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  3440 Airfield Dr W, Lakeland, FL 33811

Our Certifications

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(863) 344-5301
Courses

Professional Pilot Certificate Training Programs

Our Professional Pilot certificate training programs equips aspiring pilots with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to succeed in the aviation industry. Learn from passionate and exceptional Instructors, benefit from a cutting-edge curriculum and hands-on training.
Course

Private Pilot Certificate

$17,068.5
Total Program Cost (C172)
$14,008.5
Total Program Cost (C150)
*All-inclusive pricing: training fees and checkride costs included.
The Private Pilot Certificate is your foundational step into aviation, equipping you with the essential skills and knowledge to fly solo and carry passengers under visual flight rules (VFR). This comprehensive program provides everything you need to become a confident, skilled pilot.
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Course

Instrument Rating

$11,822
Total Program Cost (C172)
*All-inclusive pricing: training fees and checkride costs included.
The Instrument Rating course builds on your private pilot skills, allowing you to fly in a wider range of weather conditions and under instrument flight rules (IFR). This rating is essential for advancing your career as a professional pilot and opens up new opportunities for safer, more versatile flying.
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Course

Commercial Pilot Certificate

$10,625.5
Total Program Cost (C172)
*All-inclusive pricing: training fees and checkride costs included.
The Commercial Pilot Certificate is designed for those pursuing a career in aviation. This course covers advanced flying techniques and maneuvers required for commercial operations, positioning you for professional flying opportunities.
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Expert Instruction from Experienced Pilots

At Dobbs Flight Service, we leverage the expertise of instructors with substantial real-world experience to deliver exceptional flight training.

Affordable Pricing with Great
Financing Options

Explore flexible financing options designed to help you earn your wings with competitively priced training packages.

Efficient Scheduling

We guarantee a training slot for each one of our instructors to ensure swift completion of the courses - no wasted time.
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The Road to a Professional Pilot

Embarking on the journey to become a professional pilot involves earning five essential pilot certificates and ratings through our flexible programs. Our NextGen pilot program typically takes 1-1.5 years, depending on your schedule and training pace. Both structured training timelines include the Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument (CFII) ratings.

Upon completion of this comprehensive pathway, you will be a fully qualified instrument instructor, equipped to gain employment and get paid to fly. This allows you to accumulate the necessary 1,500 flight hours required to be eligible for an airline pilot position. Achieving these milestones positions you on the fast track to a rewarding career in aviation.
(863) 344-5301
reviews

What our students have to say

Saying Dobbs Flight Service delivers expert instruction is a massive understatement.
Tori
Student
What sets DFS from other flight schools is their availability, personalized instruction, and the fact that they don’t treat you just like a number
Yousef
Student
faqs

Frequently Asked
Questions

Common questions about our flight training programs, scheduling, and what you can expect as a student. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, contact us—we're here to help you take flight!
(863) 344-5301

We offer comprehensive training for Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certifications. Whether you're starting from scratch or advancing your skills, our programs are tailored to meet your goals.

To begin flight training at Dobbs Flight Service, you must be at least 16 years old to solo (17 for a Private Pilot License), possess adequate English proficiency for clear communication with air traffic control, and obtain an appropriate FAA medical certificate. No prior flight experience is necessary—we welcome complete beginners as well as those with some experience. A passion for aviation and commitment to consistent training are the most important qualities for success in our programs.

Flight training is a significant investment in your future. Our programs range from approximately $12,000-$17,000 for Private Pilot License to $55,000-$65,000 for a complete zero-to-hero program through Commercial Pilot with CFI certification. We pride ourselves on transparent pricing that accounts for all aspects of training, including realistic flight hours based on national averages rather than minimum requirements. Visit our Cost of Training page for detailed pricing information on each certification level.

The duration depends on the program and your commitment level. Our Accelerator Program can take you from zero to a Commercial Pilot with CFI in 6–9 months with full-time training. The Traditional Program is designed to get you from zero to hero in 1–1.5 years. Your progress is tracked weekly by a lead instructor to ensure steady advancement.

Yes, we welcome transfer students! Previous flight hours and experience can be credited toward your training at Dobbs Flight Service after an evaluation flight with one of our instructors. This assessment helps us understand your skill level and determine where to continue your training. We work with students to develop a customized syllabus that builds on existing knowledge while ensuring no gaps in critical skills or knowledge. Bring your logbook and training records to your initial consultation for a thorough review.
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Get your pilot certification today!

Helping Aspiring Pilots Achieve Success Through Expert Flight Instruction at an Affordable Price.

Quick links

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Courses

Private Pilot Instrument Rating Commercial Pilot Certificate Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument (CFII)

Location

We operate out of Shelt Air at Lakeland Linder International Airport. 3440 Airfield Dr W, Lakeland, FL 33811

Email us at:

trainingsupport@dobbsflightservice.com
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