If you’re looking to pursue a career in aviation or just interested in learning how to fly, finding the right flight school is crucial. Minnesota boasts several top-notch flight schools that offer a variety of training programs, years of experience, types of aircraft, costs, and other important factors to consider when selecting a flight school.
We’ve outlined the best flight schools in Minnesota, highlighting the differences in their training programs, instructors’ years of experience, fleet of aircraft, costs, and other essential factors to consider.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pilot, this guide will help you find the right flight school that matches your needs and helps you achieve your aviation goals. With this guide, you can explore the various flight schools in Minnesota and make an informed decision to take your first step towards the skies.
Best Flight Schools in Minnesota
- Inflight Pilot Training
- Venture North Aviation
- Alexandria Aviation
- AV8 Flight School
- Lake Elmo Aero
- Thunderbird Aviation Crystal
- Hawk Aviation
- Air Trek North
Inflight Pilot Training
🗺️13801 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
☎️(952) 698-3000
🌐https://inflightpilottraining.com/
Inflight Pilot Training offers a remarkable flight school experience in the Twin Cities Metro Area. As one of the best flight schools in Minnesota, they provide comprehensive pilot training programs for individuals interested in leisure travel, business travel, pursuing a career in aviation, or simply enjoying flying as a hobby.
One of the standout features of Inflight Pilot Training is their Discovery Flight program, which offers an introductory flying session with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). During the Discovery Flight, participants have the opportunity to pilot an aircraft under the instructor’s supervision, experiencing the thrill of being in the pilot-in-command seat. It’s an incredible feeling to ascend into the clear blue sky and see the world from a different perspective. The Discovery Flight also makes for a perfect gift for special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, or even a unique date night.
For those who are already captivated by aviation and are serious about pursuing flight training, Inflight Pilot Training offers Advanced Discovery Flight options. These flights cater to individuals who have previous experience in a small aircraft and are looking to take their training to the next level. These advanced flights provide a more in-depth understanding of flight training and come with special offers for participants.
Inflight Pilot Training is dedicated to providing the best flight training and aircraft rental services in the Twin Cities. They boast a team of expert instructors who are not only skilled pilots but also exceptional teachers. The instructors are carefully selected to ensure a personalized training experience that suits the student’s personality and increases their chances of success. The flight school prioritizes industry standards, instructor availability, and safety to deliver a worry-free and enriching training experience.
In addition to their pilot training programs, Inflight Pilot Training also offers courses to enhance pilot skills and provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences. These skill-building experiences go beyond traditional courses and allow pilots to further develop their abilities while enjoying unforgettable adventures.
For individuals interested in pursuing a career in aviation, Inflight Pilot Training offers a comprehensive pilot training overview. Starting with the Private Pilot program, participants can obtain their single-engine Private Pilot Certificate, which serves as the foundation for a career in aviation. The training progresses to include an Instrument Rating, Time Building, Commercial Pilot License, and Flight Instructor Certificate, providing students with the necessary qualifications to pursue various aviation career paths.
When it comes to pricing, Inflight Pilot Training provides transparent information about the costs associated with flight training. They emphasize that obtaining a pilot’s license is an investment in oneself and a personal achievement that lasts a lifetime. The flight school encourages individuals to consider the long-term value and unique experiences that come with becoming a licensed pilot.
Inflight Pilot Training stands out as an exceptional flight school in the Twin Cities Metro Area. With their commitment to delivering top-class flight training, experienced instructors, and a focus on safety, they provide a comprehensive and enriching training experience for anyone interested in aviation. Whether it’s for leisure, career aspirations, or simply the love of flying, Inflight Pilot Training offers an experience like no other.
Programs Offered:
- Discovery Flight
- Private Pilot
- Commercial Pilot
- Advanced Flight Training Courses
Venture North Aviation
🗺️125 Wheaton Rd, Cloquet, MN 55720
☎️(218) 879-6599
🌐https://www.venturenorthaviation.com/
Venture North Aviation offers a comprehensive range of flight training courses, catering to various levels of experience and aviation goals. Their accelerated flight training programs are designed to provide in-depth and advanced instruction, led by a team of highly experienced pilots with thousands of hours of flight time.
