Best Flight Schools in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania boasts of some of the most prestigious flight schools in the United States, providing exceptional training for individuals who aspire to become private or commercial pilots. This page serves as a comprehensive guide to the top flight schools in Pennsylvania, outlining the different flight training programs offered at each school, information about the instructors, how long each school has been in operation, the type of aircraft used for training, the cost of tuition and fees, 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 an experienced pilot, read on to learn more about the best flight schools in Pennsylvania and find the one that best fits your needs.

Best Flight Schools in Pennsylvania


Fly Legacy Aviation

πŸ—ΊοΈ9800 Ashton Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19114
☎️(215) 969-0311
🌐https://flylegacyaviation.com/

Fly Legacy Aviation

Fly Legacy Aviation is a renowned flight school located at the Northeast Philadelphia Airport. As a preeminent flight school in the Philadelphia region, Fly Legacy Aviation offers FAA certified programs for both professional and recreational pilots. The flight school boasts a safe and professional training environment, with 7,000-feet and 5,000-feet runways and an operating control tower.

One of the standout features of Fly Legacy Aviation is its team of 19 professional instructor pilots who are experienced and dedicated to providing top-notch training. They are complemented by a growing fleet of new Piper aircraft, which are well-maintained by the flight school’s own maintenance department. This ensures that students receive training on reliable and up-to-date aircraft.

Fly Legacy Aviation offers a wide range of flight school courses to cater to different goals and aspirations. From private pilot training to twin-engine ratings, basic spin and instrument instruction, they have comprehensive programs designed to meet various needs. The flight school also provides an introductory flight lesson, allowing potential students to experience the thrill of flying firsthand. During the lesson, participants are guided by a Certificated Instructor who explains take-off procedures, weather checking, pre-flight checklists, and more. They even get the opportunity to control the aircraft and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city skyline.

In addition to flight training, Fly Legacy Aviation offers other services such as aircraft rentals and sightseeing, making it a one-stop destination for aviation enthusiasts. The flight school is FAA, VA, and DHS (SEVIS) approved, ensuring compliance with rigorous standards and regulations.

Fly Legacy Aviation understands the importance of flexibility and affordability in flight training. They offer flexible scheduling and payments, allowing students to learn at their own pace. Lessons are three hours long, and students can schedule them on any day of the week between 7 am and 7 pm. The flight school also offers financing options through their partnership with Meritize, making aviation education more accessible.

If you’re considering a career in aviation or simply have a passion for flying, Fly Legacy Aviation is an excellent choice for flight training. With their experienced instructors, modern fleet, and commitment to safety, they provide a comprehensive learning experience and a clear path to achieving your aviation goals. Contact Fly Legacy Aviation at 215-969-0311 or book online to embark on your aviation journey with a reputable flight school.

Programs Offered:

  • Introductory Flight Lesson
  • Private Pilot Certification
  • Instrument Rating Course
  • Instrument Refreshment Course
  • Certified Flight Instructor
  • Commercial Pilot
  • Multi-Engine Rating
  • Accelerated Training

High Flight Academy

πŸ—ΊοΈ475 Airport Rd, Butler, PA 16002
☎️(724) 481-1359
🌐https://www.highflightacademy.com/

High Flight Academy

High Flight Academy is a premier flight school located at the Pittsburgh-Butler Regional Airport. As a world-class flight training institution, they offer a range of aviation education programs for students at all levels, from hobbyists to aspiring professional pilots. With a mission to provide a top-notch flight training experience, High Flight Academy sets the highest standards of flight instruction in an atmosphere of mentorship and community.

One of the standout features of High Flight Academy is their comprehensive training options. They offer various programs tailored to different career paths and interests. For those looking to start an exciting career as an airline pilot, they provide Commercial Pilot Training, which is designed to help students become certified airline pilots in two years or less. Their FAA Part 141 certification ensures the quality and reliability of their training.

For individuals who want to learn to fly for recreation and enjoyment, High Flight Academy offers Recreational Flight Lessons. They provide a great opportunity to experience flying by starting with a Discovery Flight in a real Cessna plane or the Redbird Simulator. This allows potential hobbyists to get a taste of what flying is like before committing to further training.

