How Much Does Flight Training Cost in Chicago? (2026 Guide)

Becoming a pilot is an exciting investment in your future — but how much does flight school cost in the Chicago area? In this guide, we break down pricing, what’s included, and how training costs can vary depending on your goals.

Whether you're pursuing flying as a hobby or planning a professional aviation career, here’s what Chicago pilots can expect.

Private Pilot License Cost Chicago

Most students in Chicago spend between:

👉 $10,000 to $17,000 total

This includes:

Cost Category	What’s Included
Flight Hours	Aircraft rental + fuel
Instructor Time	One-on-one flight + ground training
Study Materials	Books, online courses, charts
Testing Fees	FAA exams + checkride

Pro Tip: Flying more frequently (2–3 lessons per week) reduces total cost — you spend less time “relearning” skills.

Commercial Pilot Cost (After PPL)

A Commercial Pilot License in Chicago typically requires:

• Extra flight time building

• Complex aircraft or multi-engine training

Average range:

📌 $25,000–$45,000 total(including previous flight experience)

This license allows you to get paid to fly — opening doors to charter, cargo, and airline opportunities.

Instrument Rating Cost Chicago

To fly safely in Chicago weather (clouds, fog, winter conditions), you’ll need an Instrument Rating.

Average range:

$10,000–$15,000

A huge upgrade for pilot skill and career opportunities.

Multi-Engine Rating Cost Chicago

Needed for airline and commercial aviation:

$3,000–$8,000(depends on aircraft type and flight hours)

This is one of the most valuable upgrades for job-focused pilots.

CFI Cost (Certified Flight Instructor)

For building hours affordably:

$6,000–$12,000

Many Chicago pilots become instructors to build flight hours for airlines.

Ways to Save Money on Flight Training in Chicago

Chicago-area students can reduce costs with:

✔ Pay-as-you-go training

✔ Simulator time for IFR skills

✔ Frequent lesson scheduling

✔ Taking ground school online

✔ Choosing a near-Chicago airport with lower fuel costs

D14 Aviation trains at:

✈️ Bult Field — Monee, IL

✈️ Greater Kankakee Airport — Kankakee, IL

Far lower operational costs than busy Chicago Class B airports → better pricing for students.

Serving Pilots Across Chicagoland

Students come from:

• Chicago

• Joliet

• Tinley Park

• Orland Park

• Naperville

• Kankakee & surrounding suburbs

Ready to Get Started?

No commitment — start with a Discovery Flight and talk with an instructor about training options.

📞 Call: 888-435-9314 (888-I FLY D14)

✈️ D14 Aviation — Chicago Flight School

🔴 Book a Discovery Flight