Register

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]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA issued 69,503 student pilot certificates in 2023, a 24% increase from 2022, with peak issuances in June and August.
  • This rise is attributed to factors like improving spring weather, holiday gifts, and the beginning of academic years at Part 141 flight schools.
  • To expedite training, student pilots should aim to fly at least twice a week and ensure their chosen school has sufficient aircraft and instructors.
  • Prospective students should research a school's resources (aircraft, instructors) relative to its student body and inquire about waiting lists and post-certification aircraft rental availability.
See a mistake? Contact us.

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.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE