The Anchorage area offers a diverse range of flight training options to suit every aspiring pilot’s needs.
From accelerated programs at schools like Fly Around Alaska to comprehensive career development at Arctic Flyers, there are paths for both recreational and professional aviation pursuits.
Schools like Angel Aviation, Land and Sea Aviation, and Blue River Aviation provide training tailored to Alaska’s unique environments, with specialized skills like bush flying. The Elmendorf Aero Club caters to those with base access.
Whether seeking a discovery flight, private pilot certification, or advanced ratings, Anchorage’s flight schools prepare students for the challenges of exploring Alaska’s vast airspace.
Best Flight Schools in Anchorage
- Angel Aviation
- Land & Sea Aviation
- Arctic Flyers Flight Training
- Elmendorf Aero Club
- Fly Around Alaska Flight School
- Blue River Aviation
Angel Aviation
🗺️Merrill Field Airport: 2301 Merrill Field Drive Anchorage, AK 99501
☎️907-312-8298
🌐ak.angelaviation.com
Angel Aviation is a flight school based at Merrill Field in Anchorage that caters to a wide range of aspiring pilots. With its fleet of Cessna 172s, Piper Seneca IIs, and Piper PA-14s, the school seems well-suited for:
- Students just starting out in their aviation journey looking for private pilot training and aircraft rentals as they build hours and experience. Competitive rates make it an affordable option.
- More experienced pilots seeking multi-engine time building, commercial pilot certifications, or an instrument rating can take advantage of the school’s diverse fleet and instructor guidance.
- Those pursuing aviation as a career path will benefit from Angel Aviation’s professional pilot development focused on providing the training needed to achieve advanced certificates and ratings efficiently.
Additionally, the school highlights its dedication to well-maintained aircraft and quality instruction from seasoned pilots with decades of Alaskan and commercial flying backgrounds.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot Training
- Instrument Rating Training
- Commercial Pilot Training
- Multi-Engine Rating Training
Land & Sea Aviation
🗺️Merrill Field Airport: 2400 E 5th Ave Anchorage, AK 99501
☎️907-274-2544
🌐landandseaaviationalaska.com
Land and Sea Aviation specializes in providing flight training tailored for aspiring Alaskan pilots. With experienced instructors dedicated to excellent customer service, the school offers a range of pilot certification programs ideal for those looking to take to the state’s vast and remote airspace.
The school excels at preparing students for the unique challenges of flying in Alaska’s diverse environments through programs like tailwheel and complex/multi-engine endorsements. Their one-year commercial pilot curriculum provides an efficient pathway for career-minded students.
Land and Sea is well-suited for both full-time aviation students seeking structured Part 141 training as well as those desiring the flexibility of the Part 61 route. No matter the training method, the school aims to create an enjoyable learning experience.
With aircraft rentals and testing services, Land and Sea caters to licensed pilots as well. The school equips Alaskans of all experience levels with the skills to explore the state’s unparalleled natural beauty through flight.
Whether pursuing aviation as a recreational passion or professional path, Land and Sea Aviation offers a comprehensive, locally-tailored training experience ideal for pilots mastering the distinctive Alaskan landscape from the air.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- One Year Commercial Pilot Program
- Multi-Engine Add-On
- Tailwheel Endorsement
- Complex Endorsement
- Flight Review
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
- Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
- Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
- FAA Written Exams
Arctic Flyers Flight Training
🗺️2641 Melvin Ave, Anchorage, AK 99517
☎️907-441-7819
🌐arcticflyers.net
Aspiring Alaskan pilots looking to gain extensive experience in the unique challenges of flying in the state’s harsh environments and remote terrain. The school specializes in tailwheel, float plane, and emergency operations instruction vital for bush flying.
Students seeking a comprehensive training foundation not just in piloting skills, but also in-depth aircraft systems knowledge. Arctic Flyers prides itself on producing pilots with a granular understanding of the aircraft they fly.
Those interested in pursuing advanced ratings and certifications like commercial, instrument, and ATP. With highly experienced instructors, the school offers training through the highest levels.
Pilots wanting exposure to the full range of Alaska flying conditions, as the school operates out of both the smaller Lake Hood Strip and Anchorage International Airport.
