If you’re looking to take to the skies and pursue a career as a pilot or simply want to learn how to fly, finding the right flight school is essential. Michigan offers a range of flight schools that cater to different needs, offering varying training programs, years of experience, types of aircraft, costs, and other important factors to consider when choosing a flight school.
This page outlines some of the best flight schools in Michigan, providing you with valuable information to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pilot, this guide will help you find the right flight school to suit your needs and help you take the first step towards your aviation goals.
Best Flight Schools in Michigan
DCT Aviation
🗺️6230 North Service Drive, Waterford Twp, MI 48327
☎️(248) 666-1800
🌐https://www.dctaviation.com/
DCT Aviation is a flight school that offers training programs for aspiring pilots. They provide flight instruction for various certifications, including Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, and Multi-Engine training. The flight school follows the guidelines set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and ensures that students receive the necessary training to meet the requirements for each certification.
For the Private Pilot Certificate, DCT Aviation follows the regulations outlined in 14 CFR 61.109. Students are required to complete a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, including 20 hours of flight instruction. This instruction includes 3 hours of cross-country flight, 3 hours of night instruction, and 3 hours of flight by reference to instruments. Additionally, students must complete 10 hours of solo flight time, including 5 hours of solo cross-country flight.
The Instrument Rating program at DCT Aviation follows the guidelines specified in 14 CFR 61.65. Students aiming for an Instrument Rating need to complete a total of 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time. This includes 15 hours of instrument flight training from an authorized instructor, 3 hours of instrument training in preparation for the practical test, and at least 50 hours of cross-country flight time as pilot in command.
The Commercial Pilot program at DCT Aviation requires a minimum of 250 hours of flight time, as outlined in 14 CFR, § 61, Subpart F. This includes 100 hours in powered aircraft, with 50 hours in airplanes and 50 hours in cross-country flight, of which at least 10 hours must be in airplanes. The training also involves 20 hours of training on specific areas of operation, as well as 10 hours of solo flight in a single-engine airplane.
DCT Aviation also offers Multi-Engine training, which does not have a specific minimum hour requirement set by the FAA. However, the training typically involves approximately 10 flight hours in an airplane or simulator, along with 4 hours of ground instruction. The goal is to provide the trainee with the necessary aeronautical knowledge, proficiency, and experience to meet the FAA Practical Test Standards for the Private or Commercial Multi-Engine rating.
Overall, DCT Aviation strives to provide quality flight training and has received positive testimonials from students. They offer various training programs, including Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII), and Certified Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI). International students are also welcome, and DCT Aviation provides guidance through the Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP) process.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot
- Multi-Engine
- CFI, CFII, MEI
Suburban Aviation
🗺️4383 Section Rd, Ottawa Lake, MI 49267
☎️(734) 856-6103
🌐https://suburbanaviation.com/
Suburban Aviation is a premier flight school located just north of Toledo, serving the greater Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan areas. Established in 1984, they have been providing top-notch flight training and services to aspiring pilots for nearly four decades.
One of the highlights of Suburban Aviation’s flight school is their Discovery Flight program. This program is the perfect starting point for individuals interested in pursuing flight training. For a reasonable price of $99, participants get the opportunity to experience the thrill of flying a Cessna Skyhawk 172 with a certified flight instructor by their side. This hands-on introduction to flight training allows individuals to get a genuine feel for being in control of an aircraft.
Once you’ve experienced the Discovery Flight and are eager to continue your journey towards becoming a pilot, Suburban Aviation’s flight school instructors are ready to guide you through the comprehensive Cessna Flight Training curriculum. The flight training program focuses on making the process of becoming a pilot understandable and attainable for students. The training takes place in the Cessna Skyhawk 172, equipped with the latest Garmin avionics, ensuring that students train on the best aircraft available in the market.
Suburban Aviation’s commitment to providing exceptional flight training goes hand in hand with their dedication to creating a hassle-free community airport experience. They offer a full range of services, including aircraft sales, storage, and maintenance. This comprehensive approach allows students and pilots to have all their aviation needs met in one convenient location.
