Book Your First Discovery Flight at Pilot Instructional Center
A Discovery Flight is your chance to sit in the pilot's seat, take the controls, and experience the thrill of flight, no experience required.
A Real Introduction to the Flight Deck
A discovery flight is your very first official flight lesson. Unlike a passive passenger tour, you will be in the pilot's seat, handling the controls, and learning the fundamentals of flight.
Under the direct guidance of a PIC Certified Flight Instructor, every minute you spend in the air counts as official flight time toward your Private Pilot Certificate. It’s the perfect way to test your passion for aviation.
No Hidden Fees
Your discovery flight comes at a flat, competitive rate for a fully immersive introductory experience.
Why Start Your Journey With PIC?
Choosing where to train is a massive decision. A discovery flight is the best way to experience our safety standards, aircraft quality, and the personalized mentorship that larger schools simply can't offer.
Test the Waters
- Experience a genuine flight training environment.
- Inspect our well-maintained training fleet firsthand.
- See if aviation is the right path for your goals.
Meet Your Mentors
- Fly one-on-one with a dedicated, professional CFI.
- Experience our focus on safety and integrity.
- Get straight answers to all your training questions.
Log Your First Hour
- This is official training, not a joyride.
- Your flight time goes straight into your pilot logbook.
- Feel the aircraft respond to your real-time inputs.
Is a Discovery Flight Right for You?
Here is who gets the absolute most out of an introductory flight at Pilot Instructional Center.
Book a flight if you are...
- Seriously considering earning your Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Looking for a school with strong personalized mentorship
- Wanting to verify our aircraft maintenance and safety standards
- Unsure about flying and want to safely test the waters
- Ready to take hands-on control of an airplane
Skip the flight if you are...
- Just looking for a generic, hands-off sightseeing tour
- Not interested in actually flying or learning about the aircraft
- Unwilling to participate in a pre-flight safety briefing
- Looking for a fast, extreme thrill ride
What Happens During Your First Flight
You aren't a passenger today; you are a student pilot. Here are the four phases of your first mission with PIC.
Phase 1: Ground Briefing.
Your CFI will walk you through the flight plan, explain the basic aerodynamics of lift, and show you how the flight controls operate inside the cockpit.
Phase 2: Aircraft Walkaround.
Safety and integrity start on the ground. You will perform a thorough pre-flight inspection, checking control surfaces, fuel, and engine components before boarding.
Phase 3: You Have the Flight Controls.
Once safely airborne, your instructor will hand over the controls. You will execute basic maneuvers like straight-and-level flight, climbs, and turns.
Phase 4: Assisted Landing.
Your CFI takes over for the highest workload phase of flight. You will follow along on the controls, experiencing the precision required to safely land the aircraft.
Total estimated time: 1 Hour
The PIC Training Standard
We don't operate like a pilot mill. At Pilot Instructional Center, our curriculum is built on real-world experience and uncompromising safety. When you fly with us, you aren't just an account number; you receive the dedicated mentorship required to become a confident, skilled aviator.
From your first solo flight to your advanced ratings, our instructors ensure you master the fundamentals. You will learn in an environment that prioritizes aeronautical decision-making and precise aircraft control, giving you a competitive edge whether you are flying for fun or pursuing an airline career.
Ready for Takeoff? Here is How to Book.
Getting into the cockpit is simple. Here is the exact process to schedule your discovery flight.
Step 1: Submit Your Info.
Fill out the brief form below so we know you are ready to fly.
Submit FormStep 2: We Contact You.
Our team will reach out promptly to answer any questions and lock in a date on the schedule.
Schedule CallStep 3: You Fly.
Arrive at New Century AirCenter, meet your instructor, do your pre-flight, and take to the skies.
Take FlightProfessional Mentorship From Day One
Take the Controls
Your journey toward the flight deck begins with a single lesson. Fill out the form below to schedule your Discovery Flight.
The Experience
60 Minutes that will change your perspective.
Ground Briefing
Meet your instructor and perform a thorough pre-flight inspection of the aircraft.
Takeoff & Flight
Once airborne, your instructor will hand over the controls for basic maneuvers.
Post-Flight Debrief
Log your first flight hour and discuss your personalized training plan.
Direct Admissions
(913) 600-8188Still Wondering if Flight Training is for You?
Reach out to our team at Pilot Instructional Center. We'll give you straight answers about pilot certification, training costs, and what it takes to succeed in the cockpit. No pressure, just real advice from real pilots.
Pilot Instructional Center • Professional Mentorship • Real Aviation
Our Location
Located at New Century AirCenter KIXD in New Century, KS
Pilot Instructional Center operates from New Century AirCenter - KIXD, just minutes from downtown Kansas City. Our strategic location provides an excellent training environment with open airspace, minimal traffic congestion, and direct access to both controlled and uncontrolled airspace for real-world navigation and radio experience. We offer a focused, safe, and efficient setting for aspiring pilots year-round.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Why choose Pilot Instructional Center for flight training in Kansas City?
Pilot Instructional Center (PIC) stands out for its team of senior instructors with real-world jet experience and a passion for helping students succeed. Our training programs emphasize safety, integrity, and personalized instruction, offering a higher level of mentorship than large, fast-paced schools. Located in New Century, near Kansas City, PIC provides an ideal balance of professional standards, accessible airspace, and a supportive learning environment.
What can I expect from flight training at Pilot Instructional Center?
At PIC, students receive individualized attention from instructors who genuinely care about their progress. Training covers everything from Private Pilot basics to advanced Instrument and Commercial ratings. You’ll fly modern aircraft, gain simulator experience, and develop strong decision-making skills through structured lessons and mentorship. Whether your goal is recreational flying or a professional career, PIC prepares you for success in real-world aviation.
What are the requirements to start flight training at PIC?
No prior flight experience is needed to begin. Students must be at least 17 years old for a Private Pilot License, hold an FAA medical certificate (Class 2 or higher), and be proficient in English. Our team helps guide new students through each step, from medical certification to enrollment, ensuring a smooth and supportive start to your training journey.
Does Pilot Instructional Center offer financing or flexible payment options?
Yes. PIC partners with aviation financing programs to make flight training more accessible for motivated students. We also offer pay-as-you-go options, allowing you to progress at your own pace while managing costs effectively. Our team can assist you in finding the best plan based on your goals and financial situation.
How long does it take to earn a pilot license at PIC?
Training time varies depending on your schedule, weather, and how frequently you fly. Dedicated students can complete their Private Pilot License in as little as 2–3 months, while others may take 6–12 months on a part-time basis. Our experienced instructors help you stay on track with a structured plan designed around your availability and goals.