Arctic Flyers caters to serious aviation students, both recreational and professional, looking to become exceptionally skilled and safe pilots prepared for the unique demands of Alaskan airspace. The tailored curriculum provides focused training on the core competencies required to operate across the state’s diverse landscapes.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Commercial Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
- Tailwheel Endorsement
- Float Plane Endorsement
- Emergency Maneuvers Training
Elmendorf Aero Club
🗺️Elmendorf Airport: Hanger 7, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, AK 99506
☎️907-552-5435
🌐jberaeroclub.com
The Aero Club is a flight school in the Anchorage area tailored for those with base access. It offers personalized consultations, introductory flights, and comprehensive training programs to become a private pilot or obtain an instrument rating.
The school caters to individuals aged 17 and above, proficient in English, and meeting the necessary medical requirements. The private pilot course follows the FAA’s Part 141 syllabus, combining ground instruction (35 hours) and flight training (35 hours minimum).
In addition to the flight training, the Aero Club provides ground school courses covering various aviation topics. The cost for ground school is $450, while the estimated total expense for obtaining a private pilot license ranges from $12,000 to $15,000, depending on individual factors.
To get started, join the Aero Club by filling out a membership application and paying the applicable fees. The club offers a diverse fleet of aircraft for rental, with hourly rates varying based on the plane type.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
Fly Around Alaska Flight School
🗺️Palmer Airport: 821 S Airport Rd. Palmer, AK 99645
☎️907-746-2290
🌐flyaroundalaska.com
Fly Around Alaska Flight School specializes in personalized pilot training tailored to each student’s goals. Located at the Palmer Airport, the school prepares aviators to confidently navigate the state’s challenging landscapes and weather conditions.
The school excels at accelerated training programs like their 14-day private pilot course, 3-4 day multi-engine commercial add-on, and intensive instrument ratings. This rapid yet comprehensive approach suits motivated individuals looking to earn certifications efficiently.
With a 98% student success rate, Fly Around Alaska boasts an expert instructor team dedicated to safety and mastery. Their proven curriculum covers all licensures from private pilot through commercial and instructor levels.
Beyond standard ratings, the school offers specialized Alaska bush flying skills like off-airport operations and wilderness survival – crucial for those pursuing aviation careers in the state’s remote regions.
Fly Around Alaska provides a unique Alaskan training experience best suited for career-oriented students seeking an immersive, high-quality fast-track to advanced pilot certifications and familiarity with the singular demands of flying in the Last Frontier.
Programs Offered:
- Accelerated Private Pilot Program
- Commercial Pilot Training
- Airline Pilot Program
- Multi-Engine Add-On Rating
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Training
- Flight Reviews
- Guaranteed Instrument Rating
- Guaranteed Private Pilot Program
- Instrument Rating
- Specialized Flight Training (Off-Airport, Bush Survival, etc.)
Blue River Aviation
🗺️Palmer Airport: 720 E Yukon St, Palmer, AK 99645
☎️907-414-0371
🌐blueriveraviation.com
Blue River Aviation provides a wide range of aviation services in the Anchorage area. For sightseers, they offer breathtaking flightseeing tours showcasing Alaska’s majestic landscapes from the air.
The school’s fleet of diverse aircraft like Cessnas, Pipers, and bush planes equipped with floats, skis, and wheels allows access to remote areas. They provide air charters and transport for outdoor adventures like hunting, fishing, and camping trips to Alaska’s backcountry.
As a flight training center, Blue River specializes in professional pilot development from private pilot through commercial, multi-engine, and instructor ratings. Their programs prepare students for the unique challenges of Alaskan bush flying with specialized training in tailwheel, floats, skis, and off-airport operations.
Whether for scenic tours, wilderness excursions, aircraft rentals, or becoming an FAA-certified pilot – Blue River Aviation combines modern aircraft with decades of expertise operating in Alaska’s rugged aviation environment. Their services cater to both adventure-seekers and career aviators drawn to the Last Frontier.
Programs Offered:
- Discovery Flight
- Private Pilot Certificate
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot Certificate
- Multi-Engine Add-On
- Float Rating
- Tailwheel Endorsement
- Seaplane Rating
- Ski Plane Rating