Located at latitude 41-44-9.15 N and longitude 83-39-20.75 W, Suburban Aviation sits at an elevation of 671 feet. The runway dimensions are 4807 feet x 50 feet (asphalt), providing ample space for takeoffs and landings. The flight school’s fleet includes the Cessna 172 Skyhawk, with N6364D and N75976 being their current aircraft. These Skyhawks are equipped with G500 glass cockpits, further enhancing the training experience for students.
Suburban Aviation takes pride in being a family-owned company that prioritizes customer satisfaction. Their aim is to provide the best small community airport experience to customers in the greater Toledo area and Southeast Michigan. With their experienced instructors, state-of-the-art aircraft, and commitment to excellence, Suburban Aviation is an ideal choice for anyone seeking to pursue their dreams of becoming a pilot.
To schedule your Discovery Flight or learn more about Suburban Aviation’s flight school, contact them today. Experience the joy of flight and embark on an exciting journey towards becoming a skilled pilot with Suburban Aviation.
Programs Offered:
- Discovery Flight
Sky Walker Flying
🗺️2667 W Cadmus Rd, Adrian, MI 49221
☎️(517) 759-2590
🌐https://www.skywalkerflying.com/
SkyWalker Flying in Adrian, Michigan offers a comprehensive flight school program that caters to individuals aspiring to become pilots. With a range of courses available, including private pilot lessons, instrument flight training, commercial pilot training, certified flight instructor training, and multi-engine training, SkyWalker Flying provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue their aviation dreams.
The private pilot lessons at SkyWalker Flying are designed to help students obtain their private pilot license. With this license, individuals can fly anywhere in the United States with any number of passengers, offering the freedom to explore the skies. The training program emphasizes both practical and theoretical aspects, covering essential topics such as cross-country flying, night training, instrument training, and solo flight requirements. By meeting the eligibility and experience requirements set by the FAA, students can pass the FAA Private Pilot written exam and practical exam, paving the way to their private pilot license.
For those looking to enhance their flying abilities, instrument flight training is available. This training equips pilots with the necessary skills to fly in instrument meteorological conditions, relying solely on on-board instruments for navigation. SkyWalker Flying emphasizes the importance of instrument flying for single-pilot experiences, preparing pilots to handle unexpected weather conditions and flight plan changes. Through a combination of ground instruction and flight training, students gain confidence and proficiency in instrument flying, expanding their flying opportunities beyond clear weather days.
The commercial pilot training program at SkyWalker Flying opens doors to various rewarding flying opportunities. Upon obtaining a commercial pilot certificate, individuals can fly passengers for hire, transport cargo, and even work as charter pilots. The program requires pilots to meet specific prerequisites, including holding a current private pilot certificate, demonstrating proficiency in English language skills, and possessing a valid medical certificate. With a minimum flight time requirement, along with training in areas such as cross-country flight, instrument flight, and practical test preparation, aspiring commercial pilots can acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue their career in aviation.
Certified flight instructor training is also available at SkyWalker Flying, allowing experienced pilots to help others realize their dream of flight. As a certified flight instructor, individuals can provide training and endorsements required for private and commercial pilot certificates, flight reviews, and other related qualifications. The training program focuses on developing teaching skills and covers topics such as the learning process, effective communication, teaching methods, and aeromedical factors. By completing the necessary training and meeting prerequisites such as holding a commercial pilot certificate and instrument rating, individuals can become certified flight instructors.
Lastly, SkyWalker Flying offers multi-engine training for pilots seeking to expand their skills. The multi-engine rating is an add-on to existing ratings, either commercial or private, and prepares pilots to operate aircraft with more than one engine. With an emphasis on understanding the aerodynamic differences between single and multi-engine planes, as well as handling engine failures, the multi-engine training program equips pilots with the necessary proficiency to pass the practical test. While there are no specific hour requirements, most pilots require around 10 hours of flight training to meet the required standards.
