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 San Diego Air & Space Museum 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.**

Fall 2023
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, Sep 9     Aerodynamics / Flight Instruments / Intro to Sectional Charts
Saturday, Sep 16   Airspace and Weather Minimums / Communications & Radar
Saturday, Sep 23   Radio Navigation / Flight Operations
Saturday, Sep 30   Flight Operations / Weather
Saturday Oct 7       Weather / Regulations
Saturday, Oct 14    Cross Country Planning Part 1
Saturday, Oct 21    *****No Class -- Museum Gala*****
Saturday, Oct 29    Cross Country Planning Part 2 / IACRA                   
Saturday, Nov 4      Aircraft Performance
Saturday Nov 18     Endorsements

Click here to register today!

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.