Frequently Asked Questions
Discovery Flight FAQs
What is a Discovery Flight?
A Discovery Flight is your introduction to flying! You’ll sit in the pilot’s seat with a Certified Flight Instructor, learn the basics of flight, and take the controls once airborne. It’s a hands-on, unforgettable first step toward becoming a pilot.
How much does it cost?
The Discovery Flight is $275, which includes one hour of flight time and approximately 30 minutes for pre- and post-flight briefing.
How long should I plan for the entire experience?
Plan for about 1.5 hours total from arrival to completion.
How do I pay?
Your flight is prepaid by credit card at the time of booking.
What documents are required?
You must bring one of the following before your flight:
A valid passport, or
A driver’s license and birth certificate
These are required by federal law and must be on file before your flight.
Can I bring a guest?
Yes! You may bring one passenger at no additional cost.
Please avoid bringing heavy bags or backpacks. Cameras and phones are welcome.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the day’s weather. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in and pre-flight preparation.
Where do I go?
Minute Man Air Field
302 Boxboro Road
Stow, Massachusetts 01775
Parking is available on-site.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.
If weather prevents your flight, we’ll contact you to reschedule.
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Flight Training FAQs
How do I start flight training at Mitiguy Aviation?
The first step is to schedule a Discovery Flight; a one-hour lesson where you’ll take the controls and see what flying is like. After that, you can start training right away. During your first lesson, you and your instructor will create a training plan that fits your goals and schedule.
How long does it take to become a Private Pilot?
Students who train several times per week can complete the Private Pilot License (PPL) in as little as 2 months through our accelerated program. The total time varies depending on frequency; most students finish between 2–6 months.
How much does it cost to earn a Private Pilot License?
The typical total cost is around $12,000, which includes:
Aircraft rental & instruction: ~$11,000
Ground school: ~$300
Medical exam: $150–$300
Written exam: $175–$200
FAA check ride: $800–$1,000
Your final cost depends on how often you fly and how many hours you need to meet proficiency.
What are the FAA requirements for the PPL?
To earn your Private Pilot License, the FAA requires:
Minimum 40 flight hours (including at least 10 solo hours)
Passing the FAA written knowledge exam
Passing an oral and practical test (check ride)
Holding a valid Third Class Medical Certificate
What’s included in flight training at Mitiguy Aviation?
Each lesson includes both flight and ground instruction. A standard training block is two hours — about 1.5 hours of flight and 0.5 hours of briefing before and after. You’ll also complete our online or in-person ground school covering aerodynamics, systems, regulations, weather, navigation, flight planning, and more.
How often should I fly?
We recommend 2–4 lessons per week to maintain consistency and skill retention. Flying frequently helps you progress faster and reduces overall training cost.
Do I need to complete ground school before flying?
No. You can start flying right away. Ground school can be completed concurrently with your flight lessons through our online and in-person program, with instructor support for questions and real-world application.
What happens during a typical lesson?
Each session includes a preflight briefing, hands-on flight time (maneuvers, navigation, takeoffs, landings, or cross-country work), and a post-flight debrief. Your instructor will tailor lessons to your progress and goals each week.
When will I fly solo?
Most students solo after 15–25 hours of dual instruction. Your instructor will only authorize solo flight once you’ve demonstrated strong consistency, safety, and judgment.
What are the next steps after earning my Private Pilot License?
Once you have your PPL, you can fly friends and family, rent aircraft for travel or recreation, or continue training toward advanced ratings and certifications.
What is an Instrument Rating (IR)?
The Instrument Rating allows you to fly safely in clouds, low visibility, and solely by reference to cockpit instruments. This rating makes you a more capable pilot and is required for most professional flying.
Duration: ~1 month
Typical flight time: 30 hours
Estimated cost: ~$7,000
What is a Commercial Pilot License (CPL)?
The Commercial Pilot License allows you to get paid for flying. You’ll refine your precision, master advanced maneuvers, and complete longer flights.
Duration: ~2 weeks
Typical flight time: 20 hours (beyond Instrument)
Estimated cost: ~$5,500
What is a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating?
The CFI certificate allows you to teach new pilots and log valuable flight hours while getting paid to fly. You’ll learn advanced instructional techniques and refine your aviation knowledge to a professional level.
Duration: ~1 week
Typical flight time: 15 hours
Estimated cost: ~$4,125
What is the Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII)?
The CFII allows you to teach instrument students how to fly solely by reference to instruments. It’s a natural next step after earning your CFI, especially if you plan to build hours quickly or train professionally.
Duration: ~3 days
Typical flight time: 6 hours
Estimated cost: ~$1,650
What is the “Zero to Hero” program?
Mitiguy Aviation’s Zero to Hero program takes new students with no prior experience to Certified Flight Instructor in 4-12 months for roughly $30,275. It’s a complete, structured training path for students pursuing a professional flying career. Graduates receive priority hiring as CFIs at Mitiguy Aviation, providing a direct path to building flight time and launching a career in aviation.
Can I fly if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. Non-U.S. citizens are welcome to train with us. Before beginning flight training, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all non-U.S. citizens to obtain authorization through the Flight Training Security Program (FTSP). The process involves submitting an online application, providing a copy of your passport and visa, and completing fingerprinting for a security background check. Once approved, you’ll receive clearance to begin flight training. We’ll guide you through each step to make the process simple and stress-free.
What financing or payment options are available?
Most students pay as they go, per lesson. However, for full-time programs, we can connect you with financing or flight training loan options designed for career-track students.
What documentation do I need to start?
You’ll need one of the following:
A valid U.S. passport, or
A driver’s license and birth certificate (for U.S. citizens)
Non-U.S. citizens must obtain TSA authorization before beginning flight training.
Do I need to be a certain age to start?
You can start training at any age, but you must be 16 years old to solo and 17 to earn your Private Pilot License. There’s no upper age limit as long as you meet the medical requirements.
Do I need a medical certificate to fly, and how do I get one?
Yes. An FAA medical certificate is a physical exam that verifies you meet the health and fitness standards required to fly. For private pilot training, you’ll need a Third Class Medical Certificate, which must be obtained before you can fly solo. To get one, you schedule an exam with an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), which typically costs $100–$300. You can begin flight training before completing the exam.
Can I continue flying while in college or working full-time?
Yes. Many students train part-time. We’ll create a custom schedule around your availability; evenings, weekends, or daytime sessions as needed.
What if I already have flight experience?
If you’ve already logged flight hours or started training elsewhere, we’ll review your logbook and tailor your training plan to give you full credit for prior experience.
What should I bring to my first lesson?
Bring a valid ID and your logbook (if you have one). We’ll provide everything else you need, including headsets and materials.
Can I schedule a Discovery Flight before committing?
Absolutely. Our Discovery Flight is a one-hour, hands-on flight experience for $275. You’ll handle the controls under the supervision of an instructor and receive a personalized overview of the Private Pilot program.