Ultimate Buyer's Guide: What is the Best Online Ground School in 2026

113 responses to “Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: What is the Best Online Ground School in 2026”

1. I believe the most important feature of a ground school, is learning the fundamentals of aircraft, airport and patterns to keep everyone safe in the air.

2. I have researched several online packages, even ones that offer “free” training, Part Time pilot has the most to offer.
   The price is nominal compared to what you recieve in ways of support, materials, videos, online tests, quizzes and flash cards, ai training for atc, and probably stuff I left out because I find new tools everything I access my account.
   The free downloads to various materials and links to items you’ll need is extremely helpful.
   And the syllabus is great tool that shows your progress and keeps you on track and helps me do more to try to finish sections before I stop for the day.

3. For me, the most important feature of a ground school is having flexible lesson formats like audio, written, and video. Since I’m restarting my PPL training after years away from aviation, clear and concise teaching in multiple formats has been key to rebuilding my knowledge and confidence. Plus having a lifetime access, like Part Time Pilot offers, is also a huge benefit for second-career changers—or should I say, part-time pilot trainees (no pun intended) —like me because it lets me keep learning while im balancing my responsibilities and life outside of training.

4. Honestly, I think there are a few features that really make or break a ground school but if I had to pick just one, it would be a clean and intuitive progression system. The ability to see your progress on screen but also manipulate what lesson you’re on or even go back and review older lessons with the simple click of a button without disrupting the flow of your progress tracker is amazing. As a self-paced user of the course, working a full-time job and having a family to support the ability to easily pick up where I left off with ease is nothing short of critical to success. I really do feel like Part Time Pilot nails this aspect of ground school. It’s a breeze to pick up training after a busy sprint in life and quickly and intuitively refresh myself on material I’ve already covered and move right along with new material afterwards.

5. In a world of unending subscriptions…pay-once, lifetime access is a breath of fresh air! Not only are you working towards passing the initial knowledge test, you can come back in and refresh yourself whenever you feel it necessary. The AI ATC comms simulator is awesome, I highly recommend that as well!

6. The podcast portion of the Part Time Pilot ground school is by far the most important feature to me. Being in flight school while also being a college student and working full time, I don’t currently have a lot of free time to study so being able to listen to a specific lesson in the car or at the gym has been an extremely helpful tool.

7. I find that not only being able to read the content, but the narration helps so that you can listen to the lesson if you are doing something that doesn’t allow you to see it. The video explanations / lessons after reading really help everything to sink in. Lastly, when you need help, it’s there and in short time. I’m just a beginner starting at ground zero. Very pleased with Part Time Pilot ( Nick). Highly recommended.

8. The most important thing about a ground school and more specifically the Part Time Pilot Ground School is the availability and flexibility you get in order to focus on life and your studies. My favorite attribute this ground school has is that it never expires and it gives me peace of mind that I do not need to rush to finish my ground school before time expires. I strongly recommend anyone with a busy lifestyle and a strong interest in aviation to purchase this ground school.

9. It is a lot of information to retain, but with the ability to watch videos, listen to audio and read. I am able to engage my senses to achieve a better understanding of the information.

10. What’s helps me the most to learn is a precision approach. There is so much information to learn when anyone is learning to be a pilot. Having a ground school program that takes all that information and maps it out to the guide you to a successful landing. I want the most information, not overloaded, that guides me to success. Having those visual and automated explanations to really define the subject and getting rid of the fluff.

11. For me, the most important feature of a ground school is flexibility. Balancing work and family responsibilities makes it essential to have a program that adapts to my schedule. The ability to listen to audio lessons while driving or cutting grass allowed me to make progress in times I never thought I could use productively. I also benefited being able to skim through lessons I already felt confident in and confirm my understanding with a quiz, which let me focus more time on areas that needed improvement. Whether it was spending ten minutes on a work break or a couple of hours at night before bed, the flexibility of the program made it possible for me to complete ground school more efficiently and in less time than I expected.

12. The most important feature of a ground school, in my opinion, are: modes of instruction, access time, and mobility of instruction. I had been recommended a few known ground schools, and chose Part Time Pilot based on these features. The attributes above are important because they permit flexibility for the busy individual who is completing flight training in addition to other jobs and commitments. Multi-modal means of instruction increases access and (likely) increases the success of a wide-range of leaners. PTP caters to learners who succeed by visual, audio, and written means of instruction. Part Time Pilot’s commitment to lifetime access not only mitigates the stress of completing a course in a certain amount of time, but also speaks to the confidence they have in their instruction – the courses MUST be good products. Lastly, the ability to train on a phone or ipad, instead of sitting in front of a computer at home is a must for me. Flexibility the most important feature of a ground school for me, and PTP does that best.

13. I believe Part Time Pilot is the best ground school there is. When I had several question during weekend days and nights Nick always had a quick response and explained the question and answer in way that was able to retain the information. The videos have been great at getting a visual representation. I enjoyed the audio to go along with what was written to further understand the information. It was great how the format was given and it made sense on so many levels. I first started using Jeppesen and found the information given boring and would lose attention very quick. I plan on enrolling in the IFR ground school through Part Time Pilot very soon. Great customer service!

14. Part Time Pilot Ground School has been the best ground school I’ve found for private pilot lessons. As a visual learner, I really appreciate how much effort was put into the video lessons. The videos are clear, easy to follow, and they break down even the most complex topics into something understandable. One of the biggest struggles I had before was understanding aerodynamics, but the way the course explained it step by step finally made it click for me. The lessons are well-organized and structured in a way that makes it easy to track your progress, and I never feel overwhelmed because everything builds on each other naturally. Another thing I value is how thorough the explanations are. Instead of just memorizing facts, I feel like I am actually learning the “why” behind the concepts, which gives me more confidence as a student pilot. The combination of visuals, clear examples, and structured content really makes this ground school stand out compared to others I’ve tried.
    I would highly recommend Part Time Pilot Ground School to anyone starting their aviation journey, especially if you’ve struggled with certain topics in the past or if you’re a visual learner like me.