One of their notable offerings is the 10-day Accelerated Instrument Rating Course, which provides a focused and immersive experience for private pilots looking to obtain their instrument rating. The course emphasizes single-pilot operations and scenario-based training, allowing students to gain real-world IFR flying experience from the beginning. The 10th day of the course includes the instrument rating practical test conducted by an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the student’s skills.
In addition to the instrument rating course, Venture North Aviation LLC also offers other accelerated flight training programs such as the commercial pilot training course and certified flight instructor (CFI) courses. These courses are designed to provide efficient and intensive training to help pilots advance their skills and pursue their aviation career goals. The variety of courses available demonstrates their commitment to catering to the diverse needs and aspirations of their students.
Apart from flight training, Venture North Aviation also provides a range of services to support pilots and aircraft owners. These include aircraft rental, aircraft maintenance, aircraft charter, aircraft consulting, professional pilot services, and Jet A and 100LL fuel services. They also offer convenient amenities such as warm hangar space, aircraft tie-downs, conference rooms, pilot briefing rooms, and a comfortable pilot lounge with recliners, TV, private shower, and courtesy vehicle transportation. These additional services and amenities contribute to creating a supportive and comfortable environment for their customers.
Venture North Aviation’s commitment to personalized attention and customer satisfaction is evident in their detailed flight training programs, which cover all aspects of aircraft piloting and ownership. They offer flexibility in course scheduling and customization to meet individual needs. Whether one is a prospective airplane owner, a new pilot, a veteran pilot, or a non-pilot looking to explore aviation, Venture North Aviation LLC aims to provide the necessary guidance and training to help individuals succeed in their aviation ventures.
For those seeking an accelerated instrument rating IFR training course, Venture North Aviation LLC has specific prerequisites, including passing the FAA Instrument written test, possessing the required identification documents, meeting medical certification requirements, and having logged a certain amount of cross-country flight time. The course covers a wide range of topics, including risk management, aeronautical decision-making, flight planning, ATC communications, advanced aircraft systems training, and various instrument approaches.
Venture North Aviation stands out for its comprehensive accelerated flight training programs, experienced instructors, and additional aviation services. Their commitment to providing personalized attention, flexible training options, and a supportive learning environment makes them a reliable choice for individuals looking to pursue their aviation goals.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot
- CFI & CFII
- Seaplane Rating
Alexandria Aviation
🗺️2604 Aga Dr, Alexandria, MN 56308
☎️(320) 762-2111
🌐http://www.alexandriaaviation.com/
Alexandria Aviation is a flight school that provides comprehensive training programs to help individuals achieve their pilot licenses and ratings. With a strong commitment to fostering the aviation community, they strive to offer a positive and supportive atmosphere for their students.
One of the main programs offered by Alexandria Aviation is the Private Pilot License (PPL). The cost of obtaining a PPL can vary based on factors such as the student’s work ethic, learning ability, training pace, and other variables. However, it is generally safe to budget between $9,000 and $11,500 for the Private Pilot License at Alexandria Aviation.
The flight training for a Private Pilot License requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time according to the FAA. However, the national average for new pilots is around 60 hours. At Alexandria Aviation, the average pilot is ready to take their checkride at approximately 50 hours of flight time.
To complete the ground school portion of the training, Alexandria Aviation recommends utilizing online ground school courses such as Sporty’s, Gleim, MZeroA, King, among others. While most of the ground school can be completed online, there are still some topics that need to be covered in person with an instructor. On average, students can expect to budget around 15-20 hours of ground school instruction with an instructor.
The age requirements set by the FAA state that students must be 16 years old to solo an airplane and 17 years old to take the checkride for a Private Pilot License.
Before undertaking their first solo flight, students need to have a valid FAA 3rd Class Medical certificate and a Student Pilot Certificate. While instructors can assist with the Student Pilot Certificate, the medical certificate must be obtained from an FAA-approved physician.
