Solid Ground Aviation Fort Meade MD - Pilot standing outside plane with doors open

Private Pilot Accelerator

Refine your skills and build confidence through professional-grade simulator sessions that save you time, fuel, and stress.

Start Your Aviation Journey

Accelerate Your Private Pilot License

Your Private Pilot License is where aviation begins, and the training standard you set early matters. At Solid Ground Aviation, your instruction is powered by FAA-approved AATD flight simulation and experienced CFIs who fly real-world operations every day.

That means you are mastering muscle memory, checklist discipline, and aeronautical decision-making. From your very first session, we train you to stay ahead of the airplane, master radio communications, and build unshakeable command of the cockpit.

  • Aeronautical Knowledge Foundation: Master aerodynamics, aircraft systems, FAA regulations, weather interpretation, and cross-country navigation.
  • Hands-On Cockpit Mastery: Develop core proficiency in pre-flight inspections, climbs, turns, descents, takeoffs, landings, and emergency procedures.
  • Controlled Space Operations: Train in active towered airspace and DC SFRA to build professional radio communications and situational awareness.
  • Solo Flight Milestone: Experience the confidence of taking off, navigating, and landing a standardized training aircraft completely on your own.
SG-2 Simulator cockpit view for Private Pilot training at Solid Ground Aviation

Features

Key Features of the Private Pilot Accelerator

  • FAA-approved Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD)
  • Custom simulator panels for Cessna and Piper aircraft
  • Focused practice on takeoffs, landings, slow flight, and pattern work
  • Up to 13 course topics available, tailored to your needs
  • Instructional pre-brief, simulator application, and detailed debrief included

Advantages

Advantages of Simulator-Based PPL Training

  • Cut training time by 30–40% compared to aircraft-only training
  • Unlimited repetition without aircraft rental costs
  • Weather and maintenance cancellations no longer stop your momentum
  • Loggable FAA credit toward Private Pilot requirements (FAR 61.109)
  • Flexible, no-contract sessions for what you need, when you need it
  • Simulator Rental: $65/hr (Compared to average aircraft rental at $180/hr).
  • Personal Instruction: $60/hr — affordable, focused, and effective.
Pilot student smiling after simulator training

Train Smarter, Fly Sooner

Reserve your Private Pilot Accelerator session today and see how simulator-based training can accelerate your flight progress.

1 SG-2 Simulator per Session
13+ Training Modules Available
278$ Average Savings per Lesson
5420$ Potential Total Savings for Full Program

Investment

Affordable Private Pilot Training

Simulator-based training delivers the same skill development as aircraft sessions at a fraction of the cost.

Private Pilot Accelerator

$125/hr
  • Maintain training continuity despite weather or maintenance delays
  • Significant cost savings over traditional in-aircraft training
  • Build confidence for checkrides and solo flights
  • Train efficiently with your specific aircraft equipment replicated
Begin Your Flight Journey

Accelerated Training Programs

Fly In.
Train Fast.
Fly Home Ready.

Our accelerator programs are built for pilots who want results without long-term local scheduling. Train over consecutive days in FAA-approved simulators and complete your goals efficiently, whether you're staying current or advancing your career. Consecutive-day scheduling, predictable timelines, and simulator reliability make our programs ideal for pilots traveling in for training.

2-3 Days Programs

Accelerated Programs

Complete training in days instead of weeks. Simulator-based instruction reduces total cost while maintaining professional, FAA-approved standards.

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2-3 Days Programs

CFI & CFII Accelerators

Ideal for CFI and CFII candidates seeking focused, scenario-based instruction over consecutive days with dedicated instructor support.

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2-3 Days Program

IR Accelerator

Achieve your instrument rating efficiently with our focused accelerator program. Train over consecutive days in our FAA-approved.

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2 Day Program

IPC Accelerator

Stay instrument current with an IPC Accelerator designed for traveling pilots. Fly in, train over two days, and return home current and confident.

