I really like the aviation field. But I didn't join the society as a pilot's perspective but as an engineer or researcher. I've already passed over 50s. One of my dreams is to get a pilot license to get the confidence that can build my second life. Thanks for your encouragement and motivation video.
This really inspired me. One of my main reasons for wanting to get a pilot's license at my age which happens to be 50 is to use it as service and ministry. I appreciate this video.
Okay I was thinking of quitting until I watched this video. Very inspirational. I have not done my solo yet. Getting close though. All the studying and learning the new language talking on radio and the pressure is overwhelming sometimes. Thanks for the video!!!
Thanks. Really inspiring. I m 48 and to become a pilot is my childhood dream…which was lost somewhere under life’s hosh-posh…Now I m inspired again…can you suggest some good schools
Very good channel, I am so happy to find you. I studied to be a professional pilot when I was 25 years old, earned my ppl and ifr rating but never made it to cpl due to some family circumstances. I have total 185hours. For all those many years I abandoned my dream as my life path changed. I was keep telling myself to start again over and over every day all those years but never made the move. I know that I am almost there to join again, and your video really inspired me the most. I am now 50 years old. I will come back to this channel again as soon as renew my license and start flying again. Thank you so much for this remarkable work.
In my area, it's about $10,000+ to get the license. Especially if you don't do it in the 40 hours. I'm at 43 hours and still have some solo time to go. $110/hr plane rental + 40/hr instructor (sometimes $60/hr if they are gold seal instructors). You usually schedule 2 hours and your instructed for about 1.5 hours of that to start off. If you don't pick up landings, short-field landings, etc. right away, you'll need remedial lessons and what not. I gave up a 3rd sports car to take up flying. Don't even miss it.
You don’t need to go to liberty University you can go to any private flight school and it’ll be around seven to $10,000 at the most. Start driving around a small private flight schools and talk to them and you’ll find it’ll be a lot cheaper! Thanks for watching!
@@TheOriginalCryptoPimp I'm at 180 total hrs about 1/2 through my Instrument Rating. Hope to finish it in October. My son and I bought a 1975 Cessna 172M in December and he is working on his PPL and we are having a ball-lots of $100 hamburgers!
As everybody knows, LIFE happens and lots of things get between you and your dreams. I am now 54 and was beginning to think that I might never lean to fly. Your video is inspiring and I hope to maybe pursue my dream still. However, as we get older we must also contend with other things that come with it. I now must also consider my health as well. I am overweight, and type 2 diabetic. I will be looking into how this might affect my possible training, but take it from me, if you have a desire to learn to fly. DO NOT HESITATE! I will be subscribing to this channel if only to live my dream vicariously through you. Thanks for posting this channel from our (50+) perspective.
Big DWG You at least have to get out there and start flying don’t worry about anything else if the medical stop to the medical stops you but it won’t if you take care of it just get out there and do it you will never regret what you do only what you don’t do....
You have made my weekend great! Been studying for 5 years and wife has been trying to talk me out of flying even though she has 50 hours in an Ercoupe. You are an inspiration, great narration and topics. Keep up the inspirational videos. You are right on and Basic Med , LSA plus Sport Pilots need your encouragement. Thanks Ted!
I am 51 and got my license last year. I completely agree with your 5 reasons ! I could also add a few more but... you know... I´m too busy right now ! See you around... ;)
I was 55 when I started and yes it took 6 years but it is the best thing I have every done! Now I have 3 different airplanes! One Cessna 172 Cessna And two LSA airplanes which made flying even more fun! Life is what you make it! Go for it!
Next Wednesday is my first flying lesson. I'm going to work on getting my LSA (Light Sport Aircraft) certificate in an Evektor Sportstar. I am 55 years old and this is a 35 year old dream. Back in my late teens I took lessons in a Cessna 152 - but only about a 1/2 dozen or so until I ran out of money. Money is absolutely not a problem this time and I fully intend to turn dream into reality. Once I achieve my LSA certification, I will decide if I want to continue to PPL or further. The dream becomes reality in just under a week! Thank you for the videos. They are inspiring. - Ron
Ron Donofero absolutely!!! And do it straight through this time - don’t stop until you have finished your checkride - just treat it like a job and you can have your certificate in a month - let me know how you are doing ! Thanks for watching!!!
Great vid's bruh!! So, I love aviation and flew quite often 35 yrs ago before marriage, kids, and work. . . Fast forward to last November, I'm finally retired for the third time! By God's grace coupled with an amazing fun-loving wife I'm back in the left seat again! After an extensive flight review and refresher course, I'm now checked out and flying my new Diamond DA-40 with a Garmin G1000 glass cockpit. Wow, big difference and amazing how technology has changed the game for general aviation. I just turned 65 and am currently working on my IFR rating. With guidance from the good Lord, fitness, and an awesome keto diet, I plan on enjoying the challenges and fun this season of life offers me! Keep the videos coming, second-hand lions like myself enjoy your dedication and enthusiasm.
I am retired military and was a C130 Flight Engineer with over 1200 hrs. Since my military "retirement" there has been something missing. Aviation has been my life one way or another since my childhood and have always wanted to get my PPL and A&P (I was also an aircraft mechanic in the USAF). I came across your channel and you are an inspiration for us over 50. If you ever make it over to NE Philladelphia (KPNE), Wings (KLOM), Trenton (KTTN), or Doylestown (KDYL), let me know, I'd love to talk one on one over a coffee.
