Great Lakes Pilot Institute
Chicago, ILDPA · DuPage Airport4.6 (142 reviews)
Overview
Great Lakes Pilot Institute deliberately trains through Midwest weather. Students file real IFR, log actual instrument time, and graduate comfortable with icing avoidance and go/no-go decisions.
Training
Both
Fleet
17 aircraft
Hourly rate
$175–$220 / hr wet
Financing
Available
Training programs
Private Pilot Certificate
55–65 hrs · 6 months
$13,900
estimated total
Instrument Rating
40 hrs · 4 months
$10,900
estimated total
Commercial Multi-Engine
120 hrs · 6 months
$29,800
estimated total
Fleet showcase
C172
Trainer in active rotation
PA-28
Trainer in active rotation
DA40
Trainer in active rotation
PA-44
Trainer in active rotation
Instructors
Anna Kowalski
Chief Flight Instructor
6,800 hrs logged
Miles Turner
CFII / MEI
3,100 hrs logged
Pricing estimates
| Program | Hours | Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Private Pilot Certificate | 55–65 hrs | $13,900 |
| Instrument Rating | 40 hrs | $10,900 |
| Commercial Multi-Engine | 120 hrs | $29,800 |
Estimates are provided by the school and exclude checkride, medical, and supply costs.
Facilities
- Heated hangars
- Actual IMC training
- Twin-engine fleet
Student Reviews
Student reviewsSanjay V.
5.0
Logged more actual instrument time here in six months than friends did in two years elsewhere.
Mar 2026
Frequently asked questions
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