Flight School

AirQuest flight school hero — student pilot and instructor preparing for takeoff

Discover the thrill of flying at your own pace!

Learn to Fly in Pittsburgh. Start your journey toward earning your Private Pilot License (PPL) at oneof the top Pittsburgh flight schools. Our structured 3-phase flight training program gives you hands-on experience and prepares you to pass both the FAA written exam and FAA checkride with confidence. Our friendly knowledgeable instructors work closely with each student to make sure you understand every step of the process while keeping training enjoyable and rewarding. Train in proven aircraft like our PiperWarriors and Cessna 172, building real-world skills from your very first lesson. Whether you're flying for fun or taking the first step toward an aviation career, our goal is to get you flying safely, confidently, and having fun as quickly as possible.

AirQuest flight school — discover the thrill of flying with our certified instructors

Training Programs Include:

Private Pilot License

This is your entry point into aviation, giving you the freedom to fly for personal travel and recreation. Our structured training pairs experienced instructors with flexible scheduling to build confidence, skill and sound decision-making in the cockpit.

Instrument Rating

The Instrument Rating enhances safety and capability by allowing pilots to build their confidence and ability to fly in a wider range of weather conditions. Training focuses on precision, situational awareness and real-world Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations.

Commercial Rating

The Commercial Pilot License allows you to fly for compensation or hire and is a key step toward a professional aviation career. Training emphasizes advanced aircraft control, precision maneuvers and real-world decision-making to prepare pilots for commercial operations.

CFI/CFII Insurance Checkout

Our CFI and CFII training programs prepare qualified pilots to become confident, effective flight instructors. Emphasis is placed on instructional techniques, aeronautical decision-making, and teaching from both the right seat and the IFR environment.

Accelerated Programs

Our accelerated programs are designed for motivated students looking to complete training on a focused timeline. With Dedicated instructor availability and structured lesson plans, this program can get you from Zero hours to CFI in less than one year!

Flight Review

This ensures pilots remain proficient, current and confident. Each review is tailored to your experience level and flying goals, combining ground discussion with a practical flight evaluation.

Instrument Proficiency Check

This flight helps pilots regain Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) currency and confidence after time away from instrument flying. Our instructors customize each IPC to address individual skill gaps and operational needs outlined in the ACS.

Aircraft Rentals

Our aircraft rentals provide qualified pilots with access to well-maintained, reliable aircraft for personal or proficiency flying. All renters complete a required checkout to ensure familiarity with aircraft systems, procedures, and safe operation.

Our Aircraft

Each aircraft in our fleet is carefully maintained and equipped to support quality instruction and a consistent training experience.

PA-28-151

A reliable and approachable trainer, this Piper Warrior is ideal for private pilot training and time building. Its stable handling and straightforward systems make it a favorite for students and instructors alike.

AirQuest training fleet — Piper PA-28-151 Warrior used for primary flight training

PA-28-161TAA

Equipped as a Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA), this Piper Warrior combines classic handling with modern avionics. With autopilot and coupled approach ability, it’s well suited for instrument training and pilots looking to gain experience in a glass-cockpit environment.

AirQuest training fleet — Piper PA-28-161 TAA for instrument and advanced training

Cessna 172M TAA

This aircraft offers a versatile, forgiving platform with advanced avionics for enhanced situational awareness. Its proven design, autopilot and coupled approach ability make it an excellent choice for both training and cross-country flying.

AirQuest training fleet — Cessna 172M TAA equipped with modern avionics

Our Aircraft

Each aircraft in our fleet is carefully maintained and equipped to support quality instruction and a consistent training experience.

PA-28-151

A reliable and approachable trainer, this Piper Warrior is ideal for private pilot training and time building. Its stable handling and straightforward systems make it a favorite for students and instructors alike.

PA-28-161TAA

Equipped as a Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA), this Piper Warrior combines classic handling with modern avionics. With autopilot and coupled approach ability, it’s well suited for instrument training and pilots looking to gain experience in a glass-cockpit environment.

Cessna 172M TAA

This aircraft offers a versatile, forgiving platform with advanced avionics for enhanced situational awareness. Its proven design, autopilot and coupled approach ability make it an excellent choice for both training and cross-country flying.

AirQuest training fleet — Piper PA-28-151 Warrior used for primary flight trainingAirQuest training fleet — Piper PA-28-161 TAA for instrument and advanced trainingAirQuest training fleet — Cessna 172M TAA equipped with modern avionics

Your Learning Process (3 Phases)

PHASE I

Prepares you to fly solo. With a nominal number of lessons and your instructor’s approval, you could be flying solo after 10 to 15 hours of training. Minimum 16 years of age to solo.

AirQuest flight training Phase 1 — private pilot ground school and initial flight lessons

PHASE II

Prepares you to fly to different airports. You and your instructor will fly cross country learning all types of navigation skills.

AirQuest flight training Phase 2 — instrument rating and cross-country navigation training

PHASEIII

Practice and preparation for the FAA check ride.

AirQuest flight training Phase 3 — advanced maneuvers and commercial pilot preparation

Around the beginning of February I transferred flight schools to AirQuest to finish my Private Pilot Certificate and continue my training in pursuit of one day becoming a commercial airline pilot. I was greeted with open arms and was instantly made a priority to the wonderful staff and instructors. One month and one week later I took my PPL check ride and passed! Instructors Johnathan, Chris, and Matt especially took my training to a professional level.”

~
Nikolas

FAA Testing

“Our staff is certified to provide pre-scheduled FAA inspection services. While we carry out the testing, we DO NOT schedule your appointments. Please refer all scheduling inquiries to the appropriate FAA authority.”

AirQuest student pilot preparing for FAA written and practical exam testing

I took my Unmanned Aircraft General - Small today to this facility. 
Very friendly staff and a great overall experience!”

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(Facebook Review)