15. For me the most important part of a ground school is interaction. I feel that most schools can pump out a base curriculum based on the FAA guidance but where a ground school can truly shine is an interactive platform that assists in some of the more nuanced aspects such as in depth Tower communications. A school that also assists in the Orals and Practicals is also a step above and beyond for me.

16. I think the best thing for me in a ground school, especially Part Time Pilot, is practical training. The training that means something as far as how it can be relatable to someone who isn’t a bachelors of science holder, but also can understand what makes it understanding and approachable. Additionally, having the flexibility to do the courses on my own time with no pressure to complete within a specific time frame also allows me to go back and restudy what I’m not 100% comfortable with.

17. I believe the most important feature of a ground school is convenience and clarity. For me, having information broken down in plain English and simplified for easy understanding is a huge selling point. Part Time Pilot really made my ground school experience understandable, considering aviation can be a foreign language when you first start training. With Part Time Pilot, the podcast has been the “cherry on top,” especially for me as a flight attendant, wife, and step-mom who is constantly on the go. I also chose this ground school because it was one of the first to offer scholarships, showing a real commitment to supporting students. Finally, the instructor, Nick, goes above and beyond by making himself available and ensuring that we feel supported throughout our training. He’s always one email away the live zoom lesson and facebook support group are extremely helpful! I highly recommend Part Time Pilot Ground School!

18. The most important thing for me in a ground school is multiple ways of reviewing material, and that I can go back and access it at anytime. The fact that the access does not expire is a selling point as well. It’s important to me that this resource that I’ve invested in will be here when I need it, just like my books and other items that I’ve invested in during my flight training journey.

19. The most important feature of a ground school is quick instructor responses. Having an instructor when you are stuck available is a great help and the sooner the better. A close second for me personally is multiple ways to consume the ground school content. The selling point for me is that this ground school offered written, video, and audio options. Most schools do not do that

20. The most important feature of ground school is its ability to provide a thorough understanding of how the plane works before ever starting to fly. Without this foundational knowledge, it is easy to fall behind and find yourself in challenging situations. For me, visual aids are the most helpful tools when it comes to studying, as they make complex concepts easier to grasp and remember.

21. The most important feature of online ground school is material that is presented in a manner that is consumable by students who are not in frequent engagement with a ground instructor. Part Time Pilot Ground School is extremely beneficial as it incorporates several learning modalities including, print text, audio, and video. This way, depending on different learning styles, or access capabilities on any given day, students can access the ground school in different ways to continue learning. Additionally, the material is presented in a manner that is understandable to those without an aviation background, allowing to conceptualize the information, learn the material, and be a safer pilot.

22. There are a few features that are very important in my consideration of choosing an aviation ground school. I have a very full schedule so my time is limited, and I need a program that allows me to do short quick lessons and access the content through different learning platforms so that I can work it into my free time. I want to be able to listen to audio if I am driving or running and be able to visually read or watch videos with illustrations when I can get in front of a computer and have more time to dig into the content. Cost is a consideration but not the most important. If the program is organized, easily accessible, and is well supported I am willing to pay a little more for the time it saves me in the long run. I have used several different programs throughout my training so far and Part Time Pilot has ticked all the boxes for me which is why I have come back to it for Instrument ground school. I hope that this program continues to expand into Commercial and CFI so that I can continue to use the content to reach my future goals.

23. Part Time Pilot has exceeded my expectations. The structure and VIP podcast are so helpful especially when driving on my commutes. I was recommended Sportys from a mentor. Although I love the personal touch Part time pilot offers! I will definitly spread the word for this program as I continue down my path for my PPL.

24. The thing that got me to confirm that I was making the correct decision in using part time pilot was the comparison chart. The availability of all of the data for other online ground schools to be complied into one chart highlighting the pros and cons of each was a game changer. Since I am a very organized person, this gave me an insight on how the training would be and how this company conducts its operations. I love how the topics are organized and the detailed nature for each topic. That is the most important feature of the ground school, to be able to have everything in a manner that works well with my brain.

25. The best online ground school provides instruction in a variety of ways, recognizing that each student learns differently. Part Time Pilot’s ground school provides a combination of online lessons, videos, podcasts, and written materials that can be printed as handy reference guides while learning and preparing for the FAA written exam. Lifetime access is a huge bonus as you can always come back for a quick refresher on any topic that you need. After completing the Part-Time pilot ground school, I feel confident about scheduling my FAA written test and moving forward with my flight training!

26. As someone who has tried different online ground school programs, as well as an in-person course, I find that the most important feature for any ground school is detailed lessons that have different modes of instruction (audio, video/visual, and written). I find that having different formats really helps solidify my understanding of the material — having a video gives me visuals of certain concepts that may be difficult to picture in my mind, audio keeps me engaged, and written content makes for easier note-taking.

27. Part time Pilot is by far the best online ground school because being able to take quizzes and then receive feedback was very important to me, whenever there was a lesson on learning with skills or math or even memorization, whenever I would get a question wrong, there was automatically a feature that explains how to approach the problem and explains it again. Another feature that I want to point out (that I have not yet used) is social media support when it comes to being stuck and not understanding something very well. One of the downsides of being in an online school is that there isn’t someone who is right in front of you to explain things when you have questions which can make it really challenging for a lot of people, however the social media community that surrounds this ground school is there to help and to answer question within a timely manner which I think is really important.

28. For someone like me who has never been around aviation, being able to interact with our instructor(s) without feeling ignorant rates very high on the list. Access and availability. I also appreciate the less format atmosphere. I spent some time on Sheppard Air while looking at flight dispatch schools. Definitely wasn’t ready for that.

    I read tons of reviews. At this point in my life, I need to be able to work at my own pace as I am a business owner who travels extensively and has very bizarre hours that do not leave me time to study much when I’m on the road. Another important aspect is the lifetime access that Part Time Pilot offers for a very reasonable price. I don’t know how long this will take me. Since I started a couple of weeks ago, I’ve been able to study anywhere I can fit it in. I can listen to the audio in the car; watch the videos on my phone and laptop; read the written explanations when the information requires a more thoughtful process. The various modalities satisfy my visual and auditory needs well. I have also found that I’m using all learning methods as the information dovetails well.

