The first step is to ENROLL HERE, if you have not done so already. Once you are enrolled, we will provide access to NeedleNine which is our online software system where you will manage your account, view syllabus, track your training progress, and take a number of the required steps below.

The TSA requires that all individuals obtain clearance before beginning flight training in the US. There are two paths:

1. If you’re a US citizen, you can simply provide proof of citizenship using your US passport or your birth certificate, coupled with your driver's license. Upload those unexpired documents in NeedleNine on the TSA tab.
2. If you are a non-US citizen, complete your Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) application. Once those steps are complete, upload your unexpired Passport and Visa or Lawful Permanent Residence card to Needle nine on the TSA tab.

Bring your unexpired documents to your first lesson for required physical inspection.

Rainier Flight Service requires that all clients procure renters insurance with a minimum of $20,000 in non-owned aircraft physical damage coverage. Personal liability limits are your choice based on financial status.  We’ve created a streamlined process to get a quote.  When you have your policy, upload the proof of coverage to the Renter’s Insurance tab in your NeedleNine profile.

Read and sign the Rental Agreement, located on the Rental Agreement tab in NeedleNine. This includes operational responsibilities for both parties, and we recommend that you pay special attention to Rainier’s cancellation policy so that you can have that in mind before you start scheduling flights.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that you be physically and mentally fit to operate an aircraft, which you evidence via a Medical Certificate. To obtain “your medical,” you have 2 options: 1) book an appointment with an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) through the FAA website, or 2) book with Northwest Aviation Medicine who brings many years of specialized experience in aviation medical exams and is strongly endorsed by our clients and pilots to locate an AME convenient to our RFS locations. We recommend a 1^st Class Medical if pursuing a career in aviation while a 3^rd class medical is sufficient for leisure flyers. For more information about the types of Medicals, an option called "Basic Med," or a breakdown of the steps in the process, visit our Medical Certificates page for more information. When you have your medical in hand, upload the unexpired copy into Needle Nine on the Certificates tab.

The Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) is the FAA system that you will use to apply for your student pilot certificate, among other training and certification tracking down the road. It is critical that the student pilot application be filled out correctly…so critical that we recommend that you *start* the application, save it, but do not finalize/submit until you meet face-to-face with your instructor. Simply complete what you can to the best of your ability and bring your questions to your first lesson.

There is no lack of flight training gear so to assist you, we have curated a list of essential items needed for flight training. Some items you will need right away while others can be acquired as you train. At your first lesson, your instructor will help you with any questions so that you are confident and comfortable with your purchases.

We've curated the items here to get you started.

1. Goals → Think through your training goals and be prepared to share them with your instructor.
2. Documents → Gather your unexpired passport or birth certificate + driver’s license (US citizen) or your passport + your visa or alternative evidence of stay (non-US citizen). You will present them for inspection at your first lesson to satisfy the TSA requirements.
3. Access Your Account → We use NeedleNine as our go-to source for account management, scheduling, training records and much more.  By now you should have received your login credentials so take a moment to Watch this Tutorial and upload all of the documentation you have gather for verification.  Don't forget to add a credit card to account and choose if you want to enroll in AutoPay and Aviator's Club to automatically receive discounted rates.
4. Ground School → Enroll in Ground School. Online ground school has become the industry norm, and for good reasons, including its flexibility, cost savings, self-paced structure, the ability to re-visit modules, and access to interactive tools and simulations. The GoldSeal Online Ground School is a high-quality and cost-effective course fully-integrated with our flight training courses.
5. Flight Operations Manual (FOM) → Download the Flight Operations Manual (FOM) to reference throughout training course. This important manual includes Rainier Flight policies and procedures to ensure an efficient and safe operation.
6. Media Resources → There are some wonderful, free resources that can supplement your formal training. These include professional organizations, podcasts, and more. We have curated a list of great sources to supplement your learning through a variety of media.
7. Bring Your Questions! → Instructors are prepared and ready to cover anything top of mind – from a question about your medical, to the best headset for your needs, to a question about Rainier policy or practice. This is your time to get any additional questions answered from someone who has walked this path before you.