Located at the Lenawee County Airport in Adrian, Michigan, SkyWalker Flying welcomes students from Southeastern Michigan and Northern Ohio, as well as individuals from across the nation. The flight school prides itself on offering affordable courses and providing personalized instruction to ensure the success of their students. Whether one’s goal is to obtain a private pilot license, instrument rating, commercial pilot certificate, certified flight instructor certificate, or multi-engine rating, SkyWalker Flying is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their aviation aspirations.
SkyWalker Flying offers a full range of flight school programs that covers private pilot lessons, instrument flight training, commercial pilot training, certified flight instructor training, and multi-engine training. With a focus on providing high-quality instruction and preparing students for FAA examinations, SkyWalker Flying is committed to helping individuals take the next step towards becoming a pilot.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot Lessons
- Instrument Flight Training
- Commercial Pilot Training
- Certified Flight Instructor
- Multi-Engine Training
Solo Aviation
🗺️801 Airport Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
☎️(734) 994-6651
🌐https://soloaviation.aero/
Solo Aviation, located at 801 Airport Drive in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a flight school that offers a range of flight training services and additional flight services to aviation enthusiasts. With a convenient location in the Terminal Building of the Ann Arbor Municipal Airport, Solo Aviation is easily accessible and provides a variety of training options to suit different goals and interests.
Solo Aviation offers an online scheduling program, which allows students to conveniently make appointments at their own convenience. To gain access to the schedule, students need to complete the required documents and have their profile created by the school. This streamlined process ensures that students can efficiently manage their training and schedule their flight sessions.
Solo Aviation offers Discovery Flights, which provide an opportunity for individuals who have always dreamed of flying to experience it firsthand. During a Discovery Flight, an instructor tailors the flight to the individual’s experience and interests, guiding them through the experience. After the flight, the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) will answer any questions and provide information about flight training requirements and estimates. This introductory experience can help individuals determine if pursuing flight training is the right choice for them.
For those looking to obtain their Private Pilot License, Solo Aviation offers comprehensive training. The Private Pilot License allows individuals to fly to airports across the country and carry passengers. Training for this license covers various aspects of becoming a pilot, including aircraft systems, aerodynamics, navigation, and weather. The training is divided into stages such as pre-solo, solo, cross-country flights, night flying, and flight maneuvers. Successful completion of FAA written and practical exams is required to obtain the Private Pilot Certificate.
Solo Aviation also provides training for Instrument Rating, which allows pilots to fly in the clouds and during times of reduced visibility. This rating requires a minimum of 50 hours of instrument flight, where the instrument panel serves as the pilot’s primary reference. Written and practical tests must be passed to achieve the Instrument Rating.
The flight school offers training for the Commercial Rating, which enables pilots to be paid for their flying services. This rating is suitable for individuals interested in pursuing a career in aviation and requires a minimum of 250 flight hours, as well as proficiency in a complex airplane.
Certified Flight Instructor Ratings are also available at Solo Aviation for individuals passionate about aviation and interested in passing on their knowledge. The Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate allows instructors to provide training to primary students and for Commercial ratings. Additionally, with a second certificate, the Certified Instrument Instructor (CFII), advanced training can be performed. Solo Aviation assists aspiring instructors in obtaining these certifications.
In addition to flight training, Solo Aviation offers various flight services to support pilots’ needs. These include Flight Reviews, Instrument Proficiency Checks, and Aircraft Checkouts to assist with currency requirements and refresher training. They also provide Private Pilot Ground School courses for those who prefer a classroom setting to prepare for FAA knowledge and oral exams. The ground school classes meet once a week for three hours, with semesters starting in September and January.
To enhance training opportunities, Solo Aviation has a Redbird FMX Simulator available. This advanced aviation training device offers full motion and three-axis movement, providing a more forgiving practice environment compared to flying actual aircraft. The simulator is useful for basic training and practicing Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) and equipment failures. Students can log simulator time, which varies depending on the rating being pursued.
For those looking for sightseeing flights or special experiences, Solo Aviation arranges customized flights such as flights over notable landmarks like the “Big House,” Fall Color Tours, Sunset Flights, and even Engagement Flights. Gift certificates are also available for these unique experiences.
