Cutting an airplane’s engine in the middle of a flight might seem to be a reason for white-knuckled, mind-numbing panic to many of us, but at Minnesota Aviation Inc., it’s an essential part of pilot training.

Running the gamut from private pilot training to advanced courses designed to lead to a career in commercial aviation or flight instruction, the company has been training aspiring aviators since 1990 at its location on the grounds of Albert Lea Municipal Airport.

The construction of a new, 5,001-foot concrete runway will provide an added incentive to attract pilot trainees. Jon Lamphier, chairman of the airport’s advisory board, said the new runway will last longer than the present asphalt surface, and ensure a better margin of safety for pilot trainees.

“The board is trying to keep this project on track and stay the course. Funding from the Federal Aviation Administration and help from the city has helped make this possible. The new construction will take us about as far as we can go at this location,” Lamphier said.

Six flight instructors utilize seven single engine, and two multiple engine aircraft to train the pilots, 70 percent of whom are between the ages of 18 to 25. Thirty percent of the trainees are in their 50s, and are typically enrolled in the 10-day instrument rating course, which enables pilots to fly in bad weather using cockpit instrumentation. The instrument rating course requires a private pilot pilot’s license, and a written exam prior to beginning the course. Typically, a student will spend 18 hours in a flight simulator, available on site, and 22 hours of flying time to complete the course.

The flight simulator is made by Frasca International, and offers many challenges to pilot trainees, said Lamphier.

“The simulator really helps you sharpen your skills. The instrumentation is very sensitive,” Lamphier said.

Minnesota Aviation attracts students from all over the country, as well as foreign countries. The prospective pilots stay at local motels and apartments, and spend money at local businesses, said Kathie Hanson, administrative assistant for the company.

“We like to refer to ourselves as the best kept secret in Albert Lea. Our students can go anywhere in aviation, depending on the degree of training they get here,” Hanson said.

The company credits its Albert Lea location and vast experience in developing training programs as keys to its success. Availability of instructors, multiple aircraft on site and few delays on takeoffs allow pilot trainees to advance rapidly through the various programs on offer at Minnesota Aviation. Seventy percent of the students begin their training at other locations, but finish in Albert Lea because of these factors. FAA- licensed examiners administer the tests required for students to achieve licensure as pilots. Company information boasts a pass rate of over 80 percent on all courses.

For those wanting to be a captain of a multi-engine aircraft for a scheduled airline, the company offers training for the Airline Transport Pilot Certificate, the highest rating available locally through the FAA. Some flight experience and a written exam are required to enter the course. The program is focused on aeronautical decision making, instrument procedures, aircraft systems and performance.

Eight students are enrolled in courses for pilot training and flight instruction, Hanson said. The company is staying busy despite the recent economic downturn. Aviation is expanding worldwide, and trained pilots are needed in developing countries. Minnesota Aviation recently graduated a pilot from Brazil and will soon enroll a student from South Africa.

“The students seem to be aware of us, often through the Internet. Our prices are competitive and that really helps us,” Hanson said.

Jon Lamphier keeps his airplane, a Beechcraft Bonanza, in one of the hangars at the airport, and remembers his first solo flight as a life-changing experience.

“It’s the best sensation there ever was. Flying an airplane solo for the first time will answer any questions you ever had about yourself.”