Started a ground school class put on by private pilots after work at Lockheed/Martin 2 months ago to evaluate if this dream to fly can get off the ground. I'm 62 with a 35 year career in aviation software. Loved the video and the encouragement, helped me to put to rest misgivings about being too old, and an expected big outlay of cash that puts family finances at risk with daughters weddings and retirement not too long off. Haven't heard of any schools near where I live that think they can get you a private license for $5,000, but when I saw the date you posted this, it made me think that I just need to become more knowledgeable of the options. Loved the available "career" options mentioned in the video, especially the ministry part, and the effect on your approach to decisions. Also, nice videos!
All in all it is about 8K- think of it for a second- you probably spend 9K on coffee a year- its not that much really- and your daughters will want you to do your dream.... just ask them!
Thank you for this awesome video. I flew everywhere with my father ( the best pilot I’ve ever met ) in my 20s and 30s and was working towards my PPL when life took over, finishing residency and fellowship training, having children, getting a medical practice going and in the medical field, always having to keep learning ( identical to being a safe, proficient pilot). The dream of flying has never left me. I was fortunate enough to retire early and the kids are grown. I’ve been anxious to finally get started again but was wondering if maybe I’m too old. Thanks to your wonderful video, and after extensive research, I have selected a great local flight school. Thanks to you , I am once again completely inspired to start this new chapter. Thank you. Sam
S W awesome!!! This opened up a whole new life for me and I’m glad it did for you as well too. You’re never too old!!! Keep in touch and let me know how you’re doing on your flight training.
Great Video. I had/have this discussion with myself many times over. I'm 61 and about half way through my PPL training. I made up my mind that I am going to do it. But, it is so easy to quit it's rediculous. No one is going to keep you motivated but yourself. You've go to put up with weather, short time instructors, busy instructors, un/available airplanes. It really makes you wonder why you do it. But, like said in the video it is all on yourself, " you have to do it". No one is going to call you to come fly!
Yep! I use the Starbucks analogy with my friends who question the spending. The only caveat with starting later in life is you don’t get to enjoy it as long if you had started as a younger person. I love it! Thanks for sharing.
That’s awesome but we get to enjoy it a lot better than if we would’ve started when you were younger, at least that’s what I tell myself! Lori thanks for watching!
I am sixty and love reading about it and watching flight videos. My way of learning is different than most. I understand the six-pack, how VOR works, the mechanics of flight and the engine but need help with radios and tower communication. I can read a freakin’ map and have great navigational skills, i.e. gps. I even have SkyVector on my iPad to play around with and plan make believe trips! I just don’t want to have to sit behind some desk and a chalk board with some old 80 year old geezer starting me off out of a first grade text book per se. I’m not stupid. I started driver’s ed in a classroom at 15. Those classroom days are over for me.
*_I'm 65 and just retired. I don't feal like I'm old and seem to be in better shape than most people my age. I would love to get my private pilots license. Are there any concerns medically or any other wise taking lessons at this late stage in my life._*
As others have said, $5K may be too ambitious. I’m figuring $10-12K all in. I’m finishing ground school and just started logging hours at 57 (58 this month). If not now, when? Oh, KGMU, btw. Nice videos.
You definitely inspire people an have that "special something" that encourages others. I wish you the best and may you have a tailwind (except on landing of course :) ) always. AMEN!
I’m 73. What age, health and other restrictions are there? Also, having done cost research, $5,000 is about 1/3 of the actual cost when all expenses are considered. What can you tell me regarding these questions?
Sorry it took so long for me to respond to this it is going to be between anywhere between 7000 And $10,000 and I would start driving around a local flight schools and talk to them and you’ll be surprised what you find out! Thanks for watching!
iPad Questions!🛩️ I'm looking at buying an iPad for GA navigation. 1. Is it necessary to get a cellular iPad model or will a Wifi only suffice? 2. Favorite flight apps.. Do you prefer ForeFlight others?
GS Wing Nut Yes you’ll still need to access the Internet when you’re away from Wi-Fi and as a back up so the cellular signal would do that and yes the strata system is all portable and you can just set it up in a rental plane
I just read something today about FOREFLIGHT and IPAD's and you may NEED the newest IPAD soon for the updated versions. It appears to be $$ related but I am not sure. I am also looking for an IPAD which is how I stumbled on this
@@Over50andLearningToFly what if my iPad does not have cellular access? Can't I get all the information and updates I need via Wi-Fi when I get connected?
Love love love your videos ! Just found you yesterday. When I heard you say something about flying as in doing missions I nearly fell over. Me and my wife are small business owners and are Missions Pastors at our church and I have dreamed of flying my entire life. I have never let anything stand in my way but have been starting to think that I may be to old to start this dream. I have in my lifetime or currently hold... 1: Class A commercial drivers license with a school bus endorsement. W/Hazmat 2: I am a former EMT 3: I currently hold a General Ham Radio License W4ZTX All of these were dreams... Thanks for the motivation ! Oh by the way can you do a video on the process from having no license at all to getting a license where you can be paid ? Thanks Again ! God Bless you my friend ! Gary H North Alabama
After a 20 yr hiatus, I am ready to resume my private pilots ticket at 52. The most difficult decision is which plane to buy. Considering the rental costs are not insignificant, I see no point in renting just to train. Even though I anticipate 75+% of my flying will be just the wife and I, I really like the performance / costs, (at least purchase wise) of a Mooney. Perhaps not the simplest training option, still I expect it easier to start with it than retraining muscle memory after a 172 or similar. I admit from the little training time I do already have in a Cherokee 140 and Cessna 152, even those simple planes seemed a handful at first along with radio calls, navigating, traffic, ect and I do worry a bit about the added complexity of the retractable gear, but if it is the right plane for me, I figure it better to become familiar asap in the training phase. Although I've never flown one personally, I took a couple trips years ago with a friend who owned a Mooney and it certainly seemed comfortable enough to me at the time. If anyone with Mooney experience cares to offer any insight on this situation I'd appreciate any thoughts you care to offer. Cheers, Roger
Thanks for the video. I got my PPL about a year ago at 63 and have had a great time learning to fly and since with my PPL. Over 50 is definitely not too old. Over 60 my be too old to want to start a UA-cam channel however. I admit I don’t have much desire to do that. I’ll keep watching yours however.
