Daytona Beach Campus - College of Aviation

Embry-Riddle Flight Training Department
Where the Eagles Fly!

Frequently asked questions about the flight department and the flight program

General Questions
Aviation Medicals
International Students, TSA
Foreign Certificates
Costs and payments
Course Information
Aircraft and Airspace
Safety and Security Procedures


General Questions

Who are the upper management personnel of the flight department, and where do I find them if I need to talk to them?
Kenneth Byrnes, Chairman of the Flight Department, College of Aviation Building (COA-117), 386-226-6893
Ivan Grau, Chief Flight Instructor, Flight Modular #1 (room 116-B), 386-226-6993
Blake Kelly, Assistant Chief Flight Instructor, Flight Modular #1 (room 116-A), 386-226-6831
Wayne Ceynowa, Flight Standards Manager, Flight Modular #2 (room 308), 386-226-6992

What are Training Managers?

Training Managers are experienced instructors who supervise a team of Flight Instructors.  Training Managers are responsible for tracking student progress throughout their flight course and for solving any problems that may arise.

Three of Embry-Riddle's flight instructors

Who are the ERAU Training Managers and where are they located?

Carolina Lenz-Anderson Team 1 Flight Modular #2, room 317
Dan Thompson Team 2 Flight Modular #2, room 316
Nic Mostert Team 3 Flight Modular #2, room 313
Justin Johnson Team 4 Flight Modular #2, room 312
Brendan Clugston Team 6 Flight Modular #2, room 314
Richard Garner Team  7 Flight Modular #2, room 309

What if I would like others (parents) to inquire about my training progress?
You will have to file a FERPA release with the University. FERPA stands for The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. It protects the rights of students by controlling the creation, maintenance, and access to educational records. It guarantees students' access to their academic records while prohibiting unauthorized access by others. Students must sign a FERPA release to allow others (parents) to have access to their educational records. FERPA information may be found on the website http://www.erau.edu/db/records/privacy-statement.html or at Records and Registration, Student Annex 2nd floor.

What special equipment do I need to have for a flight course?
Yes, you are required to have a headset, electronic flight computer, plotter, and a kneeboard.  These items may be acquired through the ERAU Bookstore or other commercial sources.

Is there a dress code to fly at Embry-Riddle?
Yes. For safety reasons, any person occupying ERAU aircraft must wear long pants, a shirt with at least short sleeves (NO shirts with cut off sleeves or sleeveless shirts), socks, and closed-toe shoes.

Student pilot and instructor walk to aircraft at Embry-Riddle's flightline, located on the Daytona Beach campus

Are classes or dormitories convenient to the flight ramp?
Yes, ERAU is the only university where the flight line is located on the main campus and is within walking distance of its dormitories and classrooms. The campus is also adjacent to Daytona Beach International Airport. See map for details.

When and where do I check in for my flight training activities?
Check in at the Flight Desk located in Flight Modular #1 (building 30) for all flights and orals. For simulator activities, you must check in at the Advanced Flight Simulation Center building (AFSC).

What happens if I am ill or not feeling well enough to fly?
You must visit ERAU Health Services during your flight block for medical attention. Health Services will ground you from the appropriate flight training activities. A follow-up visit will be required to remove you from any prior medical grounding. Health Services is located in the Wellness Center, building 20. The phone number is 386-226-7917. For further information on medical groundings, see the latest ERAU Flight Operations Manual (FOM).

What if I want to be excused from flight training for a short period?
You may “ground” yourself. You must see your Training Manager to do this. You are permitted two grounding days per course without any consequences to your flight grade. Because course attendance is extremely important for your training progress, more than two absences will result in loss of letter grades for the course.

How often may I expect to train weekly?
After registering for courses, you will need to sign up for a “flight block” (training period). All flight blocks are three days a week on a Monday -Wednesday- Friday, or a Tuesday-Thursday-Saturday schedule. You will have an activity on those three days per week. If you have extra time and resources are available you may request to be scheduled for extra days.

