First flight experience
Take the Controls. See New Bern from Above.
A discovery flight is your first step into aviation — 30 to 60 minutes in the air with a Tradewind CFI by your side. No experience required.
60 min
Typical flight time
None
Experience Required
FAA
Certified instructors
Same day
Logbook credit
What is a discovery flight?
Your First Hour in the Cockpit
A discovery flight — sometimes called an introductory flight — puts you in the left seat of a real aircraft with a Tradewind Certified Flight Instructor. You'll handle the controls during takeoff, cruise, and landing under the guidance of an experienced CFI.
It's the most direct way to find out whether flying is right for you. Many students book a discovery flight on a whim and walk away with a logbook entry, a new perspective on their hometown, and a plan to earn their Private Pilot Certificate.
Every minute you spend in the air counts. Your discovery flight hours log directly toward your Private Pilot Certificate, so you're already building toward your goal from the very first flight.
What to Bring
- Government-issued photo ID
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes
- Sunglasses
- A light jacket (cockpits can be cool at altitude)
- Your questions (there are no dumb ones)
Plan for ~90 minutes total — 30 min ground + 60 min in the air
Can bring up to one guest
What to expect
How Your Discovery Flight Works
Pre-flight briefing
Your CFI walks you through the aircraft, explains the controls, and covers basic airmanship. No prior knowledge needed — just curiosity.
Preflight inspection
You'll walk around the aircraft with your instructor, learning what pilots check before every flight. It's hands-on from the very start.
Takeoff & cruise
You'll take the controls shortly after takeoff and fly over New Bern, the Neuse River, and the surrounding coastline at cruise altitude.
Approach & landing
Your CFI guides you through the approach and landing sequence. You'll feel exactly how much (or how little) input it takes to fly a stable approach.
Debrief & logbook entry
After landing, your CFI debriefs the flight, answers your questions, and logs the time in your official FAA logbook — your first entry as a pilot.
Next steps
If you're ready to continue, we'll outline a training plan toward your Private Pilot Certificate and get you scheduled for your next lesson.
Common questions