I learned to fly when I could afford to do so. First solo at 49, flight test at 50. So be it. It was the most fun I had had in a long time. Not all rewards have price tags on them.
Finally, a well educated UA-camr, that actually knows what they are talking about, rather than pretending to know what they are talking about. Well done, mate. This was an especially excellent video. You really explained this topic in a useful way.
Great advice Stef, I gave up my recreational flying so that my son could do it instead, he has just got his ATPL and a job as a first officer. Remortgaged my house to help him, but that’s what Mum and Dads do!! He has just set up a repayment plan. Also in the UK you can get funding by doing a degree in Aviation at Middlesex Uni. That gives you student finance for living and 3 years of fees to help. Good luck people!
Wow, that’s an incredibly selfless act. What a wonderful thing to do for your son. I hope he truly loves his flying and turns it into something that will keep him happy for life. He clearly has parents that love him a lot. Thanks for sharing that.
Stefan Drury He has the same passion that you do mate! When you see that in your children, nurture it, it’s something truly special. Next time you’re in the UK, try to get to EGLM, White Waltham, beautiful little airfield west of London. That’s where he started!
My advice is to start flying young before other life expenses come into play. I’m 15, paying for my own flying lessons, and will solo in 10 days on my 16th birthday.
Bestest advice since I decided to be a pilot. Seriously God bless you man. Stay healthy and loads of love. You gave me a hope. I’m not gonna stop now. Thanks
I am about to start out now with ground school starting next week. I already had a monthly budget, and after deciding to go ahead and getting a PPL, I sat down and calculated a projected cost, including a savings buffer. Then I went through my budget and simply reduced items I felt I could redirect to flying. And not just the training, but flying hours after I am done. The relative peace of mind this plan gives me is priceless. I know I can do it, and I will have time to save up even more while ground schools is ongoing as weather and lack of daylight during Winter up here will mean there won't be much flying until spring.
Hi Stefan. I was a little leery about this video based on the title. But wow. I was wrong. This is one of the best personal finance videos I have ever seen, and it has so many applications other than flying. As a retired college business instructor, so many “help” videos I have seen are filled with cliches, but your presentation is factual, imaginative and fresh. Well done.
Thanks Stefan! This year I renewed my PPL after many years away. For me, flying is one of the few things that keep me going in life. One of the reasons I did it was to maintain my sanity and give myself purpose! At the moment, my flying 'hobby' entirely depends on a part-time job that is somewhat seasonal (ebbs and flows with travel season at the airport). I have my full-time job which pays for my normal life; my part-time job primary wage pays for the flying, and the extra tips I earn from that part-time job pays for all the little extra collectibles and 'wants' ( I like collecting models). The difficulty I have now is that I can't see myself staying at my current career, but I am afraid of the pilot financial lifestyle and what that will mean going forward especially with any debt at my ripe age of 38. I know my CPL will be significantly reduced in cost as I am over 150 hours and getting a night rating next month (we'll say 14-16000 which could be paid in a year or so). And after, I must decide - do I go the flight instructor route, or the multi-IFR? And when / how do I pay for that? M-IFR expires if I expect to keep working two jobs and start working without debt....it would cost more in the end than holding a loan.
Stefan you have obviously done well in the financial department and know the hard times too. I think your advice is very sound based on experience. Great video...thanks.
Thanks Bill, I've certainly had ups and downs that's for sure. Hoping my experiences (and getting through them) can help others with this video. Thanks for the comment.
Super helpful tips man. Was all signed up with a to do my PPL and CPL corse at a school in Archerfield when everything shutdown in 2020, causing me to lose my spot. That was a hit and a half. Thankfully didnt lose any money. Never stopped looking at flying, but after finding your channel and watching you fly, is making me get back into it. My coutless hours of FightSim will not be in vain (yes I am aware the FS doesnt really count as any sort of skill, but still love it)
I don’t usually comment on videos (actually never), but this one was just amazing. The way you explained everything in this video was truly a work of art. Thank you for relieving a little of bit of stress of my back and many others. Much love!
Yes, aviation isn't going anywhere. I'm 55 and just started my pilot journey. I would have loved to have an aviation career but couldn't afford it and had other priorities when I was younger. I can afford it now and so I've started and who knows where it will go.
@@craigbroadbent7449 I'm happy to hear that. I am 16 and becoming a pilot is my biggest dream, but cant really say my family takes me seriously because of how much money the training costs. Now I have realised, that I might not be able to start my training right after school, but with time and hard work i can get there one day
@@cherry-kr9tj I’m 15 and I want to do it too. My family is taking it a bit too seriously my mum keeps saying she will re mortgage the house for me but I can’t let my parents take such a risk for me
Thanks for giving those interested in flying some tips on how to be able to afford it. I would love to get my PPL, but honestly cannot see it happening for a good 10 years. Much like you, I run my own business, and time & money are always tight. I am not in a rush to get flying, so I will just live vicariously through you! Keep up the great work, and loving the videos!
I live in Germany. Here we have an alternate route: Flying clubs. They are usually non-profit organizations from aviators for aviators. Many of those clubs run there own air port and have a fleet of planes for rent. Training is done from club member to club member. You can get every thing (training / lessons, plane rent, landing fees, ...) for a reduced price as a club member. But you have to work for the club. Maintenance of the runway, buildings, hangar, the planes, ... You have to put work and hours on the ground into it to get into the air for cheap. Also a sail plane is a good way into aviation and usually much cheaper then starting out on a motorized plane and a full PPL. Depending on your local legislation there may be an option for a microlite / ultralight license. Usually such a license is restricted, e.g. day only VFR and max. two seat plane, but much cheaper and probably all you need to satisfy your aviation needs. E.g. in the USA you don't need any license at all for a single seat sub 115 kg air craft.
I'm Benni from India. I am looking for a job in a flying club any where in the world. In return I want to get flying hours for my CPL. Can you please help me in this matter ?
These are helpful tips. Thanks! Can’t wait until my time and finances free up to allow me to get my license. I’ve already done the research around Cincinnati here. Hopefully I can pull the trigger soon!