29. I think the most important feature in a ground school is having an explanation of “why this is important”. It can be very confusing when you get bombarded with information and get left with “why was this important?”. When the “why” question is answered properly than it helps me understand the process more. The content is “what it is”, and the process is the “why”. Those were my old boss’s favorite lines. He helped me try to understand the meanings behind everything instead of just doing it. How do we turn a plane? Well, I just turn the yoke, add rudder, and the aircraft turns. Why do we add rudder inputs when banking into a turn? To keep a nice coordinated flight path to counteract the adverse yaw. Overall, I think Part Time Pilot does a good job at describing lessons in detail, leaving little to no questions. A lot of information is packed, but it is the right amount of information to gain the necessary knowledge to become a safe, efficient, and confident pilot.

30. I think the most important feature of a ground school is having the choice of how you obtain the knowledge. I’ve had times where the YouTube videos connected to the lessons have helped me tremendously with understanding the topic. I’ve also had times where the audio lesson makes the information easier to digest. For me, a good mixture of all the features works the best. I’m a very hands on learner, so online ground school was a bit intimidating at first, but as soon as I started Part Time Pilot I realized how user friendly the content is for someone like me to grasp and understand.

31. Part Time Pilot online ground school has made it so much easier to follow and stay engaged. The video features are amazing where I can visually see what they are teaching not just reading the whole time. Also the podcast feature is a game changer, I can be at work and have my headset on, listening to the sections I’m working on currently or getting ahead to get my mind ready for the next section! I started with another ground school but lost interest, this is the ground school I believe is going to get me through all this new information! Thank you Part Time Pilot!

32. One of the biggest things that sets Part Time Pilot apart from other online ground schools is the one-time fee and having access to the information for life. This allows for all students to go back and go over any part of the program over and over. Nick is also very “real” and relatable to the students. I was very grateful for all the different ways the material can be accessed. Listening to a podcast while driving and then watching the same material on video helped ingrain the learning material that helped me pass my Private Pilot written test.

33. The most important feature of a ground school to me, is the interactive space for collaborative processing of information. When I can process what I’m learning by having a safe space to either ask and answer questions, or search the lessons effectively for understanding, I tend to learn it wholly with a foundation of information instead of rote memorization. This safe environment coupled with an organized learning platform containing the information discussed, is an effective tool for reiterating simple, foundational, and confident understanding of the complex subject of aviation.

34. I really like part time pilot a lot, the thing that helps me the most is the way that Nick wrote the ground school lessons in such a way that I don’t lose interest even though there is a really good amount of information just like if it were my CFI teaching me all of it.

35. I really enjoy have a simple check list in categories to know where I have left off, especially when traveling. The highlighted parts of each lesson in the Part Time Pilot online ground school are nice reminders to review before taking the lesson quizzes. I utilize the pod cast and the website to listen to while driving then able to go back and review the lessons along with the YouTube videos. The program is simplified to navigate and organized. I continue to refer to others.

36. Part time pilot has been the best groundschool I have used so far.
    I love having different ways of learning and options to take notes on the site as I go.
    It has definitely helped ease the stress of sorting notes as I go through the classes

37. I think the most important part of ground school, and what I have with Part Time Pilot, was that if you didn’t understand something you had the convenience of asking the AI chat and the ability to email nick to help clarify. It was super convenient!

38. Part Time Pilot is one of the best tools out there in order to learn.. I’m more of a visual learner and this has helped me big time in understanding the material and be able to retain the information.

39. The most important feature of a ground school to me is the variety of learning techniques offered. People differ in their ability to retain information. Some can simply read the information and remember it. Some require visuals. Some require auditory learning. Some require combinations of everything. I am one of those who benefit greatly from varied methods. For me, I like to be able to read through the information in short segments to get an idea of what the topic is about. Having visual representations and videos that I can go back to and use as reference reinforces the information. Having the ability to progress through the ground school at my own pace is also of utmost importance. There is nothing worse to me than being rushed and only having dedicated time to review the topics. Self paced learning allows me to glance through the work that is to be expected and set a timeline for myself that makes sense to me. Having added resources such as flash cards and links to external pages and documents that can assist in training are also incredibly helpful as it can be confusing for a new student to locate these things on my own. Part Time Pilot includes all of these things that are of importance to me and it in turn provides an excellent experience throughout the entire process.

40. The most important feature I would say is the Interactive lessons. Not a lot of people retain information by just reading or taking notes, it comes from actually practicing and visualizing it (like chair flying). There isn’t much to interact with in these lessons except that there is audio, photos/diagrams/charts and videos which make up for it. What is helping me so far is doing flight training and ground school at the same time. This way I can relate something I learned during my flight lesson to a lesson in the online ground school and it makes a lot more sense.

41. This is in answer to the question “What do you think is the most important feature of a ground school (what helps you the most)?”

    There are 2 parts to answer this question for me. The video lessons and the audio lessons are important for me to learn. However to me the most important feature is the video lessons. I am a visual learner and without the videos I would be having a harder time with the lessons. Thank you so very much for including them in this ground school.

42. I believe the most important feature of ground school is a thorough program that is made easy to understand and can address a variety of different learning styles. People come through ground school with varying backgrounds, knowledge bases, and experiences. Tailoring to that diversity is the most important feature for ground school.

43. Part Time Pilot ground school offer several fantastic features, and the top three I love the most are the podcast access, AI chatbox, and the ATC practice simulator. Having the podcast access, I’m able to listen to the ground school content during my daily commute. The AI chatbox provides me with quick answers and guidance for my questions. The ATC practice simulator is a big plus that not just practices communication with ATC, but also helps build confidence. I strongly recommend Part-Time Pilot ground school.