Loved the video, but would love to see your breakdown of getting your license for $5,000. The average PPL takes 53 hours. With a wet rate of $150/hour for a 172 and instructor time at $45/hour that is $195/hr times 53 hours = $10,335. Now you have to get a Class 3 medical for $150. Books to study cost $250. The FAA Airmans Knowledge Test is another $150. Being right in the middle of my PPL, I would love for you to expand on the $5,000 cost, I am clearly doing it wrong.
I live in the UK and gained my PPL several years ago, Lessons are currently £200 an hour so it takes £8,000 obtain a licence, That's considerably more than it takes in the USA. However, I fully concur with the message of this video and get your PPL if you can afford it. One of the highlights of my life was my first solo. I could hardly believe I was flying an aircraft on my own.
For my fiftieth birthday last December, my wife bought me and her a flying tour of Christmas lights. The pilot let me take the yoke for some time and I did a few simple turns. My wife has known this is a dream of mine for a while. I simply need to figure out how to do it. It comes down to time and money - mostly money. Then I want to figure out if I can get some kind of ROI for all this.
Douglas Draper if you can put a price on your enjoyment then it’s definitely worth it and you have to take that into consideration what is it worth to you to me I didn’t care how much it costs and I still don’t because nothing beats doing this!
Thank you for your post. Some our age can be put of by all the young whippersnappers getting their certificate, thinking it's a young man's game to learn to fly. It is not!
I am over 50 and I have my pilots license with 270 hours and night rating and lots of experience. I would like to get an opportunity to fly as a carrier. Can you help???
It is possible- just get hours - and get your commercial and instrument ratings - and nice you get over 500 hours and you have your instrument and commercial you can start looking for a job - you can get to a part 135 carrier with around 1000 hours maybe even less and the major carriers need 1500 hours. You can look to Tropic ocean air. They hire first officers at around 250 hours. You will do it !!!!
That's not the question. I am 66 years old and in apparent good health. I have a PPL that I obtained in 1987. I used to own a piper PA-28 and have a couple hundred hours. Haven't flown since 1992. Work got in the way. When I see pilot symposiums or Bonanze pilot proficiency videos or airshow videos or enthusiast gatherings there is ALOT OF GRAY HAIR out there. So what do you think??
Well Allen... I will throw it back at you.. What do you think? You already know what I think... :-) Go to a flight school, spend an afternoon with an instructor, get current and get back in the air... You wont regret it,.... you will only regret the things that you don't do ... when you know you really want to do them. Do it! Google flight schools in your area and get out there!
Just do it!. I started in 1986 and got with one official night hour and a review before my ride and I ran out of money. THEN LIFE got in the way .This channel I can say has inspired me to possibly try and FINISH what I started 33 years ago. I have time in 4 different aircraft and no 152 time. The light sports aircraft with all glass look like an awesome plane to fly. It all the modern tech that I find fascinating!
I did my initial flight training at Obx Airplanes in the Outer Banks in North Carolina -it was awesome and I did it in about five months where are you located?
Just as a general shout out to everyone when it comes down to the money, if you're going for that say a private pilot license which allows you to fly at night time, that would cost you more money than a recreational or sport pilot rating. But remember it's about type certification. You can get your PPL or private pilot license in the cheapest aircraft you're able to find. Once you have that you only need to take enough lessons two then proficiently fly any other type of aircraft you're looking to fly.... A perfect example is if you want to get your private pilot certificate in a rotorcraft or helicopter. You could pay $250 an hour and learn to fly in in Robinson and then get a proficiency check and enough lessons to confidently fly a bell 409. Or you can start off in the Bel Air 409 but that will cost you about $600 an hour. If you're not going to buy your own helicopter and you probably won't have a lot of hours were a place would feel comfortable and renting you their helicopter then there's really no point and getting that type of license. You would be more Suited to getting a sport pilot license only flying during daylight hours with a maximum of one passenger and you could get the gyroplane can get the same relative experience with your own aircraft costing $70,000 as compared to about $400,000 and up. ;)
Not at all really - I haven’t done any mission flights in 2020 - just out of caution and limited my activity to 3-4 people ... I’ve done a few dog rescues by myself and picked up missionary cargo in my car and delivered it ... i’m just keeping safe habits ... thanks for watching!
Not to annoy with post after post but I will also have to say this, from studying everything from part 61 part 91 part 103 part 107 nothing of all of that was as difficult as getting waivers for flying a UAS system. That was like writing an affidavit for search warrant and it took months to finally get. ;)
When I was 30 I thought I was too old to be a pilot! Now I'm in my 40's ~ so you're telling me there's a chance! :) 5000 bucks is a bit lowball though.
