Learn to fly in East Texas
Next available discovery flight:
One-on-one flight training out of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. From your first discovery flight to your private pilot checkride, you'll get patient, structured instruction built around your schedule.
KTYR
Tyler Pounds Regional
C172
Cessna Skyhawk
1-on-1
Dedicated instruction
4–8 mo
Typical PPL timeline
Flying changed how I see the world, and teaching others to fly is the most rewarding thing I do. My job is to get you comfortable, confident, and safe in the airplane so you can enjoy the freedom of flight for the rest of your life.
Start your journey
Three steps from the ground to the sky
Getting your pilot certificate is more straightforward than most people think. Here's how we'll get you from zero experience to licensed pilot.
- 1. Reach out
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Give us a call or fill out the contact form. We'll talk through your goals, answer every question you have, and make sure flight training is the right fit. Zero pressure.
- 2. Take a discovery flight
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Get hands-on stick time in a Cessna 172 with Joe in the right seat. You'll taxi, take off, fly the local area, and see firsthand what training looks like. Most people are hooked before they land.
- 3. Start logging hours
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Begin working toward your private pilot certificate with a structured syllabus and consistent schedule. Fly 2–3 times a week and you'll be taking your checkride in a matter of months.
Your training aircraft
Cessna 172 Skyhawk
The most popular training aircraft in the world, and for good reason. The 172 is forgiving, reliable, and gives you a rock-solid foundation whether you're flying for fun or building toward a career.
- Stable & forgiving
- High-wing design with predictable handling makes the 172 ideal for learning the fundamentals. You'll build good habits without fighting the airplane.
- Well-equipped
- Modern avionics so you're training with the same instruments you'll encounter in newer aircraft. No surprises when you move up.
- Meticulously maintained
- Rigorous maintenance schedule with complete logbooks. You'll never have to wonder about the condition of the airplane you're flying.
"I showed up with zero experience and honestly wasn't sure I could do it. Joe broke everything down, never rushed me, and built my confidence one lesson at a time. Six months later I passed my checkride on the first attempt. Learning to fly was the best decision I've ever made."
Transparent pricing
Know what to expect
No hidden fees or long-term contracts. You pay as you go for aircraft rental and instruction. Here's what the numbers typically look like.
Aircraft rental
$150/hr
Wet (fuel included)
Instructor fee
$65/hr
Flight & ground time
Typical total
$12–18k
For full PPL
Exact cost depends on how quickly you progress. Most students finish in 55–70 flight hours. We'll give you a personalized estimate during your first consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Don't see your question here? Reach out directly and I'll get back to you within 24 hours.
- How long does it take to get a private pilot certificate?
- Most students finish in 4–8 months flying 2–3 times per week. The FAA minimum is 40 hours, but the national average is closer to 60–70. Consistency is the biggest factor. Students who fly regularly finish faster and spend less overall.
- Do I need any experience before my first lesson?
- None at all. The vast majority of students start with zero aviation background. We begin with the basics including straight and level flight, turns, climbs, descents, and build from there. All you need is motivation.
- What medical requirements do I need to meet?
- You'll need at least a third-class FAA medical certificate, which most healthy people pass without issue. The exam covers vision, hearing, and general health. We can recommend a local Aviation Medical Examiner to get you squared away.
- What does a discovery flight include?
- A preflight briefing, a walk-around of the airplane, and then a 30–45 minute flight where you actually handle the controls. We'll fly over Tyler and the surrounding area so you get a real feel for what training looks like. It's the best way to know if flying is for you.
- Can I train around a full-time work schedule?
- Absolutely. Most students work full-time. We offer early morning, evening, and weekend availability and will build a schedule that keeps you progressing consistently without taking over your life.
Get started
Ready to fly?
Fill out the form and Joe will get back to you within 24 hours to answer your questions and schedule your discovery flight.
Call or text
Location
Tyler Pounds Regional Airport (KTYR)
353 Airport Dr
Tyler, TX 75704
The sky is waiting.
Every pilot started exactly where you are right now — curious, maybe a little nervous, and ready for something new. Take the first step.