Highest Rated Flight School In The St. Louis Area
TRAIN WITH CONFIDENCE.
FLY WITH PURPOSE
WELCOME TO STL
FLIGHT TRAINING - Part 61
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.
WHAT WE DO
Professional Flight Training Built on Safety, Skill, and Confidence
STL Flight Training delivers professional, personalized flight training focused on safety, confidence, and real-world skills. Our experienced instructors, well-maintained aircraft, and structured training programs support pilots at every stage—from first flight to advanced ratings.
We’re committed to clear communication, consistent instruction, and a positive training experience that helps students reach their goals efficiently and safely.
Discovery Flights
Experience the thrill of flying and see what pilot training is all about with a hands-on introductory flight.
Private Pilot Training (PPL)
Build a strong foundation in flight skills, safety, and aeronautical knowledge as you earn your private pilot certificate.
Instrument Rating
Gain the skills and confidence to fly safely and precisely in instrument meteorological conditions.
Commercial Pilot Training
Refine your professionalism and advanced flight skills to prepare for a career as a paid pilot.
Career Pilot Pathway
A structured, end-to-end training program designed to take you from first flight to professional pilot.
Flight Reviews & Recurrency
Stay current, proficient, and confident with tailored flight reviews and recurrent training.
Why Students Choose STL Flight Training
1.
Training built around YOU—not a rigid program
Every student learns differently. We adapt to your pace, your schedule, and your goals so you don’t waste time or money trying to fit into a one-size-fits-all system.
2.
You always know what’s next
No confusion. No guessing. We give you a clear path from your first flight all the way to your end goal—whether that’s flying for fun or becoming a professional pilot.
3.
No hidden costs or surprises
We’re upfront about pricing, timelines, and expectations—so you can plan your training with confidence.
4.
Instructors who actually teach
(not just log hours)
Our instructors are patient, invested, and focused on helping you understand flying—not just get through lessons.
5.
Flexible scheduling that works with your life
Busy job? School? No problem. We make it easy to stay consistent without falling behind.
6.
Real-world flying skills from day one
We train you to think, make decisions, and fly confidently—not just pass a checkride.
What does it cost?
Clear, Honest Pricing Tailored To Your Training Goals.
At STL Flight Training, we believe in making aviation accessible and predictable. Whether you're just getting started or pursuing advanced certifications, our pricing estimates give you a clear understanding of what to expect. Below you'll find breakdowns for each training program so you can plan your journey with confidence.
*All of our training program costs are estimates, based on the price of aircraft rental and instructor time
Since each student’s pace and needs differ, your final cost may vary. If you have questions, feel free to reach out, and we’ll be happy to help you get a more personalized estimate.
Private Pilot - $11-$15,000
Required Flight Time: 40 total hours
Notes: This includes at least 20 hours of dual instruction with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight time. Most students often log more hours depending on their progress.
Instrument Rating - $7,000
Required Flight Time: 40 hours of instrument time
Notes: These can be a mix of actual and simulated instrument conditions. It's a crucial step for learning to fly solely by reference to instruments.
Commercial Pilot - $7,000
Required Flight Time: 250 total hours
Notes: This is a major milestone. After achieving a commercial certificate, you can be compensated for flight services.
CFI - $6,000
Required Flight Time: No specific FAA minimum, but you must hold a commercial certificate and instrument rating
Notes: The CFI rating allows you to teach others. Many instructors accumulate additional flight hours while pursuing this rating.
CFII - $2,000
Required Flight Time: No specific FAA minimum beyond CFI
Notes: This adds the ability to teach instrument flying. After a CFI rating, you pursue this to train students in instrument conditions.
Pilot Training Cost Estimator
45 hours
Estimated Total Investment:
$0
*Industry range: $70,000–$90,000 depending on time-building method, aircraft usage, and proficiency.
Flexible Training Options
Train on Your Terms
Flight training should be accessible—not overwhelming.
With pay-as-you-go pricing, flexible scheduling, and no long-term commitments, you can start when you're ready and invest in your training at a pace that works for you.
What Our Students Have To Say
Meet Our Fleet
Modern Fleet. Classic Reliability.
