Frequently asked questions
Flight Education FAQs
Are flight training fees included in tuition?
Flight training fees are in addition to the university’s tuition and fees.
For a more information on flight training costs, click here.
Where will my flight training be conducted?
Flight students fly at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) with our flight training partner, Rick Aviation, approximately 15 minutes from campus.
How often should I fly?
Students are expected to fly a minimum of three times a week, yet are encouraged to fly as often as possible to improve proficiency and graduate on time.
How will I get to the airport?
The Aviation Department provides transportation to and from the airport Monday through Friday. Freshmen and sophomores in the flight program also have the option to apply for a campus parking waiver to drive themselves to their flights.
How do I pay for my flight training?
Typically, flight training is pay-as-you-go. Students pay Rick Aviation directly after each flight lesson. They can also set up flight accounts with Rick Aviation in which money can be loaded to pay for flight training.
How soon will I begin flying as a Flight Education student?
Typically, most students will begin flying the second week into the fall semester.
Will I receive credit for entering the program with a Private Pilot's License?
Yes, we grant academic credit towards the Flight Education program for any previously-earned pilot certificates and ratings. For example, if a students enters with their Private Pilot’s License, they will receive academic credit and begin their Instrument training.
Air Traffic Control FAQs
How long does the program take to complete?
First-time college students and those with some college credit usually take four years to complete the suggested schedule.
Is there an age limit for the AT-CTI program?
Our AT-CTI program does not restrict students’ age, however, anyone interested in being an air traffic controller for the FAA must not have reached their 31st birthday by the time of hire. Students should plan to have at least one year after graduation before reaching age 31.
Are there any additional fees for the AT-CTI program?
There is a $250 lab fee for each air traffic control lab course. There are currently 5 lab courses.
Do I need a FAA medical exam to enter the program at Hampton University?
A medical exam is not required for the air traffic control program at Hampton. However, we do highly encourage students interested in the AT-CTI program to obtain a FAA Class II medical certificate prior to classes to determine if they meet FAA hiring requirements.
What gear is required for new students in Flight Education?
Required and Optional Documents
- Government-issued photo ID is required – Real ID is highly recommended for FAA end of stage checkrides and is a requirement for commercial air carrier employment.
- Students who are United States citizens will be required to show proof of citizenship prior to beginning flight training. This typically consists of presenting a valid, unexpired US Passport or a certified birth certificate combined with a government-issued photo ID. Students should make sure they bring the appropriate documents with them when they come to HU. A full list of acceptable forms of identification is available online.
- Students who are not United States citizens have additional TSA requirements, and will need to start the TSA approval process before the semester begins.
- FAA Student Pilot Certificate – Our Flight Training Partner Rick Aviation will coordinate after the semester starts.
- FAA Medical Certificate – A student pilot must obtain an FAA medical certificate before their first solo flight. It is recommended to get the medical certificate before beginning flight training to ensure there are no disqualifying medical conditions according to the FAA. It is also recommended to get the highest level certificate, a First Class with EKG, as the First Class with EKG is required for air carrier employment. A FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) can be located through this locator, https://designee.faa.gov/designeeLocator. Be sure to use an AME authorized to perform First, Second and Third Class exams with EKG. If no AME is available near your residence, there are several available close to Hampton, one being Dr. Mimi Peak in Newport News (757) 599-7899.
Flight Gear*
- Headset – A good aviation headset from ASA, David Clark, Bose A20, or Lightspeed is crucial for clear communication, hearing protection and comfort.**
- Flight Bag – To carry all your gear, including charts, logbooks, and headset.
- Kneeboard – Helps you organize checklists, notes, and charts in the cockpit.
- Logbook – To record your flight hours and endorsements.
Navigation & Planning Tools*
- E6B Flight Computer – Manual or electronic, used for flight planning and calculations.
- Plotter – For measuring distances and courses on sectional charts.
- Sectional Charts – VFR navigation charts for your training area.
- Chart Supplement (formerly A/FD) – Airport and facility directory.
Learning Materials*
- Private Pilot Textbook – HU and Rick use King Schools syllabus for all certificates.
- FAR/AIM Book – Federal Aviation Regulations and Aeronautical Information Manual.
- Online Ground School or App – King Schools.
- Apple iPad with cellular and Wi-Fi option and Apple pencil– For notes, digital charts, and flight planning apps. Students are trained to use paper charts and planning tools first, then ForeFlight is widely used.
Optional but Helpful
- Sunglasses – UV-rated and non-polarized to avoid interference with cockpit displays.
- Flashlight – With red/white light for night operations.
