How Young is Too Young to Start Flying Lessons?

To answer the question this FLYING user asks, there are other important questions that have to be answered first.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, May 04, 2022 at 10:23 AM ET

Verified

What is the proper age to start flying lessons? It depends. [File Photo: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

The ideal age to begin flight training is determined by an individual's maturity, encompassing their ability to follow directions, study, schedule lessons, and accept constructive criticism.
While flight lessons can start at any age, specific FAA minimum age requirements apply for certifications: 14 for gliders/free balloons, 16 for solo airplane flight, and 17 for a private pilot certificate.
Starting flight training significantly early can be inefficient and expensive due to the perishable nature of flight skills, often requiring re-learning. Many aspiring pilots prefer to begin training closer to the solo age (16) to ensure continuity and cost-effectiveness.

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Q: What is the ideal age to start flying?

A: If your offspring has an interest in aviation, you may be wondering, “What is the ideal age to learn to fly?” The answer is, it depends on their maturity level.

Flying is great fun, but it is also a great responsibility. Certificate age requirements notwithstanding, if they’re capable of following directions, scheduling lessons, taking constructive criticism, and they have the discipline to study, they are ready to take instruction.