N172FT Redbird MCX
Cost: Student Rate $95.00 an Hour
Non Student Rate: $125 an Hour
N788FT Cessna C172
Cost: $185 an Hour Wet no tax or fuel surcharge
Cruise Speed: at 7,000 ft 131 mph at 2025 RPM
Equipment: 2 uAvionix AV-30 Displays GMA 340 Audio Panel Garmin GTN 650 WAAS GPS Dual Nav Comm Radios Garmin GTX 330 Transponder
Weight & Balance: Useful load 798.2 lbs Max T/O Weight 2300 lbs Empty weight 1501.80 lbs Empty moment 57,198.20 Empty CG 38.09
Evektor Harmony
Cost: $199 an Hour = Wet no tax or fuel surcharge. Evektor 10hr Minimum Block Time Purchase $185 an hour
Cruise speed: Take off Run (concrete RWY) 620 ft / 190 m Landing Run (concrete RWY) 590 ft / 180 m Rate of Climb 900 ft/min / 4.6 m/s Max. Level Speed 115 kts / 215 km/h Stall Speed VS1 45 kts / 83 km/h Never Exceed Speed 146 kts / 270 km/h Standard Range 700 nm / 1 300 km
Equipment: Garmin G3X Dual 10.6“ Touch Screen Glass Cockpit or Dynon SkyView HDX Dual 10“ Touch Screen Glass Cockpit Garmin G3X Autopilot or Dynon SkyView Autopilot 2-axes Garmin autopilot with Garmin GMC 305 or GMC 507 Control Panel. Garmin NAV / COM / GPS Avionics AT1 Air Traffic Warning System, FLARM TRX1500 Night Flight / IR training package
Weight & Balance: Empty Weight from 705 lb / 320 kg MTOM 1320 lb / 600 kg
N2962E - Cessna 172
Cost: $185 an Hour = Wet no tax or fuel surcharge
Cruise Speed: 109Kts @ 2400RPM at 6,000 FT, 4.9 GPH Standard Day
Equipment: Garmin 650, VOR, 2 Digital Nav/Coms
Weight & Balance: Useful Load: 1018 lbs Max T/O: 2300 lbs Empty Weight: 1532 lbs Empty Moment: 58,510.60 Empty CG: 38.19
Meet Our Team
Dedicated To Your Success.
Chris Flippo - CFI
Chris Pruessner - CFII
Jason Overturf - CFII
Josh Carroll - Chief Pilot
Kalah Martin - CFII
Laura Standen - CFII
Timothy Pipal - CFI
Chloe Ellison - CFII
Waseem Issa - CFI
Lauren Parlier - Director of Administration
Want To Join The STL Flight Training Team? Apply HERE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When can I redeem my discovery flight?
You can redeem it at any time; it never expires, so you can hold onto it as long as you need.
How do you match me with an instructor for flight lessons?
We connect you with instructors who have availability that aligns with your schedule, so we create a customized flight training plan just for you.
Do you offer payment discounts?
Yes! In Flight Schedule Pro, you can add a payment method and submit payments through our website. You can choose prepayment or Evekter block time, but prepayment is never required. Discount only available with ACH payments. Credit and Debit card transactions do not qualify for discounts.
Is there a contract?
No, there is no contract. We are dedicated to your success, not just business growth.
Where are your locations?
We have two locations: one in Chesterfield and one in downtown St. Louis.
Do you have a flight simulator?
Yes! We have a full motion Redbird MCX flight simulator. Starting with the first two lessons, all new students will train in the simulator before their actual flights.
Do the discovery flights come with any time limits?
No, there’s no expiration date. You can schedule it whenever you’re ready.
How do I know which instructor is right for me?
After signing up, we’ll match you with an instructor whose schedule and teaching style fits your needs.
Where can I make payments?
Payments can be made online via Flight Schedule Pro or directly on our website. Again, prepayment is optional.
Can I come tour the facility?
Yes, absolutely! We offer facility tours, but you do need to make a reservation in advance. You can book your tour via our reservation page for Chesterfield or St. Louis—just follow the links!
Schedule a tour at CPS (Downtown STL): https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/tour-booking-stl
Schedule a tour at KSUS (Chesterfield): https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/tour-booking-sus
What does my first day of flight training look like?
On your first day, we focus mostly on ground school—you’ll learn flight principles, safety, and get introduced to our procedures. Depending on the plan, you might also get time in the simulator to practice. Actual flight time often comes after the first session.
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