When will I be assigned to my Flight Instructor?
You will be assigned to your Flight Instructor after you have registered for a flight course, proven your citizenship and medical information at ERAU Records and Registration Department, and have selected a flight block. Your instructor will contact you via your university email or by cell phone. Note: International students must have Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Clearance. (See directions under “What do I do if I am an International student?”)

What official documents do I need in order to begin flight training if I am a U.S. citizen?
You will need to provide proof of citizenship to both Flight Data and Certification and ERAU Records and Registration Department. A valid passport OR a valid driver’s license AND original birth certificate serves as proof. If you do not have an original birth certificate, a certified raised seal copy from Vital Statistics will be accepted. Flight Data and Certification will also need copies of your medical certificate, pilot certificate, and Eagle Card (university ID). Flight Data and Certification is located in Flight Modular #1, room 117. Records and Registration Department is located in the Student Annex, 2nd floor.
**IMPORTANT—Due to FAA Regulations it is mandatory that all official documents listed above include your FULL LEGAL NAME spelled out in its entirety.** (Contact Flight Data and Certification with questions—386-226-7221)

Are passengers permitted on a training flight (Observation Flight)?
Yes. Embry-Riddle students and immediate family members are permitted to observe any flight training activity. Any person participating in a training flight must be in proper attire—long pants, shirt with sleeves, socks, and closed-toe shoes. Check in at the flight desk and inform the dispatcher that you wish to observe a training flight.

How do I observe a flight?
Check in at the flight desk, and let the dispatcher know that you want to observe a flight. Be sure to bring your FTRA badge with you, it is needed to get onto the ramp. If you do not have an FTRA Badge the Flight Supervisor can issue a temporary badge.

Are ERAU airplanes available for rent?
Any current ERAU student can rent ERAU airplanes. Single engine airplane rentals require a Private Pilot Certificate and rental check out from an ERAU Flight Instructor. For multi-engine airplane rentals, an ERAU Flight Instructor must accompany the renter on the flight due to insurance reasons.

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Aviation Medicals

Do I need an FAA medical certificate?
Yes, in order to begin flight training at ERAU you must obtain a Class I or Class II medical certificate from a designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). AME listings may be found at http://www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator/

Why isn’t a 3rd class medical certificate sufficient for training at ERAU?
When you decide to do your training at ERAU we know that your goal is to become a Commercial Pilot. To be a Commercial Pilot, the FAA requires that you have a 1st or 2nd Class Medical. Embry-Riddle wants to ensure that you meet the requirements to be a commercial pilot before you begin any of your flight training.

May I obtain an FAA medical certificate outside the United States?
Yes, see http://www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator/ for AMEs listed by country.

Do I need 20/20 vision to fly?
No, but it must be correctable to 20/20 vision. You are permitted to fly with corrective lenses.

What if I have a color vision deficiency, can I get an FAA Medical?
Yes, but you must contact the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) office at (405) 954-4821 and request a Signal Light Test. CAMI will set up an appointment for you to visit the nearest FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).

International Students, TSA

What do I need to do if I am an international student?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires registration of all alien flight students at the following Web site: https://www.flightschoolcandidates.gov The TSA’s Website will guide you through the necessary steps to be approved for training. There are fees charged by TSA for registration of each certificate or rating sought.

Where can I go to have fingerprints taken for the TSA?
Most any local police station will provide the service. Contact International Student Services for questions or assistance at 386- 226-6577..

Where may I go on campus for help with the TSA application process?
You may go to the office of International Student Services which is located in Doolittle Annex, room 109A. The office phone number is 386-226-6577.

Where can I go to have fingerprints done for the TSA?
Most any local police station will provide the service.

Where do I go on campus for help in the application process?
The office of International Student Services is located in the Student Center Annex room 266.

May I go online to apply for permission to fly from the TSA before arriving at the University?
No, you must wait until you arrive on campus.