Stef, I do think your videos are getting better every day and really appreciate all the work you've put into this one! Two thumbs up!! :-) As someone who has been forced to wait, due Melbourne weather, for TWO MONTHS!!! to do my long solo nav (maybe it'll happen next month?) and hence knows the frustration of a PPL goal just out of reach, this video should be required viewing for all flight students. Patience is the biggest flying lesson there is.
Quite possibly the best video on paying for flight school out there. I got a full scholarship to cover my private which I'm finishing up now, but I'm thinking ahead to the cost of building hours and this video definitely helps.
I would also suggest anyone intrested in aviation to get into Flightsims. XP11 or P3D in combination with IVAO and VATSIM are really poweful tools you can use to not only learn the basics of flying but also start practising radio work and procedures. Most communities there actually offer sort of a "virtual PPL" that will also help you with the theory. This really helped me on my PPL journey a lot so far. Keep in mind, the more you teach yourself the less you have to pay someone else to teach it to you.
Yup, I have VATSIM..very useful tool but be careful not to pick up bad habits. A lot of guys (90%) using inaccurate phraseology and too many complimentaries on the radios. Not professional. Keep it short and to the point.
@@TheGarlicMan True, its important to make sure you pick tutorials/mentors that actually teach it to you the right way. Although its also worth mentioning that there definetly alot of sloppy radio work in real life too.
Great video! I'm in school working on my it degree, but I've always wanted to learn to fly. After watching your video, I see another way to do it, instead of possibly never doing it due to the cost of it. Thanks for the information!
I’m currently going through my flight training. I’m 17 and have always wanted to fly; however, I do not plan on pursuing flight as a career. I have picked up two jobs and have been saving almost every penny. I have done my research and have started using an online flight school because it works best with my schedule. I plan on completing my written exam before I take any lessons in a plane. I have my mindset for a several year plan. I also plan on going to my local airport after I watched this video and asking if there any way to trade my services for flight hours :). I also invested in a flight simulator in hopes I can get a basic feel and an idea for the procedures. Hopefully I can learn as much as I can and reduce the cost of flight training as much as possible! Maybe this can help other pilots who hope to pursue this field and use my plan as a rough draft. Thank you for this video and wish me best of luck in my journey!
Brilliant video Stef, really well balanced! I had three jobs and could only afford an hour a month, but made contacts at the airfield and swapped cleaning planes for 30 mins per week flying. Little by little I got there. :)
I got my PPL at the age of 32. Despite it was my big dream since I was a boy, I had to wait for it until I could afford it. Now I am in the situation when I am a little bit worried that I am not flying enough to improve and continue developing my flying skills simply because of lack of money. Your video made me feel better and inspired me a lot as I see that you faced similar challenges as I do now. But you overcame it and now flying a lot, enjoying the freedom that GA is offering, you travel the world and flying. It's a big big motivation. Keep up the great work and inspirational content ;-)
Hi Stef...wished you had mentioned Recreational Aviation along with PPL and above etc. Its a whole lot less expensive than General Aviation with some great modern, full glass cockpits. ...both to learn and to hire and fly. Recreational aviation is the fastest growing segment of the industry. Pop up to Murray Bridge SA (YMBD) anytime and we can take you in some great aircraft. Might even make a video about it.
I did mention RPL as an option, in the section on defining your goals I listed RPL, PPL, CPL or ATPL. But potentially could have touched on RPL as an interim option before PPL for sure, that's definitely a smart approach if you're starting out. Thanks mate.
Even if ATPL if your final goal, a path up through RAAus will save you a bucket load of cash, count 1:1 to RPL/PPL time and most importantly give a bit more varied experience.
RPC time will save you heaps if PPL is the goal, it’s the way I did it, and I still fly LSA today. It’s a real shame that a lot of GA pilots look at RPC as “not real flying” only RPL is getting recognition as it’s a step up into 4 seat AC. Maybe one day we can all respect each other as aviators and not by the type of aircraft we fly.
Yes that was the point I trying to make. RAAUS is a whole lot less expensive to learn and to fly but in the end we are all pilots who share our love of being airborne. Heaven really.
I absolutely agree with not putting a lump sum into a flying school. About 13 years ago I took out a loan to finance flying as well as a few other things. I already held a PPL and was looking at getting NVFR and CPL through a flying school in Perth who I had already started flying with. I opened a flying account with the school with a deposit of $16k and started working towards my goals. About 6 months after I did this I heard a rumour that the school was in financial troubles and drove down there to find out what was happening. I got there and found a note on the door for students to contact the owner of the club. At the time I still had about $10k in the account. Thankfully after several phone calls and emails I was able to retrieve what was left in my account and within a month the school had closed.
Awesome video! What you said aboit not choosing the nearest airport really spoke to me. My flight school in Essendon has recently closed down and I have decided to go to Bacchus Marsh, I drive an extra half hour, but I don't have to fly 40 minutes (20 to get there and 20 to return) to my training area! Keep up with the great work, Steph!
Good video. Back when I started flying (gliders) I was also heavily into flight simulators and I reached out to a Flight Sim magazine to write articles for them. Being the only one of the authors with real experience (even as a student) I had an easy way in, even as a 16 year old ( back in 2002). Also, some good advise in general and Scott Pape would be happy to see a few of his principles mentioned as well ;)
Great advice! Particularly the part about any school offering a flat rate for certain licenses! Pays to read the fine print! If it's too good to be true, it probably is!!! Love your work!
Great video Stefan, thanks! I started flying later in life (46) and paid cash when I had it and now (four years later) have my FAA Commercial with Instrument, and am starting on my CFI. What a fabulous journey!
