Schools and instructors There are two types of flight schools to consider: larger schools and smaller schools. "If you like highly structured environments, a larger school like FlightSafety, Spartan or American Flyers would be good," said Certified Instructor Jon Howard . "If you need a more flexible schedule, a smaller, friendlier school will be good for you if you can find a instructor you can work with." One smaller and friendlier school is Pacific Flight Services in Chico. You and your instructor will work out a program that will help you to train around your schedule. Deciding on the right school to start your training can be tricky. "If there is more than one school, evaluate each based on how you are treated and the cleanliness and organization of the facilities," said Bob Gardner, retired pilot and author of "The Complete Private Pilot." Gardner also stresses looking at the planes much like you would check out cars at a used car lot. "Although you are not yet a student, you can tell fairly quickly if the planes are well maintained," Gardner said . "Expect them to be fairly old." After finding the right school you must evaluate an instructor to help you on your journey. Gardner says you must communicate well together, see eye to eye and most of all, you and your potential instructor must "click." This person will be your mentor and you must have equal respect for each other. This will also help you save time and money in the long run. Although you will find there are several schools out there for people who are looking into flying as a career choice, many of us are already involved in school or work and need something a little more flexible. This is when we need to choose a local resource, Pacific Flight Services.   back How much time and money? The Chico Way