Efficiency & Cost Effective
Aircraft rentals can be costly and aren’t always the most practical choice for effective training.
Why spend upwards of $180/hr on aircraft rental when you can train smarter with advanced simulators for just $65/hr?
Discover how the latest aviation technology can make your training more efficient, effective, and affordable.
Save money without sacrificing quality, invest in smarter flight training.
New to Flight Training?
Download Our Free Guide
Confused by FAA requirements? Want to master the basics before investing? Our free roadmap simplifies the flight training process, answers the most common student pilot questions, and shows you exactly how starting in a simulator can save you over $3,000 on your license.
Take Flight With Confidence
Tailored Training Programs for Every Pilot
Whether you’re just starting your aviation journey, continuing your studies, or maintaining proficiency and currency, Solid Ground Aviation has a program designed for you. Learn with FAA-certified simulators, experienced instructors, and structured training plans that maximize your skills and efficiency.
- FAA Approved Training
- Safe, Risk-Free Learning
- Configurable Avionics
- Reliable & Consistent
- Expert Instructors
- Instrument Currency
Whether you’re just starting your aviation journey, continuing your studies, or maintaining proficiency and currency, Solid Ground Aviation has a program designed for you. Learn with FAA-certified simulators, experienced instructors, and structured training plans that maximize your skills and efficiency.
21 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Your Path to Certification
Benefits for Aspiring and Licensed Pilots
Our programs support every type of pilot. Brand-new students start safely, current students advance quickly, and licensed pilots refresh or upgrade skills efficiently, all with FAA Wings credit and insurance discounts.
Affordable Training
Reduce costs without sacrificing quality. Simulator training lets you log FAA-approved hours while keeping your budget in check.
Practice Without Risk
Safe simulator environment for emergency drills, navigation challenges, and advanced maneuvers, build confidence for real-world flights.
Train On Your Schedule
7 AM – 10 PM availability lets you fit lessons around your busy life, no matter the weather or season.
Flexible Booking
Reserve sessions at times that fit your schedule, making training convenient and stress-free.
One-on-One Coaching
Personalized instruction ensures every student learns at their own pace and reaches FAA standards efficiently.
FAA & Insurance Benefits
All courses provide FAA Wings credit and AVEMCO safety reward insurance discounts, adding value to every lesson.
Why Our Students Excel
Simulator Training That Works
Enroll Now
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Simulator Training That Works
Our FAA-approved simulators let you practice safely, efficiently, and affordably. From beginner pilots to advanced license holders, our training ensures measurable progress without leaving the ground.
Why Our Students Excel
How We Make You a Better Pilot
Training with Solid Ground Aviation means getting more from every hour spent learning.
Fast, Cost-Effective Progress
Our simulators save money and time compared to traditional flight lessons, while still logging FAA-approved hours toward your certificate.
Safe & Realistic Practice
Perform complex maneuvers and emergency procedures in a zero-risk environment, building confidence for real flight.
Weather-Proof Learning
Train on your schedule, rain or shine, without cancellations or delays, keeping your progression steady.
Ready to take the next step?
Let's Get Started Today!
Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, explore new opportunities, or simply have questions, we're here to help. Reach out to us and let's embark on this journey together.
What Our Students Say
Trusted Training, Real Results
Solid Ground Aviation isn’t just a place to learn, it’s a community where future and current pilots gain the skills and confidence to succeed. Students praise our FAA-certified simulators, personalized approach from Todd O’Brien, and the flexibility that makes training fit real-life schedules. With affordable programs and a proven record of student success, Solid Ground Aviation has become the trusted choice for pilots at every stage of their journey.
Accelerated Training Programs
Fly In. Train Fast. Fly Home Ready.
Our accelerator programs are built for pilots who want results without long-term local scheduling. Train over consecutive days in FAA-approved simulators and complete your goals efficiently — whether you're staying current or advancing your career.
Accelerated & Cost-Effective
Complete training in days instead of weeks. Simulator-based instruction reduces total cost while maintaining professional, FAA-approved standards.
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→Instructor & Proficiency Accelerators
Ideal for CFI and CFII candidates seeking focused, scenario-based instruction over consecutive days with dedicated instructor support.
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→Fast IPC Completion
Stay instrument current with an IPC Accelerator designed for traveling pilots. Fly in, train over two days, and return home current and confident.
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→Designed for Traveling Pilots
Consecutive-day scheduling, predictable timelines, and simulator reliability make our programs ideal for pilots traveling in for training.
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→Gift Experiences
Give the Gift of Flight
Surprise someone with an unforgettable aviation gift — from simulator intro sessions to beginner flight experiences. Redeemable any day within 1 year.
Join Maryland’s Premier Simulator Flight School
Experience the Future of Pilot Training
Solid Ground Aviation combines FAA-certified simulators, expert instructors, and a cost-effective model to make flight training more accessible than ever. Start today and join a growing community of pilots in Maryland and D.C.
Enroll Now →Frequently Asked Questions
What is flight simulator training and how does it work?
Does simulator training count towards my pilot's license?
- The FAA allows 2.5 hours to be counted towards the Private Pilot requirements, and 10 hours towards the Instrument rating requirements.
- The real benefit lies in reducing the amount of time required to train in the aircraft. Most students require more than the FAA minimum hours before they are ready for the checkride. Spending some of those extra hours in the simulator at a far lower cost will help save money and keep your training on track when weather or maintenance cancel flights.
How much does simulator training cost?
When you compare that $55/hr simulator rate to the typical $160-$180/hr cost of renting an aircraft, and factor in that you can accomplish far more training in one simulator hour than in the same time in the air, the value is clear. You get more learning, in less time, at a fraction of the cost.
Can I log instrument approaches in the simulator?
Who can benefit from simulator training?
Are there prerequisites?
I am training at a different flight school, can I train here too?
Do you offer flight lessons in aircraft?
Our instructors can also provide training in your personally owned aircraft, ensuring seamless continuity between your simulator sessions and in-aircraft experience.
How long is each session?
When can I train?
Blog Posts
Recent Aviation News
Solid Ground Aviation Team
Jan 15, 2026
Behind the Scenes: How a Flight Simulator Is Built and Maintained
Take a behind-the-scenes look at how professional flight simulators are designed, configured, and maintained to deliver realistic, FAA-compliant training at Solid Ground Aviation.
Solid Ground Aviation Team
Dec 15, 2025
How to Set Smart Flight Training Goals for the New Year
Start the new year with clear, achievable flight training goals. Learn how smart planning and simulator-based training can help you stay consistent, save money, and progress faster.
Solid Ground Aviation Team
Jan 15, 2026
Is Accelerated Flight Training Worth Traveling For?
Learn how pilots fly in, train over consecutive days, and complete IPC, CFI, and CFII training efficiently using simulator-based accelerated programs.
Ready to Begin Your Pilot Journey?
Take the first step toward your Private Pilot Certificate or Instrument Rating with Solid Ground Aviation. Safe, affordable, and FAA-compliant training, designed to get you flying sooner.
Limited Spots Remaining!
Ground School 2026
Don't wait to start your journey. Join our upcoming Ground School session and get FAA-ready. Only 5 seats left for this cohort!
Enroll Now*Next session starts February. Register today to guarantee your seat.