44. The most important feature of an online ground school is the variety of modes in which the course content is provided for students. When taking a class online, you most likely eliminate the person-to-person interaction between student and teacher. In doing this, you could quite easily lose the intuition that the teacher has to provide a variety of instructional methods in order to help the student grasp the concepts. In other words, a great teacher can adapt his or her teaching style to best fit the needs of the students. When structuring an online ground school, it is extremely important to provide a variety of methods for presenting the information. This includes, visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic modes of teaching and learning. If an online ground school can find creative ways to provide all these different modes of learning for a student, there is a greater chance that each student will be successful. Providing visual, auditory, and reading/writing learning opportunities seems quite simple; however, the most difficult of these four modes of teaching to provide might be kinesthetic. How does an online ground school provide ways for students to learn through kinesthetic means? One simple example could be asking students to find a model airplane to manipulate when explaining the axes of rotation of an aircraft (longitudinal, vertical, and lateral). It could also be used when explaining forces of flight, or maneuvers such as stalls, slips, skids, etc. As a pilot, understanding why the airplane responds the way it does in different configurations, airspeeds, angles of attack, etc. is arguably the most important thing to understand in order to prevent catastrophic accidents. Ultimately, the goal of an online ground school should be not only to prepare students to pass the FAA written test, but more importantly to prepare students to begin flight training with a clear understanding of the concepts that will contribute to them being a safe pilot. By strategically combining these four modes of teaching and learning, an online ground school can very adequately prepare a student to be an exceptional student pilot.

45. I believe the most important part of ground school is the life time access, the lessons being in three different formats, all the study content, and most importantly the check flight prep. Everyone learns in their own way, and being able to go back to the lessons whenever needed makes the information stick better. Having all the study materials organized, along with check flight prep, also makes the process less overwhelming and gives you the confidence that you’re truly ready when it’s time to get in the air.

46. I am thoroughly enjoying the Part Time Pilot ground school. One of the most beneficial features of this course for me, is being able to access the course via different means. At home in the evenings i work on the course in the quiet of my basement. I usually read the lessons and then also
    watch the videos associated so that I am learning by multiple methods. During my many hours of traveling for work, I will listen to the podcasts, generally reviewing courses that i’ve already completed. Although I’ve not done this yet, I am looking forward to the AI based tower communication feature. Every experience with this course so far has been great and I am confident that I will be successful in reaching my goals.

47. The benefit of Part Time Pilot being a lifetime membership is extremely beneficial. Combined with three different lesson structures, it gives me all the time I need to complete my lessons with my own learning style.

48. The most important feature of a ground school is that the material is taught in a way that connects directly to real-life flight situations, rather than just exam preparation. Clear explanations, combined with examples showing how each concept is applied in the cockpit, facilitate knowledge retention and practical application. Having an a program that encourages questions and breaks down complex topics into practical lessons is what helps me the most. Most importantly, this school recognize and encourage our vets to take their first step.

49. PART TIME PILOT narrows down the selection of which topics to study and learn. There is so much data available from a wide variety of sources out there a student could easily get lost in all the options and distracted from the most important topics to learn for the FAA Written and to gain confidence from their CFI that they are thinking about the necessary items and concerns while flying.

50. What do you think is the most important feature of a ground school (what helps you the
    most)?

    Different people learn in different ways. Some are visual learners, some can hear

    it and know the information without seeing what is being referenced, and then there are

    those that need to see AND hear what is being taught. This last method is how I have, and always

    will, learn most efficiently.

    From this, I believe that the most important feature of a ground school is the way

    the vast amount of information is presented. Part Time Pilot (PTP) has the trifecta of

    written material, videos that he creates, and an audio podcast, so that it can cater to

    each individual learning style, whatever that may be. Nick is very responsive not only in

    email form, Facebook messenger, and in the online study group (where he comments

    on the open dialogue providing help when he can), but you can feel that he cares that

    we understand what we are learning in the ground school. Other companies may have a

    large staff that provide assistance, but at PTP there is a high level of responsiveness

    from the owner AND creator of all the content that is on the website.

    Ever since high school, I have learned best by actually writing down the information

    that is presented. I’m not sure why, but when it is time to recall or for a test, I can actually

    picture it in my head in my own handwriting better than from what I read off of a screen.

    Due to this, I have a large notebook I have been writing in where I can reference my

    notes for each PTP lesson and how I interpret them as I move through the online

    ground school. What the written portion does (coupled with the spoken audio from Nick)

    is tell me not only what, but also WHY. If I really want to learn something, it sticks with

    me more if I know why I am being presented the information, how something works and

    why it’s important in aviation, which is another important feature of a ground school. The best part is that

    the owner and creator has a background in aerospace engineering where he can break it down to a simpler

    level for students to understand. An added bonus is the virtual chatbot that has been installed on the site

    where you can ask for more explanation and it will also put your question in the form of a story or with more

    relatable subjects. That has been a huge help on some of the more complicated material.

    The presentation of the lessons and telling students WHY we are learning each topic are the most

    important features of a ground school and why I chose Part Time Pilot. Before choosing PTP, I did extensive

    research on what all the schools had to offer not only through a google search, but on social media. I saw

    videos and read multiple comments from student pilots saying they just watched a bunch of videos and took

    the test immediately after with other schools. They also mentioned how they felt they didn’t truly learn

    anything until they were doing flight training. I can only think of beneficial reasons to learn the material on

    the ground, at your own pace, before starting your flight training.

51. I think the most important feature of a ground school is having 24/7 access to the lessons and support. Life can be all over the place, so being able to study anytime—whether that’s late at night or early in the morning—makes it much easier to stay consistent. Having that flexibility really helps me stay on track.

52. The most important feature of a ground school is its level of interaction beyond just videos, readings, and examples. While various content mediums help to digest complex lessons, I find that online ground schools sometimes lack the ability to build a network and establish comradery with fellow students. Online ground schools that focus on bridging this gap via community based interaction and accessible study groups (such as Discord Channels) offer the ability to develop relationships while pursuing what is otherwise a solitary training journey.

53. The 3 different mediums, like in the Part Time Pilot online ground school, to take advantage of to me is the key. Some subject matter is easily absorbed through the audio format, other more complex lessons are best absorbed for me through reading the lesson, while lessons like Air Masses were best learned through the videos. The extra bonus materials and study guides are good also. I don’t regret my purchase!

54. I am a very visual leaner and I always appreciate picture/ diagrams that supplement the lesson. I think that clear and concise depictions of the material that is being presented helped me tremendously. I also think that video lessons are very effective, especially for the cross-country planning section. I found it very difficult to follow along by just reading the material, but I loved that links to the YouTube videos were also included because it helped me understand it so much better.