Great advice! I'm starting my PPL this Monday! I've broken it into chunks as you were saying so hopefully that will help to manage the finances 😊 keep up the great work and keep giving us the great content!
i know this was posted years ago but if you ever want to be an airline pilot there are plenty of airlines that will offer training while paying you. look on there websites for becoming a pilot and how to become a pilot. There is always a way you just got to find it
Thanks mate helped me a lot. I have found out that very few people truly are interested in aviation and few of the fewest commit to becoming one at least in my country. All people are after other "safer" jobs. But I am one of those few guys who really really want to do it and serve my own nation. And I promise I will do it no matter what. 💪 thanks
Waiting can be the hardest thing, but a little extra time to work hard and save for when you're ready to start training can really help in the long term. It sucks though, feels like everyone else is doing it and you're not. But that's not the case, we all need to slow down sometimes. Good luck with your flying goals FlannelFlyer.
Loved this video Stef. Money management is everything when it comes to flight training. Doesn't always come easy but the best things in life don't. Sometimes the journey is better than the destination
Thank you so much for tis video! I've wanted to become a commercial pilot all my life and I'm now I college in an aviation program (not a flying program). The one thing stopping me from actually completing my hours is money and I've looked at so many videos but all of them never really helped for the same reasons you mentioned in the beginning of the video! A bunch of my friends from college (who also want to become pilots) are getting the PPLs and it sucks because I'm falling behind and missing out on the fun! This video is the video that I've been looking for. No driving around the topic, new bullshit, just the facts!
That's awesome feedback Daniel, thank you. I spent a long time preparing and writing the content for this video, so it's great to hear it's really helping rather than getting across the same message you've heard before. Good luck with your flight training, and thanks again for the comment, stef
Yes there are many ways to generate/find/earn etc money to fund your training. You just need to use your common sense as you have in this video Stef. I believe pay as you go is the way to go. Take your time and learn the art of flying as best you can. Thanks mate
I wish this had been uploaded a year ago. Nonetheless, I've got my PPL and working towards the CPL. Great content Stef - If it was easy then everybody would be doing it👌🏽
Great advice Stefan. I did my training in the early 90's. I worked a full time job and 2 part time jobs to pay for it because there was no VET fee help or student loans for flying back then. Being a Signwriter by trade, I painted the school signage as a contra deal plus did some paid work for them even through it wasn't much, it all count towards a significant saving in the end. Also, the school encouraged me to pay tax on some of the paid work so I was able to claim my flying training as an expense which I was able to claim on come tax time! The school often cheaper rates for cash and for money to be paid up front into an account which I trusted them enough to do it by this time. In the end, I reckon I saved $13,000 dollars in training cost (Not the total. Private flying not covered in the tax side of things). Another benefit. The school got to see what my work ethic and commitment was like and at the end of my training, I started doing some work for them which lead to full time. So, Stefan. Next time you're flying over YBSS an you look down and see the writing on the school's roof top, think of me!
I self-funded my PPL while I was still at high school. I worked my ass off to afford it without any help from my parents. If you are still at school and want to be a pilot, I highly recommend getting a part-time job and getting started with your flight training. While it is definitely a struggle trying to juggle school, work, and flying all together, it is easier to afford as you aren't needing to pay bills, groceries etc. Even if you do have to pay board, it will still be less than if you were living on your own. This leaves more money to put towards flying! It will take time, but be patient and it will pay off! I got my Private Pilot Licence while all my friends were getting their drivers licence, and sure, my car wasn't as nice as their cars but at least I could fly!
As a 16 year old, I’m on a very tight budget, earning a small a bit on my own which my parents match. I put most of my earned money in stocks as well. I’m going to start recreational pilot permit training this summer, and I’m super stressed about figuring out logistics. It’s hard enough completing training within your budget, but now with COVID I’m anxious about another lockdown and having to wait another year to start again, wasting my money. And on top of that, I’m taking summer school in the last 3 weeks of the summer break, which means I have to fit training in within about 6 weeks. I’m concerned about the quality of my training and safety as my constant desire to fly cheaply might push me to bad compromises. This video was super helpful, if anyone has any more tips I’d appreciate the help.
I like the advice.Stef you have really inspired many and prepared them in advance.Many people may have not known about this.Keep up the good work Stef!!👌🏽💯
One thing I'd like to add as a flight instructor is to learn your checklists to a 'fluent' standard. Obviously we don't want to be rushing and you should go at a pace which allows you to do the checks properly, but I have seen so much money wasted as a result of slow procedures on the ground which has extended the lesson by 0.1 or 0.2, which adds up very quickly through your training. Don't spend extra money simply due to lack of preparation.
Loving the social media idea! It’s something that I’ve been looking at for a while anyway and I’ve found some free courses on,one as well, so thank you for the idea!
Brilliant informative video. Should be the first step before jumping into the ppl, because as you say life happens and if you have a proper plan in place you will achieve your goal with good consistency (unlike me haha might have my licence completed by 2060) and it will reduce dramatically putting any pressure on yourself to pay for flying so you can focus on learning. keep up the great work 👨🏻✈️👌👍🏻
All very good points and I agree wholeheartidly. I'll just add one point I'm adamant about getting across everytime I get asked about money and getting your PPL : I'm 43 and it took me 3 freaking long years from start to finish to get my PPL. When you stretch the money across such a long period of time, then it isn't that steep. I, like Stefan, am an entrepreneur, so my incomes has ups and downs, so I waited and waited and waited until I knew I had enough money to commit to flight school. That is nonsense : I should have started when I was 20 and just go get a flight lesson every month or even 2 months. Maybe it would have taken me 6 years to get my PPL but I would have been flying for 6 years with an instructor and have "dates" with a plane instead of nothing at all aviation related for 20 years :) Go sign to a flightschool right this very minute ! And by the way, I have never met a single pilot not being super understanding about the lack of founds. You'll only find support and encouragement :)
@@Ashertheawesome You are SOOOOOOOOOOO NOT late to the game !! You are actually so early to the party, the hostess of said party is probably still in the shower getting ready :D
Working a lot of overtime at my current job and saving it up for my PPL training. Won’t start until I have the whole sum because I don’t want to take breaks in between my training. Half ways there :)
I'm always wanted to be a pilot and that's how I even knew this channel. Due, to financial shortages I had to do a degree in BioMed which is fully sponsored and then get a job save up for my flight school. In the beginning it was really really frustrating because I really wanted to be a pilot but it has been a year and it honestly doesn't feel that long. Anyways great advice Stefan!
