HAYDEN - A new flight school, Latitude Aviation, is now open for business.

Located at Coeur d'Alene Airport-Pappy Boyington Field, the school is available to take new students immediately, said founder Jeff Fouche on Monday.

In addition, Latitude Aviation will be teaching a private pilot ground school through North Idaho College's workforce training center starting on Jan. 24.

"I love to fly; I've discovered I love to teach, so I decided to bring a cost-effective, accessible culture to the airfield to help other people achieve the privilege I love so much," said Fouche, who is a mechanical engineer by education.

For now, the school is based at a hangar across from Aerostar Aircraft Corp. behind the gate off Miles Avenue on the east side of the airport.

Fouche, a Coeur d'Alene resident, said he plans to locate an office space and hangar space that would be more accessible.

He earned his private pilot's license in 2003, and became an instructor in July. He grew up in Post Falls, attended the University of Idaho, and now also works as a contractor in engineering design and consulting.

His hourly rate for dual flight instruction is $140 per hour in his Cessna 150. He currently has only a few students.

He said the average cost to get a private license is $7,000.

To make an appointment, contact Fouche at (208) 818-5547. The school's website is www.flylatitudeaviation.com.