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TRAINING ADVICE

15 Questions to ask a flying school before you think of applying

Published: Nov 8, 2025 | Flight School Questions

Choosing a flight school is one of the biggest financial and personal decisions you will ever make. It's a journey that can cost tens of thousands of pounds and shape your entire career. The industry can be full of "glossy ads" and "misleading timelines."

To ensure you find a school built on transparency and integrity, you must ask the tough questions. Here are 15 to get you started.

Part 1: The Truth About Money

  • 1. Can I see a complete, line-item cost breakdown for the entire course? (Ask what's *not* included: exam fees, landing fees, equipment, test re-sits.)
  • 2. How are my pre-paid training funds protected? (Are they in a separate client account? Is there an insurance policy? If the answer is vague, walk away.)
  • 3. What is the *real* cost, including the average student's over-run? (How much extra training do most students need?)

Part 2: The Reality of Timelines & Resources

  • 4. What is your current instructor-to-student ratio?
  • 5. What is your aircraft-to-student ratio? (Specifically for the aircraft you need, e.g., the multi-engine.)
  • 6. What is the *average* student completion time, not the "best-case" marketing promise?
  • 7. How is aircraft and instructor availability managed? (Can I book online? How far in advance?)
  • 8. What happens if an aircraft goes unserviceable for an extended period? (Do you have backup aircraft or agreements with other schools?)

Part 3: The People and Culture

  • 9. Can I speak to a few current students, chosen by me, not by you?
  • 10. What is your instructor retention rate? (High turnover means you'll lack continuity in your training.)
  • 11. What standardisation training do instructors receive?
  • 12. What student support systems are in place if I'm struggling?

Part 4: The Career

  • 13. What specific, formal airline partnerships do you have? (Ask for details, not just logos on a website.)
  • 14. What percentage of your graduates from the last 12 months are now employed as pilots?
  • 15. Do you provide interview and CV preparation? (Is this included, or is it an extra cost?)