West Virginia offers a breathtaking landscape of mountains, hills, and valleys that make it a perfect destination for aspiring pilots. The state has a number of excellent flight schools that offer a variety of programs to cater to those interested in becoming commercial or private pilots. These schools offer state-of-the-art facilities, experienced instructors, and a comprehensive curriculum to provide students with a strong foundation in aviation.
Whether you’re pursuing flying as a career or simply want to explore the skies, West Virginia’s flight schools have something to offer. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best flight schools in West Virginia to help you find the perfect fit for your needs and goals.
Best Flight Schools in West Virginia
- RSA Flight Training
- Eastern Soaring Center
- Bravo Flight Training Co
- Robert C Byrd National Aerospace Education Center
- River Town Aviation
- Hangar 9 Aviation
RSA Flight Training
🗺️82 Hart Field Rd #241, Morgantown, WV 26505
☎️(304) 322-2135
🌐https://flyrsa.com/
RSA Flight Training offers comprehensive flight training programs for individuals looking to obtain various certificates and ratings. They provide instruction for private pilot certificates, instrument ratings, and commercial pilot certificates. The flight school also offers specialty and advanced training, including complex and high-performance aircraft training.
For individuals interested in obtaining a private pilot certificate, RSA Flight Training has specific minimum requirements. Prospective pilots must be at least 16 years old to solo in the aircraft and 17 years old to take the final ride and obtain their certificate. The FAA mandates a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, with 20 hours of dual instruction with an FAA certified flight instructor and 10 hours of solo time. Additionally, there are requirements for cross-country flights, night flying, simulated instrument flying, and preparation for the private pilot check ride. RSA Flight Training provides the necessary materials for the written examination and offers assistance to students during their training.
RSA Flight Training also offers specialty and advanced training programs. They provide complex and high-performance training using a Cessna 182RG aircraft. This training allows pilots to become proficient in aircraft with retractable landing gear and constant speed propellers. The flight school also offers instrument rating courses, which focus on advanced weather, avionics systems, and precise aircraft control techniques. The instrument rating requires a specific number of cross-country hours, instrument hours, and training with an authorized instrument instructor. Additionally, RSA Flight Training provides training for commercial pilot certificates, which involves extensive flight experience and proficiency in various areas such as cross-country flights, night flying, and solo flight time.
In terms of pricing, RSA Flight Training offers an introductory flight for $150, which provides a brief introduction to the airplane and general aviation. Instruction with FAA certified instructors is available at a rate of $70 per hour in their plane. The flight school also offers flight simulator training for $130 per hour with an instructor, allowing students to gain experience regardless of the weather conditions. The flight simulator can be used for various purposes, including practicing procedures, cross-country flights, and VOR tracking. It can also be utilized to fulfill training requirements for private pilot, instrument rating, and commercial rating.
For those interested in pursuing a career as a flight instructor, RSA Flight Training provides opportunities to apply and join their team.
RSA Flight Training offers a range of flight training programs and services for individuals at different levels of experience and aspirations.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot Certificate
Eastern Soaring Center
🗺️440 Airport Rd, Petersburg, WV 26847
☎️(304) 851-4106
🌐https://www.easternsoaringcenter.com/
Eastern Soaring Center is an exceptional flight school that specializes in glider training. Whether you are looking to pursue an aviation hobby or start a career in flying, they provide one-on-one instruction tailored to your specific needs. Their focus is on developing the fundamental “stick and rudder” skills that are crucial for flying all types of fixed-wing aircraft.
For glider pilots who want to expand their capabilities, Eastern Soaring Center offers personalized instruction to obtain a ground launch endorsement. This training is customized based on your level of experience and currency, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience for winch launching.
To prioritize exceptional customer service and avoid long waiting times, reservations are required for flights. Eastern Soaring Center limits the number of flights available each day, subject to weather conditions. Once the available flights are sold out, no additional reservations can be made, ensuring a focused and efficient training environment.
The soaring facility of Eastern Soaring Center is located in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia. This location provides convenient access to thermal, ridge, and wave soaring, with a wave window available up to FL230. The Grant County airport (W99), where the operation is based, offers a large and tranquil setting with surrounding landable fields, contributing to a safe and serene training environment.
Eastern Soaring Center stands out as the closest year-round operation serving Washington DC, Baltimore, Northern VA, and the surrounding areas. They are the sole commercial operation in the mid-Atlantic region that exclusively offers winch launch, the most exciting form of glider launch. Additionally, their winch launches are known to be among the highest on the East Coast, providing an exhilarating experience for glider pilots.
If you’re seeking a flight school dedicated to glider training, Eastern Soaring Center is an excellent choice. With their personalized instruction, breathtaking location, and exclusive focus on winch launch, they offer a unique and thrilling opportunity to explore the world of soaring flight.
