337-526-8231
Flight training
In any of our professional programs, students will receive instruction and learn techniques from highly qualified pilots. Take a look below at the programs available, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions.
Private Pilot Certificate
What You Need
The private pilot license requires a minimum of 20 hours of flight instruction with a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and 40 hours of total flight time. The total time varies based on the student. Most require more than the bare minimum time. The national average to complete the private certificate is 79 hours. We will train you as efficiently as possible but will never compromise safety for expediency. The more you prepare between lessons, the fewer hours it will take to get the private pilot license. We tend to be well below the national average.
The cost is $159 for the plane and $75 for the CFI, $234 while the engine is running, $75 when off. We have two (IFR) Cessna 172s. Our IFR rated aircraft have Garmin 430 GPS with WAAS. You can train in our aircraft or purchase your own.
As you progress in training, you will need the following:
☑ You will need a Student pilot license. The student license is free! You can start this process by logging into IACRA at https://iacra.faa.gov/IACRA/Default.aspx. The instructor will help you with this process.
☑ You will need a third class medical. Log into https://medxpress.faa.gov/medxpress/. Call Dr. Dan Butler in Lake Charles, (337) 564-1589. Sulphur: (337) 310-7233.
☑ You will need to complete a ground school training program to prepare for the FAA PPL exam. You can complete the ground school before or during flight training. Most do it during flight training because it helps keep things interesting. We recommend Sporty’s ground school, https://www.sportys.com/learn-to-fly-course-private-pilot-test-prep-online-app-and-tv.html
Once all training and experience requirements are met, an instructor will give you an endorsement to take the practical flight test with an FAA designated pilot examiner. The typical cost is $600 in Lafayette or $900 in Lake Charles. You will then be a private pilot.
EXTRA Useful Information
Learn to do a preflight inspection here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJytqhYLB1A
Learn how to talk on the radios with scripts here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ln9ogom2ocq5wvp/AAADJewado1ERbPQbtOJla6qa?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ln9ogom2ocq5wvp/AAADJewado1ERbPQbtOJla6qa?dl=0
Learn to reserve a plane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDPW8WJ9EDs
Instrument Rating
Jump In
We have two IFR rated (Garmin 430) Cessna 172s for rent at $159 per hour (while the engine is running). The cost of the CFI is $75 per hour from the scheduled time until the session is completed. You can train in our aircraft or purchase your own.
US Army Credentialing Assistance Provider
We are authorized to train US Army, Active, Reserves, and National Guard under the Credentialing assistance program. To apply, click here https://www.armyignited.com/app
Getting your Commercial Pilots License allows you to be compensated for your work! How rewarding is that?! Want to learn more? Call today!
Our Fly this Sim simulator is brand new giving you access to the latest technology. Rock Solid Aviation’s investment in state-of-the-art equipment and aircraft keeps us at the leading edge of advanced training providers.
If you already have a license and just need to build time, Rock Solid Aviation has two newly updated 172’s for rent. Contact us today with any questions or for more information.
Become a Flight Instructor
We can train you to become a CFI or CFII. We have instructors with thousands of time in the right seat giving instruction.
Accelerated Programs
Are you paying ridiculous prices for flight training? You can train here in an accelerated program for any of our ratings. Housing can be provided. Certain restrictions apply such as must have written completed and schedule in advance.
Discovery Fight
You can take a discovery flight around Lake Charles, Sulphur, DeQuincy, Moss Bluff, or the Gulf of Mexico. You can fly the plane under the guidance of an experienced instructor and or just enjoy the view. The flight can be for sight seeing or to see if you want to become a pilot. The flight counts towards your license. The discovery flight is 1 hour of plane rental with pilot at $210.00. This makes a great gift for the adventure seekers on your gift list. Up to 3 people can go for this price depending on weight.
Our Team
Guidance, Inspiration and Support
Among the top reasons our students decide to go with us is our professional staff, who are involved in their educational process every step of the way. Get to know more about each of our team members below.
Wayne Steve Thompson Jr.
Steve is an Army veteran and a retired State Trooper. He is a full time professor at McNeese State University. He is a member of the Parapoke skydiving demonstration team and a skydiving instructor. He can fly a plane or jump out if it. He is a member of the sheriff's office aviation unit. Steve has a passion for helping others discover the sky.
Alexander Kerbow
Alex found his passion for aviation at the age of 15 and got his Private Pilot's License at 17. In addition to being a commercial pilot and flight instructor, Alex also has a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is a member of the Sheriff's Office Aviation Unit. Alex loves sharing his passion of aviation with others!
Christian Tabor
A 2020 graduate of Saint Louis High School, Christian made the most of school closing during the pandemic and obtained his private pilot’s license during his Senior year with Rock Solid Aviation. He then fast tracked his commercial pilot’s license through ATP Flight School in Houston, TX and returned to Rock Solid Aviation to become a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). He loves all things flying and hopes to obtain his Helicopter Pilot’s license one day as well.
Hunter Bernal
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To find out more information about learning at Rock Solid Aviation, contact us today.
Lake Charles, LA, USA
337-526-8231
About Us
Empowerment Through Education
Why Rock Solid Aviation? This school was inspired by Rock Palermo. He was our true North. He pushed us and most people in our community to be better pilots and people. He set the standard in aviation and family. He inspired us to reach for the sky in aviation and in life. He shared his passion with everyone. Rock touched so many people that it was hard to believe he was one man, but he was. A SuperMan. And he is dearly missed. We will continue his legacy through passionate inspiration for all who wish to reach the sky. We hope anyone who learns to fly at Rock Solid Aviation absorbs his passion for aviation and in every aspect of life. We will never forget our dear friend.
Ever since opening our doors, we’ve helped countless individuals achieve their career and life dreams. We are committed to providing excellent education, training and resources so that our students will thrive in today’s competitive world. With flexible program options and great instructors, we’re sure you’ll be satisfied with your education at Rock Solid Aviation.