High Flight Academy also caters to pilots who want to advance their skills and knowledge. They offer Advanced Training programs that cover various areas such as instrument rating, commercial training, and multi-engine training. This allows pilots to enhance their proficiency and broaden their flying capabilities.

What sets High Flight Academy apart is their experienced staff. With over 100 years of combined experience in aviation, their instructors are highly knowledgeable and skilled in their craft. They provide personalized and hands-on flight instruction, ensuring that every lesson is educational, efficient, and enjoyable. The academy is open seven days a week, allowing flexibility for students and minimizing waiting times.

Another advantage of training at High Flight Academy is the availability of student financing options. They understand that the cost of flight training can be a barrier for some individuals, so they offer financing solutions to help students get started with their training right away. This makes flight training more accessible and attainable for aspiring pilots.

In addition to their excellent training programs, High Flight Academy also offers flight lessons for veterans. They accept VA benefits and provide flight training opportunities for veterans, enabling them to pursue a career in aviation.

High Flight Academy’s commitment to quality and their dedication to their students make them a top choice for flight training in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and beyond. Their state-of-the-art facilities, including the Redbird Simulator, ensure that students can practice and train effectively regardless of weather conditions.

High Flight Academy is an exceptional flight school that offers a range of training programs for individuals with varying interests and career aspirations. Their experienced staff, flexible scheduling, financing options, and commitment to excellence make them a top-flight training institution in the Pittsburgh area and beyond. Whether you’re looking to start a career as an airline pilot or simply want to learn to fly for fun, High Flight Academy provides the resources and support you need to achieve your goals.

Programs Offered:

  • Recreation Pilot Programs
  • Career Pilot Programs

GQ Aviation

πŸ—ΊοΈ9800 Ashton Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19114
☎️(516) 429-3211
🌐https://gqaviation.org/

GQ Aviation

If you’re looking to take to the skies and learn how to fly, GQ Aviation is a fantastic option. Located at Northeast Philadelphia Airport (KPNE), GQ Aviation offers comprehensive and personalized flight instruction that caters to aspiring pilots of all levels. With a dedicated team of experienced pilots who have a true passion for aviation, you can be confident in the quality of instruction you will receive.

One of the standout features of GQ Aviation is their range of courses and certifications. Whether you’re just starting your aviation journey or aiming to enhance your skills, they have something for everyone. The Private Pilot Certification course is a popular choice, providing aspiring pilots with the opportunity to fly an airplane solo. With two regularly-maintained planes available, namely the Cessna 150 and the Piper Cherokee, GQ Aviation offers flexibility and options to suit individual preferences. Moreover, GQ Aviation prides itself on being the most affordable option for obtaining a Private Pilot Certification within a 100 nautical mile radius from Philadelphia, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious students.

For those looking to advance their careers in aviation, GQ Aviation also offers courses like the Multi-Engine Rating and Instrument Rating. The Multi-Engine Rating course prepares students to handle larger aircraft and pursue opportunities in the airline industry. With experienced instructors and a thorough curriculum, GQ Aviation ensures that students are exam-ready in just three days. The Instrument Rating course, on the other hand, challenges pilots to fly in the clouds and offers a higher level of freedom and safety. With 20 hours of flight time, 10 hours of simulator time, and comprehensive ground instruction, GQ Aviation equips students with the necessary skills to excel in this challenging rating.

If you aspire to work as a pilot, GQ Aviation also provides a Commercial Pilot Certification course. This course is designed to efficiently and economically prepare students for a career in aviation. With experienced instructors and personalized flight instruction, GQ Aviation ensures that students receive the necessary training to succeed.

GQ Aviation’s commitment to producing professional, proficient pilots is evident in their community-based flight school approach. They emphasize accessibility to cost-effective and efficient flight training, making aviation more accessible to aspiring pilots. Additionally, GQ Aviation offers free resources to help individuals get started on their aviation journey, further demonstrating their dedication to the aviation community.

GQ Aviation stands out as a reputable flight school that offers comprehensive flight instruction and a range of courses and certifications. With experienced instructors, well-maintained aircraft, and a commitment to affordability and accessibility, GQ Aviation provides aspiring pilots with the tools and training they need to take to the skies with confidence. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance your aviation career, GQ Aviation is a reliable choice for flight training.

