951-468-9700
Discovery Flights in Riverside & Redlands: What to Expect, What You’ll Do, and How to Book

Discovery Flights in Riverside & Redlands: What to Expect, What You’ll Do, and How to Book

by Amanda Heveran

flight training discovery flight Riverside CA

A discovery flight is your first, hands-on lesson with a certified instructor. You’ll get a safety briefing, learn the basics of controls, and take the controls in the air—typically in a Cessna 172—before your instructor lands the airplane. At NextGen Flight Academy (Riverside KRAL & Redlands KREI), you can book an intro flight and be in the left seat the same day.

What happens on a discovery flight?

  • Meet & brief (10–15 min). Your instructor covers aircraft basics, safety, and the plan for the flight.
  • Preflight walk-around. See how pilots inspect flight controls, fuel, and instruments.
  • Taxi & takeoff. Your instructor handles the busy bits; you’ll follow along on the controls.
  • You fly. In cruise, you’ll try gentle turns, climb/descend, and keep heading and altitude.
  • Return & debrief. Review what you did and how flight training works at Riverside (KRAL) or Redlands (KREI).

Good to know: An intro flight counts as official loggable training time with an FAA-certified instructor.

Why do it with NextGen Flight Academy?

  • Two convenient airports: Riverside Municipal (KRAL) & Redlands Municipal (KREI)—great airspace for new pilots and year-round flying.

  • Modern training tools: Access to a Redbird simulator for procedures and instrument practice to reinforce what you learn in the air.

  • Clear training path: From Private Pilot through advanced ratings, all under experienced instructors in Southern California.

What should I bring?

  • Government-issued photo ID (passport or driver’s license).
  • Comfortable clothes & closed-toe shoes.
  • Sunglasses and water.
  • Questions! Ask about training time, budget, and how your schedule fits our programs.

Can I pick my route?

Often, yes. Riverside flights frequently tour local landmarks like Lake Mathews and the surrounding foothills; special routes (like a Disney corridor experience) are also available as themed intro flights. Ask when you book.

How much does it cost and how long is it?

  • Time: Commonly ~30 minutes in the air (plus briefing and taxi time).

  • Price: Check our current intro-flight pricing and specials on the booking page; offers vary by location or theme.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need prior experience? No. Your instructor will teach you everything you need for a safe, fun first lesson.

  • What if I get nervous? Totally normal. We start with gentle maneuvers, and your instructor is on the controls with you at all times.

  • Is there an age limit? Intro flights welcome teens and adults; ask us about recommended ages and parent/guardian consent for minors.

  • Will this count toward my license? Yes—time with an FAA-certified instructor is loggable and applies to future training.

  • What aircraft do you use? Most discovery flights use a Cessna 172 (stable, four-seat trainer). Fleet options vary by day and location.

Take the first step

A discovery flight is the most motivating way to find out if flying is for you. Book today, or call our Riverside or Redlands campus to talk with a training advisor about your goals, timeline, and budget.

Ready to write your own aviation story?

👉 Book your Discovery Flight today or Contact Us to speak with a training advisor.

Take the first step toward your aviation dreams!