Finn Agler Yes there’s more than a chance it’s just waiting for you to make it happen. Five grand is on the low side but talk to the flight school and see if they have a discounted rate for a block of hours that’s what I did. Go out and make it happen! Set an example for others
It is probably cheaper in the US than the UK but so far being under 50 has meant I've been unable to learn to fly. (I can't afford a car at the moment). Unless something changes and I start in the next 14 months, I will certainly be over 50 and learning to fly if/when I ever do.
Great video. I have been interested in airplanes and flying since I was in my teens. I have not only flown in commercial but private planes before as well. I have even flown in a Stearman and even did loops in it. Some friends own a private AP and that beloved Stearman. I’ve been considering taking lessons now at the ripe age of 59 and looking to “transition” out of my current job in the next 4-5 years. I just can’t get past the cost however. Lessons in Illinois where I’m from are rather pricy. Any thoughts that you might have would be great. Using that pre-silver knowledge of your’s of course.
I have a question: as I get older, I find that I am increasingly uncomfortable with heights. So that when I watch a film in which someone is hanging over a cliff edge I find it hard to watch. When I go up with friends in their small planes, I have to suppress that fear, and I find I can forget about it most of the time. So is it a reason not to try for a ppl, or should I just ignore it? Any pilots with fear of heights out there?
Garth Garthly Yes actually I hate heights and I can’t even look over a balcony or down the staircase but when I’m in a plane it doesn’t bother me at all so, outside of therapy, I would keep on pressing forward because fear actually stands for false expectations appearing real.
You'll have to shop around - but oit is possible- also many flight schools offer a bonus if you pay all at once-- I did mine for about 5K+- The best is to go get it all done at once and not piecemeal it. Go for it!
John Ogo I believe so I believe you can learn how to fly under the G.I. Bill to contact some local flight schools and ask around but it’s worth spending an hour making phone calls about it I do remember someone I met down in North Carolina financed everything through their commercial through the G.I. Bill
Also it is available through universities so you can always go to a place like Embry rental or North Dakota and start taking aviation classes and it’s all finance with the G.I. Bill but definitely do your research
I'm watching your video and laughing saying to myself.. " you can get your lessons for about $5,000 but if you want to include that Bose headset I got a tack on another 1200" ;)
MONEY is always the issue and has been since my first flight in JUNE 1986 and why I had to stop just short of my private. However I may..may just restart some 33 years after I started ..LORD willing! PS I was INSPIRED again in drum roll..KITTY HAWK while on a first time trip to the beach last September in Nags Head!
Over 50 and Learning To Fly! By the way, I started flying when I was 13 years old. I’m now well over 50 and still loving it! My husband and I started a Flying Club and it had been a blast! If you are ever in South Texas, we hope you’ll consider being a guest speaker! SouthTexasFlyingClub.org
This is very inspirational to a 52yr old like me. I would love to use aviation as a ministry as well. Guess I better get started!
Awesomeness!
Just finished my 3rd lesson at 63 KBVS. LOVE IT.
julian gilbert That is so awesome! Keep going don’t stop!
julian gilbert so there is hope for me???? Turning 60 next year!
julian gilbert awesome I am 62 and looking into learning to fly. Thank you for giving me confidence to learn.
@@Over50andLearningToFly I'm 71. PPL since 2017. Bought T182R in 2017. IFR in 2018. Almost 1600 hrs
You can do this!!!!
I really like the aviation field. But I didn't join the society as a pilot's perspective but as an engineer or researcher. I've already passed over 50s. One of my dreams is to get a pilot license to get the confidence that can build my second life. Thanks for your encouragement and motivation video.
This really inspired me. One of my main reasons for wanting to get a pilot's license at my age which happens to be 50 is to use it as service and ministry. I appreciate this video.
Good job. Go for it!
Im 66 and good health ,,I really feel like you can do it
Thanks. 61 trips around the sun and going back to do what I walked away from at 20. I can do this
Okay I was thinking of quitting until I watched this video. Very inspirational. I have not done my solo yet. Getting close though. All the studying and learning the new language talking on radio and the pressure is overwhelming sometimes. Thanks for the video!!!
Don’t quit !!!! It will never happen if you do -
Thanks. Really inspiring. I m 48 and to become a pilot is my childhood dream…which was lost somewhere under life’s hosh-posh…Now I m inspired again…can you suggest some good schools
44 here and going for it!
Very good channel, I am so happy to find you. I studied to be a professional pilot when I was 25 years old, earned my ppl and ifr rating but never made it to cpl due to some family circumstances. I have total 185hours. For all those many years I abandoned my dream as my life path changed. I was keep telling myself to start again over and over every day all those years but never made the move. I know that I am almost there to join again, and your video really inspired me the most. I am now 50 years old. I will come back to this channel again as soon as renew my license and start flying again. Thank you so much for this remarkable work.
In my area, it's about $10,000+ to get the license. Especially if you don't do it in the 40 hours. I'm at 43 hours and still have some solo time to go. $110/hr plane rental + 40/hr instructor (sometimes $60/hr if they are gold seal instructors). You usually schedule 2 hours and your instructed for about 1.5 hours of that to start off. If you don't pick up landings, short-field landings, etc. right away, you'll need remedial lessons and what not. I gave up a 3rd sports car to take up flying. Don't even miss it.
It Liberty University is about 30,000 per year and it takes about three years to get my license
You don’t need to go to liberty University you can go to any private flight school and it’ll be around seven to $10,000 at the most. Start driving around a small private flight schools and talk to them and you’ll find it’ll be a lot cheaper! Thanks for watching!
More than half way to my PPL at 65, keep the videos coming
Colin Forrester Absolutely keep moving you’ll get it sooner than you think!
