Mississippi has a rich aviation history and is home to some of the most reputable flight schools in the United States, providing top-notch training for individuals who aspire to become private or commercial pilots.
This page serves as a guide to the top flight schools in Mississippi, outlining the different flight training programs offered at each school, information about the teachers, their years of experience, the type of aircraft available for training, the cost of tuition, and other essential factors to consider when selecting a flight school.
Choosing the right flight school is a crucial decision for any aspiring pilot, and this guide provides all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pilot, read on to learn more about the best flight schools in Mississippi and find the one that best fits your needs.
Best Flight Schools in Mississippi
- Circle S Aviation
- Air Venture Flight Center
- Madison Flyers
- Redcel Aviation
- Luke Weathers Flight Academy
- Aspire Aviation
- Geaux Giddum Aviation
- Apollo Aviation
Circle S Aviation
🗺️320 Airport Rd, Starkville, MS 39759
☎️(205) 422-5721
🌐https://www.starkvillecirclesaviation.com/
Circle S Aviation offers a flight school program designed to cater to various aviation goals. Whether you aspire to become a private pilot, professional pilot, or simply wish to conquer your fears, Circle S Aviation has you covered. With their FAA certified flight instructors and well-maintained aircraft fleet, they provide an excellent learning environment for aspiring pilots.
One of the notable services offered by Circle S Aviation is their Discovery Flight. Priced at only $75 for an hour, this introductory experience allows individuals to get a taste of the world of aviation. Under the guidance of a certified flight instructor, participants receive exclusive instruction on flight controls and aerodynamics while also learning about pre-flight procedures. The experience continues as you taxi the aircraft to the runway and prepare for your assisted take-off. Once airborne, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective from above as you pilot the aircraft over Starkville, taking in sights like the Mississippi State University campus and Davis Wade Stadium. With the instructor’s assistance, you’ll also experience your first ever landing from the cockpit. At the end of the flight, your instructor will sign your logbook, officially documenting your lesson as the first of many flights to come.
For those interested in pursuing pilot training further, Circle S Aviation offers a range of programs to meet different goals. Their Private Pilot, International Flight Student Program, Instrument Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Certified Flight Instructor, and Certified Flight Instructor Instrument programs cater to individuals at various stages of their aviation journey. These programs provide the necessary training and guidance to help aspiring pilots achieve their goals and obtain the required certifications.
Circle S Aviation’s aircraft fleet consists of well-maintained planes suited for flight instruction or rental purposes. The Cessna 172, a popular choice, offers comfortable seating for four individuals and has a gross weight of 2300 pounds. With a fuel capacity of 42 gallons and a range of 435 nautical miles, this aircraft is well-equipped for training purposes. Another option is the Cessna 150, which accommodates two persons and has a maximum gross weight of 1600 pounds. It features a fuel capacity of 26 gallons and a range of 304 miles. Additionally, Circle S Aviation provides the Cessna 172 All Glass Dynon Suite, a technically advanced aircraft with a seating capacity of four. This aircraft offers a maximum gross weight of 2,300 pounds, a fuel capacity of 66 gallons, and a range of 690 miles.
Circle S Aviation offers a great flight school experience with dedicated flight instructors and a diverse fleet of well-maintained aircraft. Whether you’re interested in an introductory Discovery Flight or pursuing pilot training, their programs are designed to meet a variety of aviation goals. With their professional guidance and commitment to safety, Circle S Aviation provides an excellent platform for individuals to embark on their aviation journey.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- International Flight Student Program
- Instrument Pilot
- Commercial Pilot
- Certified Flight Instructor
- Certified Flight Instructor Instrument
Air Venture Flight Center
🗺️11299 Airport Rd, Olive Branch, MS 38654
☎️(662) 895-9752
🌐http://www.air-venture.com/
Air Venture Flight Center is a renowned flight school and aircraft rental company located at the Olive Branch Airport in Olive Branch, Mississippi. As an FAA-approved 141 flight training school, they offer training programs and a fleet of well-maintained aircraft to help individuals achieve their aviation goals.
For those interested in discovering the thrill of flying, Air Venture Flight Center provides a fantastic opportunity with their 30-minute Discovery Flight priced at $149. During this experience, participants will fly with an instructor, gaining hands-on experience and even getting the chance to control the airplane themselves. This introductory flight is a great way to explore the world of aviation and make an informed decision about pursuing flight training.
