Train with Confidence.
Fly with Purpose.
WELCOME TO STL
FLIGHT TRAINING
Whether you're here to take your first flight or pursue your dream of becoming a pilot, we're glad you found us.
At STL Flight Training, we believe learning to fly should be inspiring, personal, and safe. From unforgettable discovery flights to full private pilot certification, our team is here to guide you every step of the way—with experienced instructors, modern aircraft, and a community that feels like family.
No matter your goals, we’ll help you take off with confidence.
Let’s get flying.
book your Discovery FLight today!
Take your first step into the wonderful world of general aviation.
Our Discovery Flights are the perfect introduction to the world of aviation and act as your first lesson. You'll enjoy a 1 hour flight with one of our experienced instructors, who will show you the basics of flying and let you take control of the plane for as much as you want.
Discovery flights also make the best gifts too!
Our Discovery Flights are the perfect introduction to the world of aviation and act as your first lesson. You'll enjoy a 1 hour flight with one of our experienced instructors, who will show you the basics of flying and let you take control of the plane for as much as you want.
Discovery flights also make the best gifts too!
Meet the aircraft
WHAT WE OFFER:
-Discovery Flights
-Private Pilot Training (PPL)
-Instrument Rating
-Commercial Pilot Training
-Career Pilot Pathway
-Flight Reviews & Recurrency
-Aircraft Rental
-Sporty's Ground School — student discount available
MEET OUR TEAM
I'm Ben Niederer. I began flying in 2020 and earned my PPL before attending Saint Louis University, where I completed my ratings and graduated in 2024. I’ve been instructing at STL Flight since 2023.
Fun fact: I can solve a Rubik’s Cube in under a minute!
Ben Niederer - CFII
Hi, I’m Chris! I served as an Air Force plane mechanic for 6 years, began flying in 2018, and started instructing in 2022 with 1,200 hours. As an FAA FAASTeam Representative, I’m dedicated to promoting aviation safety through education. A lifelong plane enthusiast, I’ve loved identifying aircraft since childhood and now share that passion with others.
Chris Flippo - CFII
Hello! My name is Chris. My passion for aviation started around middle school when I couldn't stop looking up at passing airplanes and wondering where they were going. After bouncing around some other careers I finally found myself where I always wanted to be, flying planes and never looked back. I love helping people experience aviation from the front for the first time and helping students pursue their own aviation dreams.
Chris Pruessner - CFII
Born and raised in South County, St. Louis, I took my first discovery flight at seven, sparking a lifelong passion for aviation. I committed to a flying career in high school and enrolled in Saint Louis University’s Aeronautics program in 2022. I graduated in three years and earned my Certified Flight Instructor certificate during my final semester.
Gavin Nieters - CFI
I’m Jason, a retired Fortune 300 professional and passionate trainer. I discovered aviation in 2016 and earned my CFI and CFII while working. Now retired, I combine my love of training and flying to help newcomers safely achieve their aviation goals. Outside flying, I enjoy family, fishing, boating, gardening, beekeeping, scuba diving, and boating.
Jason Overturf - CFII
Hi there! Thanks for coming to train with me. I’ve been flying for about 3 years now and have a wealth of knowledge to share with you. I love to fly and if it has a checklist and wings I can probably fly it! See you on the flight deck! A fun fact about me is I used to live in South America!
Josh Carrol- CFII
Kalah began flight training in 2018 at KCPS and earned a Bachelor of Science in Aviation from Embry-Riddle, where she also captained the women’s basketball team. As a Certified Flight Instructor, she combines her athletic discipline with aviation expertise to create a structured, engaging, and safety-focused learning environment for future pilots.
Kalah Martin - CFII
Nick’s passion for aviation began in childhood, though he started in a music career, earning three degrees including a PhD. In 2016, he shifted to aviation and has been instructing at STL Flight since 2020. He owns a B55 Baron, has three French Bulldogs, and flies as a Flexjet Captain on the Embraer Praetor 500/600.
Nick Bideler - Chief Pilot
From a young age, inspired by my parents’ travel career, I dreamed of becoming a pilot. I began flight training at sixteen in Chicago and earned my private pilot’s license at Skill Aviation. I graduated from Saint Louis University with a Bachelor of Aeronautics, earning instrument, commercial, and multi-engine ratings. I completed my CFI certification at STL Flight Training and started instructing during my senior year.
Timothy Pipal - CFI
Hi, I’m Waseem. My passion for flying began in high school after summers abroad, dreaming of the flight deck. I earned my B.S. in Flight Science from Saint Louis University while completing my ratings. In summer 2020, I received my CFI in Florida, honing my flying and teaching skills. Since then, I’ve been instructing in St. Louis, focusing on safety and positivity. My ultimate goal is to become an airline pilot.
