What is a Discovery Flight?
A Discovery Flight is your first hands-on introduction to flying. It's a one-time experience designed to give you a real taste of what it's like to be a pilot.
Your First Time at the Controls
During your Discovery Flight, you'll sit in the pilot's seat with a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) by your side. After a brief ground briefing about the aircraft and basic controls, you'll taxi, take off, and actually fly the airplane yourself.
This isn't a ride-along or a tour - you'll be the one flying. Your instructor will guide you through basic maneuvers like straight and level flight, gentle turns, and if you're comfortable, climbs and descents. It's the perfect way to discover if aviation is for you.
Best of all, your Discovery Flight counts as your first logged flight hour should you decide to pursue pilot training. Many of our students say their Discovery Flight was the moment they knew they wanted to become a pilot.
Your Discovery flight journey
From arrival to touchdown, here's what to expect
Arrival & Welcome
1
Meet your certified flight instructor and get comfortable with the training environment. Complete a brief safety briefing and paperwork.
Ground Instruction
2
Learn the fundamentals of flight, basic aircraft controls, and what you'll be doing in the air. No prior knowledge required!
Pre-Flight Check
3
Walk around the aircraft with your instructor, learning about key components and safety checks pilots perform.
Take the Controls
4
Taxi, takeoff, and fly the aircraft yourself! Your instructor is there to guide you every step of the way.
Post-Flight Debrief
5
Discuss your flight experience, receive your logbook entry, and learn about next steps if you want to continue.
Meet Your Flight Instructors
Learn from Mesa's most experienced certified flight instructors