Solo Aviation Inc is a well-rounded flight school that offers a range of flight training programs, additional flight services, and unique flight experiences. With their location at the Ann Arbor Municipal Airport, students have easy access to facilities and various amenities nearby. Whether individuals are seeking to pursue a career in aviation or simply fulfill their passion for flying, Solo Aviation provides a supportive and comprehensive learning environment. Contact Solo Aviation at 734-994-6651 to start your aviation journey.
Programs Offered:
- Discovery Flight
- Private Pilot License
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot
- Certified Flight Instructor
- Ground School
- Flight Simulator
Michigan Flyers
🗺️1075 Airport Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
☎️(734) 994-6208
🌐https://michiganflyers.org/
Michigan Flyers is a flight school based at the Ann Arbor Airport in Michigan. With a rich history dating back to the 1920s, the club offers a range of flight training programs and opportunities for aviation enthusiasts.
For individuals interested in experiencing flying for the first time, Michigan Flyers provides an introductory flight lesson. Priced at $99, this lesson allows participants to fly with an instructor in a Cessna aircraft and get a taste of flying. During the lesson, participants will spend time on the ground familiarizing themselves with the instructor, learning about flight preparations, and understanding the aircraft controls. They will then have the opportunity to take control of the aircraft and fly for approximately 30-45 minutes, including a climb over downtown Ann Arbor.
If you decide to pursue flight training with Michigan Flyers, you can expect a comprehensive and structured program. The training involves close collaboration with an instructor, both in the air and on the ground. Additionally, Cessna’s web-based video-rich instruction is utilized, allowing students to learn procedures before putting them into practice. The training covers various aspects, including regulations, radio communications, meteorology, and the extensive knowledge required by pilots.
To obtain a private pilot license, a minimum of 40 hours of flight time is required, although most students typically spend between 50-70 hours before achieving their certificate. The training progresses from instructor-led flights to solo flights, flight planning, night flying, and eventually solo long-distance flights over rural Michigan. Throughout the training, students typically fly with one primary instructor, with occasional checks from the chief instructor.
Michigan Flyers provides transparent information about the costs associated with flight training. The primary costs include instruction, aircraft rental, and club dues. The total cost depends on factors such as the amount of time invested, the type of aircraft used, and the duration of the training. Aircraft rental fees range from $101 to $153 per hour, while instruction fees are billed at $55 per hour. Additionally, monthly club dues of $55 contribute to the club’s fixed costs, including insurance and hangars. Other expenses include the Cessna curriculum materials ($330), a medical exam (approximately $100), and fees for FAA written and in-flight exams.
Michigan Flyers emphasizes the importance of meeting certain qualifications for flight training and obtaining a pilot’s license. The minimum age to solo is 16, and the minimum age to test for a license is 17. Proof of citizenship is required, with U.S. citizens being able to provide a U.S. passport or a birth certificate. Non-U.S. citizens need to provide a passport and VISA and undergo clearance from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Medical certification from an aviation medical examiner is necessary, and individuals with certain medical conditions may need to apply for a special issuance medical certificate. The FAA also considers legal history, particularly related to alcohol and substance abuse offenses, during the certification process.
Michigan Flyers operates as a flying club, providing a unique atmosphere for aviation enthusiasts. The club’s members engage in various activities beyond renting planes, including barbecues, group flights, sports, and socializing. The instructors at Michigan Flyers are independent contractors with diverse backgrounds, adding to the learning experience. Club members benefit from being named-insured on the club’s insurance policy, offering better liability coverage and protection from subrogation.
Michigan Flyers offers a comprehensive flight training program with a rich history and a supportive club environment. Their introductory flight lessons provide a great opportunity to get acquainted with flying, and their structured training programs guide students towards obtaining their private pilot license. If you are interested in learning to fly or experiencing aviation in a community-oriented setting, Michigan Flyers could be a great choice.
Programs Offered:
- Introductory Flight
- Private Pilot License