Air Venture Flight Center recognizes the current pilot shortage and the increasing demand for qualified pilots. They offer programs and have the necessary experience to train career-minded pilots. In less than 12 months, Air Venture can provide FAA-certified training that meets the requirements for airline and corporate operators outside the United States. While U.S. air carriers operating under 121 regulations require a higher level of experience, Air Venture Flight Center emphasizes the importance of flight instructors in the aviation industry and the various pathways to achieving the necessary experience.
The flight school boasts an impressive range of training programs, including Private, Instrument, Commercial, Multi-Engine, ATP, and Certified Flight Instructor. With a full-time staff of professional flight instructors, they have the expertise to guide aspiring pilots through these programs and help them obtain the required ratings and certificates.
Air Venture Flight Center offers a diverse fleet of aircraft for training and rental purposes. Their fleet includes Cessna, Beech, and Piper aircraft, such as the Cessna 150, Cessna 152, Cessna 172, Cessna 172 G1000 (available for FITS training), Piper Arrow, Cessna 182, and BE-76 Beechcraft Duchesses. The flight school also provides flight training devices like the Frasca ATD G1000 and Elite Simulator.
With a modern and well-equipped facility, Air Venture Flight Center ensures students have access to all the necessary resources. The facility features a Pilot Supply Store, a relaxing lobby, a PSI Testing Center for FAA knowledge tests, dispatch stations, briefing rooms, weather stations, and more.
Air Venture Flight Center takes pride in its professional staff of instructors who are dedicated to helping students achieve their aviation goals. Whether individuals are pursuing a professional career or seeking recreational flying, the flight school aims to provide the best flight training experience. It is widely regarded as the premier flight-training center in the Mid-south area.
Basic requirements for flight training at Air Venture Flight Center include a minimum age of 16 for a student certificate and 17 for a private pilot certificate, the ability to read, write, speak, and understand English, and the presentation of a valid government-issued photo ID. Additionally, students must be able to obtain an FAA Medical Flight Certificate of at least Third Class.
The flight training program at Air Venture Flight Center consists of ground school lessons and flight lessons. Ground school covers a wide range of topics, including flight fundamentals, aerodynamics, weather interpretation, aircraft systems, human factors in aviation, safety, and Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). Flight lessons take place in the aircraft of the student’s choice, allowing them to apply their ground school knowledge and develop hands-on skills necessary for safe and independent operation of an aircraft. The ultimate goal is to successfully complete FAA Knowledge Tests and the flight portion of the check ride to obtain a pilot certificate.
Air Venture Flight Center offers a well rounded flight training experience with experienced instructors, a diverse aircraft fleet, and a well-equipped facility. Whether individuals aspire to become professional pilots or pursue aviation as a hobby, Air Venture Flight Center provides the resources and support needed to achieve their goals.
Programs Offered:
- Private
- Instrument
- Commercial
- Multi-Engine
- ATP
- Certified Flight Instructor
Madison Flyers
🗺️7504 Old Canton Rd B, Madison, MS 39110
☎️(601) 605-1698
🌐http://www.madisonflyers.com/
Madison Flyers, located at the Madison (Bruce Campbell) Airport in Madison, Mississippi, is a reputable flight school that offers quality flight training, reliable aircraft rentals, and pilot supplies. With a focus on providing detailed instruction, Madison Flyers caters to students seeking private, instrument, and commercial flight training.
The flight school has a dedicated team of instructors available daily to conduct lessons, checkouts, and refresher/currency training. They offer training both in students’ own aircraft and in the school’s fleet. The fleet consists of Cessna 172s, including a Cessna 172RG and four newer production fixed-gear 172s, which are available for flight instruction and rental. Madison Flyers is actively seeking to expand its fleet with an additional 172 and a Cessna 206.
In addition to flight training, Madison Flyers serves as a Jeppesen and FAA chart dealer, providing a range of pilot supplies. They stock national chart coverage and can obtain specific charts upon request. Pilot supplies available include aviation books, flashlights, organizers, navigation logs, and navigation tools. The flight school also offers a variety of headsets in different price ranges and styles for pilots to try.
Madison Flyers recently moved into a new building on the airport due to the widening of Old Canton Road. The location of the new building is at the north end of the airport between Hangar 2 and Hangar 3. To ensure limited class sizes, interested individuals are encouraged to call or email Madison Flyers to sign up for courses. They offer Private Pilot, Instrument, and Commercial Pilot courses that blend classroom-style ground instruction with flight training. The ground school programs consist of 40 hours of classroom time using Jeppesen courseware. Madison Flyers also organizes informative trips to tour the tower and radar room at Jackson International Airport for their students. Additionally, instrument students have the opportunity to tour the Memphis ARTCC. The flight school provides detailed information on class start dates and course fees upon inquiry.
