One completely different tactic that you might want to consider, is to start with a glider. My last year in college I took the private pilot course and the glider course. The private pilot course cost $550, (paid by USAF) and included 20 hours dual, 15 solo, the minimum for the certificate, and the glider course cost $210, with, I believe, 27 flights. Yes, this is showing my age.

I learned a great deal more in the glider course about low speed aerodynamics than most commercial pilots ever learn.

There is also the chance that the TSA is less interested in glider schools.

If you get your glider rating first, I am confident that you would be able to get your PPL in absolute minimum time. If you are doing this for your personal enjoyment, and do not intend to continue as a professional pilot, you may find that you are completely satisfied with the glider community.

Joe

 

Do yourself a favor and at least call Herb at PAS. He is Austrian born and has taught many foreign students pre and post 9-11. It's Part 61. I am not sure what he charges these days but can assure you if it's $200/hr dual, it'll be in a twin.
Prairie Air Service, Inc 316-778-1712

 

There are a lot of good ideas here but they all involve changing flight schools and that doesn't sound like an option for you. The best way to save money is to avoid repeating lessons. This means showing up ready to fly. Lots of ideas on how to do this have already been mentioned but one of the most effective has been overlooked. In a 141 school you should know what your next flight lesson will cover. Find another student that is a lesson or 2 ahead of you and ask if you can observe their flights. Not only will you have a head start on your lesson but you will get so see mistakes and you don't have to pay for them. This is easily the best way "come prepared" and in the end it will save you lots of $$$.


Good Luck!