I couldn't agree more with this video !Another way you could save is possibly starting with RPC instead of RPL. RA Aus flight schools tend to be cheaper and they count towards the aeronautical knowledge.
Hi Stefan, You didn't mention it but there are a few flight schools around now that the government will subsidize, and even places you can do your entire training on a HECS loan.
Very helpful Stefan. I'll probably be cutting back on come flying over the next year, but this is helpful to see ways I can keep costs down, and maybe fly a little bit more than I hoped!
Thanks for this video 👍🏼 Just finished A-Levels, starting my PPL now ,which, with all of my ratings, looks like it’ll cost around £14,000. All expensive but there are ways around it, just have to see what I can do.
10:22 sadly yes this is me, because of this i ask if i even want to do flight training despite wanting to for years, im only 17 now but i just realized the expenses,
Well Said stef! I pretty much did the exact same thing and still do. Touch wood my company has been doing well, i waited until it wasn’t going to add any financial stress to my self or the business. For all those, Time, Time,Time... Be patient, it will happen if you are determined. It’s like anything. Now, with 50+ staff at work i use, flying is now my downtime! (Once i completely Finnish learning which you never do,theirs always something to learn in aviation).
What a great video Stef, I do know people who have taken astronomical loans to pay for that lump sum option with flight schools. Also a lot of students these days are using the government loans or HECS to pay for training. When I did my licence I worked and put a side money for my training. My parents bought my first 5 lessons and dad said If your passionate about this you need to do it yourself.
Thanks for those tips and word of encouragement, i have my FAA PPL for just around 4yrs now, and haven't get to flown since financial issue . at one point i swear i was just going to give up then i say to myself hey this doesnt expire. then just watching this video gives me the sense of hope.
Great Video Stef! I remember you giving me similar information at the Avalon Airshow this year. I have really taken it on board! Thank you for giving you knowledge onto me and others!!
One way I paid for it is to join the military and fly for them, stressful and it will cost me 10+ years of obligatory service, but I didn’t pay a dime for the cost of training my fixed wing then rotary wing which also includes up to an instrument rating. Just another way to do it.
Hi Stefan, Would you kindly make a second part or an extension to this video on how international students looking into joining a flight school in Australia can afford and pay for their flight schools. Hopefully you have some tips or advice for us. Thank you.
Excellent video Stef . how I got this far , I,ll be quick , after I moved from Ireland I took a 8 year break from all things flying , worked 10-12 hours a day 6-7 days a week in NYC , saved like a mad man , then the financial crisis ( lehman brothers etc ) 2008 happened , I was ready then financially to get back training , called a school and took a lessonin a Piper Archer and got back into it but stuck to my budget , if the bills arrived .... no flying .Worked and worked and bingo got to the finish line on the private and did the same for my IFR and now I do the same for renting the cirrus . I did do my own study for all written tests through an app on the iPad and that saved a lot . Ive never owned a car but who needs one in NYC ...took the train to the airport ( more savings ) . one personal rule I have is I never ever get into debt to go flying , work first , budget , then get the GoPros ready .... I,m not aiming at CPL ATPL , I,m just trying to get to 700 subscribers on my channel !!!!!!! cheers mate
Public transport is a good tip as well, I’ll add that to a V2 with all the other suggestions I’m getting I reckon. Work, budget, flying is definitely the order most of us have to do it in as well, no exception here. You’ll be at 1000 soon I’m sure, keep going mate.
Great video as always mate, I have been doing my RAA Certifacte simply because of cost, tips defenlty help, I would love to see a video on the break down of now owning a plane, e.g. moorabin's parking fee's, landing fees and if there was anything you missed or didn't know before owning an aircraft. 👍
I learned to fly when I could afford to do so. First solo at 49, flight test at 50. So be it.
It was the most fun I had had in a long time. Not all rewards have price tags on them.
So now what's your age ?
Finally, a well educated UA-camr, that actually knows what they are talking about, rather than pretending to know what they are talking about.
Well done, mate. This was an especially excellent video. You really explained this topic in a useful way.
Great advice Stef, I gave up my recreational flying so that my son could do it instead, he has just got his ATPL and a job as a first officer. Remortgaged my house to help him, but that’s what Mum and Dads do!! He has just set up a repayment plan.
Also in the UK you can get funding by doing a degree in Aviation at Middlesex Uni. That gives you student finance for living and 3 years of fees to help. Good luck people!
Wow, that’s an incredibly selfless act. What a wonderful thing to do for your son. I hope he truly loves his flying and turns it into something that will keep him happy for life. He clearly has parents that love him a lot. Thanks for sharing that.
Stefan Drury He has the same passion that you do mate! When you see that in your children, nurture it, it’s something truly special.
Next time you’re in the UK, try to get to EGLM, White Waltham, beautiful little airfield west of London. That’s where he started!
The sad thing is, it was my birthday the other day and got scrabble instead of flight training money 😂
#ebay
It’s a nice game ...
My advice is to start flying young before other life expenses come into play. I’m 15, paying for my own flying lessons, and will solo in 10 days on my 16th birthday.
Not everyone has the cash to do so. Especially not at 15
My family can't afford flight school for me and I'm also 15 so I can't really do that
How did you pay?
@@yeetofda9bruhs839 He probably got a job lmao
Bestest advice since I decided to be a pilot.
Seriously God bless you man.
Stay healthy and loads of love.
You gave me a hope. I’m not gonna stop now.
Thanks
I am about to start out now with ground school starting next week. I already had a monthly budget, and after deciding to go ahead and getting a PPL, I sat down and calculated a projected cost, including a savings buffer. Then I went through my budget and simply reduced items I felt I could redirect to flying. And not just the training, but flying hours after I am done.
The relative peace of mind this plan gives me is priceless. I know I can do it, and I will have time to save up even more while ground schools is ongoing as weather and lack of daylight during Winter up here will mean there won't be much flying until spring.
