Student and instructor reviewing flight charts in a classroom setting.

Ground School

Ground School Training is available in

  • Southport, NC
  • St Simons Island, GA
  • Wilmington, NC
Ground School | High Tide Aviation

What is Ground School?

High Tide Aviation's ground school is where your aviation journey begins. As the foundation of pilot training, ground school equips students with the essential knowledge required to become safe, confident pilots. Instruction is led by experienced aviation professionals who bring real-world flying insight into every lesson.

Students explore core aviation subjects including aerodynamics, aircraft systems, navigation, weather interpretation, flight planning, radio communication, and Federal Aviation Regulations. Lessons are interactive and designed to ensure true understanding — not rote memorization.

Upon completion, students are prepared to take the FAA knowledge (written) examination and move confidently into flight training. Whether your goal is recreational flying or a professional pilot career, ground school sets the stage for everything that follows.

Fall 2026 enrollment is now open: In-person Private Pilot and Instrument Pilot Ground School classes begin in September at Brunswick Community College's Leland Campus.

Program Prerequisites

Before joining us, ensure you meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum Age: Must be at least 16 years old to enroll in ground school.

  • No Prior Experience Required: This course is designed for beginners. No previous flight training is necessary.

Enrollment Process

Ready to take the first step toward your aviation goals? Here's how:

  • Choose Your Program: Select the ground school option that best fits your goals — in-person, location-based, or online.

  • Reserve Your Seat: In-person classes have limited enrollment. Registration closes automatically once full.

  • Get Started: Complete your enrollment and begin building the knowledge needed to succeed as a pilot.

View Class Dates

Brunswick Community College Ground School

Finish your FAA ground school this fall at the Leland Campus

If you are ready to move from thinking about flying to preparing for the FAA written exam, this in-person class gives you a clear schedule, a real classroom, and direct instructor support. Seats are limited, so the next step is simple: call to secure your place.

Secure Your Seat

In-Person Private Pilot Ground School

Private Pilot Ground School

Dates

September 22, 2026 - December 10, 2026

Schedule

Tuesday and Thursday, 6-9pm

Location

Brunswick Community College - Leland Campus, Room 209

No Class

November 26, 2026

In-Person Instrument Pilot Ground School

Instrument Rating Ground Class

Dates

September 21, 2026 - December 9, 2026

Schedule

Monday and Wednesday, 6-9pm

Location

Brunswick Community College - Leland Campus, Room 209

No Class

November 11, 2026 and November 25, 2026

A clear fall path for your FAA ground school

If you have been thinking about earning your wings, this fall gives you a clear place to start. Private Pilot and Instrument Pilot Ground School launch in September 2026 at Brunswick Community College's Leland Campus, 2045 Enterprise Dr NE, Leland, NC 28451.

This is an in-person aviation classroom experience led by professionals who live and breathe flying. Over 12 weeks, you study the FAA knowledge you need for the written exam and build a stronger understanding of what it takes to become a safe, skilled pilot.

  • Twice-weekly live sessions give your study plan structure, so you are not left guessing what to study next.

  • Interactive classroom instruction helps you understand the FAA material, not just memorize answers.

  • The course is held at Brunswick Community College's Leland Campus, 2045 Enterprise Dr NE, Leland, NC 28451.

  • The course cost is $180 through Brunswick Community College's community program.

  • Call 910-931-0650 to secure your seat before registration fills.

Do you need prior flight experience?

No. The Private Pilot class is designed for beginners, so you can start before you have flight experience.

What does the course prepare you for?

You prepare for the FAA knowledge exam, which is a required step before the pilot practical test.

Is the FAA written exam included?

No. The FAA exam is scheduled separately at an authorized testing center, and exam fees are not included in the class cost.

Can you fly during the class?

Yes. You can fly before, during, or after class, but many students complete ground school first so flight lessons can stay focused on flying.

What happens if you miss a class?

Attendance is required for instructor sign-off. Occasional absences can be made up with extra study, but steady attendance is strongly encouraged.

Will you receive an endorsement?

Yes, if you attend regularly and complete the required work, you can receive the instructor endorsement needed for the FAA exam.

How many seats are available?

Seats are limited to keep the class focused. Registration closes automatically once the class is full.

Can you use 529 funds or financial aid?

Check with your provider or tax advisor before using 529 funds. If you plan to use financial aid, confirm eligibility directly before registering.

Our Online Ground School Alternative

We've partnered with Gold Seal to offer you a discounted online ground school course

Interested in visiting us?

Book a FREE tour of the flight school at either of our locations below