[Simon96Taco]

So, I've been toying with the idea of getting my Private Pilot's License (PPL) for a few years now. Finally decided after a recent flight that I wanted to start flying more frequently and logging hours towards the requirements for the PPL.

After calling a couple of schools at Springbank (SATC and the CFC) it seems there is a 6 month (at minimum) waiting list to even start training! Apparently there is a shortage of pilots in the industry and the schools are focused on finishing/pushing through current students before allowing new entrants to start booking hours with the instructors.

Bit disappointing, as I wanted to make use of the long days and nice weather ahead to hopefully get most of the hours in before the fall/winter.

There don't seem to be too many choices in or near Calgary these days, other than at Springbank. There used to be a place in Okotoks but seems they now operate out of Penhold (by Red Deer). There is another place near Olds, but it's also obviously a fair drive, plus quite a bit more expensive as they have much newer aircraft.

Anyone else facing this same issue? Any suggestions to help start flying sooner?

Thanks!