This is by far the best and most realistic video on this subject I’ve watched thankyou
Great content! As someone who’s tried most options to finance flying this is some of the most sensible advice going. Follow this man!
Hi Stefan. I was a little leery about this video based on the title. But wow. I was wrong. This is one of the best personal finance videos I have ever seen, and it has so many applications other than flying. As a retired college business instructor, so many “help” videos I have seen are filled with cliches, but your presentation is factual, imaginative and fresh. Well done.
Thanks Stefan! This year I renewed my PPL after many years away. For me, flying is one of the few things that keep me going in life. One of the reasons I did it was to maintain my sanity and give myself purpose! At the moment, my flying 'hobby' entirely depends on a part-time job that is somewhat seasonal (ebbs and flows with travel season at the airport). I have my full-time job which pays for my normal life; my part-time job primary wage pays for the flying, and the extra tips I earn from that part-time job pays for all the little extra collectibles and 'wants' ( I like collecting models). The difficulty I have now is that I can't see myself staying at my current career, but I am afraid of the pilot financial lifestyle and what that will mean going forward especially with any debt at my ripe age of 38. I know my CPL will be significantly reduced in cost as I am over 150 hours and getting a night rating next month (we'll say 14-16000 which could be paid in a year or so). And after, I must decide - do I go the flight instructor route, or the multi-IFR? And when / how do I pay for that? M-IFR expires if I expect to keep working two jobs and start working without debt....it would cost more in the end than holding a loan.
Great content and production
Huge fan of yours Niko!
Stefan you have obviously done well in the financial department and know the hard times too. I think your advice is very sound based on experience. Great video...thanks.
Thanks Bill, I've certainly had ups and downs that's for sure. Hoping my experiences (and getting through them) can help others with this video. Thanks for the comment.
Super helpful tips man. Was all signed up with a to do my PPL and CPL corse at a school in Archerfield when everything shutdown in 2020, causing me to lose my spot. That was a hit and a half. Thankfully didnt lose any money.
Never stopped looking at flying, but after finding your channel and watching you fly, is making me get back into it. My coutless hours of FightSim will not be in vain (yes I am aware the FS doesnt really count as any sort of skill, but still love it)
I don’t usually comment on videos (actually never), but this one was just amazing. The way you explained everything in this video was truly a work of art. Thank you for relieving a little of bit of stress of my back and many others. Much love!
Just came back to watch this video again, 10:38 great foreshadowing Stef
Sound and sensible advice Stefan, I bet this will help a lot of viewers. Me included. Thanks
Yes, aviation isn't going anywhere. I'm 55 and just started my pilot journey. I would have loved to have an aviation career but couldn't afford it and had other priorities when I was younger. I can afford it now and so I've started and who knows where it will go.
How's it been so far?
A little slow thanks to COVID. But progress is being made!
@@craigbroadbent7449 I'm happy to hear that. I am 16 and becoming a pilot is my biggest dream, but cant really say my family takes me seriously because of how much money the training costs. Now I have realised, that I might not be able to start my training right after school, but with time and hard work i can get there one day
@@cherry-kr9tj same , i’m 16 as well and we both got this! i hope we both achieve our goals. good luck to you darling
@@cherry-kr9tj I’m 15 and I want to do it too. My family is taking it a bit too seriously my mum keeps saying she will re mortgage the house for me but I can’t let my parents take such a risk for me
Thanks for giving those interested in flying some tips on how to be able to afford it. I would love to get my PPL, but honestly cannot see it happening for a good 10 years. Much like you, I run my own business, and time & money are always tight. I am not in a rush to get flying, so I will just live vicariously through you! Keep up the great work, and loving the videos!
I live in Germany. Here we have an alternate route: Flying clubs. They are usually non-profit organizations from aviators for aviators. Many of those clubs run there own air port and have a fleet of planes for rent. Training is done from club member to club member. You can get every thing (training / lessons, plane rent, landing fees, ...) for a reduced price as a club member. But you have to work for the club. Maintenance of the runway, buildings, hangar, the planes, ... You have to put work and hours on the ground into it to get into the air for cheap.
Also a sail plane is a good way into aviation and usually much cheaper then starting out on a motorized plane and a full PPL. Depending on your local legislation there may be an option for a microlite / ultralight license. Usually such a license is restricted, e.g. day only VFR and max. two seat plane, but much cheaper and probably all you need to satisfy your aviation needs. E.g. in the USA you don't need any license at all for a single seat sub 115 kg air craft.
Nothing to add to this. Currently learning to fly in Germany. Really enjoy the flying community here.
I'm Benni from India. I am looking for a job in a flying club any where in the world. In return I want to get flying hours for my CPL. Can you please help me in this matter ?
These are helpful tips. Thanks! Can’t wait until my time and finances free up to allow me to get my license. I’ve already done the research around Cincinnati here. Hopefully I can pull the trigger soon!
Stef, I do think your videos are getting better every day and really appreciate all the work you've put into this one! Two thumbs up!! :-)
As someone who has been forced to wait, due Melbourne weather, for TWO MONTHS!!! to do my long solo nav (maybe it'll happen next month?) and hence knows the frustration of a PPL goal just out of reach, this video should be required viewing for all flight students.
Patience is the biggest flying lesson there is.
Great video Stef. People should apply your financial advice to their lives even if they aren’t saving up for flying lessons
Thanks Mark, glad lots of people like yourself are enjoying this video. Thanks for watching.
One of the best videos on saving money for flying I’ve seen. 🙏
Quite possibly the best video on paying for flight school out there. I got a full scholarship to cover my private which I'm finishing up now, but I'm thinking ahead to the cost of building hours and this video definitely helps.
I would also suggest anyone intrested in aviation to get into Flightsims. XP11 or P3D in combination with IVAO and VATSIM are really poweful tools you can use to not only learn the basics of flying but also start practising radio work and procedures. Most communities there actually offer sort of a "virtual PPL" that will also help you with the theory.
This really helped me on my PPL journey a lot so far. Keep in mind, the more you teach yourself the less you have to pay someone else to teach it to you.