Learn More →

Private Pilot Accelerator

Private Pilot Accelerator

Enroll Now

Fill out the form below and let's start learning!
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Private Pilot Accelerator

Master essential flight maneuvers, navigation, and radio communication in a controlled, FAA-approved simulator before your next lesson or checkride.

Ready to take the next step?

Let's Get Started Today!

Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, explore new opportunities, or simply have questions, we're here to help. Reach out to us and let's embark on this journey together.

Contact Now

Frequently Asked Questions

What is flight simulator training and how does it work?
It's hands-on flight practice in a high-fidelity simulator that replicates the controls, instruments, and visuals of an airplane. You can take off, navigate, and land without leaving the ground, practicing at your own pace and retrying maneuvers as needed. This allows for safe, realistic training, even in challenging conditions like crosswinds or low visibility. Learn more about our simulators.
Does simulator training count towards my pilot's license?
Yes! In two main ways.
  1. The FAA allows 2.5 hours to be counted towards the Private Pilot requirements, and 20 hours towards the Instrument rating requirements.
  2. The real benefit lies in reducing the amount of time required to train in the aircraft. Most students require more than the FAA minimum hours before they are ready for the checkride. Spending some of those extra hours in the simulator at a far lower cost will help save money and keep your training on track. See how the savings add up.
How much does simulator training cost?
Our simulator rents for $65/hr, and instruction is $60/hr.

When you compare that to the typical $170-$200+/hr cost of renting an aircraft, the value is clear. You get more learning, in less time, at a fraction of the cost. Compare the costs side-by-side.
How does simulator training save time compared to only flying an aircraft?
Simulators save you time by eliminating travel to practice areas, weather cancellations, and other ground-based delays. Every hour in the sim is dedicated to learning, which means you can master procedures faster and make your time in the aircraft more efficient. See a detailed time and cost breakdown.
Can I log instrument approaches in the simulator?
Yes! Our FAA approved AATDs allow you to log all your 61.57 instrument approach currency with or without an instructor. Same-day appointments are often available. You can see our simulator's FAA approval letter here.
Who can benefit from simulator training?
Pilots of all levels, from brand-new enthusiasts to experienced professionals. It's great for prospective pilots, student pilots, licensed pilots looking to stay sharp, and those practicing advanced or emergency procedures.
Are there prerequisites?
No prior flying experience is required. Beginners can start with an intro course, and experienced pilots can jump into advanced sessions. Solo use requires a pilot certificate and a short orientation. Check out our New Pilot Acelerator Course
I am training at a different flight school, can I train here too?
Absolutely. Many students use our simulator to reinforce skills learned elsewhere. You can train with you current instructor in our simulator or with one of our instructors to get a fresh perspective!
Do you offer flight lessons in aircraft?
We don't operate our own aircraft, by design. Instead, we partner with local flight schools to give you a smooth transition between simulator training and real-world flying.

Our instructors can also provide training in your personally owned aircraft, ensuring seamless continuity between your simulator sessions and in-aircraft experience.
How long is each session?
Most training sessions last between 1-3 hours. We can train longer, but we focus on quality training and find that this timeframe produces the best results.
When can I train?
Our training center is open from 7AM-10pm 7 days a week. We link you with an instructor that matches your availability to maximize convenience.
Got more any more questions? Contact Us
Flight Training Guide Ebook

New to Flight Training?

Download Our Free Guide

Confused by FAA requirements? Want to master the basics before investing? Our free roadmap simplifies the flight training process, answers the most common student pilot questions, and shows you exactly how starting in a simulator can save you over $3,000 on your license.

Efficiency & Cost Effective

Aircraft rentals can be costly and aren’t always the most practical choice for effective training.

Why spend upwards of $180/hr on aircraft rental when you can train smarter with advanced simulators for just $65/hr?

Discover how the latest aviation technology can make your training more efficient, effective, and affordable.

Save money without sacrificing quality, invest in smarter flight training.

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