Foreign Certificates

What do I need to do if I have a foreign pilot certificate?
You must complete and submit a “Verification of Authenticity of Foreign License, Rating, and Medical Certification”, form (AC 8060-71). This is the form is needed to verify a foreign license, rating, or certificate. See the following Web site: http://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/airmen_certification/foreign_license_verification/ . You will then receive an AFS 760 -“Letter of Verification”. The Letter of Verification is required for issuance of a pilot’s certificate. It may take up to three months for the Letter of Verification to be processed. Once processed, it is valid for six months, usually requiring resubmission if the flight course has not been completed in the six month timeframe. You may contact Flight Data and Certification Department for guidance and questions at 386-226-7221.

What is required to add an instrument rating to a private pilot SEL foreign pilot’s license?
A Verification of Authenticity of Foreign License, Rating, and Medical Certification form (AC Form 8060-71) must be submitted to the FAA.
Once the FAA verifies that the foreign license is valid (with no revocations or suspensions) they will issue a letter of verification.
Once the letter is received the FSDO can issue an FAA private pilot’s license SEL based on a foreign pilots license (with any appropriate restrictions).
The student must then satisfactorily complete the instrument written and practical exam within the expiration period in the verification letter (usually 6 months).
Once the practical exam is satisfactorily completed the FAA examiner can issue an FAA private pilot’s license SEL with an instrument rating based on a foreign pilot private license (with any appropriate restrictions).
*NOTE: Once you have an FAA private pilot’s license SEL with an instrument rating based on a foreign pilot private license and you wish to obtain a commercial license, you must have a valid letter of verification (unexpired) before taking the practical exam.

What is required to convert a foreign pilot’s license to an FAA license?
Foreign private SEL license to FAA private SEL license
A Verification of Authenticity of Foreign License, Rating, and Medical Certification form (AC Form 8060-71) must be submitted to the FAA.
Once the FAA verifies that the foreign license is valid (with no revocations or suspensions) they will issue a letter of verification.
Once the letter is received the FSDO can issue an FAA private pilot’s license SEL based on a foreign pilots license (with any appropriate restrictions).

Foreign private license SEL and MEL to FAA private license SEL and MEL license
A Verification of Authenticity of Foreign License, Rating, and Medical Certification form (AC Form 8060-71) must be submitted to the FAA.
Once the FAA verifies that the foreign license is valid (with no revocations or suspensions) they will issue a letter of verification.
Once the letter is received the FSDO can issue an FAA private pilot’s license MEL/SEL based on a foreign pilots license (with any appropriate restrictions).

Foreign private license SEL and/or MEL with an instrument rating to FAA private license SEL and/or MEL license with an instrument rating
A Verification of Authenticity of Foreign License, Rating, and Medical Certification form (AC Form 8060-71) must be submitted to the FAA.
Once the FAA verifies that the foreign license is valid (with no revocations or suspensions) they will issue a letter of verification.
The applicant must then take the Instrument Rating Foreign Pilot (IFP) FAA written exam.
Once the verification letter is received and the applicant passes the IFP written exam, the FSDO can issue an FAA private pilot’s license MEL/SEL with and instrument rating based on a foreign pilots license (with any appropriate restrictions).

Foreign Commercial license SEL to FAA Commercial license SEL license
A Verification of Authenticity of Foreign License, Rating, and Medical Certification form (AC Form 8060-71) must be submitted to the FAA.
Once the FAA verifies that the foreign license is valid (with no revocations or suspensions) they will issue a letter of verification.
The applicant must then take the Instrument Rating Foreign Pilot (IFP) FAA written exam.
Once the verification letter is received and the applicant passes the IFP written exam, the FSDO can issue an FAA private pilot’s license SEL with and instrument rating based on a foreign pilots license (with any appropriate restrictions).
The applicant must then take and pass the FAA commercial pilot written exam.
Assuming that the applicant meets a FAA commercial pilot part 61 minimums (250 total hours, 50 PIC cross-country, etc.), or has completed the appropriate 142 or 141 flight course, the applicant must complete the FAA commercial license practical exam with an FAA examiner.
Upon completion of the practical exam an FAA commercial pilot’s license SEL will be issued.

