Under the guidance of a seasoned FAA Certified Flight Instructor, you and your co-pilot will dive into the full pre-flight process. From aircraft walkaround and aircraft maintenance checks to radio communications and taxiing procedures, this isn’t just sightseeing—it’s true pilot flight training.

During this flight lesson, you'll each get hands-on time at the controls while flying over scenic sights like Highland Park, Historic Fort Sheridan, Lake Forest, and the Great Lakes Naval Base. Your flight path takes you from Chicago Executive Airport to Waukegan and back, with a seat swap at the halfway point so both students get the full experience.

This session is structured similarly to a discovery flight, offering authentic training moments—ideal for those curious about earning a private pilot license, instrument rating, or even beginning a journey toward a commercial pilot license or airline pilot career.

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: All age groups are welcome. 
• Weight: The total combined weight of both participants cannot exceed 500 pounds.
• Physical limitations: Participants must be able to enter and exit the aircraft on their own.
• Experience level: All levels are welcome.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: There is no age restriction, but if participants are under 18 years old, they must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. All participants must be old enough to ride without a child seat.
• Individuals with disabilities: The plane is not wheelchair accessible.
• Pets: Sorry, no pets allowed.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: 2-2.5 hours including 1 hour of flight time split between two students.
• What’s included: Flight lesson with a FAA Certified Flight Instructor.
  • Fuel surcharge is not included and may be charged at the time of the flight due to the volatility of gas prices.
• Who will be present: The flight instructor and the members of your group.
• Spectators: Spectators can wait in the lounge area at the airport which offers cable television, and snacks.
• Photo/ video: Photos are encouraged! You may also choose to purchase a video package of your flight directly from the flight school for $59-$99.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: This experience is never canceled due to weather conditions. If the weather is not good enough to do the flight portion of your lesson, you will still do the ground school with your instructor and reschedule the flight for another day.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive 15 minutes in advance.
• Parking: Parking is available at the airport.
• What to wear: Comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, as you will be outside for a portion of the lesson. The aircrafts are well heated, but do not have air-conditioning.
• What to bring: Your ID and gratuity for your instructor if you feel they do an exceptional job.
• Restrooms: Restrooms are available at the airport.

What can I expect during this introductory flight lesson in Chicago, and do we both get time in the cockpit?

Yes! Both students take turns flying the aircraft, guided by an FAA Certified Instructor. Expect real training procedures, from pre-flight through landing.

Is this experience similar to a discovery flight, and will an instructor be with us the entire time?

It’s a full discovery flight experience—yes, your instructor will be with you every step of the way to ensure safety and learning.

Does this lesson take place at Chicago Executive Airport, and are there any weather conditions that might impact the flight?

Yes, the lesson begins and ends at Chicago Executive Airport. As with all aviation activities, flights are subject to favorable weather conditions.

Can this lesson count toward pilot training or future flight school programs?

Absolutely. Time spent in the air with a certified instructor can count toward a private pilot license or other certifications depending on the flight school.

Is this a good starting point for someone interested in a private pilot license or learning more about flight training?

Definitely. This is a top-tier way to dip your toes into pilot flight training, and it’s perfect for those exploring chicago flight school options.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 15 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 48 hours before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 48 hours in advance means losing the value of your experience.