What happens on a discovery flight
Your discovery flight is a genuine lesson with a certificated flight instructor (CFI), not a sightseeing ride. It runs about an hour in total:
- Briefing (10–15 min). Meet your instructor, go over how the controls work, and talk about where you'd like to fly.
- Preflight (10–15 min). Walk around the airplane together and check fuel, oil, control surfaces and tires, just like every pilot does before every flight.
- The flight (30–45 min). Taxi out, listen to the tower at KLWM, and take off. Once you're up, you'll fly: climbs, turns, and a look at the Merrimack River, the local lakes and, on a clear day, the coast and the White Mountains.
- Debrief. Your instructor will log the flight, answer your questions and explain what earning a license would look like for you.
Does it count toward a pilot license?
Yes. Time with a flight instructor can be logged, so if you go on to earn your private pilot license, your discovery flight is officially your first lesson. Bring a logbook or grab one from us.
Who it's for
- Anyone who has ever wondered whether they'd like flying. This is the fastest way to find out.
- Future professional pilots who want to try it before committing to a career path.
- Gift givers. A discovery flight makes a memorable birthday, anniversary or graduation present. See discovery flight gift certificates.
- Lapsed pilots who want an easy way back into the left seat before a flight review.
What to bring
- A government-issued photo ID.
- Sunglasses (non-polarized are best for reading instruments) and comfortable closed-toe shoes.
- A phone or camera. You'll want photos, and your instructor can take a few in the air.
Can I bring a passenger?
Often, yes. Our four-seat airplanes can usually carry a friend or family member in the back seat. It depends on weight and balance and the day's conditions, so let us know when you book and we'll confirm.
What if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first, and New England weather keeps us honest. If the ceiling, wind or visibility isn't right for a first flight, we'll reschedule at no charge. You can check current conditions at KLWM on our homepage.
Getting here
We're at Lawrence Municipal Airport in North Andover, just off I-495. Most people drive in 30–45 minutes from Boston, 20–30 minutes from the North Shore, and 10–25 minutes from the Merrimack Valley and Southern NH.