Introductory Flight Lessons

What types of aircraft are used for beginner flying lessons?

The sort of aircraft you'll hop into for your pilot lesson will depend on the specific experience you've selected. Namely, this depends on whether you'll be climbing into the pilot's seat of a helicopter or airplane. Our Learn To Fly experiences vary ever so slightly from region to region across the U.S., so be sure to check out the aircraft details for the location you have your eye on!

For the most part, participants learning to fly a plane can expect to utilize a Cessna 172 or a private model that is very similar in size and handling. In some cities, however, our array of airplane lessons extends beyond this sort of aircraft! Depending on the region, pilot lessons may also be available in biplanes, combat jets, or vintage aircraft like T-6 Warbirds. They may also take aviation training basics to the next level, incorporating aerobatics into the instruction! (Again, this depends on the Virgin Experience Gifts flying experience that is selected.) For those participants embarking on a helicopter lesson, the most popular models used are of the highly-acclaimed Robinson and Schweizer varieties.

Of course, not all of our Learn To Fly experiences involve engine-based outings! So for those looking to defy (or comply with) gravity in other adrenaline-pumping ways, be sure to scope out beginner flying lessons that come with experiences like hang gliding and glider rides. Prefer to keep both feet firmly planted on the ground, but reap all the benefits of being airborne? There's still a way to spread those wings! Enjoy exceptional pilot training amid the comfort and remarkable technology of flight simulators, typically featuring the likes of Boeing, Cessna or military aircraft.

Are there any limitations to learn how to fly?

Allowances and restrictions concerning flying experiences vary across aviation schools and the policies a specific location may uphold. However, introductory flight lessons are very student-friendly, and pilots love to cater to a variety of participants as much as possible. That said, while no prior experience is necessary, the biggest factors that may affect pilot training eligibility for discovery flights are age and/or weight.

Any age- or weight-related policies are implemented at the individual discretion of each airport location or aviation school, so be sure to check out these key details prior to booking a flight lesson! Especially if you are attempting to do so on behalf of someone else as a gift or surprise.

There is actually quite a bit of flexibility in terms of age requirements for Learn To Fly experiences. Participants can sometimes be as young as 12 years old in order to hop into the pilot's seat of an airplane or helicopter! If the student is a minor, however, he/she obviously must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

As far as weight restrictions go, it's important to remember that flying is an extremely calculated activity, due to FAA regulations and safety standards. As such, pilots need to take combined weights of the aircraft, fuel and all passengers into careful consideration when planning a flight. Whether for airplane training or a helicopter lesson, weight allowances vary across experiences. In some cases, a pilot may be able to accommodate a passenger to come along for the flight, if the aircraft and distribution allows. In others, spectators may join in the fun at the hangar area for photo opps, but may be requested to wait in an airport lounge area during the student's introductory flight time.