Does Pilotsmith offer introductory flights?
Yes. We call them Discovery flights. Discovery flights are your risk-free flat-fee based chance to learn what becoming a pilot is like.
Can I bring someone with me?
Only if you purchase a package that allows a passenger. This must be purchased at the time of a discovery flight and cannot be added later. Additionally, there are no refunds if you only redeem the certificate 1 individual.
Will I get to fly the airplane?
Yes. Your instructor will perform the takeoff and landing and low altitude maneuvers. Once at a safe altitude your instructor will show you the basics of flying straight and level and allow you to make turns.
Where will I fly?
It depends on the amount of aircraft time you purchased and the location your flight originates from. Because these are not scenic flights we cannot guarantee any specific point of interest you will see. Flight paths are based on ATC, weather, and time constraints.
Are there any height or weight restrictions?
Yes. The aircraft can accommodate an individual up to about 6’6”. Individuals of large girth may have difficulties being comfortable in the aircraft. Seat room is equivalent to an economy commercial airliner. If you use a seatbelt extender on a commercial airliner you may have difficulties in a small airplane.
A single individual can weight about 250lbs and be accommodated in a Cessna 172 or Cirrus SR20. In the case if you purchase a discovery flight for 2 individuals, the combines weight cannot exceed 400lbs.
What aircraft do you do discovery flights in?
It depends on which package you purchase. A Cessna 172 aircraft are legacy aircraft, a tried and true aircraft design that’s been in service for over 70 years. The Cirrus SR20 is the newest and nicest of the aircraft in our Flight School fleet. Pilotsmith’s Cirrus Aircraft are either nearly new or just a few years old. The Cirrus aircraft are equipped with all modern safety feature such as the Aircraft Whole Airframe Parachute.
Are these sight-seeing joy rides?
No, the purpose to introduce the concepts of flight and provide a miniaturized flight lesson. You The purpose of these flights is to give you a small taste of general aviation and what is involved in becoming a private pilot. We are a flight school and our ultimate goal is to ensure that you learn something while having a good time.
Do I have to buy an airplane after being a private pilot?
No! In fact most people rent aircraft. Unless you flying hundreds of hours, it’s much cheaper to rent an aircraft when you need it than it is to own.