Question 1

How much does flight training cost in Topeka Kansas?

Accepted Answer

A Private Pilot Certificate at Top Aviation Services in Topeka KS costs approximately $10,400 to $12,000 based on the FAA minimum 40 flight hours. This includes aircraft rental at $159.95/hr, flight instruction ($2,500–$3,500), books and study materials ($300–$600), and an FAA medical ($175). The FAA checkride is $750 paid separately to the examiner.

Question 2

How do I start flight training in Topeka Kansas?

Accepted Answer

Start with a Discovery Flight at Top Aviation Services at Phillip Billard Airport (KTOP) Topeka. A Discovery Flight is $174.95 — you fly with a CFI for 30–45 minutes and the cost counts toward your certificate. Call 785-251-3325 or book online at goflytopeka.com.

Question 3

What aircraft does Top Aviation Services use for training?

Accepted Answer

Top Aviation Services operates a 1969 Cessna 172K ($169.95/hr), 1975 Cessna 172M ($159.95/hr), 1945 Piper J3 Cub for tailwheel training ($165/hr with CFI), and a 2025 Van's RV-12iS ($159.95/hr, Sport Pilot eligible).

Question 4

Where is Top Aviation Services located in Topeka?

Accepted Answer

Top Aviation Services is at Phillip Billard Municipal Airport (KTOP), 3600 NE Sardou Ave Building 4, Topeka KS 66616. KTOP is located in northeast Topeka off NE Sardou Ave, approximately 5 miles from downtown Topeka.

Question 5

How long does it take to get a Private Pilot license?

Accepted Answer

The FAA requires a minimum 40 flight hours for a Private Pilot Certificate. Most students at Top Aviation Services complete training in 55–70 hours. Flying 2–3 times per week, you can earn your certificate in 3–6 months.

Question 6

Do I need a medical certificate to fly?

Accepted Answer

For a Private Pilot Certificate you need a 3rd Class FAA Medical from an Aviation Medical Examiner. Sport Pilot students can use a valid driver's license instead. BasicMed is also an option — ask your CFI at Top Aviation Services.

Question 7

What is a discovery flight and how much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

A discovery flight is an introductory lesson where you take the controls with a CFI. At Top Aviation Services in Topeka, discovery flights cost $174.95 and last 30–45 minutes over Topeka. The cost counts toward your pilot certificate if you continue training.

Question 8

Can I get a tailwheel endorsement in Topeka Kansas?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Top Aviation Services offers tailwheel endorsement training in a 1945 Piper J3 Cub (N98349) at Phillip Billard Airport Topeka KS. CFI instruction is included at $165/hr. A tailwheel endorsement typically takes 5–10 hours.

Year	1975
Make & Model	Cessna 172M Skyhawk
Registration	N61684
Based At	Phillip Billard Municipal Airport (KTOP), Topeka, KS
Training / Rental	Both — dual instruction and solo rental

Engine	Lycoming O-320 (150hp)
Cruise Speed	~122 KTAS
Stall Speed (flaps down)	~47 KIAS
Best Rate of Climb	~800 fpm sea level
Service Ceiling	14,000 ft MSL
Fuel Capacity	42 gallons usable
Range	~620 nm (no reserve)

IFR Certified	Yes
Navigator	Garmin GNS 430W (WAAS GPS/Nav/Com)
Primary Attitude	Garmin G5 Electronic AI
HSI	Garmin G5 Electronic HSI
Audio Panel	Garmin Audio Panel
ADS-B	In & Out via GNS 430W
Autopilot	Not installed

Minimum Certificate	Private Pilot
Insurance Required	Yes — SkyWatch.ai recommended
Checkout Required	Yes — with Top Aviation Services CFI
Billing	Hobbs time per hour + Kansas tax
Scheduling	FlightSchedulePro online or call 785-251-3325

N61684 — 1975 Cessna 172M | Top Aviation Services

CESSNA
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CESSNA 172M
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OUR FULL FLEET

CESSNA 172MSPECIFICATIONS

OUR FULL FLEET

CESSNA 172M
SPECIFICATIONS