Programs Offered:
- Glider Pilot Training
Bravo Flight Training Co
🗺️214 Aviation Way, Martinsburg, WV 25405
☎️(304) 267-1367
🌐https://www.bravoflighttraining.com/
Bravo Flight Training Co is a flight school that understands the importance of tailoring the training experience to meet the goals of each individual student. They prioritize understanding where you want to go in your aviation journey, whether it’s becoming an airline captain or flying for recreational purposes and sharing the breathtaking views with friends. Their experienced instructors are equipped to help you achieve your specific goals, regardless of whether you are just starting with a dream or already hold aviation ratings.
For those curious about flying, Bravo Flight Training Co offers Discovery Flights. This opportunity allows you to experience what it’s really like to fly by spending an hour with an instructor and taking control during a 30-minute flight. Priced at $125, it’s not only a fantastic way to explore aviation but also makes for a great gift.
Bravo Flight Training Co offers a range of training programs to cater to different aspirations and interests. These programs include Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Sport, Multi, Tail Wheel Endorsement, and Complex Endorsement. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to enhance your existing ratings, Bravo Flight Training Co has the resources and expertise to guide you on your journey.
Their aircraft fleet consists of various models, each with its own rental price and agreement, which can be found on the individual aircraft’s page. If you have any inquiries or are interested in renting an aircraft, contacting Bravo Flight Training Co by phone or email is the way to go. Additionally, their instructor rates are set at $60 per hour.
As part of their commitment to providing a comprehensive training experience, Bravo Flight Training Co also offers access to Redbird FMX and TD2 simulators. These simulators allow for additional practice and training, and rental rates for the simulators are available.
Bravo Flight Training Co ensures compliance with legal requirements and maintains proper procedures, checklists, and forms for efficient and safe operations. If you have any legal-related questions or need further information, they are available to assist you.
With a focus on personalized training, a diverse fleet of aircraft, and a commitment to meeting individual goals, Bravo Flight Training Co is a reliable choice for anyone looking to embark on an aviation journey or enhance their existing skills. Contact them today to discover how they can help you achieve your aviation aspirations.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
- Sport
- Multi-Engine
- Tail Wheel Endorsement
- Complex Endorsement
Robert C Byrd National Aerospace Education Center
🗺️1050 Industrial Rd E, Bridgeport, WV 26330
☎️(304) 367-4800
🌐https://www.pierpont.edu/academics/associate-degrees/aviation-maintenance-technology/
The aviation maintenance technology program at Robert C Byrd National Aerospace Education Center provides comprehensive training in aircraft technology. Students enrolled in this program will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to perform maintenance, troubleshoot, repair, and replace components of aircraft systems. They will also learn how to develop effective plans for analyzing and solving aircraft problems using approved maintenance materials.
The program, which offers an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology, is designed to meet the requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 147 tests. Successful completion of the program and passing the required FAA exams will qualify graduates for an FAA Airframe and Power Plant (A&P) Certificate, which is valid for life. This certificate is obtained through the completion of three separate written exams (General, Airframe, and Power Plant) and an oral and practical exam conducted by an FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner (D.M.E.).
Throughout the program, students will focus on the mechanical aspects of aircraft airframes, power plants, and supporting aircraft subsystems. They will receive training to work on a wide range of aircraft, including small general aviation aircraft and transport category aircraft. The curriculum emphasizes the development of research skills, troubleshooting abilities, and proficiency in reading and applying FAA regulations and documentation.
Upon successful completion of the A.A.S. degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology, graduates will possess the following skills and competencies:
- Demonstrating the ability to research, troubleshoot, and repair aircraft and aircraft components.
- Correctly reading, understanding, and applying FAA regulations and other related documentation.
- Successfully passing the FAA written national certification exams in the areas of General, Airframe, and Power Plant.
- Completing the FAA oral and practical exam administered by an FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner for national certification.
- Maintaining a minimum grade of “C” in all required AVMT and AVIO curriculum classes to remain in and graduate from the program.
After completing the FAA exams, graduates will receive a temporary FAA certificate while awaiting their permanent license from the FAA in Oklahoma City. With an Associate of Applied Science degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology, graduates will be qualified for entry-level positions as Airframe and Power Plant Technicians (AMT). They can work on various types of aircraft, including small aircraft, corporate aircraft, helicopters, and transport category aircraft.
Opportunities for employment can be found in third-party maintenance facilities, overhaul and repair facilities, airlines, and fixed base operations. Furthermore, the credit hours earned in this associate degree program may also be applied towards a Bachelor’s degree program in Aviation Maintenance Management, although it is advisable to check with specific Bachelor’s degree institutions in advance.
The aviation maintenance technology program at Robert C Byrd National Aerospace Education Center offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips students with the necessary skills and qualifications to pursue a successful career in the field of aviation maintenance.
Programs Offered:
- Aviation Maintenance Technology Associate Degree
River Town Aviation
🗺️31 Co Rte 31/1, Williamstown, WV 26187
☎️(681) 229-7124
🌐https://rivertownaviation.com/
River Town Aviation LLC is a premier flight school located in Williamstown, WV, offering a range of services to help individuals realize their dream of flight. With over 50 years of combined aviation experience, River Town Aviation provides certified flight instruction, flight training, and aircraft rentals in the Williamstown-Parkersburg area.