Madison Flyers goes beyond traditional flight training by offering specialized courses. They conduct a “Flight Crew 101” course, which focuses on co-pilot duties and cockpit resource management for non-pilots. The course includes cockpit familiarization, an introduction to aviation charts, checklist and radio usage, and practice flights to apply the acquired knowledge. The flight school also offers an Instrument Refresher course, designed to enhance instrument procedure proficiency and improve rusty instrument skills. Furthermore, Madison Flyers has plans to introduce a weekend mountain flying course and weekend or mid-week multiple sortie instrument cross-country training flights.
Madison Flyers stands out as a flight school dedicated to providing quality flight training, aircraft rentals, and pilot supplies. With their experienced instructors, diverse fleet, and detailed course offerings, they offer a valuable learning experience for individuals pursuing private, instrument, or commercial pilot certifications.
Programs Offered:
- The Flight Training Process
- Instrument Rating
- Instrument Refresher
- Commercial Pilot Course
- Flight Crew 101
Redcel Aviation
🗺️8301 Saracennia Rd, Moss Point, MS 39563
☎️(251) 395-2848
🌐https://www.flyredcel.com/
Redcel Aviation is a flight school that provides an efficient and effective pathway to becoming a pilot. Whether you’re pursuing aviation as a hobby or a career, Redcel Aviation offers the necessary tools, knowledge, and programs to help you achieve your goals.
With three distinct training pathways, Redcel Aviation ensures that students reach their ultimate aviation aspirations. The flight school emphasizes the importance of high-quality aircraft in facilitating the best learning experiences. Their fleet consists of well-equipped aircraft with exceptional performance capabilities, enabling students to become the best pilots possible.
Redcel Aviation takes pride in its team of highly trained instructors. These professionals possess the essential qualifications and skill sets required to guide aspiring pilots on their journey to mastery of the skies. With their expertise and personalized approach, Redcel Aviation provides dedicated training to ensure students become safe and competent pilots.
The flight school’s philosophy revolves around the belief that the sky is not the limit. They offer flight training programs designed for individuals dedicated to achieving their aviation goals efficiently and cost-effectively. Redcel Aviation guarantees personalized training from their experienced team until students reach their desired level of competency.
Redcel Aviation offers various training pathways based on individual aspirations. Whether one’s goal is to fly as a hobby, own an airplane for travel, or become a full-time professional pilot, the flight school provides expertly crafted training programs to meet these objectives. The training pathways include Private Pilot lessons, Instrument Rating lessons, Commercial Single Engine lessons, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) lessons.
Safety and customer satisfaction are paramount at Redcel Aviation. They are committed to helping individuals reach their aviation goals, whether it’s taking flight lessons, purchasing an airplane, pursuing an airline pilot career, or enjoying scenic flights in the area. The flight school operates on the Gulf Coast and maintains a small fleet of airplanes that can be utilized for various missions, including flight training. Their experienced team possesses expertise in different aircraft types and diverse aviation avenues, ensuring excellent support and service.
For those interested in exploring the possibilities with Redcel Aviation, contacting them is the first step. They offer a range of aviation services, including flight training and aircraft management. Redcel Aviation strives to provide unmatched service and goes above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. Their passion for aviation is evident in their commitment to taking individuals to new heights, reminding everyone that the sky is not the limit.
Redcel Aviation is a flight school that offers clear training pathways, quality aircraft, and professionally qualified instructors to support individuals in achieving their aviation goals efficiently and safely.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot License
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Rating (single engine)
- CFI & CFII
Luke Weathers Flight Academy
🗺️11299 Airport Rd, Olive Branch, MS 38654
☎️(901) 708-0115
🌐https://obap.org/lwfa/
Luke Weathers Flight Academy (LWFA) is a flight school established to honor the pioneering contributions of Lieutenant Colonel Luke Weathers Jr. in aviation and aerospace. Lt. Col. Weathers was not only the first African American air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) based at Memphis International Airport, but he also received recognition as the first African American to be awarded the key to the City of Memphis on June 25, 1945, which was declared “Luke Weathers, Jr. Day.”
Located at Olive Branch Airport, a short distance from Lt. Col. Weathers’ Memphis home, the Lt. Col. Luke Weathers Jr. Flight Academy offers a range of training programs and opportunities. The academy provides FAR 141 and 61 Flight Training, JET Transition Training, a Maintenance and Air Traffic Control Academy, UAV Pilot Training, Military Rotor Fixed Wing Transition, Air Force Candidate Flight Training, Mentoring, and more.