The duration of the training to obtain a pilot license depends on various factors such as personal schedule, work commitments, family obligations, and financial resources. Some students have completed the training in as little as six weeks, while others may take over two years. Alexandria Aviation understands that each student has their unique situation and is committed to finding a flying schedule that works for them. On average, students at Alexandria Aviation take 9-12 months to obtain their license, completing one lesson per week.
A standard lesson at Alexandria Aviation consists of a two-hour block of time, with approximately one hour dedicated to flight time. The length of the lessons can be adjusted based on scheduling requirements.
Alexandria Aviation is willing to travel to the student’s home airport if they provide their own airplane. In such cases, the student will be charged the IRS mileage rate for each round trip. If the student needs to use Alexandria Aviation’s airplane, they will be charged for the aircraft and instructor time to and from their location.
A pilot license obtained through Alexandria Aviation is valid for a lifetime. However, there are specific requirements for maintaining currency.
To obtain a pilot license, two exams are required. The first is a computer-based knowledge exam, which can be taken at any point during flight training. The second is a practical exam, which includes oral and flight segments and is conducted by an FAA-appointed examiner.
For those with additional questions or seeking further information, Alexandria Aviation encourages contacting one of their flight instructors who are ready to assist.
Alexandria Aviation offers competitive instruction rates for various programs and services. The hourly rates are as follows:
- Private Pilot: $55
- In Your Own Airplane: $60
- All Advanced Training: $60
- Multi-Engine Training: $70
- Ground School: $55
Alexandria Aviation has a long-standing presence in the aviation industry, having provided flight training since 1987. Their commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and their comprehensive range of programs, including Private Pilot License, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, and Certified Flight Instructor courses, make them a reliable choice for aspiring pilots.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI & CFII)
- Ground School
- Multi-Engine Training
- Tailwheel Endorsement
- Complex Endorsement
- High Performance Endorsement
- Aircraft Transition Training
AV8 Flight School
🗺️13601 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
☎️(952) 944-2628
🌐https://www.av8flight.com/
AV8 Flight School is a renowned flight training institution located in Minneapolis. With a strong reputation for excellence in the aviation industry, they offer training programs for both airplanes and helicopters, making them the only school in the area to provide instruction for both aircraft types.
The school’s mission is to help individuals discover their true passion in aviation by offering diverse training experiences. They understand that choosing a specific area of aviation can be challenging, so they allow their clients to explore various types of flying. This approach helps students identify their calling and pursue their dreams.
One of the notable aspects of AV8 Flight School is their transparent pricing structure. They have a one-rate pricing system, ensuring that there are no hidden fees or costs associated with flight training. They aim to make aviation accessible to everyone and want individuals to experience the joys and possibilities it offers.
Flight training duration at AV8 Flight School varies based on the student’s availability. Those who can fly four to five times a week have the potential to complete their training in as little as 12 months. On average, students flying two to three times a week typically finish their training within one to two years.
The school emphasizes that becoming a pilot is not as challenging as it may seem. They believe that once a student is in the air, the process becomes straightforward. Similar to riding a bike or driving a car, learning to fly requires time and patience, and AV8 Flight School assures students that anyone can learn to fly with the necessary dedication.
When it comes to cost, the expenses associated with flight school depend on the specific rating being pursued. For a private pilot license, the cost typically ranges between $8,000 and $12,000. For those aspiring to become commercial pilots, the total cost is estimated to be around $40,000 to $50,000.
The school highlights the rewarding nature of a career in aviation. Commercial pilots, on average, earn more than $120,000 per year, with senior pilots having the potential to make over $400,000 annually. AV8 Flight School suggests that if individuals are interested in flight benefits, the opportunity to travel the world, and the potential for a high salary while working a maximum of 1,000 hours per year, becoming a pilot is undoubtedly worth the investment.
AV8 Flight School takes pride in being the only FAA-approved pilot school in Minnesota to offer both fixed-wing airplane and rotary-wing helicopter training. They also provide additional services, including simulator training, maintenance, and an M-1 Visa Program for international flight students.