Programs Offered:

  • Introductory Flight
  • Private Pilot Certification
  • Multi-Engine Rating
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot Certification

Aero-Tech Services

πŸ—ΊοΈ500 Airport Rd STE P, Lititz, PA 17543
☎️(717) 394-2675
🌐https://www.aerotechservices.com/

Aero-Tech Services

Aero-Tech Services Inc. offers a wide range of flight training programs and services to help individuals achieve their aviation goals. They provide training for various licenses and ratings, catering to both aspiring pilots and those who already hold a pilot’s certificate.

For individuals looking to start flying or expand their existing pilot’s certificate, Aero-Tech Services offers a Private Pilot Certificate program. This program allows aspiring pilots to experience the freedom and sense of accomplishment that comes with learning to fly. With a Private Pilot certificate, individuals can fly themselves and their passengers during daylight and at night. The requirements for obtaining a Private Pilot certificate include being at least 16 years of age to solo and 17 years of age to receive the certification, passing a Third Class medical exam, completing the necessary ground training, and accumulating at least 40 hours of flight time, including 20 hours with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight.

Aero-Tech Services also provides training for an Instrument Rating, which allows pilots to fly in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) and expands their knowledge of aircraft, weather, and the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system. They offer an FAA-approved Instrument Rating course that requires 35 hours of flight training, eliminating the need for the 40 hours of instrument time and 50 hours of cross-country time required under Federal Aviation Regulations Part 61. The Instrument Rating program is suitable for pilots looking to enhance their flying skills and experience a new level of utility in their flights.

For those interested in pursuing a career as a pilot, Aero-Tech Services offers Commercial Pilot Training. This program allows individuals to obtain a Commercial Pilot License, which is required to be paid to operate an aircraft. The Commercial License is typically obtained as an “upgrade” to an existing Private License with an Instrument Rating. Aero-Tech Services provides training in single-engine and multi-engine airplanes, and pilots can add a Multi-Engine rating to their license after obtaining the Commercial License. The training requirements for a Commercial License include being at least 18 years of age, holding a Private Pilot Certificate, completing the necessary ground training, and passing an FAA Flight Check.

Additionally, Aero-Tech Services offers training for a Multi-Engine Rating, which qualifies pilots to fly aircraft with two engines. This rating is available with VFR-only limitations and private pilot limitations, and an instrument add-on is required to fly IFR in a multi-engine aircraft. There are no written tests for the Multi-Engine Rating, but pilots must receive and log training from an authorized instructor and pass an FAA practical test.

Aero-Tech Services also provides training for other ratings, such as Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Instrument Instructor (CFII), and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI). These ratings allow pilots to share their passion for flight with others and provide flight instruction in specific areas of expertise. The cost and requirements for these ratings vary, and interested individuals can contact Aero-Tech Services for more details.

For pilots who have taken a break from flying or wish to enhance their skills, Aero-Tech Services offers recurrent training. This training helps pilots regain proficiency and stay current with their flying abilities. Whether it has been a few months or a few years since their last flight, Aero-Tech Services can help pilots become current and get back in the air again. They also offer specific training tailored to individual needs, covering areas such as communications, airspace, emergency procedures, and more.

In summary, Aero-Tech Services Inc. is a flight school that provides comprehensive training programs for individuals looking to obtain pilot licenses and ratings. With offerings ranging from Private Pilot Certificate to Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Training, Multi-Engine Rating, and other specialized ratings, they cater to the diverse needs and aspirations of aspiring and experienced pilots. Their commitment to personalized training and flexibility in scheduling makes them a great flight school option in the Lititz, PA area.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • Multi-Engine Rating
  • Career Pilot Training
  • Recurrent Training
  • CFI

Ace Pilot Training

πŸ—ΊοΈ600 Hayden Cir # 4, Allentown, PA 18109
☎️(610) 264-1105
🌐https://www.acepilot.com/

Ace Pilot Training

Ace Pilot Training, Inc. is a well-established flight school that has been providing high-quality airplane flight instruction and aircraft rentals since 1992. Located at the Lehigh Valley International Airport, their convenient location allows for training within a safe operating environment with the support of an on-site air traffic control facility.

One of the standout features of Ace Pilot Training is their comprehensive Airplane Career Programs and Job Placement services. These programs are designed to equip aspiring pilots with the necessary certificates and ratings to pursue a professional career in aviation. In addition, Ace Pilot Training offers job placement opportunities with a premier Jet Charter Service on the East Coast, providing students with potential career prospects upon completion of their training.

