Fly with Us!
For many, the dream of flight starts with a simple question: "What is it actually like to be at the controls?" If you’ve ever looked up at a Cessna climbing out of Palo Alto Airport (KPAO) and wondered if you could be the one in the pilot's seat, an introductory flight lesson—often called a Discovery Flight—is the perfect way to find out.
At Stanford Flying Club, we’ve been training pilots in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1930. Our introductory lesson is a true "test drive" of our integrated flight training system. Whether you are coming from Mountain View, Menlo Park, Sunnyvale, or Redwood City, our location at KPAO is the most convenient hub for flight training on the Peninsula.
It is strictly a training flight, not a sightseeing tour, designed for those who are motivated to earn their pilot certificate.
Here is a breakdown of what you can expect during your first experience as a student pilot.
The Three-Hour Experience
An introductory lesson at Stanford Flying Club is a comprehensive three-hour experience. We believe that to truly understand flight training, you need to see both the "ground" and "air" sides of the operation.
1. Club & Facility Overview (1 Hour)
Before we head to the airplane, we spend time in our office at KPAO. This is your chance to get a "behind the scenes" look at how a flying club operates. We’ll walk you through:
- The pilot certification process (from Student to Private Pilot).
- The Cessna integrated flight training syllabus.
- A transparent breakdown of costs and scheduling.
- Our fleet of well-maintained training aircraft.
2. Ground Instruction (1 Hour)
Every safe flight starts on the ground. During this hour, your FAA-certified flight instructor will introduce you to the fundamentals of aerodynamics and aircraft systems. You’ll perform a "pre-flight inspection" of the airplane, learning how to check the fuel, oil, and control surfaces to ensure the aircraft is airworthy.
3. Loggable Flight Time (1 Hour)
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for. Once the engine is started and the checks are complete, you’ll head to the runway.
Yes, you will take the controls. Under the close supervision of your instructor, you will participate in the takeoff, practice basic maneuvers like turns, climbs, and descents, and experience the discipline required to navigate the Bay Area airspace. Most importantly, this hour is loggable flight time, meaning it counts toward the FAA requirements for your pilot certificate if you choose to continue training.
Why Learn to Fly at KPAO?
The San Francisco Bay Area is a premier location for flight training. KPAO in Palo Alto offers a unique environment that builds superior piloting skills from day one.
Because the Bay Area has busy airspace, learning here ensures you become proficient in communicating with air traffic control and managing complex environments. These skills make you a more confident, capable, and safe pilot compared to training in less challenging regions.
How to Prepare
To get the most out of your first lesson, please arrive prepared:
- Comfortable Shoes: Wear sneakers or other closed-toe flat shoes. Avoid boots or high heels, as you need to be able to feel the rudder pedals accurately.
- Sunglasses: Bringing a pair of sunglasses is recommended to help with visibility and comfort while flying.
Ready to Take the Controls?
An introductory flight is the first step in a professional training journey. Whether you’re looking for a serious hobby or the start of a career in aviation, we are here to help you reach your goals.
Ready to begin? Head over to our Get Started page to learn more about joining the club.