55. As a small business owner and social worker, I am very busy. It is often difficult to find the time and energy for the book work required to be a pilot, let alone a knowledgable, safe pilot. Therefore, I feel the most important feature of a ground school is the ability to study at my own pace.

    I find that paying one price for an online ground school course allows me to do just that. I had a monthly subscription in the past, it just wasn’t financially reasonable for me to continue as I will have periods of time where I am too busy to sit down to study daily. “Owning” the course allows me the freedom to return to it any time I have the time.

    Having the material presented to me in various formats is also important. My experience as a social worker has taught me that not everyone learns the same way. I am no different. Most often I like to read the information presented, but sometimes it is really nice to watch a video to see material presented visually. I also really like the option of a podcast which I listen to at night as I fall asleep. Once again, Part Time Pilot for the win.

    Having a place where I can get quick clarification on things I’m confused about is important as well. I don’t often use the Facebook group but I’ve used the AI feature several times.

    While I didn’t intend this commentary to sound like an ad for Part Time Pilot, I sure appreciate this school for all of the reasons above. It has the features I feel are important in a ground school program.

56. For me the most important and beneficial part of ground school was the audio/podcast. I do a lot of driving and they were a great way for me to learn while I spent time on the road. I would generally listen to the lesson while driving then follow up by reading and taking notes. This really helped me lock in the information. It is also important to me to know the information and not just memorize questions on a test. That is why I initially chose Part Time Pilot. Prior to getting my membership, I watched a video where Nick says that his ground school emphasizes knowing the information and not just the test. Between his goal for the school, the multiple different ways to get the information, the price, and all the other tools, it was an easy choice to pick a ground school.

57. The most important aspect of an online ground school is two fold… 1. It has to be interactive in multiple ways. Partly because interactivity keeps students engaged in lessons, but mostly because different people relate to information in different ways. Some people like a well written guide only, some prefer watching videos with supplemental written information (think watching a video discuss steep turns while actually flying them + quiz immediately after), while others prefer interactive 3D models. 2. Depth of knowledge. I’ve taken the FAA Private Pilot written twice. The first I passed with 90%, but it expired. I very recently scored 85% the second time, primarily because the FAA added a LOT of new questions, most of which not covered in online ground schools yet. Constant updates to the curriculum is an absolute must.

58. “What do you think is the most important feature of a ground school (what helps you the most)?”

    To me, the most important feature is the ability to teach the material in various formats: written, video, and audio. This was the main feature of Part Time Pilot (PTP) Ground School course that put it over the top for me, and why I selected it.

    We learn in different ways, but not only that, we’re not always in the position or have the time to learn in our preferred way of learning. If I’m driving, I obviously can’t watch the videos. PTP takes care of that by providing an audio version of each module, which I can listen to whenever I want. When I can sit down and visualize the content, the videos are there. But what I consider a bonus is that I can combine the audio with the WRITTEN version of the module. That dual mode combining auditory and visual can cement the learning of the topics in an additional way, which I think is like a fourth option. I can review the modules multiple times with any of these learning methods and really inculcate the information in my mind. It makes passing the quizzes so much easier. I’m not just memorizing, I’m LEARNING. I’m really enjoying going through the modules. Logically laid out, and they build on each other very nicely. Well done!

59. I think the most important feature of a ground school is providing many ways of teaching. Ultimately, every student pilot wants to learn as quickly and easily as possible. Providing different ways, for different people, helps insure that everyone has the best opportunity to learn.

60. I believe Part Time Pilot online ground school to be the best for a number of reasons. First and foremost I love the lifetime access. Knowing that the information is there for me throughout my flying journey is comforting. The process is more than fair. After seeing what all is Included I’d easily pay double. Finally, having both written and videos helps with the way I take in Information.

61. What do you think is the most important feature of a ground school (what helps you the most)?

    The most important feature is well-planned, competent instruction that teaches rather than regurgitates, and promotes additional self-learning since that is a bigger part of learning to fly than I feel like anyone talks about (Nick mentions it in one of the podcast sessions).

    While I generally learn better with visual aids, the audio lessons at Part Time Pilot have been crucial to my studying. My goal is to listen, read, and watch everything to ensure reinforcement while triggering different parts of my brain. The audio lets me study even when my eyes are occupied. The podcast style can feel a little distracting at times (when Nick digresses – although sometimes the stories are helpful), but it’s way better than only having text and/or videos. I appreciate the depth Nick goes into to help you understand certain concepts. I have a soft spot for physics, a background in medicine, and am scuba certified, so diving in a little deeper is enjoyable, and honestly makes things easier to understand in the long run, especially if you can relate what you’re learning to things you’ve learned or experienced before.

62. The most important feature of a ground school is thoroughness of information. Many ground schools water down the information and as a result there are gaps in learning. Part Time Pilot offers very in depth information that is easy to navigate in multiple formats which helped contribute to my superior ground knowledge.

63. The best online ground school, period, is Part Time Pilot. The value that is included with the price is completely priceless. I completed my ground school last fall but I reference it almost daily. I’m now going back over the flash cards to stay fresh on my knowledge since we have moved and I’m trying to find the perfect instructor to finish my last month of training with. The fact that it is a lifetime membership is awesome because I know that I will continue to go over lessons and use all of the bonus downloads to freshen up.

64. Ground schooling is important foundation in aviation because it gives future pilots the knowledge and decision making skills they need before they take control of an aircraft. First and foremost most is the “ Safety” and well being of the pilot and passenger on board. Gaining the confidence to anticipate challenges and make decisions under pressure.

    For me it is the key to building the discipline and professionalism that define a great future pilot. By dedicating myself on excelling in ground school, I am laying the foundation for a safe andd successful career in aviation.

65. The most important feature of a ground school and helps me the most is advanced graphics but easy to understand explanations of concept and science with enough motivation to keep me invested even when not flying.

