Best Flight Schools in Phoenix, Arizona

Becoming a commercial or private pilot in Phoenix, Arizona offers numerous benefits:

  1. Vast Aviation Opportunities: Phoenix is home to a thriving aviation industry with numerous airports, flight schools, and aviation companies. Aspiring pilots have access to a wide range of training resources, job opportunities, and networking possibilities, facilitating career advancement and growth in the field.
  2. Ideal Weather Conditions: Phoenix has nearly year-round sunshine and favorable flying weather, with minimal precipitation and clear skies. These ideal weather conditions provide pilots with ample opportunities for flight training, allowing for consistent practice and skill development without significant weather-related disruptions.
  3. Scenic Flight Destinations: Arizona’s diverse landscape, including the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rock formations, and the Sonoran Desert, offers breathtaking scenic flight destinations. Pilots can enjoy exploring these natural wonders from the air, enhancing their flying experience and providing opportunities for recreational flying and sightseeing adventures.

Best Flight Schools in Phoenix


Arizona Flight Training Center

🗺️6799 N. Glen Harbor Blvd. Glendale, Arizona 85307
☎️623-877-9334
🌐arizonaflighttrainingcenter.com

Arizona Flight Training Center (AFTC) is a flight school located in the Glendale Municipal Airport, about 30 minutes Northwest from downtown Phoenix. It was established in 2008 to offer personalized flight training programs.

AFTC has a 5,000 square foot training facility and 5,400 square feet of hangar space. Its fleet includes light sport aircraft, trainers, rentals, and multi-engine planes from manufacturers like Cessna, Piper, Czech Sport Aircraft, and Cirrus. Some aircraft feature advanced glass cockpits.

The school specializes in programs for professional pilots and military transitions. Its Professional Pilot Program guides students from zero experience to an Airline Transport Pilot certificate. The Rotor Transition Program helps helicopter pilots earn fixed-wing commercial multi-engine ratings.

Individual courses cover private pilot, instrument, commercial single/multi-engine, and other ratings. Training utilizes one-on-one instruction, home study, test prep, and flight time in the school’s aircraft.

Programs Offered:

  • Professional Pilot Program
  • Rotor Transition Program
  • Private Pilot Course
  • Instrument Rating Course
  • Commercial Pilot Multi-Engine
  • Commercial Pilot Single-Engine Add-On
  • Civilian ATP Course

Leopard Aviation

🗺️14700 N Airport Dr Suite 101 Scottsdale, AZ 85260
☎️480-637-4217
🌐leopardaviation.com

Leopard Aviation is a flight school operating out of Scottsdale Airport and Falcon Field in Mesa, Arizona. It offers flight training programs in brand new aircraft with consistent instructors and flexible schedules.

The school aims to provide premier instruction using advanced training planes like the Cessna 172S Skyhawk with Garmin G1000 avionics. Leopard prides itself on hiring friendly, student-focused certified flight instructors.

Training programs include discovery flights, private and commercial pilot licenses, instrument ratings, multi-engine ratings, flight instructor certification, and proficiency courses. The school strives to make learning fun and efficient for students’ goals, whether recreational flying or an airline career.

Leopard Aviation offers both pay-as-you-go and financing options for flight training out of its Scottsdale and Mesa locations. Its philosophy centers on clear guidance, reducing frustrations, and ensuring student success.

Programs Offered:

  • Discovery Flights
  • Multi-Engine Rating
  • Private Pilot License
  • Biennial Flight Review
  • Instrument Rating
  • Instrument Proficiency
  • Commercial Pilot License
  • Certified Flight Instructor

Fly Goodyear Flight Training

🗺️1658 S Litchfield Rd, Goodyear, AZ 85338
☎️623-469-4422
🌐flygoodyear.com

Fly Goodyear, formerly Buckeye Flight Experience, has provided flight training in the Phoenix Valley for over a decade. Located at Goodyear Airport, the school offers personalized single-engine and multi-engine instruction.

Training programs cater to students learning for recreational purposes or aviation careers. Fly Goodyear utilizes online ground school for flexibility along with in-person flight lessons. Instructors include a diverse mix of men, women, younger and older pilots.

The school’s single-engine training follows Part 61 or Part 141 syllabi for private, instrument, commercial, and instructor ratings. Multi-engine courses cover add-on ratings as well as time building in their turbocharged Piper Seneca II.

Financing options through Flight Training Finance allow students to pay for lessons over time with potential interest refunds.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
  • Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
  • Private Pilot Multi-Engine Add-on
  • Instrument Multi-Engine Add-on
  • Commercial Pilot Multi-Engine Add-on
  • Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
  • Multi-Engine Time Building

Fly Eagle Sport

🗺️6635 N Glen Harbor Blvd Glendale, AZ 85307,
☎️602-899-2028
🌐https://flyeaglesport.com/

Fly Eagle Sport is a flight school located in the Phoenix area, offering an affordable solution for various pilot certifications. Their programs are designed to provide the same qualifications as larger flight academies but at a significantly lower cost.

The school offers an 18-Hour Solo Flight Training Program, which includes aircraft rental, flight instruction, and preparation sessions for beginners to learn the basics of flying. They also provide structured programs for Private Pilot, Sport Pilot, and Rotor Transition certifications.

Fly Eagle Sport prides itself on transparent pricing and honest communication. Their programs include all necessary materials, such as a headset, flight computer, plotter, and logbook, as well as the required aircraft rental hours, instructor time, and checkride fees.

