Soldiers learning to fly with Eglin’s Aero Club

Since relocating from Ft. Bragg NC in 2011, 7th SFG(A) has taken full advantage of the programs and services offered by Eglin AFB. One service unique to Air Force Bases is the Aero Clubs. Over the past 24 months, Soldiers and family members from 7th SFG(A) have taken full advantage of flight training opportunities at the Eglin AFB Aero Club. The Aero Club offers a wide range of training opportunities to include the FAA Private Pilot course, FAA Commercial Pilot course, FAA instrument rating, Multi-engine rating and Certified Flight Instructor. Additionally, the Eglin Aero Club is one of the only FAA certified Part 141 Training Schools in the area providing instruction and both written and practical testing. Statistically, Air Force Aero Club flight training programs are one of the most inexpensive and safest methods of becoming a pilot. With single engine aircraft rental fees ranging from $100 to $125 an hour (to include fuel) and instructor fees of $35 an hour, a student can earn a private pilots license for approximately $8,000. For redeploying Soldiers, the “Play Pass” offers a number of discounts for aircraft rental and ground schools. Tuition Assistance and VA Benefits can also be applied to some flight training, but there are restrictions and limitations (see your local Education Center). The most recent Aero Club Ground School was taught on the 7th SFG(A) compound, allowing students to attend class after duty hours without having to travel to Eglin AFB. The students completed the Ground School in March 2013 and many have already begun logging flight hours. Flying can be both enjoyable and rewarding for the Service Member and their unit. Aero Club aircraft can be utilized for TDY, saving the unit money and the Soldier time by avoiding overnight stays, long commutes from large airports, costly commercial plane tickets and time consuming security measures and layovers. The Emerald Coast provides some spectacular views from the cockpit of a small aircraft whether it is one-day TDY travel to MacDill AFB or a Sunday afternoon flight along the Florida coastline, the Eglin Aero Club has much to offer. For more information on flight training, contact the Eglin Aero Club at (850) 882-5148 or visit their website at www.eglinaeroclub.com.