The Lt. Col. Luke Weathers Jr. Flight Academy, in collaboration with the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), aims to provide life-changing training for students from Memphis area schools and beyond who have a passion for aviation and a desire to become pilots.
The OBAP LWFA Professional Pilot Program offered at the flight academy is designed to provide aspiring pilots with the necessary training and resources to transition from zero experience to an airline pilot job within two to three years. The program follows a fast-track training approach, ensuring students receive necessary training that exceeds the minimum requirements of FAR Part 61/141. Despite the high-quality training provided, the flight academy keeps costs affordable by operating as a non-profit organization and maintaining low fixed costs.
A variety of training options are available at LWFA, including Private and Instrument training, Commercial Single/Multi training, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) training, Certified Instrument Instructor (CII) training, Certified Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) training, Basic Ground Instructor & Instructor Advance Ground training, Jet Transition training, FAR 141 and 61 Flight Training, Military Rotor Fixed Wing Transition, Youth Maintenance and Air Traffic Control Academy, Youth UAV Pilot Training, and Mentoring.
LWFA offers a total immersion training experience, allowing students to graduate from the LWFA Pilot Program in just nine months, starting from zero flight time. By the end of the program, students earn their Commercial Single-Engine pilot certificate along with the Certificated Flight Instructor certificate. Upon graduation, LWFA/Air Venture provides guaranteed Flight Instructor positions, which may qualify students for airline tuition reimbursement and help them gain the necessary flight experience to meet airline hiring minimums of 1500 hours.
Luke Weathers Flight Academy boasts a professional staff of dedicated instructors who are committed to assisting students in achieving their aviation goals. The flight academy strives to deliver the highest quality in-flight training to its valued customers.
Luke Weathers Flight Academy is a flight school that not only pays tribute to the remarkable achievements of Lt. Col. Luke Weathers Jr., but also offers complete training programs and experienced instructors to guide aspiring pilots on their journey to success in the aviation industry.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Single/Multi Engine
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) & Certified Instrument Instructor (CII)
- Certified Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
- Basic Ground Instructor & Instructor Advance Ground
- Jet Transition
- FAR 141 and 61 Flight Training
- Military Rotor Fixed Wing Transition
- Youth Maintenance
- Youth UAV Pilot Training
- Air Traffic Control Academy
Aspire Aviation
🗺️8301 Saracennia Rd, Moss Point, MS 39563
☎️(251) 207-1777
🌐https://www.aspireaviation.net/
Aspire Aviation is a flight school that offers a range of flight training programs tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Whether you aspire to fly for recreation or pursue a professional career in aviation, Aspire Flight Institute is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Through their industry partnerships and advanced training plans, they aim to deliver efficient and safe pilot training like never before.
For those starting their aviation journey, the Private Pilot Course at Aspire Flight Institute is the first step for all aviators, whether they intend to fly professionally or as a hobby. Upon completion of this course, students gain the skills and certification necessary to fly themselves and passengers day or night anywhere within the United States. Aspire Aviation encourages prospective students to visit them for a complimentary discovery flight and consultation, providing an opportunity to begin their path to the skies.
Aspire Aviation also offers a Professional Pilot Pathway designed specifically to cater to each student’s goals and requirements. This pathway takes individuals with no prior experience and guides them toward a career as an airline pilot. With the provision of tools, resources, and training, Aspire Aviation aims to develop desirable candidates for the aviation industry. By leveraging their partnerships with airlines and corporate entities, students can seamlessly transition into a professional pilot career.
At Aspire Flight Institute, their passion for aviation has driven them to create a company that addresses the challenges within the aviation ecosystem. They have crafted a personalized, efficient, and enjoyable experience for their customers, enhancing every aspect of their aviation journey. Aspire Aviation takes pride in their team of seasoned professionals who possess the expertise to handle various facets of the aviation industry, including flight instruction, aircraft acquisition and sales, aircraft management, and maintenance. Their commitment to delivering reliable and customized services that surpass client expectations ensures the utmost level of safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in every aspect of aviation.
Aspire Flight Institute prioritizes providing high-quality flight training to aspiring pilots. Their instructors, who are experienced and highly trained, work closely with each student to ensure they receive the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in their aviation endeavors. At Aspire Flight Institute, they are dedicated to delivering the highest standards of flight training to aspiring pilots, guiding them toward success in the world of aviation.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Commercial Pilot
Geaux Giddum Aviation
🗺️4100 Airport Rd, Bolton, MS 39041
☎️(601) 955-0336
🌐http://www.ggahub.com/
Geaux Giddum Aviation (GGA) is a flight school and aircraft rental company located at John Bell Williams Airport in Bolton, MS. They offer flight training programs in accordance with Part 61 of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
GGA provides flight training for several FAA licenses and ratings, including the Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, and Certified Flight Instructor Certificate. They pride themselves on going above and beyond to ensure their students receive top-quality training.
