I took out a loan for a large sum of money to pay for my instructor ratings and a bridge program.  To make a long story short the school would not provide an airplane for several months to train in because of constant troubles keeping it running.  I basically took another job to cover living expenses an tried to wait it out.  The school disenrolled me even though I was trying to fly every day and now refuses to correct the problem with the lender (who has dropped them).  I have an FAA certificate earned through that school after the date they say I quit training there and many witnesses to vouch for my attempts to fly through them (including my flight instructor).  I know the aircraft records would show the aircraft was constantly in for repairs as well.  I owe the bank a lot of money, but I cannot afford to pay because the loans came due before I was even done training there.  The bank says the school only needs to correct the date with them and it will give me a couple more months, but the school refuses to do so (they say they will fix it but never do).  I suspect they are afraid if they admit what happened it will open them up to a ton of liability.  I have no money to pay a lawyer, but know that the situation is so pathetic that one is in order and would hope that the school would be forced to pay the legal fees.  Does anyone know where to start?  I don't want to name the school on line and I know I am not the only student cheated out of barrowed money.  There is a harassment issue at this school and I think that it might be the underlying cause of my troubles.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.  L.

As a CFI I can tell you the best way to save money while flight training is to find a quality flight school and a quality CFI and then to study hard so you are always prepared for each lesson.  You should look into a flight school that offers financial aid (such as a cessna pilot center).  Many schools offer computer-based ground training that is supplimented by an instructor as needed--these programs save thousands of dollars if they are well run.  When you choose a flight school ask their FAA-exam initial pass rate for the rating you are seeking (it should be at least 80% if the school is well established and well run).  When you get a flight instructor, make sure you get along with him/her and that you are challenged.  A good CFI cares about their students' dreams and helps them set and reach goals.  We try to streamline training to save money where possible, but we will not sacrifice quality because it is the quality training that makes you a safe and competent pilot.  When it comes to aviation, the cheapest is not always the best.  The quality of your training and study habits is what will make the difference.

Lee