pilots in the air these days? According to FAA data, there are.

The agency issued 69,503 student pilot certificates in 2023, up 24 percent from 2022.

Meg Godlewski

Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.

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