Roadmap
Supplement Your PPL Training in the Simulator
Select from any of our training options below, or visit us for customized training to focus on what you need most
First Steps Course
Gain clarity on the Private Pilot journey, explore prerequisites, and experience an introductory flight lesson in our FAA-approved simulator.
New Pilot Accelerator
Accelerate your skills with a 4-part simulator-based program covering essential flight procedures, navigation, and radio operations before stepping into a real aircraft.
Discovery Session
Experience a guided flight lesson in our FAA-approved simulator, including pre-flight briefing, hands-on flying, and post-flight debriefing.
Introductory Course for Aspiring Pilots
Discovery Session
The First Steps Course is a structured orientation program designed for new and prospective pilots who want to understand the path to becoming a Private Pilot. It combines expert consultation, a clear training roadmap, and an introductory simulator flight , giving future aviators the knowledge and confidence to begin their journey.
Clear Training Roadmap
Learn exactly what’s required to begin flight training , from medical certificates and ground school to realistic timelines and cost expectations.
Hands-On Simulator Experience
Experience a taste of flight training with an FAA-approved simulator lesson , no prior experience required.
Low Commitment, High Clarity
Before investing in flight hours, gain the essential knowledge to make informed decisions about your pilot journey.
What’s Included
Your Guided Introduction to Flight Training
This course is designed to orient future pilots by reviewing every step of the Private Pilot License journey , from prerequisites and medical exams to ground school, training materials, timelines, and your first simulator flight.
- PPL Prerequisites Overview
- Ground School & Required Materials Guidance
- Introductory Flight Simulator Lesson
This course is designed to orient future pilots by reviewing every step of the Private Pilot License journey , from prerequisites and medical exams to ground school, training materials, timelines, and your first simulator flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Prospective pilots unsure where to start
- Those curious about the time, cost, and requirements to get a PPL
- People who want to experience flight training without a big commitment
- Serious prospects looking for structured guidance before enrolling
- Basic prerequisites (age, language, and citizenship requirements)
- Ground school options and FAA written test overview
- Medical certificate process (3rd and 1st class, MedXPress)
- Recommended equipment: headsets, ForeFlight, iPad, study materials
- Training timeline: FAA minimum vs. realistic national average
- Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Introductory simulator flight , a “taste” of your first lesson
- Low commitment, high clarity
- Realistic simulator experience
- Step-by-step review of what it takes to get started
- Personalized guidance for your next step
What is the First Steps Course?
The First Steps Course is the perfect entry point for anyone curious about learning to fly. It combines a structured consultation with an introductory simulator session, giving you a clear understanding of the Private Pilot License (PPL) process before committing to full training.
You’ll leave with a realistic plan, answers to your questions, and the confidence to take your next step in aviation.
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for:
What will I learn in the First Steps Course?
We walk you through the entire training process and give you a hands-on introduction to flying:
What makes this course different?
Unlike a free tour or casual visit, this course is structured to give real value while helping ensure that only serious future pilots move forward. It’s a smart way to get clarity without wasting time or money.
What happens after I complete the course?
Most students who complete the First Steps Course choose to continue with our New Pilot Accelerator Course, which focuses on foundational flight procedures in the simulator before stepping into the aircraft.
This saves both time and money, setting you up for success from your first flight lesson.
Learn more about the New Pilot Accelerator courseReady 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.
4-Part Introductory Simulator Program
New Pilot Accelerator Course
The New Pilot Accelerator Course (NPAC) is designed for new and prospective pilots ready to go beyond orientation. This 4-part simulator-based program teaches you the essential flight skills you’d normally spend thousands learning in the aircraft , allowing you to start your Private Pilot training with confidence, efficiency, and real savings.
Master the Basics Early
Learn essential flight procedures , like takeoffs, landings, traffic patterns, stall recovery, and radio operations , before ever stepping into an aircraft.
Save Time and Money
Train in the simulator at a fraction of the cost. Students typically save over $1,000 by completing this phase before moving into the aircraft.
Loggable FAA-Approved Time
Earn up to 2.5 loggable hours toward your Private Pilot Certificate in an FAA-approved BATD simulator.
What’s Included
A 4-Part Introductory Flight Training Program
The NPAC is structured to cover the key skills and knowledge areas new pilots need to master. It’s the perfect bridge between the First Steps Course and formal flight training.
- Simulator Familiarization & Basic Flight
- Takeoffs, Landings & Traffic Pattern
- Stall Recovery, Airspace & GPS Navigation
- Radio Operations & EFB Orientation
The NPAC is structured to cover the key skills and knowledge areas new pilots need to master. It’s the perfect bridge between the First Steps Course and formal flight training.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Prospective pilots unsure where to start
- Those curious about the time, cost, and requirements to get a PPL
- People who want to experience flight training without a big commitment
- Serious prospects looking for structured guidance before enrolling
- Basic prerequisites (age, language, and citizenship requirements)
- Ground school options and FAA written test overview
- Medical certificate process (3rd and 1st class, MedXPress)
- Recommended equipment: headsets, ForeFlight, iPad, study materials
- Training timeline: FAA minimum vs. realistic national average
- Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Introductory simulator flight , a “taste” of your first lesson
- Low commitment, high clarity
- Realistic simulator experience
- Step-by-step review of what it takes to get started
- Personalized guidance for your next step
What is the First Steps Course?
The First Steps Course is the perfect entry point for anyone curious about learning to fly. It combines a structured consultation with an introductory simulator session, giving you a clear understanding of the Private Pilot License (PPL) process before committing to full training.
You’ll leave with a realistic plan, answers to your questions, and the confidence to take your next step in aviation.
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for:
What will I learn in the First Steps Course?
We walk you through the entire training process and give you a hands-on introduction to flying:
What makes this course different?
Unlike a free tour or casual visit, this course is structured to give real value while helping ensure that only serious future pilots move forward. It’s a smart way to get clarity without wasting time or money.
What happens after I complete the course?
Most students who complete the First Steps Course choose to continue with our New Pilot Accelerator Course, which focuses on foundational flight procedures in the simulator before stepping into the aircraft.
This saves both time and money, setting you up for success from your first flight lesson.
Learn more about the New Pilot Accelerator course
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Solid Ground Aviation combines FAA-certified simulators, expert instructors, and a cost-effective model to make flight training more accessible than ever. Start today and join a growing community of pilots in Maryland and D.C.
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