Discovery flight

Experience the thrill of flying with a 45-minute to 1-hour flight lesson alongside one of our certified flight instructors. This hands-on introduction to aviation is perfect for anyone curious about learning to fly or considering flight training.

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Estimated Investment

Flat Rate

$250

* No previous aviation experience is required. Your instructor will guide you through each step, answer your questions, and give you a firsthand look at what it's like to be in the pilot's seat.

Program overview

A discovery flight is a low-pressure introduction to aviation where you get your very first hands-on flight lesson.

It is designed to take you out of the passenger seat and put you right at the controls to see if learning to fly is the right path for you.

During your flight, you'll take the controls and experience the fundamentals of flying, including:

Straight-and-level flight
Climbs and descents
Standard turns
Basic aircraft control
An aerial tour of Tucson and the surrounding area

No previous aviation experience is required. Your instructor will guide you through each step, answer your questions, and give you a firsthand look at what it's like to be in the pilot's seat.

Whether you're checking off a bucket-list experience, exploring aviation as a hobby, or considering a future career as a pilot, your introductory flight is the perfect first step into the world of aviation.

What we focus on:

Providing roadmaps to those who found the Discovery Flight fun and wish to continue training

Safely practicing actual flight with an aircraft under a mentor's guidance

Learning the ins and outs of an aircraft

Building confidence and having fun in a safe, supportive environment

Simplified breakdown of airplane controls

Discovery flight requirements

Age requirement

There's no hard age limit for an introductry flight, but guardian consent is required for those younger than 18 years of age.

English proficiency

Must be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language.

Valid ID

A valid Driver's License, U.S. Passport, or Birth Certificate is required for participants 18 or older.

SAFETY

Be able to safely enter and exit the aircraft.

MEET AIRCRAFT LIMITATIONS

Meet the aircraft weight and balance limitations
(Please inquire if you have questions regarding weight restrictions)

What to Bring

To help make your experience as enjoyable as possible, please bring:

A valid government-issued photo ID
_{(Required for participants 18 and older)}

Comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather

Your phone or camera if you'd like to capture photos before or after your flight

Sunglasses (recommended)

Water, especially during warmer months

Closed-toe shoes

What to Expect

Please plan to spend approximately 1.5 to 2 hours at the airport. Your visit includes:

Meet and greet with your instructor

Aircraft preflight inspection

Safety briefing

45-minute to 1-hour flight lesson

Post-flight debrief and opportunity to ask questions

Information about flight training and next steps if you'd like to continue your aviation journey

Frequently asked questions

Will I actually fly the airplane?

Yes! While your instructor remains responsible for the safety of the flight, you’ll have the opportunity to take the controls and experience the fundamentals of flying.

Is this my first flight lesson?

Absolutely. If you decide to pursue your Private Pilot Certificate, your Discovery Flight can be logged as your first official flight lesson.

What if I've never been in a small airplane?

That’s perfectly okay. Many of our students begin with little or no aviation experience. Your instructor will explain everything before takeoff and guide you throughout the flight.

Can I bring family or friends?

Guests are welcome to watch your departure and arrival from the airport. Due to aircraft weight and seating limitations, only the student and instructor will be on board during the flight.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety is always our top priority. If weather conditions are not suitable for flying, your Discovery Flight will be rescheduled at no additional charge.