Colin Forrester outstanding
Almost 50. Will be 50 by the time I save up the money to do this. So happy I found your channel.
Thank you for the inspiration! I’m 51 and just started ground school.
Thanks for your enthusiasm! I’m 66 and 40 hours in with only my solo work to do. Flying out of 1T8 in Texas.
Give us an update.
@@TheOriginalCryptoPimp I'm at 180 total hrs about 1/2 through my Instrument Rating. Hope to finish it in October. My son and I bought a 1975 Cessna 172M in December and he is working on his PPL and we are having a ball-lots of $100 hamburgers!
@@rogeraylstock3641 wow. Awesome. Thanks for the update.
Nice video-- I'm 59 and thinking about getting my sport license--- This video helped-- Thank you--
Thank you Sir.
As everybody knows, LIFE happens and lots of things get between you and your dreams. I am now 54 and was beginning to think that I might never lean to fly. Your video is inspiring and I hope to maybe pursue my dream still. However, as we get older we must also contend with other things that come with it. I now must also consider my health as well. I am overweight, and type 2 diabetic. I will be looking into how this might affect my possible training, but take it from me, if you have a desire to learn to fly. DO NOT HESITATE! I will be subscribing to this channel if only to live my dream vicariously through you. Thanks for posting this channel from our (50+) perspective.
Big DWG You at least have to get out there and start flying don’t worry about anything else if the medical stop to the medical stops you but it won’t if you take care of it just get out there and do it you will never regret what you do only what you don’t do....
Inspiring! Thanks for the encouragement and challenge! Just started my private. 55 and learning to fly!
You have made my weekend great! Been studying for 5 years and wife has been trying to talk me out of flying even though she has 50 hours in an Ercoupe. You are an inspiration, great narration and topics. Keep up the inspirational videos. You are right on and Basic Med , LSA plus Sport Pilots need your encouragement. Thanks Ted!
That is so awesome! Keep me posted! Thanks!
I am 51 and got my license last year. I completely agree with your 5 reasons ! I could also add a few more but... you know... I´m too busy right now ! See you around... ;)
Awesome! Let me know what they are when you have time! Thanks for watching!
Hi im in the uk and now 59 i fly RC planes but would now like to try for a ppl
I was 55 when I started and yes it took 6 years but it is the best thing I have every done! Now I have 3 different airplanes! One Cessna 172 Cessna And two LSA airplanes which made flying even more fun! Life is what you make it! Go for it!
Awesome!!!!! Where do you fly out of?
I am 56 and my first lesson is this week!
Steven Erino Totally awesome keep moving and don’t stop!
I also started at 56. Got my ppl two months after 57th birthday. I'm looking at ways to use it in ministry, as well.
@@HighlandsInvite That iks awesome! Thanks for watching!
Next Wednesday is my first flying lesson. I'm going to work on getting my LSA (Light Sport Aircraft) certificate in an Evektor Sportstar. I am 55 years old and this is a 35 year old dream. Back in my late teens I took lessons in a Cessna 152 - but only about a 1/2 dozen or so until I ran out of money. Money is absolutely not a problem this time and I fully intend to turn dream into reality. Once I achieve my LSA certification, I will decide if I want to continue to PPL or further. The dream becomes reality in just under a week! Thank you for the videos. They are inspiring.
- Ron
Ron Donofero absolutely!!! And do it straight through this time - don’t stop until you have finished your checkride - just treat it like a job and you can have your certificate in a month - let me know how you are doing ! Thanks for watching!!!
Great vid's bruh!! So, I love aviation and flew quite often 35 yrs ago before marriage, kids, and work. . . Fast forward to last November, I'm finally retired for the third time! By God's grace coupled with an amazing fun-loving wife I'm back in the left seat again! After an extensive flight review and refresher course, I'm now checked out and flying my new Diamond DA-40 with a Garmin G1000 glass cockpit. Wow, big difference and amazing how technology has changed the game for general aviation. I just turned 65 and am currently working on my IFR rating. With guidance from the good Lord, fitness, and an awesome keto diet, I plan on enjoying the challenges and fun this season of life offers me! Keep the videos coming, second-hand lions like myself enjoy your dedication and enthusiasm.
Awesome!!! Thanks for watching!!!!!
I agree totally with your thoughts. I’m 54 now but got my license when I was in my 40s.
I am retired military and was a C130 Flight Engineer with over 1200 hrs. Since my military "retirement" there has been something missing. Aviation has been my life one way or another since my childhood and have always wanted to get my PPL and A&P (I was also an aircraft mechanic in the USAF). I came across your channel and you are an inspiration for us over 50. If you ever make it over to NE Philladelphia (KPNE), Wings (KLOM), Trenton (KTTN), or Doylestown (KDYL), let me know, I'd love to talk one on one over a coffee.
Started a ground school class put on by private pilots after work at Lockheed/Martin 2 months ago to evaluate if this dream to fly can get off the ground. I'm 62 with a 35 year career in aviation software. Loved the video and the encouragement, helped me to put to rest misgivings about being too old, and an expected big outlay of cash that puts family finances at risk with daughters weddings and retirement not too long off. Haven't heard of any schools near where I live that think they can get you a private license for $5,000, but when I saw the date you posted this, it made me think that I just need to become more knowledgeable of the options. Loved the available "career" options mentioned in the video, especially the ministry part, and the effect on your approach to decisions. Also, nice videos!
All in all it is about 8K- think of it for a second- you probably spend 9K on coffee a year- its not that much really- and your daughters will want you to do your dream.... just ask them!