The school emphasizes flexibility, affordability, and a rewarding learning experience. They work closely with students to identify their goals and pair them with dedicated instructors who cater to individual learning styles.

Programs Offered:

  • 18 Hour Solo Flight Training Program
  • Private Pilot License Program
  • Sport Pilot License Program
  • Rotor Transition Program
  • Pay As You Go Courses

California Aeronautical University – Phoenix

🗺️4517 E Mallory Cir #115, Mesa, AZ 85215
☎️661-615-5915
🌐calaero.edu/phoenix-flight-training/

CAU Phoenix is a flight training center and aviation school located at Falcon Field Airport in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers structured degree programs designed to help students achieve their goals of becoming professional pilots.

As an FAA Part 141 approved flight school, CAU Phoenix provides time-saving benefits and a pathway to earning up to six certificates and ratings, including private, instrument, commercial, and instructor ratings. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics or Associate of Science in Aviation Studies for fixed-wing or helicopter training.

The Phoenix location offers several advantages, including year-round favorable flying conditions, access to nearby practice areas, and a dynamic aviation environment at the fifth busiest general aviation airport in the U.S. CAU Phoenix accepts veteran educational benefits and provides financial aid opportunities for qualified students.

The university has partnered with major airlines, creating direct pathways to airline cadet programs for its aviation students. With experienced instructors, access to the school’s aircraft fleet, and a focus on career preparation, CAU Phoenix aims to elevate students’ aspirations of becoming professional pilots.

Programs Offered:

  • Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
  • Associate of Science in Aviation Studies (fixed-wing)
  • Associate of Science in Aviation Studies (helicopter)
  • Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration (online)
  • Master of Aviation Science (online)

Classic Air Aviation Flight Center

🗺️4805 E Falcon Drive, Mesa, AZ 85215
☎️602-574-5376
🌐classicairaviation.com

Classic Air Aviation is a flight school and fixed-base operator (FBO) located in Mesa, Arizona. They offer a range of flight training programs tailored to individual needs, from private pilot licenses to commercial ratings and certified flight instructor certifications.

The school prides itself on providing an affordable and personalized experience. Students can pay for lessons individually without upfront program costs. Classic Air Aviation offers self-paced and accelerated training options, as well as specialized courses like tailwheel or complex aircraft endorsements.

Their curriculum emphasizes a balance of traditional navigation techniques and modern technology, ensuring comprehensive skill development. The school’s mid-sized operation allows for a friendly, one-on-one learning environment while still providing access to professional facilities and a diverse fleet of aircraft.

Classic Air Aviation aims to streamline the training process with a structured syllabus delivered by experienced instructors. They also offer financing options, military prep courses, and various pilot resources to support students throughout their aviation journey.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • Multi-Engine Commercial Rating
  • Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
  • Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
  • Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
  • Tailwheel Endorsement
  • Complex Aircraft Endorsement
  • Military Aviation Prep Courses

AeroGuard Flight Training Center

🗺️530 W Deer Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85027
☎️623-233-1630
🌐flyaeroguard.com/locations/arizona/phoenix-flight-school/

AeroGuard Flight Training Center operates a flight school located at Deer Valley Airport (KDVT) in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers career-focused programs aimed at training students to become commercial pilots.

The Phoenix campus provides an ideal training environment with a diverse fleet of Piper aircraft, including air-conditioned planes for student comfort. Students have access to simulators for practice and mastery of specific flight techniques.

KDVT’s surrounding airspace exposes students to a mix of controlled and uncontrolled areas, allowing them to gain experience in radio communications and maneuvers. The location also offers parallel runways, numerous instrument approaches, and favorable weather conditions throughout the year.

AeroGuard’s Phoenix flight school features advanced equipment, quality curriculum, financing options, dedicated facilities like briefing rooms and a maintenance station. Students receive personalized support from academic advisors and ground school workshops.

The school partners with airlines, offering programs tailored for various backgrounds, such as the Pilot Pathway Program for new students and the Rotor Transition Program for experienced helicopter pilots.

Programs Offered:

  • Pilot Pathway Program
  • Rotor Transition Program
  • University Flight Training Programs
  • International Student Programs

UND Aerospace Foundation

🗺️5865 S. Sossaman Rd. Mesa, AZ 85212
☎️480-809-4499
🌐airlinepilot.training/best-flight-schools-in-arizona/

The UND Aerospace Foundation Flight Training Center is a renowned flight school located in Mesa, Arizona, near the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. It offers flexible flight training programs under FAA Part 141 and Part 61 regulations, designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful aviation career.

The school provides two distinct training paths: an accelerated program for quicker completion and a collegiate program in partnership with Chandler-Gilbert Community College. Training takes place in a structured environment with highly qualified instructors offering personalized attention.

As a non-profit organization, the UND Aerospace Foundation prioritizes cost-effectiveness without compromising quality. It provides access to financial aid options, including partnerships with Sallie Mae for private student loans and federal aid through the collegiate program.

The Mesa flight training center boasts modern aircraft and cutting-edge technology, combined with an FAA-approved curriculum. This immersive learning experience, coupled with the school’s reputation for producing sought-after aviators, makes the UND Aerospace Foundation a leading choice for aspiring pilots in Arizona.

Programs Offered:

  • Accelerated Flight Training Program
  • Private Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • FAA Medical
  • Collegiate Flight Training Program (in partnership with Chandler-Gilbert Community College)