Foreign Commercial license MEL to FAA Commercial license MEL license
A Verification of Authenticity of Foreign License, Rating, and Medical Certification form (AC Form 8060-71) must be submitted to the FAA.
Once the FAA verifies that the foreign license is valid (with no revocations or suspensions) they will issue a letter of verification.
The applicant must then take the Instrument Rating Foreign Pilot (IFP) FAA written exam.
Once the verification letter is received and the applicant passes the IFP written exam, the FSDO can issue an FAA private pilot’s license SEL with and instrument rating based on a foreign pilots license (with any appropriate restrictions).
The applicant must then take and pass the FAA commercial pilot written exam.
Assuming that the applicant meets a FAA commercial pilot part 61 minimums (250 total hours, 50 PIC cross country, etc.), or has completed the appropriate 142 or 141 flight course, the applicant must complete the FAA commercial license practical exam with an FAA examiner.
Upon completion of the practical exam an FAA commercial pilot’s license MEL will be issued.

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Costs and payments

How much will it cost for me to fly?
ERAU recommends that students and parents budget approximately $15,000 per year for flight fees for the first two years, and approximately $10,000 for the third year of flight. Below are the minimum costs for each course. Please take into consideration that prices will vary per student since no two students learn at the same rate.

Our Part 142 flight courses:

Single-Engine Track
FA 121 Private Pilot Single Engine $ 11,500
FA 221 Instrument Rating $ 8,500
FA 321 Commercial Single Engine $ 8,800
FA 323 Commercial Multi Engine Land Add-On $ 6,500
Minimum Flight Completion Total: $ 35,300

Multi-Engine Track
FA 121 Private Pilot Single Engine $ 11,500
FA 122 Multi Engine Add-On $ 9,500
FA 222 Instrument Rating $ 11,900
FA 322 Commercial Multi Engine Land $ 7,000
Minimum Flight Completion Total: $ 39,900

Electives
FA 122I Private Multi Engine Land/Instrument $ 8,019
FA 326 Commercial Single Engine Land Add-On $ 2,800
FA 215 Upset Recovery $ 2,200

Certified Flight Instructor Courses
FA 417A Certified Flight Instructor A $ 7,661
FA 417I  Certified Flight Instructor Instrument $ 3,400
FA 460 Multi Engine Instrument $ 2,655

How do I go about paying for the flight training I receive?

After completing the training session, you may pay for your session online through the Education and Training Administration (ETA) system. You may pay with a credit card, debit card, or with your Flight Account through your EAGLE Card. The Flight Account is a prepaid debit account where account funds are accessible to pay for flight activities only. Remember, any combination of these payment methods may be used at any time. Students can manage their EAGLE Card accounts in Blackboard. Just log in to ERNIE, click on ‘Go to Blackboard home’, and select the EAGLE Card tab. Guest deposits can be made by going to Guest Deposit - ERAU Eagle Card. For information on the EAGLE Card or if you have any questions, call Student Accounting (386-226-6983) at any time.

How Do I open an Eagle Dollars or Flight Account?
Your EAGLE Dollars and Flight accounts are already opened when you are accepted as a student. The easiest way to deposit monies into any of your accounts is through the EAGLE Card tab on your BlackBoard account. You may also make deposits at the Cashier’s Office, via telephone with a credit card, or at any of our three Value Transfer Stations (VTS) located around campus. No cash withdrawals may be made from your EAGLE Dollars nor Flight Accounts.
Cashier's Office hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm. Location: Canaveral Hall Phone: 386-226-6329 Telephone Deposits (with credit card only): 386-226-7578.

