A discovery flight is an introductory flying experience designed to give prospective pilots their first taste of what it's like to fly an aircraft, sitting alongside a certified flight instructor who will guide you through the experience and share what you can expect when you begin flight training.
Key Takeaways
- A discovery flight is an introductory flying experience designed for beginners to experience piloting an aircraft.
- During a discovery flight, you'll receive a pre-flight briefing, fly with a certified flight instructor, and have the opportunity to control the aircraft yourself.
- No experience is necessary—discovery flights are specifically designed for first-time flyers.
- A discovery flight is a way to determine if pursuing career training is right for you.
The Purpose and Value of a Discovery Flight
If you've ever wondered what it feels like to take control of an aircraft, a discovery flight (sometimes called an introductory flight) provides the perfect opportunity to find out. During this experience, you'll sit in the flight deck and actually handle the controls of a real aircraft.
A discovery flight serves several important purposes:
- It lets you experience flying firsthand before committing to flight training
- It provides a realistic preview of what pilot training involves
- It helps determine if you have a natural aptitude for flying
- It counts as official flight time if you decide to pursue your pilot's license
What Happens During a Discovery Flight
A typical discovery flight experience at Hillsboro Aero Academy is structured in three main parts: pre-flight briefing, the actual flight, and post-flight debriefing.
Pre-Flight Briefing
Before you ever step into an aircraft, your certified flight instructor will conduct a thorough pre-flight briefing. This orientation typically covers:
- Campus tour by a staff member while the aircraft is preflight inspected.
- Introduction to basic flight controls and instruments
- Overview of safety procedures
- Explanation of what to expect during the flight
- Opportunity to ask questions
The Flight Experience
Once the pre-flight preparations are complete, you'll board one of our training aircraft with your instructor. After the instructor handles the complex procedures of communication with air traffic control and takeoff, you'll get the chance to take control of the aircraft yourself.
Under close supervision, you'll have the opportunity to perform basic maneuvers such as gentle turns, climbs, and descents, experiencing the thrill of having full control of an aircraft while remaining in a safe, supervised environment.
The sensation of flying an aircraft for the first time is unlike anything else—feeling the aircraft respond to your inputs while taking in breathtaking views from above creates an unforgettable experience.
Post-Flight Debriefing
After you've safely landed and completed your first flight experience, your instructor will conduct a post-flight briefing or debriefing. During this important session, you'll discuss:- Your impressions and feelings about the experience
- Questions that arose during the flight
- Potential next steps with our admissions team if you're interested in pursuing pilot training
This debriefing provides valuable feedback and helps you determine if pursuing your pilot's license is right for you.
What to Expect During Your First Discovery Flight
Walking into your first discovery flight can feel intimidating, but understanding what to expect helps ease those nerves. Discovery flights are designed to be enjoyable and educational rather than stressful.
When you arrive for your first discovery flight at Hillsboro Aero Academy, you'll be greeted by a team member who will guide you around for the campus tour, and will introduce you to your instructor for the day. The experience is tailored to beginners, so no prior knowledge of aviation or aircraft is necessary.
During the flight portion, you'll get hands-on experience with the aircraft's instruments and controls. Your instructor will demonstrate how to use the yoke (similar to a steering wheel) and rudder pedals to control the airplane's movement. For helicopter discovery flights, you’ll see how the cyclic, collective, and pedals are used to control the helicopter. You'll learn how these inputs affect the aircraft's attitude and direction, gaining a fundamental understanding of flight dynamics.
For many aspiring pilots, feeling the aircraft respond to their control inputs is the moment they fall in love with flying.
The Cost of a Discovery Flight
An airplane discovery flight at our school costs $149. Helicopter discovery flights are available in two options: 30 minutes for $149 or 1 hour for $249.
This cost typically includes:
- Aircraft rental
- Fuel
- Instructor time
- A dual instruction entry in your logbook (if you already have one, or when you begin training with us, limitations apply to non-US citizens)
- Campus tour while the aircraft is preflight inspected
The investment in a discovery flight is minimal compared to the value it provides in helping you determine if pursuing flight training is the right path for you.
Why Take a Discovery Flight?
There are numerous reasons why a discovery flight makes sense for anyone considering flying:- Confirm your interest: Before investing in a complete pilot training program, a discovery flight lets you experience flying firsthand to ensure it's right for you.
- Experience counts as training: Your discovery flight time can be logged toward the requirements for your private pilot license if you decide to continue training.
- Meet flight instructors: Your discovery flight gives you the chance to interact with certified flight instructors and get a feel for their teaching style.
