Before You Fly,
Let's Clarify

Absolutely. A Discovery Flight is the perfect way to sit in the pilot’s seat (literally). With one of our CFIs by your side, you’ll get your hands on the controls, and see what makes learning to fly both thrilling and achievable. Whether you're exploring aviation as a career or a lifelong passion, this introductory flight offers a no-pressure, unforgettable introduction to life in the skies.

Still curious? Book your Discovery Flight today and let your aviation journey begin.

First, you meet your instructor. Together, you inspect the aircraft and learn the basics. Then it's time to sit in the pilot’s seat. While in flight, the instructor demonstrates some basic maneuvers. With no pressure you get to experience the thrill of flying firsthand.

Not at all. Many of our students begin with zero flight experience. As a Part 61 flight school, OFA specializes in providing personalized, professional flight training that meets you exactly where you are. With flexible scheduling, a self-paced structure, and CFIs committed to your success, we ensure every student has the support and resources they need to fly with confidence.

Earning a private pilot license typically costs $9,000 to $12,000. Costs vary depending on location, flight school, and how often you train. See our Pricing page for more information.

You can begin flight training at any age, but you must be 16 years old to solo and 17 to become eligible to earn your Private Pilot License (PPL). We welcome aspiring aviators of all experience levels and ages. Our flexible, student-centered training allows younger students to ease into aviation under expert guidance. At OFA, students build skills, confidence, and momentum from day one.

A private pilot is licensed to fly for personal or recreational purposes, carry passengers, and fly most small aircraft, but cannot be paid for flying.

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours. Most students average 55–70 hours, which takes 3–4 months if flying 2–3 times/week. OFA's program is self-paced so you set your own timetable.

Not for a Discovery Flight. But yes, you must obtain a Third Class FAA Medical Exam to solo, and move forward with your training.

Obtain of minimum of 40 hours of flight lessons with an instructor, pass a medical exam, complete the FAA written test, and pass a checkride (flight test).

Most lessons are 2.5 hours. Cross-country and night flying lessons may be 3-5 hours. The first few lessons focus on safety and emergencies, then progress to solo preparation.

• Power-on stalls

• Power-off stalls

• Simulated engine failure

• Takeoffs & landings (normal, soft, short field)

• Steep turns

• S-turns & turns around a point

• Slow flight

• Unusual altitude recovery

• Cross-country flight planning

You can pursue advanced ratings:

Instrument Rating: Fly in low visibility using instruments only.

Commercial License: Get paid to fly.

Multi-Engine Rating: Fly larger twin-engine aircraft.

CFI Certification: Become a flight instructor.

You can become a private pilot in a few months to a year, depending on how often you train. Advanced licenses or careers like airline pilot can take two to four years.

Most people earn their private pilot license in four to six months, depending on how often they train and their personal schedule.

No way. People can start flight training in any decade of life. As long as you meet the medical and training requirements, you can pursue your pilot license. It's never to late to learn to fly.

It depends on the type of flying. Airline pilots often earn $5,000 to $20,000 per month and up, while private or charter pilots may earn less. Pay increases with experience.