66. What do you think is the most important feature of a ground school (what helps you the most)?

    The absolutely most important feature for me was the loose timeline and the ability to go over the courses again. Also the audio podcast and videos of Part Time Pilot helped a lot to understand the material. Ill be honest the quiz after each section helps a lot too. I am overall pleased with joining the part time pilot community

67. The most important thing to me about online ground school and the reason i went with Part Time Pilot, is being able to cater to different learning styles and not just putting words on a screen and saying “here you go, now learn”. I did extensive research in the best online ground school for me and Part Time Pilot was the best option because of their ability to not just put words on screen but to also focus on visuals and stepping away from the written portion to explain examples without just expecting people to understand everything put in front of them.

68. The audio lessons/podcasts were one of the biggest deciding factors on me choosing Part Time Pilot as my ground school. Being able to listen to lessons while in my car or out for a run really helped to reinforce the material I learned in the video lessons. As an added bonus, the level of detail you give in the lessons that goes beyond just what will be on the written test really helped me understand the topics at a deeper level which cemented the material in my brain. The Private Pilot course helped me pass the written test with a 97% and I can’t wait to get started on the Instrument ground school.

69. When I consider the question, “What do you think is the most important feature of a ground school (what helps you the most)?” I am immediately thinking of how that ground school understands its students. Part Time Pilot fully understands that those of us who are doing this as a second career, just for fun, or as a means to give back to the community (through organizations like Civil Air Patrol or Freedom Aviation Network), may not have the time to study 8 hours per day. I am fully comfortable listening to Nick on the podcast, reading the material on the ground school, and then answering the questions based on the material. I can listen to the material while driving back and forth to work or while mowing the lawn. Nick really gets us. Lifetime access is just icing on the cake at that point!

70. I feel that the most important part feature of a ground school is the ability to digest the information in whatever manner helps you out the most, or whatever manner you can leverage at a given time. I personally learn best with hands-on, then visually, and lastly by listening, but I love being able to listen to the Part Time Pilot podcast while my eyes and hands are busy at work.

71. I think the most important part of an online ground school is the emphasis on the material that most likely will be in the FAA written exam. Also, the ability to go back at anytime to refresh on the material is also very important. What I like about Part Time Pilot is all the extras that are included with the course. It all helps in the end

72. I believe the most important thing a ground school can have is a visual representation (such as a video or a picture) of the concepts being learned and a good description of what is being taught. Part Time Pilot does an excellent job of this, by providing visuals (in the form of both videos and photos) in addition to reading accompaniments that make the concepts clear and memorable.

73. I think the most important feature of a ground school is that it is self-paced, allowing me to learn on my own schedule without feeling rushed. I really appreciate being able to go back and review sections that I need more time with, which helps me build a stronger understanding. This flexibility ensures I truly grasp the material instead of just moving through it quickly.

74. What features do I prefer and what helps me the most in an online ground school are
    In depth answers to the incorrect answers
    So I understand why I got the question wrong .
    The ability to watch a video as many times and be able to take quizzes that don’t always the same questions. So it’s not rope memory.

75. The podcast option to learn is the best. I was able to listen to the lessons while working/driving to flight lessons and re listen to lessons while I was reading to keep focused. And if it still didn’t stick there was always the video option to explain it more visually. Highly recommend the Part Time Pilot online ground school especially for people that don’t always have time to sit down and read or watch a video.

76. The most important feature of a ground school is for it to easily convey accurate subject material in an easy to understand manner. Aviation ground schools such as Part Time Pilot satisfy this requirement by providing accurate information that not only helps with the FAA written exam, but has also been very helpful during my flight instruction. The Part Time Pilot ground school is also good in another way. It takes complex material and breaks it down into easy to understand components. The fact that they also offer many forms of media to view the course is also an important feature of a ground school and quite a bonus.

77. I joined the Part Time Pilot online ground school after reading the comparison chart, it seemed like the obvious choice.
    I found a CFI and started flying, and he uses the Sportys syllabus. 2 months in, and there hasn’t been anything yet that he has expected me to know that hasn’t been covered in the PTP lessons.

    I’ll cover the homework subjects he gives me on the app, and then on the way to the airport (I have a 90 minute drive) I’ll review the same material on Nick’s podcast. It’s great for cementing the knowledge, and my CFI has been impressed with my ground school skills, if not my flying skills!

78. I believe the most important feature of a ground school is the ability to go beyond memorization of just terms, definitions, and procedures. It needs to build a deep understanding of how these are applied in the air. Aviation requires a strong foundation in weather, navigation, aerodynamics, and regulations, but what truly makes a ground school valuable is how it teaches students to use that knowledge and apply it to your learning, regardless of where you’re at in your aviation journey. And this IS exactly what the Part Time Pilot online ground school has done for me. The course emphasizes decision-making, safety, and practical application ensures students are prepared not only to pass the FAA exam but also to become safe and confident pilots.

    What has helped me the most in ground school is the interactive, scenario-based learning. For example, analyzing actual METARs while studying weather or planning routes with real aeronautical charts helps me learn the lessons and remember them with confidence. I’ll also add that my favorite part about this ground school is the ATC simulator. I’ve been able to confidently navigate runways and airspaces by utilizing this feature. I believe using the fundamentals taught in these courses will continue to help me, as well as other students, build the judgment and critical thinking that every pilot needs.

79. When comparing ground school features Part Time Pilot scores highest. Nick, the founder, was a student pilot himself. He did the research to find what the other online ground schools were missing and created a program to incorporate those features. To keep is short and sweet. Simply, Part Time Pilot is the best ground school because it was developed by a student pilot for student pilots. Incorporating multiple methods and resources to help various learning styles. All the features are just a bonus.

80. A one stop shop as far as information & helpful links. A community & support system built within the Ground School. Last but certainly not least, it is paramount that the school preps the student as far as proper mindset to be successful – First Principles Thinking & Lego Building.

81. The most important feature of an online ground school to me is video lead instruction. If I have to sit and read sentence after sentence I get bored and disinterested. Another feature that works for me is a section to make notes that are important to me and being able to create phrases to remember things.