The flight school prides itself on providing top-notch flight training, focusing on safety and expertise to help students reach their aviation goals. They offer various flight instruction programs designed to cater to different skill levels and aspirations. The flight school’s experienced and certified flight instructors work closely with students to assess their existing skills and knowledge and develop personalized lesson plans tailored to their specific needs and goals.
The flight instruction services include pilot proficiency training, private pilot certification, instrument pilot certification, and commercial pilot certification. These programs cover a wide range of skills and scenarios, ensuring students receive comprehensive training in areas such as avionics, aircraft systems, aerodynamics, meteorology, and more. Ground instruction and in-flight lessons are provided to give students a well-rounded understanding of flying and practical experience in the cockpit.
River Town Aviation prides itself on maintaining a safe and well-maintained fleet of aircraft. Their aircraft rentals are meticulously maintained to meet the highest FAA safety standards. Students can earn their private pilot license in these well-maintained aircraft, which feature up-to-date avionics and are routinely serviced according to FAA regulations.
The flight school offers competitive rates for flight instruction, starting at $35 per hour. They also provide flexible monthly billing options and accept all major credit cards for convenient payment.
Testimonials from previous students speak highly of River Town Aviation, highlighting the professionalism, expertise, and supportive learning environment provided by the instructors. Students have expressed satisfaction with the personalized instruction and the emphasis on safety throughout their training.
If you have aspirations of flying and are looking for a flight school in the Williamstown-Parkersburg area, River Town Aviation LLC is an excellent choice. With their experienced instructors, comprehensive training programs, and commitment to safety, they can help you realize your dream of flight and provide you with the skills and knowledge to become a competent pilot.
Programs Offered:
- Pilot Proficiency Training
- Private Pilot Certification
- Instrument Pilot Certification
- Commercial Pilot Certification
Hangar 9 Aviation
🗺️1991 Co Rte 3/1, Huntington, WV 25704
☎️(304) 390-5722
🌐https://www.hangar9aviation.com/
Hangar 9 Aviation is an exceptional flight school that offers a range of training programs to help individuals achieve their dreams of flying. With convenient locations at Huntington Tri-State Airport, Charleston’s West Virginia Intl. Yeager Airport, and Ona Airpark, aspiring pilots can easily access the top-notch instruction and facilities provided by Hangar 9 Aviation.
For those looking to begin their flying journey, Hangar 9 Aviation offers comprehensive training to obtain a Private Pilot’s License. This license serves as an excellent starting point for anyone interested in recreational flying or even pursuing a career in aviation. The school emphasizes the importance of adhering to FAA regulations, comprehensive testing, and practical flying experience. Hangar 9 Aviation encourages prospective students to schedule an appointment with their knowledgeable staff to review all the requirements and develop a customized training schedule to meet their objectives. It’s worth noting that Hangar 9 Aviation doesn’t charge any fee for this initial meeting, demonstrating their commitment to providing transparent guidance to aspiring pilots.
To ensure success in the written knowledge test required for the Private Pilot’s License, Hangar 9 Aviation offers various options for test preparation. Students can choose from self-paced online study, classroom study combined with flight training, or one-on-one mentoring. This flexibility allows individuals to tailor their learning experience to their preferences and schedule. Furthermore, Hangar 9 Aviation boasts a team of five experienced instructors and an online scheduling system, making it easier for students to find suitable time slots for their flight training sessions.
Hangar 9 Aviation also caters to pilots seeking to expand their skill set by offering training for an Instrument Rating. This rating allows pilots to fly in instrument flight conditions and enhances their ability to navigate and operate aircraft in challenging weather conditions. To pursue an Instrument Rating, applicants must already hold a Private Pilot Certificate and meet specific requirements, including receiving ground training from an authorized instructor or completing an online or home-study course. Additionally, passing the FAA instrument rating knowledge test with a score of 70% or better is necessary. Accumulating flight experience and demonstrating proficiency in various areas of operation through training and a practical flight test are also essential components of obtaining an Instrument Rating.
For individuals interested in a flying career, Hangar 9 Aviation offers commercial pilot training. To obtain a commercial certificate in an airplane under FAR Part 61 rules, aspiring pilots must meet certain criteria. This includes a minimum of 250 hours of flight time, with specific hours allocated to different aspects such as pilot-in-command time, cross-country time, and training in instruments, complex or technically advanced aircraft, and practical test preparation. Hangar 9 Aviation ensures that aspiring commercial pilots receive the necessary training in each of these areas to fulfill the requirements and excel in their future careers.
Hangar 9 Aviation is an esteemed flight school that provides comprehensive training programs for aspiring pilots. With their dedicated staff, convenient locations, and commitment to meeting FAA regulations, Hangar 9 Aviation offers a supportive environment for individuals to achieve their aviation goals. Whether it’s obtaining a Private Pilot’s License, pursuing an Instrument Rating, or seeking commercial pilot training, Hangar 9 Aviation equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to soar to new heights in the world of aviation.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Rating