Yup, I have VATSIM..very useful tool but be careful not to pick up bad habits. A lot of guys (90%) using inaccurate phraseology and too many complimentaries on the radios. Not professional. Keep it short and to the point.
@@TheGarlicMan True, its important to make sure you pick tutorials/mentors that actually teach it to you the right way. Although its also worth mentioning that there definetly alot of sloppy radio work in real life too.
You just got a new sub. What a video! Looking forward to checking out your channel when I get home.
Thanks for subscribing, welcome to the channel 👍
I am so glad we met that day in Melbourne. Seriously fortuitous. GREAT video!
Great video! I'm in school working on my it degree, but I've always wanted to learn to fly. After watching your video, I see another way to do it, instead of possibly never doing it due to the cost of it. Thanks for the information!
This is by far one of the best videos, truly helpful.
I’m currently going through my flight training. I’m 17 and have always wanted to fly; however, I do not plan on pursuing flight as a career. I have picked up two jobs and have been saving almost every penny. I have done my research and have started using an online flight school because it works best with my schedule. I plan on completing my written exam before I take any lessons in a plane. I have my mindset for a several year plan. I also plan on going to my local airport after I watched this video and asking if there any way to trade my services for flight hours :). I also invested in a flight simulator in hopes I can get a basic feel and an idea for the procedures. Hopefully I can learn as much as I can and reduce the cost of flight training as much as possible! Maybe this can help other pilots who hope to pursue this field and use my plan as a rough draft. Thank you for this video and wish me best of luck in my journey!
Brilliant video Stef, really well balanced! I had three jobs and could only afford an hour a month, but made contacts at the airfield and swapped cleaning planes for 30 mins per week flying. Little by little I got there. :)
I got my PPL at the age of 32. Despite it was my big dream since I was a boy, I had to wait for it until I could afford it. Now I am in the situation when I am a little bit worried that I am not flying enough to improve and continue developing my flying skills simply because of lack of money. Your video made me feel better and inspired me a lot as I see that you faced similar challenges as I do now. But you overcame it and now flying a lot, enjoying the freedom that GA is offering, you travel the world and flying. It's a big big motivation. Keep up the great work and inspirational content ;-)
Hi Stef...wished you had mentioned Recreational Aviation along with PPL and above etc. Its a whole lot less expensive than General Aviation with some great modern, full glass cockpits. ...both to learn and to hire and fly. Recreational aviation is the fastest growing segment of the industry. Pop up to Murray Bridge SA (YMBD) anytime and we can take you in some great aircraft. Might even make a video about it.
I did mention RPL as an option, in the section on defining your goals I listed RPL, PPL, CPL or ATPL. But potentially could have touched on RPL as an interim option before PPL for sure, that's definitely a smart approach if you're starting out. Thanks mate.
@@StefanDrury I think he means RAAus, not just RPL.
Even if ATPL if your final goal, a path up through RAAus will save you a bucket load of cash, count 1:1 to RPL/PPL time and most importantly give a bit more varied experience.
RPC time will save you heaps if PPL is the goal, it’s the way I did it, and I still fly LSA today. It’s a real shame that a lot of GA pilots look at RPC as “not real flying” only RPL is getting recognition as it’s a step up into 4 seat AC. Maybe one day we can all respect each other as aviators and not by the type of aircraft we fly.
Yes that was the point I trying to make. RAAUS is a whole lot less expensive to learn and to fly but in the end we are all pilots who share our love of being airborne. Heaven really.
I absolutely agree with not putting a lump sum into a flying school. About 13 years ago I took out a loan to finance flying as well as a few other things. I already held a PPL and was looking at getting NVFR and CPL through a flying school in Perth who I had already started flying with. I opened a flying account with the school with a deposit of $16k and started working towards my goals. About 6 months after I did this I heard a rumour that the school was in financial troubles and drove down there to find out what was happening. I got there and found a note on the door for students to contact the owner of the club. At the time I still had about $10k in the account. Thankfully after several phone calls and emails I was able to retrieve what was left in my account and within a month the school had closed.
Can’t like this one enough.
Wonderful content.
Cheers Mike, really hope this helps some aspiring (and current) pilots out there.
One of the best vids you've done IMO, full of sensible information.
Awesome video! What you said aboit not choosing the nearest airport really spoke to me. My flight school in Essendon has recently closed down and I have decided to go to Bacchus Marsh, I drive an extra half hour, but I don't have to fly 40 minutes (20 to get there and 20 to return) to my training area! Keep up with the great work, Steph!
Very interesting and valuable information discussed here. Safe fly everyone.
Good video. Back when I started flying (gliders) I was also heavily into flight simulators and I reached out to a Flight Sim magazine to write articles for them. Being the only one of the authors with real experience (even as a student) I had an easy way in, even as a 16 year old ( back in 2002).
Also, some good advise in general and Scott Pape would be happy to see a few of his principles mentioned as well ;)
Nice work Stefan. Very nice work. [The old gray guy from SNF.] = planning + patience.
Success = [80% planning & 20% implementation]
Great advice! Particularly the part about any school offering a flat rate for certain licenses! Pays to read the fine print! If it's too good to be true, it probably is!!! Love your work!
Great video Stefan, thanks! I started flying later in life (46) and paid cash when I had it and now (four years later) have my FAA Commercial with Instrument, and am starting on my CFI. What a fabulous journey!
Great advice! I'm starting my PPL this Monday! I've broken it into chunks as you were saying so hopefully that will help to manage the finances 😊 keep up the great work and keep giving us the great content!
i know this was posted years ago but if you ever want to be an airline pilot there are plenty of airlines that will offer training while paying you. look on there websites for becoming a pilot and how to become a pilot. There is always a way you just got to find it
Thanks mate helped me a lot. I have found out that very few people truly are interested in aviation and few of the fewest commit to becoming one at least in my country. All people are after other "safer" jobs. But I am one of those few guys who really really want to do it and serve my own nation. And I promise I will do it no matter what. 💪 thanks
Thank you for this video! I am struggling to pay for flight school and it’s hard to be patient, but this video is what I needed.