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Course Information

What is FAR part 142?
Most of the flight courses at ERAU are FAA approved under 14 CFR Part 142 . Part 142 enables ERAU to conduct more training in flight training devices (simulators) and have it count towards the FAA minimum course hours. This reduces the number of hours traditionally spent in an airplane, thus reducing costs to students.

Who do I see to receive credit for the pilot certificates and ratings that I have obtained prior to entering ERAU?
You will need to take your documentation to the Flight Scheduling Office located in Flight Modular #1, room 101.

What flight course should I register for if I already hold a Private Pilot Certificate?
You will start your flight training at ERAU in our single-engine instrument course, FA 221. You will also need to register for AS 221.

What if I have prior flight time experience?
Typically, if a student arrives at ERAU with prior flight experience we will evaluate the experience to see if we are able to grant training credits.

Could my academic courses interfere with my flight training?
No, your flight block is scheduled to accommodate your required academic courses.

What if I do not finish my flight course during the semester?
Any student who does not finish within the semester will continue in the same flight course the following semester. Refer to the ERAU Registration of Classes booklet, which lists the classes and times for the semester.

What should I do after I complete a flight course?
After completing a flight, you register in a flight block for the next flight course in your training track. This may be done anytime during a semester providing pre- / co-requisites are met.

Am I be able to take my FAA Written Knowledge Tests at ERAU?
Yes, an FAA Testing Center is conveniently located on campus in the College of Aviation (COA) building, Room 133. Testing Center hours are from 8:00 m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

How much do the FAA Written Tests cost?
The FAA Written is discounted and is $80.00 per test. For additional testing questions you may call the Testing Center direct at 386-226-4945.

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Aircraft and Airspace

What type of aircraft does Embry-Riddle fly?
At our Daytona Beach, Florida campus we fly Cessna 172S NAV III, Piper Arrow, Diamond Twinstar DA42 L360 and Super Decathlon.

What is ADS-B?
Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) is special electronic equipment installed in all ERAU aircraft. The primary purpose of ADS-B is as a safety tool to provide flight monitoring in non-radar environments. ADS-B helps pilots detect other aircraft in their vicinity and also transmits weather information.

Does Embry-Riddle have “glass cockpits”?
Yes, all ERAU Cessna 172, and Diamond DA42 airplanes are equipped with Garmin G-1000 glass cockpits.

What aircraft are used in each course?
The private pilot course uses the Cessna 172. The instrument course in the single engine track uses the Cessna 172. The multi engine instrument track uses both the 172 and the Piper Seminole. The single commercial uses the 172 and the Piper Arrow. The multi commercial uses the Seminole. Finally, our flight instructor course uses both the 172 and the Arrow.

FA 121 Private Pilot Course Cessna 172S NAV III
FA 221 Single Engine- Instrument Course Cessna 172S NAV III
FA 221 Multi-Engine – Instrument Course Diamond Twinstar DA42 L360
FA 321 Single Engine – Commercial Course Cessna 172S NAV III & Piper Arrow
FA 322/323 Multi Engine – Commercial Course Diamond Twinstar DA42 L360
FA 417/460 Certificated Flight Instructor Courses Cessna 172S NAV III,
Diamond Twinstar DA42 L360 & Piper Arrow

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Safety and Security Procedures

Who has responsibility for safety?
Everyone involved in the flight-training program at ERAU is responsible for reporting safety-related situations such as hazards or events, and unsafe behaviors. Likewise, everyone involved in the flight-training program is authorized to take immediate action to prevent an accident or unsafe situation from occurring. You will learn more about our safety and security procedures once you begin your flight-training program. Authority and responsibility of the Flight Safety Department is headed by David Zwegers. If you have safety concerns, please contact David at 386-226-6763 or stop by his office in Flight Modular #1, room 108.

Does ERAU have a Security Program?
Yes! Embry-Riddle has a TSA-approved security program and meets the Airport Tenant Security Programs requirements..

If you still have questions that have not been addressed here, please feel free to e-mail us! Fly safe!

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