Compare Private Pilot ground schools
The Pilot Method and Sporty’s.
Choose the learning format and access that fit how you study. Here is what each named package offers.
Prices checked September 11, 2026. USD before applicable taxes. Promotions and packages can change.
The Pilot Method
Private Pilot Course bundle
$199 one time
65 lessons with visual explanations, interactive practice and aircraft handling and care. Includes PAR Written Prep and the Private Pilot study guide.
Lifetime course and guide access. PAR Written Prep lasts 24 months. No recurring charge.
See TPM’s curriculum and course →Sporty’s
Learn to Fly Course: Private Pilot Ground School
$299 one time
Video instruction, written test prep and checkride preparation, with mobile and TV apps.
Lifetime course access and updates.
Check the current official offer ↗What matters for your choice?
TPM’s one-time package is $100 less than this named offer at the prices shown. The packages have different formats and resources, so compare the actual lessons and access periods as well as the price.
Choose TPM if you want an ordered reading and practice path with diagrams, feedback and aircraft care integrated into your ground school. You can also try our free radio practice and Visual Briefings before buying.
Consider Sporty’s if in-flight video lessons, TV viewing and a broad app ecosystem are priorities. Its tools include ChatCFI and ChatDPE.
Want access across Private, Instrument and Commercial? TPM All Access costs $39.99 per month and includes the three courses, three Written Prep banks and seven guides during the paid period. It renews automatically until canceled. Compare membership with one-time purchases.
Course refund eligibility and endorsement review requirements are separate from price. Read TPM’s refund policy and each provider’s current terms before choosing.
This comparison is published by The Pilot Method. Sporty’s is an independent provider and is not affiliated with TPM. The competitor information above comes from the linked official product page; it is not a complete inventory of its features.