The instructors at AV8 Flight School bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the training programs. They are qualified to assist students in obtaining various FAA certificates, ratings, and endorsements, such as private pilot, instrument, commercial, multi-engine, and flight instructor licenses. The school’s team of instructors shares a passion for flight and is dedicated to turning out proficient and safe pilots.
In addition, AV8 Flight School has recently introduced Redbird Flight Simulators, which offer a realistic flight experience with full motion capabilities. These simulators can be utilized for training purposes, including private pilot’s license, commercial pilot’s license, multi-engine, instrument rating, flight instructor, and instrument currency.
AV8 Flight School stands out as a reputable institution that provides comprehensive flight training for both airplanes and helicopters. Their commitment to helping individuals achieve their aviation dreams, transparent pricing structure, qualified instructors, and access to state-of-the-art simulators make them an excellent choice for aspiring pilots in the Minneapolis area.
Programs Offered:
- Private
- Instrument
- Commercial
- Multi-Engine Add-on
- Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI)
- Instrument Flight Instructor (CFII)
- Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
Lake Elmo Aero
🗺️3275 Manning Ave N, Lake Elmo, MN 55042
☎️(651) 777-1399
🌐https://www.lakeelmoaero.com/
Lake Elmo Aero is a reputable flight school that provides comprehensive training and ratings for individuals interested in learning to fly for both recreational purposes and as a career. Situated at a relatively small airport, the school offers a conducive learning environment where students can focus on their training without distractions.
The flight school offers a range of training programs and ratings to cater to various needs. These include private pilot, instrument, commercial, multi-engine, CFI/CFII (Certificated Flight Instructor and Instrument Flight Instructor) ratings. Each program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for their aviation journey.
The first step into the world of aviation with Lake Elmo Aero is the Introductory Flight lesson. This experience allows individuals to get a taste of flying and serves as an excellent starting point for those interested in pursuing further training.
For aspiring private pilots, Lake Elmo Aero provides comprehensive instruction to help students earn their private pilot certificate. This certificate enables pilots to fly most single-engine aircraft in visual flight rule (VFR) conditions, day or night, under fair weather conditions. The training involves a minimum of 40 hours of flight training, as well as ground training. Obtaining a private pilot certificate also serves as a foundation for adding an instrument and/or commercial rating in the future.
The prerequisites for the private pilot license include being at least 17 years old to obtain the license and 16 years old to solo. A FAA 3rd Class Medical or a Basic Med certificate is required, along with proficiency in understanding and speaking English.
Lake Elmo Aero emphasizes clear and simple pricing for their instruction. Regardless of the type of instruction received, the rate remains the same. This transparency allows students to easily calculate the cost of each hourly lesson.
In addition to the private pilot license, Lake Elmo Aero offers training programs for instrument rating, commercial rating, multi-engine rating, and flight instructor rating. Each program has specific prerequisites, privileges, and processes outlined to guide students through their training journey.
The instrument rating program enables pilots to fly in instrument flight conditions and operate under instrument flight rules (IFR). The commercial rating program allows pilots to teach students to fly in an airplane for which they are rated. The multi-engine rating program focuses on flight training in twin-engine aircraft, providing improved performance and capabilities.
Lake Elmo Aero emphasizes safety and proficiency throughout the training process. The flight instructor rating program covers various aspects, including the learning process, effective teaching techniques, student evaluation, course development, lesson planning, and more.
Lake Elmo Aero’s multi-engine training program is designed for pilots seeking additional skills and experience in flying twin-engine aircraft. While there is no minimum requirement for instruction hours, the program typically involves approximately 10 hours of flight time with an instructor before taking the final checkride.
The flight school’s commitment to providing comprehensive training, clear pricing, and a focus on safety and proficiency makes Lake Elmo Aero a reliable choice for individuals looking to pursue their aviation goals. Whether it’s learning to fly for personal enjoyment or embarking on a career in aviation, Lake Elmo Aero offers the necessary training and ratings to help students achieve their aspirations.