I flew at an airline with a guy who learned to fly at 60. Two years later he was flying for an airline
Thank you for this awesome video. I flew everywhere with my father ( the best pilot I’ve ever met ) in my 20s and 30s and was working towards my PPL when life took over, finishing residency and fellowship training, having children, getting a medical practice going and in the medical field, always having to keep learning ( identical to being a safe, proficient pilot). The dream of flying has never left me. I was fortunate enough to retire early and the kids are grown. I’ve been anxious to finally get started again but was wondering if maybe I’m too old. Thanks to your wonderful video, and after extensive research, I have selected a great local flight school. Thanks to you , I am once again completely inspired to start this new chapter. Thank you. Sam
S W awesome!!! This opened up a whole new life for me and I’m glad it did for you as well too. You’re never too old!!! Keep in touch and let me know how you’re doing on your flight training.
I will keep you posted on my flight training.
Great Video. I had/have this discussion with myself many times over. I'm 61 and about half way through my PPL training. I made up my mind that I am going to do it. But, it is so easy to quit it's rediculous. No one is going to keep you motivated but yourself. You've go to put up with weather, short time instructors, busy instructors, un/available airplanes. It really makes you wonder why you do it. But, like said in the video it is all on yourself, " you have to do it". No one is going to call you to come fly!
Denny Fike absolutely!!!! Thank you and keep moving forward !!!!
Yep! I use the Starbucks analogy with my friends who question the spending. The only caveat with starting later in life is you don’t get to enjoy it as long if you had started as a younger person. I love it! Thanks for sharing.
That’s awesome but we get to enjoy it a lot better than if we would’ve started when you were younger, at least that’s what I tell myself! Lori thanks for watching!
Thank you,its a good advice n awesome motivations
No way to get your PPL for 5k... 10 to 15k the vast majority of people. All else great stuff..
What about over 65?
Absolutely not !!! Go start your lessons !!!!!
I’m 62 started flight lessons 37 years ago have restarted to hopefully finish and get that PPL
MIKE TEIXEIRA keep moving ! Don’t stop!
I am sixty and love reading about it and watching flight videos. My way of learning is different than most. I understand the six-pack, how VOR works, the mechanics of flight and the engine but need help with radios and tower communication. I can read a freakin’ map and have great navigational skills, i.e. gps. I even have SkyVector on my iPad to play around with and plan make believe trips! I just don’t want to have to sit behind some desk and a chalk board with some old 80 year old geezer starting me off out of a first grade text book per se. I’m not stupid. I started driver’s ed in a classroom at 15. Those classroom days are over for me.
DAM8658 Then get out there and find a good flight school they’re planning out there where are you located?
*_I'm 65 and just retired. I don't feal like I'm old and seem to be in better shape than most people my age. I would love to get my private pilots license. Are there any concerns medically or any other wise taking lessons at this late stage in my life._*
As others have said, $5K may be too ambitious. I’m figuring $10-12K all in. I’m finishing ground school and just started logging hours at 57 (58 this month). If not now, when? Oh, KGMU, btw. Nice videos.
you go to Philippines and it is cheap
You definitely inspire people an have that "special something" that encourages others. I wish you the best and may you have a tailwind (except on landing of course :) ) always. AMEN!
I’m 73. What age, health and other restrictions are there? Also, having done cost research, $5,000 is about 1/3 of the actual cost when all expenses are considered. What can you tell me regarding these questions?
Sorry it took so long for me to respond to this it is going to be between anywhere between 7000 And $10,000 and I would start driving around a local flight schools and talk to them and you’ll be surprised what you find out! Thanks for watching!
iPad Questions!🛩️ I'm looking at buying an iPad for GA navigation. 1. Is it necessary to get a cellular iPad model or will a Wifi only suffice? 2. Favorite flight apps.. Do you prefer ForeFlight others?
GS Wing Nut you’ll need both WiFi and cellular- and I like ForeFlight... it’s awesome- also get a adsb in stratus unit ! You’ll be glad you did!
@@Over50andLearningToFly What is the cellular capability used for? Is the stratus portable? can i easily set it up in a rental plane?
GS Wing Nut Yes you’ll still need to access the Internet when you’re away from Wi-Fi and as a back up so the cellular signal would do that and yes the strata system is all portable and you can just set it up in a rental plane
I just read something today about FOREFLIGHT and IPAD's and you may NEED the newest IPAD soon for the updated versions. It appears to be $$ related but I am not sure. I am also looking for an IPAD which is how I stumbled on this
@@Over50andLearningToFly what if my iPad does not have cellular access? Can't I get all the information and updates I need via Wi-Fi when I get connected?
Love love love your videos ! Just found you yesterday. When I heard you say something about flying as in doing missions I nearly fell over. Me and my wife are small business owners and are Missions Pastors at our church and I have dreamed of flying my entire life. I have never let anything stand in my way but have been starting to think that I may be to old to start this dream. I have in my lifetime or currently hold...
1: Class A commercial drivers license with a school bus endorsement. W/Hazmat
2: I am a former EMT
3: I currently hold a General Ham Radio License W4ZTX
All of these were dreams...
Thanks for the motivation !
Oh by the way can you do a video on the process from having no license at all to getting a license where you can be paid ?
Thanks Again !
God Bless you my friend !
Gary H
North Alabama
I'm 66 and getting spun up for my check ride. Its been great
That’s awesome just keep on spreading the word we have to get our demographic of the couch and into the cockpit!
$$$ and current personal problems hold me back. I'm inspired by your video, but it makes my heart hurt at the same time. 🙁
You’ll get there - keep trying!