The flight courses and ratings offered by Ace Pilot Training cater to a wide range of aviation goals. Whether you’re looking to obtain your private pilot license or embark on a career in the industry, Ace Pilot Training has the resources and expertise to help you achieve your goals. Their experienced and skilled flight instructors are dedicated to guiding students through each stage of their training, from the initial lessons of Private Pilot training to the advanced procedures of the Multi-Engine Airline Transport Pilot course.

For international students interested in training at Ace Pilot Training, downloadable information is available to provide guidance and support throughout the process.

Overall, Ace Pilot Training is a reputable flight school with a long history of providing quality flight instruction and aircraft rentals. Their commitment to student success, comprehensive training programs, and job placement opportunities make them a valuable choice for individuals aspiring to become professional pilots.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot License
  • Commercial Pilot Training

Moore Aviation

πŸ—ΊοΈ7 Piper St, Beaver Falls, PA 15010
☎️(724) 843-4800
🌐https://mooreaviation.com/

Moore Aviation

Moore Aviation, Inc. is a highly regarded flight school located northwest of Pittsburgh at the Beaver County Airport. With a rich history dating back to 1938, they have been providing quality flight training to Western Pennsylvania and the entire country for over 81 years.

One of the standout features of Moore Aviation is their commitment to safety. With an unblemished safety record, they prioritize the well-being and security of their students and instructors. Their exceptional training staff is dedicated to helping aspiring pilots achieve their flight training goals efficiently and effectively.

For those interested in exploring the world of aviation or starting their flight training, Moore Aviation offers discovery flights. These immersive experiences allow individuals to get in the pilot’s seat and get a taste of what flight training entails. Discovery flights are available at a reasonable price, making it a fun and accessible way to begin the journey towards becoming a pilot. Community College of Beaver County students also have the opportunity to enjoy a free discovery flight if enrolled.

Moore Aviation takes pride in being a partnering flight school with the Community College of Beaver County. They collaborate to provide flight training to students pursuing Professional Pilot, Air Traffic Control, and UAV programs. This partnership highlights their dedication to fostering aviation education and supporting students in their pursuit of a career in the field.

The flight training programs at Moore Aviation are designed to offer excellent training at every stage. They have established programs that allow students to progress efficiently through each certificate or rating while maintaining the highest standards of quality. The experienced instructors at Moore Aviation understand the importance of individualized instruction and adapt their teaching methods to accommodate each student’s unique learning style and pace.

From obtaining a Private Pilot certificate to advancing to an Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot certificate, Multi-Engine Rating, or even becoming a Flight Instructor, Moore Aviation provides comprehensive training to help individuals achieve their aviation aspirations. Their programs are tailored to meet the requirements of different career paths, whether it’s pursuing a professional pilot career or seeking personal recreational flying opportunities.

For those interested in aviation as a career, Moore Aviation offers the Commercial Pilot certificate, which allows pilots to be compensated for their flying and opens doors to various flying jobs. Additionally, the Multi-Engine Rating program enables pilots to transition from single-engine airplanes to faster and higher-performance aircraft.

If sharing knowledge and shaping the pilots of tomorrow appeals to you, Moore Aviation offers the opportunity to become a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). As a CFI, individuals can impart their aviation expertise while gaining the flight time required for future career opportunities, such as working for airlines.

Moore Aviation also caters to the needs of Air Traffic Control students at Community College of Beaver County, providing them with the option to obtain a recreational pilot certificate to meet their program requirements. The recreational pilot certificate can be earned in a slightly shorter timeframe than a private pilot certificate and comes with certain limitations on flight privileges.

For individuals ready to embark on their aviation journey, Moore Aviation offers enrollment forms and information at their front desk. Whether you want to fill out an enrollment form, sign up for a discovery flight, or gather more details about their programs, their staff is readily available to assist and provide guidance.

Moore Aviation is a reputable flight school with a long-standing history and a commitment to delivering quality flight training. Their emphasis on safety, diverse range of training programs, and dedication to student success make them a top choice for individuals pursuing their dreams of becoming pilots.

Programs Offered:

  • Private Pilot
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Pilot
  • Multi-Engine Rating
  • Flight Instructor

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