Programs Offered:
- Intro To Flight
- Private Pilot
- Instrument
- Commercial
- Multi Engine
- CFI / CFII
Thunderbird Aviation Crystal
🗺️5800 Crystal Airport Rd, Crystal, MN 55429
☎️(763) 533-4162
🌐https://www.thunderbirdaviation.com/
Thunderbird Aviation Crystal is an exceptional flight school that stands out in the Twin Cities area. With a rich history spanning 50 years, Thunderbird has established itself as a reputable institution known for providing quality flight training. The flight school boasts advanced facilities and experienced flight instructors, making it an ideal choice for aspiring pilots.
One notable aspect of Thunderbird Aviation Crystal is its exclusive ground school options. Unlike other flight schools in the Twin Cities, Thunderbird offers the unique choice between a formal ground school and Interactive Online Training. This flexibility allows students to tailor their learning experience to their preferences and convenience.
The flight school takes pride in its comprehensive training fleet, which is the largest and most diverse in the Twin Cities. Students have the opportunity to train in a wide array of aircraft, including Piper Warriors, Piper Archers, Piper Arrows, Piper Seminoles, Cessna 172S and R models. This diverse fleet ensures that students receive comprehensive training and exposure to different aircraft types.
Safety is a top priority at Thunderbird Aviation Crystal. The flight school has an excellent safety record and implements an industry-leading safety program. Their commitment to safety is evident through their rigorous maintenance program, which surpasses FAA requirements. With over 45 years of general aviation experience, Thunderbird’s maintenance team ensures that all aircraft undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure optimal safety for students and rental customers.
Another advantage Thunderbird Aviation Crystal offers is its variety of flight training programs. Whether students are pursuing a career in aviation or flying for recreation, Thunderbird has suitable training programs available. They provide FAA 141 and 61 flight training courses, allowing students to tailor their training to their career goals, availability, and learning needs. Additionally, Thunderbird offers college degree programs through their partner, Academy College, providing a comprehensive educational pathway for aspiring pilots.
Financial aid and loan packages are available to support students in their flight training journey. Thunderbird Aviation Crystal offers a Pilot Financing Program as well as Veterans Educational Assistance Programs, making flight training more accessible and affordable for aspiring pilots.
Customer benefits are a priority at Thunderbird Aviation Crystal. The flight school offers internet scheduling for convenient booking, comfortable learning facilities with spacious study and briefing areas, and a large fleet that minimizes downtime for maintenance issues. They also provide a discount program on aircraft rental for customers who pre-pay for a flight course, ensuring affordability and added value for students.
Thunderbird Aviation Crystal is a standout flight school in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. With their rich history, experienced flight instructors, extensive training fleet, and commitment to safety, they provide a comprehensive and top-quality flight training experience. Whether students are looking to start their aviation career or fly for recreation, Thunderbird Aviation Crystal is a reliable choice for fulfilling their flying goals.
Programs Offered:
- Intro Flight Lessons
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Pilot
- Commercial Pilot
- Multi-Engine Pilot
- Certified Flight Instructor
- Instrument Flight Instructor
- Multi-Engine Flight Instructor
- Complex Training
- Flight Review
Hawk Aviation
🗺️51601 County Rd 33, Rush City, MN 55069
☎️(320) 358-3665
🌐https://www.hawk-aviation.com/
Hawk Aviation, serving the aviation community in central Minnesota since 1999, is a well-established flight school offering a range of training programs. With a strong focus on ground schools and comprehensive instruction, Hawk Aviation has been a trusted choice for aspiring pilots in the region.
One of the notable features of Hawk Aviation is their ground schools, which are available both in person and via Zoom. They offer Private Pilot Ground School and Instrument Pilot Ground School, providing aspiring pilots with the necessary knowledge and preparation for their respective certifications. The classes are conducted on Thursday evenings, making it convenient for students to attend. The school follows a structured schedule, ensuring that students receive comprehensive instruction over a specific number of sessions.
Hawk Aviation conducts their ground schools on-site in a classroom setting, a tradition they have maintained for over 20 years. This in-person instruction provides students with a conducive learning environment and direct interaction with experienced instructors. The school utilizes Gleim Aviation textbooks, which can be purchased from Hawk Aviation on the first night of the class.