After a 20 yr hiatus, I am ready to resume my private pilots ticket at 52.
The most difficult decision is which plane to buy.
Considering the rental costs are not insignificant, I see no point in renting just to train.
Even though I anticipate 75+% of my flying will be just the wife and I, I really like the performance / costs, (at least purchase wise) of a Mooney.
Perhaps not the simplest training option, still I expect it easier to start with it than retraining muscle memory after a 172 or similar. I admit from the little training time I do already have in a Cherokee 140 and Cessna 152, even those simple planes seemed a handful at first along with radio calls, navigating, traffic, ect and I do worry a bit about the added complexity of the retractable gear, but if it is the right plane for me, I figure it better to become familiar asap in the training phase.
Although I've never flown one personally, I took a couple trips years ago with a friend who owned a Mooney and it certainly seemed comfortable enough to me at the time.
If anyone with Mooney experience cares to offer any insight on this situation I'd appreciate any thoughts you care to offer.
Cheers, Roger
You should go on some money owners groups on Facebook. I’m glad you like them! Thanks for watching
Thanks for the video. I got my PPL about a year ago at 63 and have had a great time learning to fly and since with my PPL. Over 50 is definitely not too old. Over 60 my be too old to want to start a UA-cam channel however. I admit I don’t have much desire to do that. I’ll keep watching yours however.
Brent Lambert Thank you and thanks for watching and congratulations on your PPL!
Loved the video, but would love to see your breakdown of getting your license for $5,000. The average PPL takes 53 hours. With a wet rate of $150/hour for a 172 and instructor time at $45/hour that is $195/hr times 53 hours = $10,335. Now you have to get a Class 3 medical for $150. Books to study cost $250. The FAA Airmans Knowledge Test is another $150. Being right in the middle of my PPL, I would love for you to expand on the $5,000 cost, I am clearly doing it wrong.
milhaus28 A lot of flight schools offer bulk rates and what I was able to do was put $3000 down on my flight time and they gave me a really good rate
@@Over50andLearningToFly Thanks! I'll check with my school to see if there is a way to prepay and get a bulk discount.
I live in the UK and gained my PPL several years ago, Lessons are currently £200 an hour so it takes £8,000 obtain a licence, That's considerably more than it takes in the USA. However, I fully concur with the message of this video and get your PPL if you can afford it. One of the highlights of my life was my first solo. I could hardly believe I was flying an aircraft on my own.
For my fiftieth birthday last December, my wife bought me and her a flying tour of Christmas lights. The pilot let me take the yoke for some time and I did a few simple turns. My wife has known this is a dream of mine for a while. I simply need to figure out how to do it. It comes down to time and money - mostly money. Then I want to figure out if I can get some kind of ROI for all this.
Douglas Draper if you can put a price on your enjoyment then it’s definitely worth it and you have to take that into consideration what is it worth to you to me I didn’t care how much it costs and I still don’t because nothing beats doing this!
Thank you for your post. Some our age can be put of by all the young whippersnappers getting their certificate, thinking it's a young man's game to learn to fly. It is not!
Absolutely there’s a ton of things we can do with her license and really enjoy it!
$5,000? Ah no. I have not heard any school saying this claim. Maybe a decade ago.
I am over 50 and I have my pilots license with 270 hours and night rating and lots of experience. I would like to get an opportunity to fly as a carrier. Can you help???
It is possible- just get hours - and get your commercial and instrument ratings - and nice you get over 500 hours and you have your instrument and commercial you can start looking for a job - you can get to a part 135 carrier with around 1000 hours maybe even less and the major carriers need 1500 hours. You can look to Tropic ocean air. They hire first officers at around 250 hours.
You will do it !!!!
That's not the question. I am 66 years old and in apparent good health. I have a PPL that I obtained in 1987. I used to own a piper PA-28 and have a couple hundred hours. Haven't flown since 1992. Work got in the way. When I see pilot symposiums or Bonanze pilot proficiency videos or airshow videos or enthusiast gatherings there is ALOT OF GRAY HAIR out there. So what do you think??
Well Allen... I will throw it back at you.. What do you think? You already know what I think... :-) Go to a flight school, spend an afternoon with an instructor, get current and get back in the air... You wont regret it,.... you will only regret the things that you don't do ... when you know you really want to do them. Do it! Google flight schools in your area and get out there!
I already have my eye on one. Thanks for the inspiration. @@Over50andLearningToFly
Just do it!. I started in 1986 and got with one official night hour and a review before my ride and I ran out of money. THEN LIFE got in the way .This channel I can say has inspired me to possibly try and FINISH what I started 33 years ago. I have time in 4 different aircraft and no 152 time. The light sports aircraft with all glass look like an awesome plane to fly. It all the modern tech that I find fascinating!
I am in my 40s. Which school did you attend?
I did my initial flight training at Obx Airplanes in the Outer Banks in North Carolina -it was awesome and I did it in about five months where are you located?
@@Over50andLearningToFly I live in Barbados. You are an inspiration.
Just as a general shout out to everyone when it comes down to the money, if you're going for that say a private pilot license which allows you to fly at night time, that would cost you more money than a recreational or sport pilot rating.
But remember it's about type certification. You can get your PPL or private pilot license in the cheapest aircraft you're able to find. Once you have that you only need to take enough lessons two then proficiently fly any other type of aircraft you're looking to fly....
A perfect example is if you want to get your private pilot certificate in a rotorcraft or helicopter. You could pay $250 an hour and learn to fly in in Robinson and then get a proficiency check and enough lessons to confidently fly a bell 409.
