Welcome to Ideal Aviation
Why Choose Ideal Aviation?
The Ideal Way to Learn to Fly in St. Louis, Missouri
When you choose to fly at Ideal Aviation, you're not only joining the welcoming and friendly community of aviation, you become part of the Ideal Aviation family. We are committed to your success and we want to see you succeed in your aviation goals.
Our facility spans over three hangars and we have a growing fleet of ten aircraft and over 15 certified flight instructors to fit your training needs. Ideal Aviation offers private classrooms for individualized ground instruction that provide a comfortable and personalized learning environment.
Schedule a Discovery Flight
Take Our Quiz
Do You Think You Could Be a Pilot?
Are you fascinated by the world of aviation? Have you always dreamed of soaring through the skies? Do you find yourself looking up at the planes overhead, wondering what it would be like to be the one in control?
Start by taking our quick quiz to see if you have what it takes! Our quiz will assess your knowledge and skills related to aviation, as well as your personality traits and interests, to help determine if flying is right for you.
Take The Quiz
How to get started?
We offer a range of programs and services at St. Louis Downtown Airport to help you achieve your aviation goals
Discover
Take a Discovery Flight
The best way to experience flying near St. Louis, Missouri, and the surrounding area is to take a Discovery Flight. This short introductory flight offers you the chance to fly with one of our experienced instructors. You'll take the controls, learn basic maneuvers, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Gateway Arch and the Mississippi River from above.
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Learn
Learn About Being a Pilot
If you're new to flying, you might not know where to start. Our team of experienced pilots and instructors at St. Louis Downtown Airport can help guide you through the process.
Become A Pilot
Start
Start Flight Training
We offer personalized training programs to help you earn your Private Pilot Certificate and beyond. Our experienced instructors will work with you to develop a training plan that meets your goals, schedule, and learning style.
Our Courses
Continue
Advanced Flight Training
Continue your flight training education with additional courses and certifications. Ideal Aviation offers a range of advanced training options, including instrument training, multi-engine training, commercial training, and more. We’re here to support you every step of the way in your aviation journey whether you’re flying for fun or for a career.
Advanced TrainingWhat everyone is saying
Trusted by Thousands of Students
"I love flying at Ideal and it's a truly wonderful flight school!"
Alex A.
Commercial Pilot
"Great instructors, nice facilities. Highly recommended"
Don B.
Commercial Pilot
"Had a discovery flight today with Michael. It was a wonderful experience I definitely recommend it!"
Paul D.
Commercial Pilot
Our Latest Blog Posts
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Taking Flight: Your Guide to Flight Training at Ideal Aviation
Have you ever dreamt of taking to the skies, whether it's the thrill of soaring in an airplane or the unique challenge of maneuvering a helicopter? At Ideal Aviation, we turn those dreams into reality. Our comprehensive flight training programs cater to both aspiring airplane and helicopter pilots, providing a pathway to achieving your aviation goals.
Learning to Fly is your Gateway to the Skies
Learning to fly opens the door to exciting opportunities. Whether you want to fly for fun, work for an airline, or serve in the military, it all starts with good training. If you’re in the St. Louis area or Southern Illinois, Ideal Aviation is here to guide you every step of the way. We combine classroom learning and hands-on flying at St. Louis Downtown Airport (KCPS) to help you achieve your goals.
Why You Should Train from Zero to Hero at Ideal Aviation
At Ideal Aviation, we understand that becoming a professional pilot is a significant career decision, one that requires dedication and structured training. For aspiring pilots looking to streamline their path to a career in aviation, the Zero to Hero training program offers the most efficient way to achieve your goals. Our program is designed to take students from zero flight experience all the way to earning their Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) ratings, providing the certifications and experience necessary to succeed in the aviation industry.