Private Pilot License: 4 Steps to Your PPL In 2024
Be at least 16 years old to fly solo. · Be at least 17 years old to receive your private pilot certificate. · Read, speak, write, and understand English. · Obtain ...
Virtual Flight Academy
The Private Pilot course is the first course taken by new student pilots. Epic values the importance of a strong foundation. Therefore, we provide a blended instructional approach that includes our online <anchor>Virtual Flight Academy</anchor>, Ground School and Aviation Skill Development. Students learn basic aerodynamics and FAA regulations. Furthermore, you learn about aircraft weight balance and aircraft performance. You learn this in the classroom and during flight simulator training. Flight lessons within the PPL course include aircraft maneuvers and procedures required for your solo flight. You’ll also conduct a daytime cross-country flight. As an FAA-rated flight school, our training ensures ACS (Airman Certification Standards) for all students.
Online Ground School: Comprehensive Pilot Training Courses
# Enroll in Online Ground School: Begin Your Pilot Training Journey

We are hosting FREE ONLINE Ground School Demo courses to familiarize you with Epic Flight Academy’s virtual training program. Join us in an online course where you can interact with your instructor. In other words, you can see how to take your entire Ground School course online! Choose a date, and complete an application to join us for this free demo!

## Register for our demo course below!

### Free 30-Day Trial

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Online Flight School

## What is Epic’s Virtual Flight Academy?

Epic’s Virtual Flight Academy is your first step toward earning a Private Pilot License. It is an interactive online Private Pilot course and much more. Our online pilot training courses are designed for students to be able to to start their flight training from home. As a result, you can begin flight training right away when you arrive at flight school. The course provides training videos with foundational information. For example, you’ll learn about Cessna 172s, aircraft systems, and aircraft performance. Additionally, we’ll cover FAA regulations, aviation safety, and the New Smyrna Beach Airport, our home base.

## Why should I study aviation online?

First of all, students who attend online flight school demonstrate a better understanding of flight training concepts. This is because online learning allows you to learn at your own pace. Further, it provides a solid knowledge base before you arrive at flight school. We credit and transfer all material successfully completed from the online flight school to Epic’s Professional Pilot program. Above all, this saves you time and money on your path to an airline pilot career.

Additionally, our virtual training gives you access to your FAA Flight Instructor who will provide support. Furthermore, one of the most helpful aspects of online flight training is the chance to collaborate online with other students. This function provides access for students to interact and help each other. International students from the same country frequently meet online and then travel together to begin their on-site flight training here. Financing options are available.

## What are the benefits of online pilot training courses?

Attending pilot school online allows you to start your training in the comfort of your own home, saving you time and money. You will have a solid foundation when you arrive at flight school.

## What topics will Epic cover in my online pilot classes?

We provide all of the basics f or you to begin. Topics include:

- FAA Rules and Regulations
- Cessna 172 Glass Cockpit
- United States Airports
- Aviation Safety

Your online flight training also ensures you will:

- Receive 60 hours of training material.
- Receive support from Epic’s FAA Flight Instructors.
- Prepare for Private Pilot Ground School.
- Enjoy reduced tuition and training time with foundational knowledge.
- Connect with other aspiring pilots and current students.

## What are the electronic requirements to take this course?

In order to be successful in online courses, take proctored assessments, and communicate with audio and video, you must have sufficient technology. Below you will find the minimum requirements to participate fully in online learning at Epic Flight Academy. Please check your device, operating system, internet, and audio/video functions. We want you to be able to connect with us!

### Acceptable Devices

Mac or PC Laptops and Desktop

Apple iPads

Note: Smartphones are not considered a capable device for online learning.

### Operating Systems

Windows: 10, 8, 7

Mac: MacOS 10.15 to 10.12, OS X 10.11, OSX 10.10

iOS: 11.0+ (iPad only)

Note: Windows 10S is not a compatible operating system, nor can LockDown Browser be obtained via the Windows App Store

### Internet Requirements

Bandwidth must be at least 1.0 Mbits/second upload and 2 Mbits/second download.  To check bandwidth on your device, conduct a speed test.

### Audio and Video

Devices must have a microphone, speakers, and a webcam that can be used at the same time. These can be integrated in the device or by using additional hardware.

## How much does it cost to do online flight school?

The cost is $280 USD. This provides you with access to Schoology, the educational platform used by Epic. There are no additional fees. You will continue using Schoology throughout your pilot training at Epic.

## Meet your Virtual Instructor Team Leader!

Russell Barriesheff Virtual Course LeaderRussell Barriesheff

Russell is an Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University graduate with over 4,000 hours flight time. He brings invaluable experience to Epic’s advanced-technology learning system.

Flight instructing for more than a decade, Russ has been with Epic since 2007. He has served in almost every role in Epic Flight Operations. For instance, he was Epic’s Safety Officer, and he was the Chief Instructor from 2011 through 2014. Russ has offered enormous contributions to Epic in each role. Russ created nearly every aircraft standardization manual, aircraft checklist, and most of Epic’s training courses.

After his term as Chief, Russ went on to fly FAR 135 Charter. He presently flies jets and turboprops for private corporations located in Northern Florida. In 2016, Russell began building Epic’s Virtual Flight Academy. He continues to work on its development today. Russ also provides virtual instructor support to new students enrolling in Epic’s training program.

## Meet your Virtual Instructor!

Ray AltmannRay Altmann

Ray Altmann is a graduate of the University of Central Florida. He is a professional educator and certified by the State of Florida Department of Education. He is also an Epic-trained CFII. Ray oversees the Schoology platform used by Epic students, and he develops educational materials for Epic’s online classes.

Ray is an Epic flight instructor and also works with flight students who may need assistance in learning English. He brings a wealth of education experience to Epic. Students and staff love his enthusiasm and dedication. In his spare time, Ray enjoys traveling and fishing in the Indian River’s Mosquito Lagoon.

## How do I begin?

Now that you understand the benefits of online flight school we can help you take the next steps to get you started. Remember, this course can be used as a stand-alone online FAA Private Pilot Course. It can also be integrated with our other programs here at Epic Flight Academy when you arrive. We invite you to try our Demo Course at no cost to learn about the course. Simply fill out the form above to gain access.

## Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Virtual Flight Academy

Q: Can I get my pilot’s license online?

A: No. Although you can complete your Ground School course online, you must complete your flight training in aircraft. At Epic, our training fleet includes both airplanes and simulators.

Q: Will I interact with the instructor and other students in this course?

A: Yes. Online classes are interactive, so you can ask questions and discuss concepts with the instructor and other students.

Q: What courses are available online?

A: The initial Virtual Flight Academy course prepares you for ground school when you arrive at Epic. You also have the option to take your entire ground school course online.

Become a pilot today!

Epic Flight Academy

600 Skyline Drive

New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 USA

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