Have you thought about becoming a pilot, but wondered if it’s truly the right path for you to fly down? Taking a discovery flight is the best way to test the waters of aviation, before fully committing to a flight school. This initial experience allows aspiring pilots to see their potential future from the left seat, and sometimes will have the opportunity to take control of an aircraft for the first time under the watchful eye of a certified flight instructor.

What Is a Discovery Flight?

A discovery flight, often called an introductory flight, is designed for people who want to see what flying a plane is like. It is a short training flight with an instructor that gives you the opportunity to learn a little bit about flying a plane and lets you experience what it is like to be a pilot. It is often the first step taken by people who think they would enjoy flying. Discovery flights are meant for people of all backgrounds and skill levels. Additionally, it does not matter what your end goal with flying is. Whether you just want to fly recreationally on weekends or you would like to someday become an airline pilot, discovery flights are the perfect first step.

Does a Discovery Flight Count as Flight Time?

Getting your pilot’s license requires a certain amount of flight time. For example, you need 40 hours of flight time for a private pilot license. Many people assume that a discovery flight is just for fun and does not count towards this required flight time. This is incorrect. In fact, a discovery flight does count towards the required flight time for earning your pilot’s license. This means that a discovery flight is not just for fun, but could be the first step in your training to become a pilot, should you choose to continue down that path.

How Long Does a Discovery Flight Last?

A discovery flight is not long by any means. Its purpose is only to let you experience what flying a plane is like, allowing you to discover if it is something you would like to learn how to do. Typically, the actual flight will only last between 30 to 60 minutes.

What Happens During a Discovery Flight?

The thought of taking to the air for the first time understandably makes a lot of people nervous. To help you go into your discovery flight feeling calm and confident, it can be helpful to know what to expect. Let’s walk through a discovery flight from start to finish.

Before the Flight

Before you even arrive for your discovery flight, there are some things you should do to prepare. First, make sure you are dressed for the occasion. It is wise to wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and sunglasses. You should also be sure to take anti-nausea medication if you’re prone to motion sickness. Finally, remember to bring a valid form of identification.

When you arrive for your discovery flight, you won’t immediately take to the sky. First, your instructor will conduct a pre-flight briefing. You can expect them to cover basic flight controls, an overview of the aircraft’s instruments, and safety procedures. After the briefing, the instructor will conduct an aircraft walk-around with you. This includes inspecting the exterior of the aircraft for any damage, checking fuel levels, and ensuring everything is in good working order for your flight.

During the Flight

Now that all preparations are complete, it is time to take to the skies. Your instructor will handle takeoff, but will explain the whole process to you in detail for educational purposes. Once you have reached altitude, the fun begins. Your instructor will demonstrate and explain how to perform basic maneuvers, such as turns, climbs, and descents. You will then be given full control of the aircraft, but don’t worry, your instructor will be there to give you instruction and feedback the entire time. Once time runs out, your instructor will take control back for landing, explaining the whole process to you just as they did for takeoff.

After the Flight

Once the plane has safely landed, your instructor will conduct a post-flight debriefing with you. They will review everything that happened during the flight and offer feedback on your performance, likely praising what you did well and letting you know what you could have done better. Don’t take any criticism personally. After all, this was your first time flying a plane. The post-flight briefing also offers you the opportunity to ask your instructor any questions you may have regarding flying or further training.

Superior Flight School offers discovery flights. Are you looking for more information about them? Contact their team at admin@superiorflight.com

References:

• Godlewski, M. (2024, January 4). Don’t quit after your first solo. FLYING Magazine. https://www.flyingmag.com/dont-quit-after-your-first-solo/
• What are the hourly requirements in becoming a pilot?. What are the hourly requirements in becoming a pilot? | Federal Aviation Administration. (n.d.). https://www.faa.gov/faq/what-are-hourly-requirements-becoming-pilot