- Overcome fears: Many people have some apprehension about flying small aircraft. A discovery flight can help address concerns about motion sickness or safety by providing a controlled introduction to the experience.
- Begin your Aviation Training Journey: For those interested in pursuing flight training, a discovery flight is the perfect first step.
From Discovery Flight to Airline Pilot: The Path Forward
For many of our students at Hillsboro Aero Academy, a discovery flight marks the beginning of their training journey toward becoming a professional pilot. If you discover a passion for flying during your introductory flight, you might wonder what comes next.
The path from first-time flyer to a professional pilot career typically follows these steps:
- Apply for Admissions: Begin by submitting your application and going through our admissions process to start your flight training journey.
- Student Enrollment and Orientation: Once admitted, you'll officially begin as a student and attend orientation to prepare for training.
- Private Pilot License: After orientation, your first formal step is to begin training for your private pilot license.
- Instrument Rating: After you’ve obtained your Private Pilot License, you’ll begin Instrument Training. This qualification allows you to fly in clouds and low visibility conditions using only your instruments.
- Commercial Pilot License: This license is the next step and allows you to get paid for flying and required for commercial pilot positions.
- Flight Instructor Certification: Many pilots build hours by teaching others to fly.
- Additional Instructor Ratings: Hillsboro Aero Academy also offers two additional instructor ratings to our graduates; CFII (instrument instructor) and MEI (multi-engine instructor). These additional ratings can give you more opportunities to train students at different phases of their aviation training careers, as well as more opportunity for time-building and proficiency.
Many aspiring pilots are surprised to learn how accessible the path to becoming a professional pilot may be when approached with the right training and dedication.
Preparing for Your Discovery Flight
To make the most of your first discovery flight experience, consider these tips:- Dress comfortably: Wear casual, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
- Bring sunglasses: The sun is brighter at altitude, and good sunglasses help with visibility.
- Avoid heavy meals: To minimize the risk of motion sickness, eat lightly before your flight.
- Bring questions: Prepare questions about flying or flight training to ask your instructor.
- Rest well: Being well-rested helps you absorb the experience and instruction better.
- Stay Hydrated: be well hydrated the day before your flight.
By following these simple preparations, you'll be ready to fully engage with and enjoy your discovery flight experience.
Ready to Take to the Skies?
There's no better way to understand the thrill and freedom of flying than experiencing it firsthand through a discovery flight. Whether you're ready to launch your training career or simply curious about what it's like to fly, a discovery flight provides the perfect introduction to the world of aviation.
At Hillsboro Aero Academy, our instructors are passionate about sharing their love of flight and helping aspiring pilots take their first steps toward the skies. Ready to experience flight for yourself? Book your discovery flight today at the links below—our admissions team will follow up to confirm the details and help you prepare for your visit.
Book an airplane discovery flight here.
Book a helicopter discovery flight by emailing our helicopter admissions representative here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a discovery flight last?
Helicopter discovery flights are available in either 30-minute or 60-minute options, while our airplane discovery flights are 60 minutes. In addition to flight time, you'll also have a pre-flight briefing and post-flight debriefing, so the entire experience typically takes 1–2 hours from start to finish.
Can I bring a friend or family member on my discovery flight?
For discovery flights, only the prospective student is allowed on board. This ensures the focus stays on your experience and safety during the flight. While guests are welcome to come to the campus, they won’t be able to join the flight.
Does a discovery flight count toward my pilot's license requirements?
Yes! The flight time during your discovery flight can be logged and counted toward the flight time requirements for your private pilot license if you decide to pursue further training. This logbook entry will count as a dual instruction flight. Please note that there are limitations on this for non-US citizens.
Do I need any experience to take a discovery flight?
No prior experience is necessary for a discovery flight. The certified flight instructor will handle all complex procedures and provide guidance throughout the experience. The flight is specifically designed for beginners.
What if I experience motion sickness during the flight?
Motion sickness is a common concern, but most people adapt quickly to the sensations of flight. Your flight instructor is trained to recognize signs of discomfort and can adjust the flight accordingly. Being well-rested, avoiding heavy meals before flying, and staying hydrated can help minimize the risk.
What age can someone take a discovery flight?
While the FAA does not set a minimum age for taking a discovery flight, HAA requires participants be at least 16–17 years old with a guardian, or 18 years or older, as admission to flight training begins at 18.
This article presents a general overview of the field of aviation, including job opportunities within that field; it does not describe the educational objectives or expected employment outcomes of a particular Hillsboro Aero Academy program. Hillsboro Aero Academy does not guarantee that students will obtain employment or any particular job. Some positions may require licensure or other certifications. We encourage you to research the requirements for the particular career you desire.