Or you can start off in the Bel Air 409 but that will cost you about $600 an hour.
If you're not going to buy your own helicopter and you probably won't have a lot of hours were a place would feel comfortable and renting you their helicopter then there's really no point and getting that type of license.
You would be more Suited to getting a sport pilot license only flying during daylight hours with a maximum of one passenger and you could get the gyroplane can get the same relative experience with your own aircraft costing $70,000 as compared to about $400,000 and up.
;)
RainbowSixThree Enlightened thanks ! And thanks for watching - sport is a great alternative as well!
Just came across your video. How has Covid reshaped your flying career and dreams and ministry
Not at all really - I haven’t done any mission flights in 2020 - just out of caution and limited my activity to 3-4 people ... I’ve done a few dog rescues by myself and picked up missionary cargo in my car and delivered it ... i’m just keeping safe habits ... thanks for watching!
none
Not to annoy with post after post but I will also have to say this, from studying everything from part 61 part 91 part 103 part 107 nothing of all of that was as difficult as getting waivers for flying a UAS system. That was like writing an affidavit for search warrant and it took months to finally get. ;)
When I was 30 I thought I was too old to be a pilot! Now I'm in my 40's ~ so you're telling me there's a chance! :)
5000 bucks is a bit lowball though.
Finn Agler Yes there’s more than a chance it’s just waiting for you to make it happen. Five grand is on the low side but talk to the flight school and see if they have a discounted rate for a block of hours that’s what I did. Go out and make it happen! Set an example for others
This is an awesome channel. Here I am thinking I was too old 😊
Absolutely not so go out this weekend and take an introductory flight
It is probably cheaper in the US than the UK but so far being under 50 has meant I've been unable to learn to fly. (I can't afford a car at the moment). Unless something changes and I start in the next 14 months, I will certainly be over 50 and learning to fly if/when I ever do.
Great video. I have been interested in airplanes and flying since I was in my teens. I have not only flown in commercial but private planes before as well. I have even flown in a Stearman and even did loops in it. Some friends own a private AP and that beloved Stearman. I’ve been considering taking lessons now at the ripe age of 59 and looking to “transition” out of my current job in the next 4-5 years. I just can’t get past the cost however. Lessons in Illinois where I’m from are rather pricy. Any thoughts that you might have would be great. Using that pre-silver knowledge of your’s of course.
Do it ! The clock is ticking
So you redid ur panel already? You refub the old radios for $1500 instead of getting the TQ's for $1200.
raider6511 absolutely!!! I am planning on getting it done in April - thanks for watching!
so that's not ur panel in this a/c
raider6511 no - that’s my panel. I am just going to have it re-done around April
I have a question: as I get older, I find that I am increasingly uncomfortable with heights. So that when I watch a film in which someone is hanging over a cliff edge I find it hard to watch. When I go up with friends in their small planes, I have to suppress that fear, and I find I can forget about it most of the time. So is it a reason not to try for a ppl, or should I just ignore it? Any pilots with fear of heights out there?
Garth Garthly Yes actually I hate heights and I can’t even look over a balcony or down the staircase but when I’m in a plane it doesn’t bother me at all so, outside of therapy, I would keep on pressing forward because fear actually stands for false expectations appearing real.
Over 50 and Learning To Fly! Thx. That is very reassuring.
You would have a tough time getting a job flying.
Can you really do this for 5K? If so I wouldn't mind going to the US for a few months to get the PPL. Let me.know please.
You'll have to shop around - but oit is possible- also many flight schools offer a bonus if you pay all at once-- I did mine for about 5K+- The best is to go get it all done at once and not piecemeal it. Go for it!
I’m 60.
Keep flying!
Everything for $5K? What is the secret?
andrecarvalhoandrade Start looking for flights schools and offer half the cash up front and you can get all your time for 5K
Suurreee.
If you have...M O N E Y.
...And just WHERE can you learn for less than $10,000?
I really want to do it but I just don’t have the money. I might still have some money in my post 9/11 GI bill is it still possible?
John Ogo I believe so I believe you can learn how to fly under the G.I. Bill to contact some local flight schools and ask around but it’s worth spending an hour making phone calls about it I do remember someone I met down in North Carolina financed everything through their commercial through the G.I. Bill
Also it is available through universities so you can always go to a place like Embry rental or North Dakota and start taking aviation classes and it’s all finance with the G.I. Bill but definitely do your research
I'm watching your video and laughing saying to myself.. " you can get your lessons for about $5,000 but if you want to include that Bose headset I got a tack on another 1200" ;)
MONEY is always the issue and has been since my first flight in JUNE 1986 and why I had to stop just short of my private. However I may..may just restart some 33 years after I started ..LORD willing! PS I was INSPIRED again in drum roll..KITTY HAWK while on a first time trip to the beach last September in Nags Head!
Too old, NOT “to old”.
Ellexis omg 😮! Oops!
Over 50 and Learning To Fly! It’s all good! I love your channel!
Over 50 and Learning To Fly! By the way, I started flying when I was 13 years old. I’m now well over 50 and still loving it! My husband and I started a Flying Club and it had been a blast! If you are ever in South Texas, we hope you’ll consider being a guest speaker! SouthTexasFlyingClub.org
Ellexis l I definitely will be more than happy to do that that would be a blast thanks for watching!
But you are too old to do it as a career.
No - you can get a job flying - you might not make much but it all depends on your ratings ....
Not if you have low hours, even with a commercial and instrument, the insurance companies would ruin the fun, because you’re a health risk.