82. The most important feature of a ground school (and especially an online ground school) is to provide support for students. Part Time Pilot offers support through the variety of methods they have to present the material. I listened to the audio podcasts on Spotify during my commute, watched their youtube videos on my lunch break, and did the lessons at home in order to ingrain the material in my brain. Part Time Pilot goes even further by offering almost real time feedback for their students. If you email them a question, or write one on the facebook group, you receive a response very quickly. I have never waited more than an hour for a response from them, even on evenings and weekends. Using Part Time Pilot, I never felt lost or alone when in the weeds of learning complex aviation topics (VORS anyone?). I am very happy and fortunate to have found this ground school!

83. For me, having a clear structure with lessons that tie directly to real-life flying scenarios is the most important feature of a ground school. I learn best when the material isn’t just theoretical but is explained in a way that shows how it applies in the cockpit. Visualization is extremely important — diagrams, charts, and flight examples help me grasp concepts much faster than text alone. I often listen to lessons while driving, thus I value a narrator who speaks at a normal pace, giving enough time to absorb the material. Also, having the option to reach out to an instructor for clarification is very comforting.

84. As of today, there are multiple online ground schools available for students to access while preparing for the FAA written test. The most helpful tool for me; being someone who has no knowledge about aviation beyond the basics; basically starting with 0 hours is the structure of the lessons. It helps me check off the lessons one by one on the list so that I can follow my progress as I go along. Starting from scratch can feel very overwhelming, with the amount of knowledge you are required to know as a student pilot. But with a checklist, I am able to take one lesson at a time and actually understand the fundamentals rather than just rote memorization. I think it is very important to have a clear understanding of the lessons which in turn will help me become a safer Pilot. Aside from this, another helpful tool included in Part Time Pilot’s ground school is the explanation of the lessons in plain english with step by step examples. It helps me understand better compared to a bunch of jargons that are difficult to follow. Other online ground schools had lessons where it would skip a step and just assume that the student should already know what to do. This has caused me more confusion and doubts while learning. An online ground school with a step by step example is great for beginners and helps introduce us to the world of aviation.

85. I appreciate how part time pilot is so transparent with the groundschool chart and how they are the only school to have all three audio, video, and written lessons.

86. It seems like a new online ground school pops up every day. The thing that sets Part Time Pilot above the others is the community. Part Time Pilot has created a community where I’m excited to ask questions and get real life scenarios and in depth answers. The PTP community makes learning interactive and I leave every Zoom, or facebook interaction a more competent pilot. Since I’ve joined so many features have been added for free, and I can’t wait to see what this community grows into!

87. I feel the most important feature is being talked to like I am a normal person, not a fancy biochemist. What helps me the most is when the instructor is approachable and is willing to help us. Also, when their social media shows how present they are, and care about flying not just taking money from people.

88. I love that Part Time Pilot has different ways to consume the information. This was the most important feature to me when picking a ground school, that and having unlimited access to the content. I’m busy with kids and a job so sometimes things I want get put on hold. It’s nice to not stress about having to complete the course in a certain time frame or pay more to extend it. With Part Time Pilot I am able to learn while I’m on the go. I make use of the time I have in the car to listen to audio lessons. Then, when I’m idle at work or at home I watch the video lessons and read the text.

89. I believe the largest benefit that can be attained from a ground school is the ability to apply the material you study. Not only does Part Time Pilot simply and throughly present the material but they also have countless ways of applying it. From flash cards to quizzes to practice tests, Part Time Pilot fulfills this dire need to ensure you pass all your exams.

90. The most important feature of a ground school for me is the test prep summary at the end of every lesson in the Part Time Pilot online ground school. It’s helpful for me when reviewing previous lessons to be able to quickly look back and make sure that I’m understanding the most important ideas. I do think that you should be able to hot link each bullet point to take you back to the paragraph that you can find it in. It would be helpful when reviewing to be able to quickly go back and read the information instead of trying to search for it. It would be helpful when creating study material also.

91. I picked the Part Time Pilot online ground school based off the reviews, the comparison chart, and respectfully the military discount offered. I researched for several weeks until I came across PTP, as I was searching youtube videos, facebook groups and then finally got a search engine result leading me to this awesome company. Have started the process along with my 10 year old son and our goal together is to become future pilots.

92. In my opinion, the most important feature of a ground school that helps me the most is the lessons being offered in video, textual, and audio formats. I have found myself more often than not reading the lesson, then rereading the lesson while listening to the audio, and lastly watching the video. When doing this, I consistently catch things I would have missed and gain a better understanding of the lesson’s content. I firmly believe I would not have the same understanding if only one or two of the learning formats were offered.

    A couple other very important features are the after lesson quizzes and unlimited amount of practice tests when wrapped up with the course The quizzes and practice tests prepared me well for the PPL written test (I got a 93%) and really solidified the course’s content which inevitably translated into me being able to apply the material practically when flying with my instructor.

    I got through my PPL in five short months all while working full-time, being a father to my one and half year old son, and a husband. I’ve now moved onto the IFR course and have been able to maintain the same amount of progression due to how the course is laid out and how the lessons are taught.

93. I think the most important feature of ground school is the ability to connect the theory directly to real-world flying scenarios. It’s one thing to memorize rules and procedures, but being able to understand how they apply in the air makes the lessons stick much better. Having instructors explain concepts in a way that ties into actual flying situations is what helps me the most.

94. Having purchased three different ground schools due to boredom and concerns, I feel the interactive portions and thorough explanations of incorrect answers on practice test are the biggest take aways from a ground school. Many are taking the written prior to ever flying and you don’t know what you don’t know yet.

95. I went through the Part Time Pilot private pilot ground school course and it went so great I am now doing the IFR ground school. The practice test questions after each section really helped me make sure I learned the material and with having lifetime access to review the material made this program an easy decision to go with.

96. Part time pilot is the best online ground school due to the military discount and the amount of test prep practice they offer.

97. To me, the most important feature of an online ground school is having a variety of methods to consume information. Part Time Pilot is unique in that it has written, video, and audio lessons, something that I hadn’t found in any other online ground school. I found that the combination of video and written lessons was the most beneficial to me because I could use the written lessons as an outline to take notes on while watching the video lessons. Additionally, the audio lessons are helpful for times when you may not be able to sit down and study, but still want to stay productive while driving or doing other chores.