For those seeking certification, Hawk Aviation is an authorized PSI Testing Center. Once students have completed their ground school and oral preparation, they have the convenience of taking their test on-site at Hawk Aviation’s facility. This streamlined process eliminates the need for students to travel to external testing centers, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Hawk Aviation offers a range of programs to cater to different aviation goals. These programs include Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, Multi-Engine, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, & MEI). Whether students are aiming for a private pilot license, seeking instrument flying proficiency, pursuing a commercial pilot career, or aspiring to become flight instructors, Hawk Aviation provides the necessary training and support.
It is worth mentioning that Hawk Aviation’s tuition fees for ground schools do not expire. Once students pay for a class, they are welcome to attend any future ground schools at no additional charge. This demonstrates Hawk Aviation’s commitment to ongoing education and support for their students.
Hawk Aviation has built a strong reputation in central Minnesota as a flight school offering comprehensive ground schools and diverse training programs. With their experienced instructors, convenient testing center, and commitment to student success, Hawk Aviation is a reliable choice for individuals looking to pursue a career or hobby in aviation.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot
- Multi-Engine
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, & MEI)
Air Trek North
🗺️1620 Henry Ave, South St Paul, MN 55075
☎️(952) 594-1184
🌐https://www.airtreknorth.com/
Air Trek North Flight School is a distinguished flight school located in the Minneapolis/St Paul Area. With the highest number of full-time instructors (16) who are experienced and awarded, Air Trek North offers exceptional flight training programs. The flight school operates seven days a week, from 7 am to 11 pm, providing flexibility to students.
What sets Air Trek North apart is their commitment to personalized training. They understand that each student has unique needs and schedules, and they customize training plans accordingly. The flight school takes the time to get to know students, their learning strengths, and weaknesses, ensuring a tailored approach to instruction.
Air Trek North’s flight instructors are highly skilled, with many of them holding a GOLD SEAL rating from the FAA. This prestigious rating signifies their exceptional pass rate standards and makes them ideal mentors for younger flight instructors. The flight school’s dedication to quality instruction is reflected in their outstanding student satisfaction rating.
The flight training programs at Air Trek North are designed to help students achieve their dreams of flying. Whether aspiring to become a private pilot, instrument pilot, commercial pilot, multi-engine pilot, or seaplane pilot, Air Trek North offers comprehensive training programs. They have trained thousands of successful students, and their instructors have experience in major airlines, regional airlines, cargo carriers, and charter companies both in the United States and abroad.
Air Trek North also offers accelerated flight training programs, allowing students to complete their training quickly and efficiently. These programs cover various ratings and can be completed in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional training. Students can choose from programs such as Private Pilot, Instrument Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Multi-Engine, and Seaplane training, with average completion times provided for each program.
For those interested in specific programs, Air Trek North offers an accelerated Instrument Pilot training program and an accelerated Commercial Pilot Single Engine rating program. The Instrument Pilot program includes plane rental, ground training, and study material, and it can be completed in a focused timeframe. The Commercial Pilot Single Engine program provides flight training, ground training, and study material, allowing students to obtain their commercial rating efficiently.
Air Trek North also offers an accelerated Multi-Engine Add-On rating program, which allows students to add the Multi-Engine rating to their existing private or commercial rating. This program includes dual flight training, ground training, study material, and a high-performance endorsement.
Additionally, Air Trek North provides seaplane training, offering an accelerated Seaplane Add-On rating program. This program allows students to experience the thrill of seaplane flying and includes training on amphibious floats. The flight school takes advantage of the beautiful Minneapolis/Saint Paul Lakes and River area, providing a unique and enjoyable training experience.
Air Trek North Flight School stands out for its experienced and award-winning instructors, personalized training approach, and comprehensive accelerated flight training programs. With their commitment to excellence and passion for flying, Air Trek North is a top choice for anyone looking to learn to fly and fulfill their aviation dreams.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Pilot
- Commercial Pilot
- Multi-Engine
- Seaplane
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, & MEI)
- ATP
