Air Experiences

Flying lessons

Learn to Fly a Plane, San Francisco

Take the pilot's seat and experience the thrill of flying with an FAA-certified instructor!

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Online

San Francisco

California

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295 $

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Overview

Experience the exhilaration of becoming a pilot for a day as you climb into the cockpit and command the skies above San Francisco. This unforgettable flying lesson pairs you with a certified FAA instructor who will walk you through every step from pre-flight preparation to hands-on control of the aircraft.

Your adventure begins on the ground, where you’ll receive a personalized safety and flight briefing tailored to your comfort level. You’ll learn how airplanes operate, what all those cockpit dials mean, and how to handle flight controls. Then, it’s time to taxi down the runway and take to the skies.

Once in the air, your instructor will guide you through basic maneuvers while you take the controls and fly the aircraft yourself, no prior experience necessary. You'll soar over the Bay Area’s world-famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the sweeping Pacific coastline. It’s an aerial view few get to experience, and you’ll be at the center of it all.

Whether you’re curious about a future in aviation or just checking a dream experience off your bucket list, this flight is your ticket to something extraordinary. It’s not just a sightseeing tour, it’s your moment in the pilot’s seat.

What’s Included?

1-hour flight lesson – take the controls and fly the plane yourself once at altitude
1 hour of professional ground instruction with an FAA-certified instructor
Scenic aerial views over Palo Alto and the San Francisco Bay Area
Pre-flight safety inspection and cockpit walkthrough
Use of headset, aircraft, and flight equipment during your lesson
Pilot’s logbook with recorded flight time (counts toward FAA certification)
Perfect for beginners, aviation enthusiasts, or future pilots

Full Description

Availability

Important Information

Participation Guidelines

Who Can Take Part?

Age: Suitable for ages 14 and up.
Height: Participants must be between 5’1” and 6’6”.
Weight Limits: Individual weight must not exceed 240 lbs.
Physical Ability: Guests should be able to board and exit the aircraft independently and follow basic safety instructions.

Additional Notes

Children: Teenagers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at check-in.
Pets: No pets allowed during this experience.
Accessibility: Aircraft used is not wheelchair accessible.

Experience Overview

What Happens on the Day?

Total Duration: Approximately 2 hours, including 1 hour of flight time and 1 hour of ground instruction.
Flight Lesson Includes: Guided instruction on aircraft operation, followed by a hands-on flight where you’ll take the controls once safely in the air.
Who’s Onboard: Just you and a certified flight instructor—this is a one-on-one lesson.
Spectators: Family and friends can watch takeoff and landing from designated viewing areas near the runway.
Photos/Videos: Cameras and phones are welcome for capturing memories before or after your flight.

Before You Arrive

Important Info to Know

Weather: Flights are subject to weather conditions. In the event of unsuitable weather, your lesson will be rescheduled.
Arrival Time: Please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.
Location/Parking: Free parking is available at Palo Alto Airport, where the flight takes place.
What to Wear: Dress comfortably for the season. Closed-toe shoes are required; sunglasses recommended.
What to Bring: A government-issued photo ID, a camera or phone, and your sense of adventure.
Gratuity: Tips for your instructor are appreciated but not required.
Facilities: Restrooms are available onsite at the flight school.

Location

This experience does not have a physical location and can be attended online.

This experience will be held at a location of your choice within the service area.