Home | Gulf Coast Flight Training

Unlock the skies. See the world.

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Key Flight Training Programs

Explore our top flight training programs.

Ground School

We can provide one on one training or a combination of on-line and virtual training. Ground school will prepare you to take and pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test.

Private Pilot

This course of flight instruction will help you obtain your FAA Private pilot certificate. We use a standardized syllabus that provides a structured flight training program, and one-on-one instruction provided by an FAA Certificated Flight Instructor.

Commercial Pilot

Take the next step towards becoming a more skilled pilot. Earning your Commercial Pilots certificate will enhance your aviator knowledge. For those looking for a career in aviation.

Instrument Training

Build your familiarity with the panel. If you want to fly in more conditions, you’ll want an Instrument Rating. Get your cross-country flights and plenty of instrument time with Gulf Coast.

Let’s go flying.

Discovery
Flight

A Discovery Flight is an amazing opportunity to experience being in command of your own airplane. You will have time with the instructor to ask questions about flight training and the opportunity to be the pilot on a remarkable flight along the Gulf Coast.

See the world from a whole new perspective!

Specialty Programs

Get specialized training with these custom-tailored Gulf Coast programs.

Rusty Pilot

Haven’t flown in 2 years or more? We can help you get safely back into flying with an approach tailored to fit your needs.

Flight
Review

A flight review is tailored to our client’s needs. We will develop a plan that includes your areas of emphasis including ground and flight training.

Partner Training

If you fly with or plan to fly with a partner and would like to know more about flying, how the controls operate, and learn about the flight instruments this will help you feel more comfortable in the air.

Why fly with Gulf Coast?

Here are a few reasons why our students get their flight training with us.

Safety

Our commitment to safety in every situation prepares our students to become safer pilots in their own adventures.

Structure

We keep our students on track within each program with carefully structured lesson plans.

Clarity

Gulf Coast teaches complex concepts in a clear and concise manner, fit for all levels of pilot experience.

Passion

We are passionate about aviation and dedicated to providing high-quality flight training to our students.

testimonials

Kind words from our students.

“From the first lesson it was evident Alan has a true passion for flying and aviation.

As a new student it is often intimidating taking the controls of an aircraft but Alan created an engaging and enjoyable learning environment in the cockpit and during debriefs. His ability to teach complex concepts in a clear and concise manner puts most nerves at ease which allows for complete immersion in the flight lesson.

I appreciate Alan’s commitment to safety in every situation, his teachings make me a safer pilot… I would highly recommend anyone aspiring to become a skilled and confident pilot to use Alan O’Martin and Gulf Coast Flight Training.”

Ryan H., Ph.D.

“He genuinely cared about my aviation journey.

I’m incredibly grateful to Gulf Coast Flight Training for helping me earn my private pilot certificate. Alan is a patient, organized, and knowledgeable instructor. He genuinely cared about my aviation journey.

Also, as a side note, the area around McCampbell-Porter Airport is a beautiful location to learn how to fly.”

Andrea

“I am truly lucky and fortunate to have Alan as my flight instructor.

He genuinely cares about the safety and well-being of his students. Alan has a passion for the sky that has made my learning experience remarkable. I recommend anyone who has a desire for Aviation to put your trust and faith in Alan, he will ensure you become a safe and proficient pilot.

Alan will allow you to learn and train at your desired pace. This is important for me with a family, busy schedule, and career. Alan has gone out of his way to make sure I received the proper training while becoming a safe and proficient pilot. For this I am blessed.”

Ronnie L.

“Alan has continued to be very helpful in my growth as a professional ATP pilot.

I came to Gulf Coast Flight Training after serving as an Army helicopter pilot for 8 years, and wanted to broaden my experience. Alan was very helpful and got me flying as soon as there was availability on the schedule. Alan is a great instructor and very adaptable to the way I learn.

Once I was ready to take my checkride, he was able to find a DPE in a reasonable amount of time and helped me prepare for a successful practical exam. And although I am not a student anymore, Alan has continued to be very helpful in my growth as a professional ATP pilot.”

Robert B.

“Thank you, Alan.

Thank you for your patience, wisdom, and knowledge. I could not have chosen a better mentor and instructor to help guide my path to my license.

Learning to fly has been a great experience for me. I look forward to many years of adventure and enjoyment in the air.”

Bill W.

“Gulf Coast Flight Training has done a great job teaching me to fly.

At 60 years old, I was skeptical about learning to fly. I had no experience, and with Alan’s support, direction, and a lot of patience, I am now a private pilot working on my IFR rating. My goal is to receive a commercial rating in the near future.

Alan’s training stresses safety above all else, and I confidently flew with my wife without any reservations, the day after receiving my license. I am comfortable and confident in the Gulf Coast Flight Training method and highly recommend them. My son has recently begun training with Alan for IFR along with me and we are looking forward to becoming better, safer pilots with Alan’s direction.”

Thad C.

The sky is not the limit,
it’s just the beginning.
– Chuck Yeager

Aviation Organizations We Love

AOPA

Their mission is to ensure that the sky remains within reach of everyone who dreams of becoming a pilot.

King Schools

We proudly use King School curriculum in our flight training process

EAA

A community of passionate aviation enthusiasts that promote and support recreational flying.

NAFI

NAFI seeks to mentor, educate, and advocate for flight instructors across the nation.

There are many variables in determining the costs associated with getting your pilot certificate. The variables can be the weather, the airplane, how often you train and the FAA requirements. Frequency of actual flight instruction will help reduce the overall flight time because you will reinforce what you learn and continually strengthen your flying skills.

You can create an estimate of your cost by estimating the flight and instructor hours, plus some additional expenses. Airplane rental cost times the amount of flight time, plus instructor time times the hourly rate will be your flight training costs. Typically, this time ranges from an FAA minimum of 40 hours to a national average of 65 hours flight time. Assuming a combined airplane and instructor cost of $250 per hour will give you a reasonable cost. In addition, there are other expenses and fees. There will be additional fees for your FAA medical exam, ground school, FAA exam fees, training material, and a headset. We suggest you allow $3,000 for these extra expenses.

The amount of time does vary based on weather and life events. Most people complete the course in 6 – 12 months. Some things are beyond our control and can impact the total time you require to complete the course.

We use a proven online method to provide the required aviation education. Your instructor will monitor your progress and can provide support as required. Ground school can be completed combined with your flight instruction and can be completed in 1-3 months. A written exam from the FAA will complete the ground school.

Yes. The FAA requires that you obtain a medical exam from an FAA designated doctor called an Aviation Medical Examiner. We can provide this information to you. Generally if you are in good health this will not be difficult.

The FAA minimum age to obtain a private pilot certificate is 17 years. You can obtain a student pilot certificate and begin training at 16 years. There are no upper age limitations.

Nearly anything!

You can go for that $100 hamburger. Visit other cities and locations. Take your friends and family on a weekend getaway. Meet other like-minded aviation enthusiasts. Be free to travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What our students and clients usually ask about flight training.

Let your dreams soar.

Student Achievements

We are proud to help our students reach goals and help them make their dreams come true.

See our Adventure Gallery

1st Solo! Congratulations Miel!