Best Flight Schools in Detroit, Michigan

When selecting a flight school in Detroit, focus on the following key factors:

  1. Program Range: You may change your mind regarding the level of training you want to pursue, so choose a school providing diverse training programs, from private to commercial pilot licenses, as well as specialized training like instrument ratings.
  2. Cost Efficiency: Evaluate total expenses encompassing tuition, aircraft rental, instructor fees, and study materials. Seek transparent pricing and explore financial aid opportunities.
  3. Accessible Location: Prioritize schools close to your residence or with convenient transportation links. A nearby location minimizes commuting time, and encourages regular attendance and efficient training.

Best Flight Schools in Detroit


DCT Aviation

🗺️6230 N. Service Drive, Waterford, MI 48327
☎️248-666-1800
🌐dctaviation.com

DCT Aviation offers a diverse flight training program catering to various goals, from private pilot all the way to multi-engine ATP certification. Their fleet is equipped to meet requirements for private, instrument, and commercial pilot training.

In addition to flight instruction, DCT provides charter services through DCT Air and simulation training opportunities with DCT in Motion to enhance skill development cost-effectively.

The school is an FAA designated computer testing center, authorized to administer FAA knowledge exams for added convenience.

DCT Aviation’s programs cover private pilot, instrument rating, commercial pilot, multi-engine training, as well as certified flight instructor (CFI/CFII/MEI) certifications. They also offer specialized training for international students through the Alien Flight Student Program.

With a focus on fulfilling individual objectives, DCT Aviation aims to provide a comprehensive array of aviation training and services in the Detroit area.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot
  • Multi-Engine Training
  • Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
  • Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
  • Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
  • International Student Training (Alien Flight Student Program)

Halls Flying Service

🗺️Monroe Custer Airport: 2800 N. Custer Rd Monroe, MI 48162
🗺️Grosse Ile Airport: 9505 Groh Rd, Grosse Ile Township, MI 48138
☎️Monroe Custer Airport: 734-775-8640
☎️Grosse Ile Airport: 734-346-1930
🌐halls-flyingservices.com

Halls Flying Service is a flight school located in the Detroit area with a focus on providing comprehensive flight training programs. The school offers training for private pilot licenses, instrument ratings, commercial pilot licenses, and high-performance endorsements. They prioritize safety and adhere to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) standards, including the implementation of a Passenger Emergency Response Plan (PERP).

The flight school operates out of two locations: Grosse Ile Airport and Monroe Custer Airport. They offer a wide range of services, including private, instrument, high-performance, and passenger emergency response training, as well as aircraft management, sales, and delivery services.

Halls Flying Service takes pride in developing skilled and knowledgeable pilots by providing comprehensive ground school and flight training. Their experienced and certified flight instructors guide students through various milestones, such as solo flights, cross-country flights, night flying, and practical examinations.

With a focus on safety and a commitment to delivering high-quality aviation education, Halls Flying Service aims to be the premier flight training facility in Southeast Michigan.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot License
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot License
  • High Performance Endorsement
  • Discovery Flight (Introductory Flight Lesson)

Oakland Flight Training

🗺️2672 Industrial Row Troy, MI 48084
☎️810-614-2517
🌐oaklandft.com

Oakland Flight Training offers high-quality flight instruction at two locations – Ray Community Airport and Oakland/Troy Airport. They specialize in providing Part 61 pilot training courses for aspiring aviators.

The school takes pride in its experienced and certified flight instructors who guide students through the journey of earning their private pilot’s license. The private pilot course equips students with essential skills, including understanding principles of flight dynamics and aviation regulations.

After obtaining the private pilot license, students can further their training by pursuing additional ratings and endorsements tailored to their specific goals. Oakland Flight Training aims to foster a passion for aviation and provide an environment where pilots can develop and refine their flying abilities.

With a focus on personalized instruction and a commitment to student success, Oakland Flight Training strives to create a rewarding and enjoyable experience for individuals pursuing their dreams of flight.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot Certificate/License
  • Additional Ratings and Endorsements

Michigan Flyers

🗺️1075 Airport Dr. Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48108
☎️734-994-6208
🌐michiganflyers.org

The Michigan Flyers is a non-profit flying club with a rich aviation history dating back to the 1920s. The club offers a welcoming atmosphere for members who share a passion for flying.