For those interested in obtaining their Private Pilot Certificate, GGA offers a program that allows individuals to fulfill their dream of flying. With this certification, one can experience the tranquility of the sky and witness the beauty of the Earth from a different perspective. GGA outlines the requirements for obtaining a Private Pilot Certificate, which include being at least 17 years old, having a student pilot certificate, passing written and practical exams, and accumulating a minimum of 40 hours of flight training.
GGA also provides training for the Instrument Rating, which allows pilots to fly in severe weather conditions and through clouds without relying on visual references outside the aircraft. To obtain the Instrument Rating, individuals must hold a valid Private Pilot Certificate, pass written and practical exams, and accumulate a minimum of 40 hours of instrument training with an instrument flight instructor.
Furthermore, GGA offers training for the Commercial Pilot Certificate, which allows pilots to fly for hire. This certification provides a deeper understanding of aircraft abilities, the opportunity to fly more complex aircraft, and the ability to control aircraft more efficiently. The requirements for the Commercial Pilot Certificate include holding a valid Private Pilot Certificate, passing written and practical exams, and accumulating a minimum of 250 hours of flight time, including specific training in instrument and complex/technically advanced aircraft.
GGA emphasizes that while the minimum requirements for these certifications are achievable within the specified timeframes, it is more typical for students to take longer to build proficiency. They highlight the importance of flying frequently to make faster progress.
Geaux Giddum Aviation offers programs suitable for both career pilots and those pursuing aviation as a lifelong passion. Whether you aspire to become a private pilot, gain an instrument rating, or obtain a commercial pilot license, GGA is dedicated to providing the necessary training and guidance to help you achieve your goals in aviation.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot Certificate
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot Certificate
- Certified Flight Instructor Certificate
Apollo Aviation
🗺️1100 Hangar Dr, Gulfport, MS 39501
☎️(228) 687-1500
🌐https://flyapollo.com/
Apollo Aviation is a flight school that stands out for its highly experienced staff, consisting mostly of current and former airline pilots. With decades of experience and tens of thousands of hours of flight time, the instructors at Apollo bring a wealth of knowledge to the training programs. Their expertise extends beyond flying and includes various aspects of aviation such as maintenance, insurance, tax incentives, and aviation management.
Apollo Aviation offers a wide range of services and programs to meet different aeronautical needs. They provide flight instruction, aircraft management, pilot services, intro rides, aerial photos, sport fishing surveys, sales, appraisals, and business aviation consulting. No matter the requirement, Apollo promises to deliver exceptional service to their clients.
When it comes to flight instruction, Apollo Aviation caters to individuals seeking various licenses, from student licenses to Airline Transport Pilot Licenses. They offer training for private, instrument, commercial, multi-engine, airline transport pilot, and flight instructor licenses. They provide pricing details, with the C-172 aircraft available at $149 per hour and instructor rates at $80 per hour. Additionally, they offer a 10% discount for the purchase of 10-hour blocks of aircraft and/or instruction time.
For those interested in obtaining a Private Pilot’s License, Apollo outlines the requirements, including 20 hours of dual training with an instructor and 20 hours of solo flight time. Apollo operates as a 14 CFR Part 61 school, employing the ASA Part 141 curriculum/syllabus. They utilize the Cessna 172P as their primary flight trainer. The training program follows an integrated curriculum that combines ground and flight training. Instructors closely monitor the progress of students, ensuring a thorough understanding of modules before applying them in actual flight scenarios. Apollo emphasizes that with the desire to learn, students will indeed learn to fly.
Apollo Aviation operates from the Millionair FBO located at the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport. This facility, opened in late 2011, offers modern and convenient amenities for both pilots and passengers. The Millionair FBO is a remarkable facility that complements the flight training experience provided by Apollo Aviation.
Apollo Aviation distinguishes itself with a highly experienced staff, a wide range of services, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service. With their expertise and dedication to training, Apollo Aviation is well-equipped to help aspiring pilots achieve their dreams and goals in aviation.
Programs Offered:
- Private pilot
- Instrument rating
- Commercial pilot
- Multi-engine rating
- Airline Transport Pilots License
- Flight Instructor License
