Ground School—you don’t have to be a pilot to start training to be one!

If you have ever wondered, even for a brief moment, what it would be like to be a pilot—then this is a great, inexpensive way to see if flight training is for you! Whether you’re interested in future flight training or have a spouse or friend who is already qualified, this class is a great way to join the fun and get “up to speed” with your flying friends!

Our Ground School is a winning combination of the popular FAA-approved King Schools® materials, and the unique resources of the San Diego Air & Space Museum.

Competitively priced at $299 ($279 for SDASM members) for the entire course—no additional materials needed to attend.

Try it risk-free! If, during the first class, you decide our Ground School isn't the right fit for you, we'll refund your course price.

Learn what Ground School is all about by watching this short video below:

Fall 2024

Our format includes eight Saturday class days, with office hours available for review and clarification of concepts.

When: Saturdays at 10:15 AM - 3:30 PM (with 30 min lunch break)

Saturday, August 31           Aerodynamics / Flight Instruments / Intro to Sectional Charts

Saturday, Sept 7                Airspace and Weather Minimums / Communications & Radar

Saturday, Sept 14              Radio Navigation / Flight Operations

Saturday, Sept 21              Flight Operations / Weather

Saturday Sept 28               Weather / Regulations

Saturday, Oct 5                  Cross Country Planning Part 1

Saturday, Oct 12               Cross Country Planning Part 2 / IACRA       

Saturday, Oct 19              *****No Class*****             

Saturday, Oct 26             Aircraft Performance/ Weight & Balance / FAA Exam Prep     

Saturday, Nov 2              *****No Class*****        

Saturday Nov 9              Endorsements

Click here to register!

Class size typically between 12 and 20 students. Minimum of 12 students for class to begin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Private Pilot Ground School?

Ground schools help people acquire the knowledge they need to become safe and competent pilots, while also preparing them to take the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Knowledge Test required for a Private Pilot certificate. A ground school provides a structured learning environment and personal interaction with qualified instructors, and is preferable to home-study courses for many people.

Why choose ground school at the San Diego Air & Space Museum?

Our nationally-recognized Education Department and King Schools™ have worked to build a curriculum superior to a traditional ground school. Unlike most “Informal” (FAA Part 61) Ground Schools, our instructors are on-site and available for questions and feedback during class. The extensive resources of the Museum add a unique dimension to this learning experience, with interactive applications of classroom material. Our staff includes FAA Certified Instructors, veteran pilots, and credentialed teachers—all providing a well-rounded and comprehensive approach to learning the essentials of flight.

Is the museum's course certified by the FAA?

While the Museum’s course is not part of an FAA flight school, it does qualify as ground training under FAR Part 61 and provides all the information and documentation necessary to take the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test. Our FAA Certified Instructors can log instruction given to you and, upon completion, certify you as being eligible to take the FAA exam!

Do I need any books or equipment?

No additional equipment is required to participate in ground school at the museum: we provide materials for you to use in the classroom! Students preparing to take the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test may choose to purchase support material at any local pilot’s supply outlet.