Pilot Training Programs

Pilot training courses to help you reach your goals

Ideal Aviation is the place to become a pilot in St. Louis, MO. Offering training in both helicopters and airplanes, we can help you get your private pilot certificate and more.

Professional, safe, friendly instructors

Aircraft availability and large fleet

Modern and well maintained aircraft

Private classrooms and tailored lessons

Part 61 and part 141 FAA approved training center

SEND US A MESSAGE
Pilot giving the thumbs up by a cessna 172
Take the first step...

Schedule a Discovery Flight

Schedule a time to meet with our team, tour our hangar, and take flight in one of our aircraft. During a discovery flight, you'll be paired up with one of our highly qualified FAA certificated flight instructors.

You'll get the chance to sit in the pilot seat and fly the aircraft. Your instructor will help you taxi the aircraft out of the ramp and receive clearance from the control tower. Once airborne, you'll take control of the aircraft and practice basic maneuvers like flying straight and level, turns, climbs, and descents.

Are you up for the opportunity that lies ahead? Schedule a discovery flight now and see if flying is right for you.

SCHEDULE DISCOVERY FLIGHT
Discovery flight over the St. Louis Arch

Become a Pilot at St. Louis Downtown Airport

Picture of a pilot and helicopter

Helicopter Pilot Training

At Ideal Aviation, we understand that every student has unique needs and aspirations, which is why we offer comprehensive helicopter pilot training programs that are tailored to fit both your schedule and career objectives, regardless of whether you are a beginner or seeking to further your career.


Our hangar is home to an impressive fleet of helicopters. Our Guimbal Cabri helicopters are well-maintained and equipped with the latest avionics and safety features, so you can feel confident and secure during your training flights. Give us a call and visit the Ideal Aviation hangar and see what all the pilots in St. Louis are talking about.

Picture of airplane in hangar

Airplane Pilot Training

The Ideal Aviation training facility is home to a modern fleet of fixed-wing aircraft that are well maintained and equipped with advanced avionics and safety features. Our aircraft are regularly serviced and inspected to ensure that they are always in top condition and ready for your next training flight.


Our extensive aircraft fleet offers a broad selection of models, from the trustworthy and versatile Cessna 172 to the powerful and advanced Piper Seminole. In addition our fleet also comprises of Piper Pilots, Piper Seminoles, and Tecnam planes that can aid in your skill development and enable you to succeed in pursuing your goals and missions.

Pilot Training Courses

At Ideal Aviation, we are committed to providing the highest quality training programs for our students. Our experienced instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, and modern training aircraft ensure that you receive the best possible training. Contact us today to learn more about our advanced training programs and take the first step towards achieving your aviation career goals!

Private Pilot Certificate

A private pilot certificate is the place to start for those who have always dreamt of flying their own aircraft. This certificate allows you to operate an aircraft for non-commercial purposes. Our expert instructors will guide you through the fundamentals of flight, teaching you how to take off, land, and navigate the skies with confidence.

PRIVATE PILOT TRAINING

Instrument Rating

Take your flying to the next level. An Instrument Rating equips you with the knowledge and skills to fly in low visibility and adverse weather conditions using only your aircraft's instruments. This rating opens up a whole new world of possibilities, making you a safer and more proficient pilot.

INSTRUMENT TRAINING

Commercial Pilot Certificate

A commercial certificate allows you to fly for compensation or hire. Our experienced instructors will help you master the skills needed to operate advanced aircraft, including advanced maneuvers and emergency procedures, ensuring that you are fully equipped for the challenges that lie ahead.

COMMERCIAL TRAINING

Multi-Engine

Our multi-engine training program is designed to prepare you to operate complex aircraft with multiple engines. Our expert instructors will guide you through advanced systems and procedures, including engine management, emergency procedures, and more. With our advanced training program, you'll have the skills and confidence to fly multi-engine aircraft with ease.

MULTI ENGINE TRAINING

Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

Pass on your knowledge and skills to future pilots and build time and experience. Our comprehensive training program will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a competent and confident flight instructor. Our experienced instructors will provide you with the tools you need to prepare future pilots for their Private Pilot, Commercial, and Instrument Rating certificates.

CFI TRAINING

What Our Students Say

I did a discovery flight with Steve. He was incredibly welcoming, positive, optimistic, encouraging, all the good stuff. The facilities were great, the aircraft in great shape.

Alex A

★★★★★

Had a discovery flight today with Micheal. It was a wonderful experience I definitely recommend it!

Natalia V

★★★★★

I love flying at Ideal and it's a truly wonderful flight school!

Stacie S

★★★★★

The people that work there are very nice and helpful And make it a very relaxing atmosphere

Don B

★★★★★

Great instructors, nice facilities. Highly recommended

Blake V

★★★★★

I did a discovery flight with Steve. He was incredibly welcoming, positive, optimistic, encouraging, all the good stuff. The facilities were great, the aircraft in great shape.

Alex A

★★★★★

Had a discovery flight today with Micheal. It was a wonderful experience I definitely recommend it!

Natalia V

★★★★★

I love flying at Ideal and it's a truly wonderful flight school!

Stacie S

★★★★★

The people that work there are very nice and helpful And make it a very relaxing atmosphere

Don B

★★★★★

Great instructors, nice facilities. Highly recommended

Blake V

★★★★★

Fly with experienced safe aviators that know the flight training industry.

We are a team of aviators that are experts in the flight training industry. We have decades of combined experience to get you safely in the air. Start your flight training today and see what we're talking about by scheduling a discovery flight.

Still looking for more information on pilot training?

Get Your FREE Pilot Training Guide Book!

We've preapred this free booklet which explains everything you need to know for your pilot certificate.

Picture of our free how to be a pilot training guide

Next steps

Join the Ideal Aviation Community. Like and follow us on social media.

Join the thousands of students that have walked through the doors at Ideal Aviation

SCHEDULE A TIME TO TALK TO OUR TEAM

Let's discuss how we can help you achieve your aviation goals. Explore what the requirements are and what it takes to become a pilot. Click the big red button to schedule a time to speak with one of our team members

graphic of a calendar SCHEDULE CALL