Discovery Flight in Des Moines, Iowa: Your First Flight Lesson
A discovery flight is an introductory flight lesson and the best way to find out if learning to fly is right for you. For $195, you'll fly with a certified flight instructor out of Des Moines International Airport (KDSM) in a Garmin G1000 NXi–equipped Piper Archer. You'll help preflight the airplane, then take the controls yourself once you're airborne. No experience needed, and it's open to anyone 16 or older in Des Moines and across Central Iowa.
Discovery Flight Pricing
- Certified flight instructor with you the whole flight
- You fly the airplane once airborne
- Briefing, preflight, flight, and debrief included
- No experience needed
After Your Discovery Flight
If you're hooked, your instructor will walk you through what earning your Private Pilot License looks like — timeline, cost, and how to pay for it.
- Private Pilot training typically takes 3–4 months
- 90%+ first-time checkride pass rate
- 529 plan funds accepted
- Loans and scholarships available through our financing options
What to Expect on Your Discovery Flight
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Briefing
Meet your instructor at our schoolhouse and go over the route, the weather, and how the controls work.
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Preflight
Walk around the Archer with your instructor and check it the same way pilots do before every flight.
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Flight
Your instructor handles the takeoff, then hands you the controls to climb, turn, and see Des Moines from above.
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Debrief
Talk through the flight and get your questions answered about starting flight training.
Discovery Flight FAQs
What is a discovery flight?
A discovery flight is an introductory flight lesson with a certified flight instructor. At Vertical Vision Flight Academy in Des Moines, you'll help preflight a Piper Archer, take the controls in the air, and learn what flight training toward a Private Pilot License involves.
How much does a discovery flight cost?
A discovery flight at Vertical Vision Flight Academy is $195. That covers the airplane, fuel, and your certified flight instructor.
How long is a discovery flight?
Plan on about one hour total, including the briefing, preflight, flight, and debrief.
How old do I need to be?
You must be at least 16 years old to take a discovery flight.
Do I need any flying experience?
None at all. Your instructor walks you through everything and is at the controls with you the whole time.
Will I actually fly the airplane?
Yes. Once you're safely airborne, your instructor hands you the controls so you can climb, turn, and get a feel for the airplane.
Does a discovery flight count toward a pilot license?
Yes. Time you fly with a certified flight instructor can be logged as flight training toward your Private Pilot License. Ask your instructor to log it and bring the logbook entry when you start training.
What airplane will I fly?
Discovery flights are flown in the Piper Archer, equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics.
What if the weather is bad?
If conditions aren't safe or comfortable for a first flight, we'll reschedule you for the next good day.
Where do I go?
Our schoolhouse at Des Moines International Airport (KDSM), 6214 SW 28th St, Des Moines, IA 50321. Call (515) 337-2159 if you need directions.