Your First Flight Lesson (or Discovery Flight): What Actually Happens
Before the flight
Your instructor will explain the plan and the basic controls: the yoke (or stick) for pitch and roll, the rudder pedals, and the throttle. Then you'll do a preflight inspection, walking around the airplane checking fuel, oil, control surfaces, tires and more. Ask questions. That's what the instructor is there for.
In the air
- Taxi: you steer on the ground with your feet, which surprises almost everyone.
- Takeoff: many instructors let you handle the takeoff with their hands close by.
- Flying: straight-and-level flight, gentle turns, climbs and descents. You'll be amazed how quickly it starts to feel natural.
- Landing: usually the instructor does most of it on a first flight.
The instructor can take control at any moment, and you'll practice a clear "positive exchange of flight controls" ("You have the flight controls." "I have the flight controls.").
What to wear and bring
- Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes (small airplane cabins get warm in summer and cold in winter)
- Sunglasses (non-polarized is often recommended, since polarization can hide some cockpit displays)
- Water and a light snack; don't fly on an empty stomach
- Your phone for photos, but stash it during busy moments
Good questions to ask the instructor
- How often do your students usually fly, and how long do they take to finish?
- What are your rates for the airplane and for your time (flight and ground)?
- Is this Part 61 or Part 141 training? (What's the difference?)
- How easy is it to schedule airplanes and instructors?
- Can this flight count toward my training? (It usually can be logged if you go on to train.)
Feeling nervous?
Totally normal. Small airplanes feel bumpier than airliners, especially on warm afternoons. Morning flights are usually smoother. Tell your instructor how you're feeling; they deal with first-timers every day.
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