    I also appreciate the near-instantaneous feedback to any questions that I had while studying thanks to the Facebook group available to Part Time Pilot members. Although I didn’t have to use that feature often (a testament to how well-presented the lessons are), it was nice to know that I would receive clarification on a question within a matter of minutes or hours, rather than having to wait to ask my CFI the next time I had a lesson.

98. One of the best platforms for your ground school learning. I have tried a couple of different platforms, and Part Time Pilot is by far the best. I enjoy the many different ways to learn. I’m just starting, and I’ve found that this program has made learning enjoyable and straightforward.

99. The most important feature of a ground school for me is the test prep summary at the end of every lesson. It’s helpful for me when reviewing previous lessons to be able to quickly look back and make sure I’m understanding the most important ideas. I do think that you should be able to hot link each bullet point to be able to take you back to the paragraph that you can find it in. It would be helpful when reviewing to be able to quickly go back and read the information instead of trying to search for it.

100. The most important feature that a ground school could have is an audio section that reads over the text for you and offers a video at the end to help visualize the material. I have no problem reading, but my mind tends to wander when I’m reading. Being able to listen to the Part Time Pilot online ground school and follow along is extremely helpful, and having a video at the end helps me fully grasp all the material.

101. I feel the most important feature of a ground school, or in any school or educational resource is presentation of material. As an educator of EMTs, Paramedics, and Firefighters for over 20 years, if there is one constant in education it is that no one learns in the same way, and no individual utilizes only one learning method for every subject. Having an instructional method that relies on all 3 primary learning methods (Seeing, Hearing, and Doing) may not guarantee success, but guarantees the opportunity for success. This is Part Time Pilot, I can see, hear, and read the material and take notes and do practice equations and plotting, so I have the opportunity to view the material from different aspects and angles to make sure I not only know it but understand it to it’s fullest.

102. The most important feature of a ground school is the instructor and the support they provide to help you grasp the lessons and make learning enjoyable. The video and the audio lessons are a great way to learn, whether you are at home or on the road, driving to work. Having an App to learn from makes it easy to study and to pick up where you left off with the lessons. Having access to pre-made flashcards will help with memorizing and studying the core content.

103. I have been using the Part Time Pilot online ground school course material for a few months now in preparation for the Sport Pilot certificate. The curriculum “forces” you to achieve benchmarks before you can continue. This means you have to take the material and quizzes serious in order to advance to the next module. There is no doubt, I have a solid foundation and am not even hesitant about taking the written exam. Regardless of your learning style, you are certain to find a method that works for you to achieve positive results. I have never been so excite to see “100% completed” in my life!

     Thank you for the videos, written resources, quizzes, and flash cards. There is no shortage of material to guarantee your success as you prepare for the formal written exam. I have reviewed several of the programs in the chart and I have ZERO REGRETS for having purchased this program. As I consider future training, this will be my one-stop-shop for additional ground school and refresher training.

104. The most important feature of an online ground school are the audio lessons and the app. The app was awesome because I was able to read and take notes on different topics and concepts. The audio lessons were alright I continued to use the free podcast on apple, I was unable to find where the no ad audio lessons were at.

105. Part Time Pilot online ground school is by far the best ground school out there in 2025. and beyond!
     It really makes a difference by simplifying the learning process, by being an enormous information & networking resource & by using the Part Time Pilot App.
     Part Time Pilot ground school and methodology will make you feel like you’re capable of learning and being a pilot!
     Cost of ground school is very affordable which is another plus.
     Thank you!

106. Part time pilot is the most affordable and comprehensive ground school for the PPL. Nick goes above and beyond, breaking down very topic in detail. For me, it’s not just about passing the FAA test, it’s about truly understanding the concepts and becoming a knowledgeable pilot.

107. I think the most important feature of a ground school is the content itself and how it’s presented. Everyone learns differently. Some people are visual learners, some learn by listening and others by combing all methods. Me personally? I learn the best by reading and by someone explaining the concept to me visually. I appreciate that part time pilot has videos, audios, the content itself which is easy to follow. It also concludes with the major topics that you must know in order to pass your exams. And with that being said, the fact that this ground also comes with quizzes is huge. It’s so incredibly helpful beyond what I can put into words. It’s really a great marker for knowing what you know and what you don’t know.

108. The most helpful thing I found with ground school are both the graphics and the audio. It was great to be able to listen and play back to the Part Time Pilot ground school lessons whenever I was on the road to flight school.

109. Both the video and the audio aspect of ground school are equally important to me. Because they fit into my daily tasks the same if not more than the written stuff. I’m not always able to sit and read so having the audio whether it be for the gym, the shuttle ride to my hotel, or the walk to my next gain makes things more manageable and undemanding.

110. I think a ground school is most valuable when it keeps students motivated to keep learning. Some material can be dry and a good ground school will keep you engaged. Having organized lessons and practice questions makes it easier to stay on track and see progress over time. Having quizzes at the end of each lesson helps to solidify what was learned in a lesson. That steady progress is what helps me the most as I prepare for the next step in training. Another great attribute to a good ground school is test prep materials like flash cards and practice tests.

111. Love that the concepts in the part time pilot ground school are broken down into simpler subjects. Easy to follow along with the Youtube videos

112. The most important feature of a ground school is having the ability to test myself continuously and efficiently on key information. The testing structure allows me to retake quizzes weeks after studying the material and see how well I retain it. I am more confident in my understanding of the material when I can prove to myself that I still remember everything I have learned even after weeks of completing other lessons.

113. The most important feature of Part Time Pilot’s (PTP) private pilot ground school for me has been the flashcards. When I was preparing for the written test, those flashcards covered questions that my community college ground school never asked, yet they ended up being exactly what I needed to pass with confidence. The ability to download the full PDF of nearly 900 flashcards gave me endless practice, and I spent weeks reviewing them until I felt ready. I promise you, with 900 flashcards, there won’t be a single question they ask that isn’t covered in them. That resource alone made me feel prepared and ultimately allowed me to pass the written test with flying colors.