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 Aviation 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 Aviation Academy?
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Two convenient airports: Riverside Municipal (KRAL) & Redlands Municipal (KREI), great airspace for new pilots and year-round flying.
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Modern training tools: Access to a Redbird simulator for procedures and instrument practice to reinforce what you learn in the air.
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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?
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Time: Commonly 30 to 60 minutes in the air (plus briefing and taxi time), depending on destination. Local demo flights are 30 minutes; longer routes to Catalina, the Hollywood Sign, Disneyland, or Dana Point vary by distance.
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Price: Check our current intro-flight pricing and specials on the booking page; offers vary by location or theme.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need prior experience? No. Your instructor will teach you everything you need for a safe, fun first lesson.
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What if I get nervous? Totally normal. We start with gentle maneuvers, and your instructor is on the controls with you at all times.
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Is there an age limit? Intro flights welcome teens and adults; ask us about recommended ages and parent/guardian consent for minors.
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Will this count toward my license? Yes, time with an FAA-certified instructor is loggable and applies to future training.
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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.