Goodspeed Flying Service is one of the only tailwheel flight schools in the Northeast, as well as one of the only flight schools in America that teaches students to fly (primary instruction) in a taildragger. We believe that this is a superior learning method whose benefits outweigh some additional costs, and are excited to share it with our students.

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We do not provide fixed-price courses, as we believe that these are counterproductive to effective training: we refuse to rush, and will not compromise our standards of flying safety and finesse. However, the following estimates may give you an idea of how much most students spend on their training.

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Basic Tailwheel Endorsement

5 hours of ground instruction

5 to 10 hours of flight instruction

Endorsement sign-off

$1,950 – $3,325

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This course teaches students the basics of flying tailwheel airplanes, including three-point and wheel landings, crosswind landings, and both paved and unpaved surfaces.

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Advanced Tailwheel Course

5 hours of ground instruction

10 hours of flight instruction

~ $3,125

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For students who already have a tailwheel endorsement, the Advanced Tailwheel Course adds more significant short- and soft-field training and additional practice exercises.

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Private Pilot Course – Part 61

50 to 100 hours of ground instruction

40 to 100 hours of flight instruction

Online FAA written exam preparation course

FAA written exam fee

Examiner's fee

Checkride sign-off

$14,675 – $34,925

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Most students do not complete the FAA Private Pilot training in the minimum 40 hours. Nationwide, flight schools report averages in the 60-80 hour range.