CERTIFICATES AND RATINGS THAT'S THE TICKET What do you want to do when you go up? BY SARAH DEENER WHEN YOU LEARN TO FLY, the possibilities are endless. You might end up crossing vast expanses of ocean on transatlantic airline flights, or dining at every airport restaurant in a 50-mile radius from home. You could start in an airplane, or a helicopter, or a hot air balloon. And your favorite destination airport might be bustling with jets or frequented by moose. The skills for each of these aviation challenges vary, and so do the certification requirements. Here are the licenses (formally called certificates) you'll need to accomplish your aviation goals. INITIAL CERTIFICATES Sport pilot No medical certificate is required for this entry-level pilot certificate, which allows you to fly certain two-seat aircraft during the day. Additional training is required to fly to airports where you'll talk to air traffic control. Minimum flight hours: 20 You can... * Fly a friend to lunch. * Fly to EAA AirVenture, with additional training. * Transport a rescue dog to its forever home. Flying in Alaska- over places like the Grewingk Glacier near Homer-is a wow-worthy experience. Recreational pilot Like sport pilots, recreational pilots may not take more than one passenger or fly at night. But they can fly four-seat aircraft for fun close to home. Additional training is required to fly longer distances or to airports with air traffic controllers. Minimum flight hours: 30 You can... * Take your kids sightseeing. FLIGHT TRAINING YOU CAN FLY 2024 35 DAVID TULIS