Students work closely with independent, experienced flight instructors to earn their private pilot’s license. Training follows a structured curriculum, combining ground school, web-based instruction, and hands-on flight time in the club’s well-maintained Cessna aircraft.

As a club member, students benefit from affordable aircraft rental rates, comprehensive insurance coverage, and a supportive community of fellow aviators. The club prides itself on providing quality flight training while fostering a love for aviation.

Prospective pilots can start with an introductory $120 discovery flight before committing to the full private pilot training program. Overall, the Michigan Flyers aims to make the journey towards becoming a licensed pilot an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot License Training
  • Introductory Discovery Flight

Crosswinds Aviation

🗺️6544 Highland Rd, Waterford Twp, MI 48327
☎️517-552-1101
🌐crosswindsaviation.com

Crosswinds Aviation operates out of multiple locations across Michigan, including Howell, Oakland County International Airport, Flint Bishop Airport, and Willow Run Airport. The school offers a range of pilot training programs, from private pilot licenses to commercial licenses and instructor ratings.

With a focus on safety and efficient training, Crosswinds Aviation provides structured syllabi that combine ground instruction, textbook learning, and hands-on flight time in modern, technologically advanced aircraft. Students can benefit from flexible scheduling options to accommodate their availability.

The flight school takes pride in its experienced and caring instructors who aim to guide aspiring pilots effectively through each stage of their training. Crosswinds Aviation also offers aircraft rental services, allowing students and licensed pilots to fly their well-equipped fleet.

Whether pursuing aviation as a hobby or a professional career path, Crosswinds Aviation strives to deliver comprehensive flight training tailored to individual goals in a supportive learning environment.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot License
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot License
  • Multi-Engine Rating
  • Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
  • Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII)
  • College Program with Eastern Michigan University (EMU 4 year degree option)

Solo Aviation

🗺️801 Airport Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108
☎️734-994-6651
🌐soloaviation.aero

Solo Aviation is a flight school and fixed-base operator (FBO) situated at the Ann Arbor Municipal Airport, just three miles south of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Founded in 2004 by John Solo, the school aims to foster a vibrant aviation community in the region.

As an FBO, Solo Aviation provides services to transient pilots and passengers visiting the area. However, its core focus is on flight training. The school offers a range of programs, including discovery flights for those interested in exploring aviation, as well as certifications for private pilot licenses, instrument ratings, commercial ratings, and flight instructor ratings.

In addition to traditional flight lessons, Solo Aviation provides specialty training, ground school courses, and access to a Redbird FMX full-motion flight simulator for enhanced training opportunities. The school takes pride in helping countless students achieve their aviation dreams and go on to pursue professional careers in the industry.

With a commitment to delivering personalized services and fostering a passion for flight, Solo Aviation strives to meet the diverse aviation needs of the local community and visitors alike.

Programs Offered:

  • Discovery Flights
  • Private Pilot License
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Rating
  • Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Rating
  • Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) Rating
  • Flight Reviews
  • Instrument Proficiency Checks
  • Aircraft Checkouts
  • Private Pilot Ground School Courses
  • Specialty Training (Details not provided)
  • Sightseeing Flights

Suburban Aviation

🗺️4383 Section Road, Ottawa Lake, MI 49267
☎️734-856-6103
🌐suburbanaviation.com

Suburban Aviation is a family-owned flight school and aviation services provider situated just north of Toledo, Ohio. The school caters to the greater Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan areas, offering a hassle-free experience at their community airport.

For aspiring pilots, Suburban Aviation provides flight training through its flight school. Students can begin their journey with a $99 Discovery Flight, an introductory lesson that allows them to experience flying a Cessna Skyhawk 172 alongside a certified instructor.

The school follows the Cessna Flight Training curriculum, guiding students through the process of obtaining their pilot’s licenses in modern, well-equipped Cessna aircraft with the latest Garmin avionics.

In addition to flight training, Suburban Aviation offers comprehensive aircraft maintenance services performed by Cessna factory-trained technicians. The company also provides aircraft storage facilities.

With a commitment to making the dream of flight a reality, Suburban Aviation aims to deliver a personalized and rewarding experience for both student pilots and aircraft owners in the region.

Programs Offered:

  • Discovery Flight ($99 introductory flight lesson)
  • Pilot Training (Details not specified, but likely includes Private Pilot and other certifications/ratings following the Cessna curriculum)