Waiting can be the hardest thing, but a little extra time to work hard and save for when you're ready to start training can really help in the long term. It sucks though, feels like everyone else is doing it and you're not. But that's not the case, we all need to slow down sometimes. Good luck with your flying goals FlannelFlyer.
Loved this video Stef. Money management is everything when it comes to flight training. Doesn't always come easy but the best things in life don't. Sometimes the journey is better than the destination
Thanks for watching Simon, wise words there too, thanks.
Brilliant video
Simple, transparent advice. Thank you Stefan. Nice to know I’m not the only one on a similar journey! All the best
Thank you so much for tis video! I've wanted to become a commercial pilot all my life and I'm now I college in an aviation program (not a flying program). The one thing stopping me from actually completing my hours is money and I've looked at so many videos but all of them never really helped for the same reasons you mentioned in the beginning of the video! A bunch of my friends from college (who also want to become pilots) are getting the PPLs and it sucks because I'm falling behind and missing out on the fun! This video is the video that I've been looking for. No driving around the topic, new bullshit, just the facts!
That's awesome feedback Daniel, thank you. I spent a long time preparing and writing the content for this video, so it's great to hear it's really helping rather than getting across the same message you've heard before. Good luck with your flight training, and thanks again for the comment, stef
Great video Stef - a very important topic for most people getting into flying, good on you for discussing! :)
Thanks for watching Joe, glad you found that useful.
Yes there are many ways to generate/find/earn etc money to fund your training. You just need to use your common sense as you have in this video Stef. I believe pay as you go is the way to go. Take your time and learn the art of flying as best you can. Thanks mate
I wish this had been uploaded a year ago. Nonetheless, I've got my PPL and working towards the CPL. Great content Stef
- If it was easy then everybody would be doing it👌🏽
Ultimate helpful video. 🙌
Great advice Stefan. I did my training in the early 90's. I worked a full time job and 2 part time jobs to pay for it because there was no VET fee help or student loans for flying back then. Being a Signwriter by trade, I painted the school signage as a contra deal plus did some paid work for them even through it wasn't much, it all count towards a significant saving in the end. Also, the school encouraged me to pay tax on some of the paid work so I was able to claim my flying training as an expense which I was able to claim on come tax time! The school often cheaper rates for cash and for money to be paid up front into an account which I trusted them enough to do it by this time. In the end, I reckon I saved $13,000 dollars in training cost (Not the total. Private flying not covered in the tax side of things). Another benefit. The school got to see what my work ethic and commitment was like and at the end of my training, I started doing some work for them which lead to full time.
So, Stefan. Next time you're flying over YBSS an you look down and see the writing on the school's roof top, think of me!
I self-funded my PPL while I was still at high school. I worked my ass off to afford it without any help from my parents. If you are still at school and want to be a pilot, I highly recommend getting a part-time job and getting started with your flight training. While it is definitely a struggle trying to juggle school, work, and flying all together, it is easier to afford as you aren't needing to pay bills, groceries etc. Even if you do have to pay board, it will still be less than if you were living on your own. This leaves more money to put towards flying! It will take time, but be patient and it will pay off! I got my Private Pilot Licence while all my friends were getting their drivers licence, and sure, my car wasn't as nice as their cars but at least I could fly!
As a 16 year old, I’m on a very tight budget, earning a small a bit on my own which my parents match. I put most of my earned money in stocks as well. I’m going to start recreational pilot permit training this summer, and I’m super stressed about figuring out logistics. It’s hard enough completing training within your budget, but now with COVID I’m anxious about another lockdown and having to wait another year to start again, wasting my money. And on top of that, I’m taking summer school in the last 3 weeks of the summer break, which means I have to fit training in within about 6 weeks. I’m concerned about the quality of my training and safety as my constant desire to fly cheaply might push me to bad compromises. This video was super helpful, if anyone has any more tips I’d appreciate the help.
2 years later… did you end up going into aviation? How u doing rn? What’s ur job?
Excellent advice to those wanting to fly and a bit tight on the money side. :-)) As I found out it is anything but cheap!
I like the advice.Stef you have really inspired many and prepared them in advance.Many people may have not known about this.Keep up the good work Stef!!👌🏽💯
Much appreciated Bryson, I’m hoping this is useful to others trying to follow the aviation path. Thanks for watching.
@@StefanDrury Welcome
Amazing Video! This teaches a lot! Thank you for all of your advice!
Glad it helped, thanks Matthew.
One thing I'd like to add as a flight instructor is to learn your checklists to a 'fluent' standard. Obviously we don't want to be rushing and you should go at a pace which allows you to do the checks properly, but I have seen so much money wasted as a result of slow procedures on the ground which has extended the lesson by 0.1 or 0.2, which adds up very quickly through your training. Don't spend extra money simply due to lack of preparation.
Loving the social media idea! It’s something that I’ve been looking at for a while anyway and I’ve found some free courses on,one as well, so thank you for the idea!
Brilliant informative video. Should be the first step before jumping into the ppl, because as you say life happens and if you have a proper plan in place you will achieve your goal with good consistency (unlike me haha might have my licence completed by 2060) and it will reduce dramatically putting any pressure on yourself to pay for flying so you can focus on learning. keep up the great work 👨🏻✈️👌👍🏻
All very good points and I agree wholeheartidly.
I'll just add one point I'm adamant about getting across everytime I get asked about money and getting your PPL :
I'm 43 and it took me 3 freaking long years from start to finish to get my PPL.
When you stretch the money across such a long period of time, then it isn't that steep.
I, like Stefan, am an entrepreneur, so my incomes has ups and downs, so I waited and waited and waited until I knew I had enough money to commit to flight school.
That is nonsense : I should have started when I was 20 and just go get a flight lesson every month or even 2 months.
Maybe it would have taken me 6 years to get my PPL but I would have been flying for 6 years with an instructor and have "dates" with a plane instead of nothing at all aviation related for 20 years :)
Go sign to a flightschool right this very minute ! And by the way, I have never met a single pilot not being super understanding about the lack of founds. You'll only find support and encouragement :)
I'm 21 and I thought I was already too late to start.
