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The sky is the limit for one Andalusia teenager who, following in his family’s footsteps, received his private pilot license at the age of 17.

Ian McMath, a senior homeschooled student, has called Andalusia home his entire life.

“What really put getting my pilot’s license at 17 on my radar was a discovery flight my parents got me with a local instructor for Christmas when I was 12. I absolutely loved it! It didn’t make sense for me to officially start my training until I was around 16 because the legal age requirement to be a pilot is 17. My dad and cousin are also private pilots and I wanted to have a hobby to connect with them,” McMath said.

The Federal Aviation Administration requires that a person be at least 16 years of age to fly solo in any aircraft that is not a glider or a balloon. The minimum age for one to obtain a private pilot license is 17 years old.

McMath said it took him almost nine months to receive his license.

“The steps I took to become a pilot included numerous flight lessons, hours invested in ground school study for a written test, a flight physical to pass my medical, and an oral and practical flight test for my check ride. It was not world-record timing by any means, but it was a decently comfortable pace.”

McMath is excited about the opportunity to take his seat in the cockpit and work the controls.

“I’m really looking forward to being able to fly whenever I want to reasonable destinations for our plane. Due to the limited range and speed of our plane, most of the trips I will take will be limited to the Southeast for now. Short day trips to see extended family or friends are definitely in the future. I also want to be able to share my love of general aviation with others,” he said.

Although his excitement is evident, McMath understands he must be mindful of his surroundings and remain focused while in the air.

“Like anything in life, there is definitely a healthy respect around flying. It is important to always remember that although we try and limit as much risk as we can, it is very possible that something could go wrong with the plane or pilot. With this in mind, there can be fear or nerves at times, but we can’t let our fear control us,” McMath said.

He first became interested in planes when he was a young boy.

“My interest in planes manifested itself at an early age when I discovered one could essentially ‘time travel.’ A plane being able to take a direct route at higher speeds is one of the amazing engineering feats of the last century,” McMath said.

McMath has not yet decided what he will do after high school but said he would turn to God for guidance and support.

“My plans after high school are undecided at the moment. I am just praying and seeking the Lord’s will. I am taking comfort in verses like Jeremiah 29:11 and Proverbs 3:5-6,” he said.

He described his overall experience with aviation as both fun and challenging.

“The general aviation community is amazing. To anyone who is looking to become a pilot, I would encourage him or her to pursue their dream,” he said.

McMath expressed his gratitude to all those who have helped in making his dream a reality.

“The support of my friends and family has been a key part of my success in obtaining my license. They push me to do my best in everyday life. They also supported me when I needed to study. God has really blessed me with a loving community. If I tried to thank everyone who helped me, I would definitely forget someone. My flight instructor Mr. John Roberts was a huge blessing in making my training convenient and preparing me to be a safe and informed pilot. My parents were so supportive. My dad and cousin John have helped me by answering any questions and of course keeping the plane maintained,” McMath said.

Ian is the son of Jeremy and Jennifer McMath and has two younger sisters, Lauren, 10, and Presley, 8.