@@Ashertheawesome You are SOOOOOOOOOOO NOT late to the game !! You are actually so early to the party, the hostess of said party is probably still in the shower getting ready :D
Working a lot of overtime at my current job and saving it up for my PPL training. Won’t start until I have the whole sum because I don’t want to take breaks in between my training. Half ways there :)
Good, helpful informative video!
I'm always wanted to be a pilot and that's how I even knew this channel. Due, to financial shortages I had to do a degree in BioMed which is fully sponsored and then get a job save up for my flight school. In the beginning it was really really frustrating because I really wanted to be a pilot but it has been a year and it honestly doesn't feel that long. Anyways great advice Stefan!
Great advise Stef, and the small snippet of YBRM. Enjoy your week.
I couldn't agree more with this video !Another way you could save is possibly starting with RPC instead of RPL. RA Aus flight schools tend to be cheaper and they count towards the aeronautical knowledge.
Hi Stefan, You didn't mention it but there are a few flight schools around now that the government will subsidize, and even places you can do your entire training on a HECS loan.
Patience is very much needed in Aviation.
Very helpful Stefan. I'll probably be cutting back on come flying over the next year, but this is helpful to see ways I can keep costs down, and maybe fly a little bit more than I hoped!
Thanks for this video 👍🏼
Just finished A-Levels, starting my PPL now ,which, with all of my ratings, looks like it’ll cost around £14,000.
All expensive but there are ways around it, just have to see what I can do.
How’s it going?
Really good video stef
Thanks for watching Tim 👍
Thanks for this video Stefan!
Somehow it sparks back my desire to fly.
VERY refreshing to have logic, facts, and common sense reasoning address the obvious costs of gaining your wings. 😎👍
Very good video I am in the planning phase of getting my PPL.
10:22 sadly yes this is me, because of this i ask if i even want to do flight training despite wanting to for years, im only 17 now but i just realized the expenses,
Well Said stef!
I pretty much did the exact same thing and still do. Touch wood my company has been doing well, i waited until it wasn’t going to add any financial stress to my self or the business. For all those, Time, Time,Time... Be patient, it will happen if you are determined. It’s like anything. Now, with 50+ staff at work i use, flying is now my downtime! (Once i completely Finnish learning which you never do,theirs always something to learn in aviation).
What a great video Stef, I do know people who have taken astronomical loans to pay for that lump sum option with flight schools. Also a lot of students these days are using the government loans or HECS to pay for training. When I did my licence I worked and put a side money for my training. My parents bought my first 5 lessons and dad said If your passionate about this you need to do it yourself.
Thanks for those tips and word of encouragement, i have my FAA PPL for just around 4yrs now, and haven't get to flown since financial issue . at one point i swear i was just going to give up then i say to myself hey this doesnt expire. then just watching this video gives me the sense of hope.
Thank you for sharing this.. these are great tips. I just subscribed.
Really glad they were helpful, thanks for subscribing, welcome to the community.
@@StefanDrury going to start a flight school here in Canada.
Great vid Stef. I’m going to point a lot of people to this when i get that question again.
Great Video Stef! I remember you giving me similar information at the Avalon Airshow this year. I have really taken it on board! Thank you for giving you knowledge onto me and others!!
great stuff. on the cusp to realise my life long obsession and finally start the journey - thanks for the tips and morale boost
Great advice Stefan especially these days of high costs of training (compared to the 80's when I trained ) :)
Thanks for watching Paul
Love your videos Stef, great mixed amount of content and great advice! Keep it up
Hey stef! This really inspired more than I expected! Thanks for this video!!
One way I paid for it is to join the military and fly for them, stressful and it will cost me 10+ years of obligatory service, but I didn’t pay a dime for the cost of training my fixed wing then rotary wing which also includes up to an instrument rating. Just another way to do it.
Hi Stefan, Would you kindly make a second part or an extension to this video on how international students looking into joining a flight school in Australia can afford and pay for their flight schools. Hopefully you have some tips or advice for us. Thank you.
Australia isn't a country you want to come to as an international student. Look at USA. No landing fees - no CA$A bullsh#t.
So thankful for this video just made all this seem much more achievable
Great video 👍
Great tips, glad I subscribe to an informative and interesting channel! Can’t wait to meet you in the future!
Thanks for watching Grant, glad you found that useful. Hope to catch you at a meetup someday.
Excellent video Stef . how I got this far , I,ll be quick , after I moved from Ireland I took a 8 year break from all things flying , worked 10-12 hours a day 6-7 days a week in NYC , saved like a mad man , then the financial crisis ( lehman brothers etc ) 2008 happened , I was ready then financially to get back training , called a school and took a lessonin a Piper Archer and got back into it but stuck to my budget , if the bills arrived .... no flying .Worked and worked and bingo got to the finish line on the private and did the same for my IFR and now I do the same for renting the cirrus . I did do my own study for all written tests through an app on the iPad and that saved a lot . Ive never owned a car but who needs one in NYC ...took the train to the airport ( more savings ) . one personal rule I have is I never ever get into debt to go flying , work first , budget , then get the GoPros ready .... I,m not aiming at CPL ATPL , I,m just trying to get to 700 subscribers on my channel !!!!!!! cheers mate
Public transport is a good tip as well, I’ll add that to a V2 with all the other suggestions I’m getting I reckon. Work, budget, flying is definitely the order most of us have to do it in as well, no exception here. You’ll be at 1000 soon I’m sure, keep going mate.
@@StefanDrury will keep adding videos as I can .. cheers mate .
Great video as always mate, I have been doing my RAA Certifacte simply because of cost, tips defenlty help,
I would love to see a video on the break down of now owning a plane, e.g. moorabin's parking fee's, landing fees and if there was anything you missed or didn't know before owning an aircraft. 👍
Amazing video. Thank you mate. I hope to be able to buy you a beer in Melbourne one day.
Great advice !
You're awesome for this. Thanks.
Glad it helped, thanks Viraj
Good stuff Stef.