Intro Discovery Flight

Take the controls with a certified flight instructor and enjoy the thrill of flight over Kansas City. Our Discovery Flights put you in the left seat of a Cirrus SR20, Cirrus SR22, or Piper Archer TX, giving you a true taste of aviation. Learn the basics of flight, handle the controls, and enjoy unforgettable views of the Kansas City skyline. No experience required—just bring your sense of adventure.

Starting at $125

Choose Your Discovery Flight Aircraft

Piper Cherokee

A dependable and affordable trainer perfect for first flights and learning the basics. Smooth, steady, and ideal for mastering fundamentals.
Engine 150 hp Lycoming O-320
Cruise Speed ~105 KTAS
Avionics Traditional w/ GPS
Safety Durable, time-tested airframe
Air Conditioning No
Passengers 4
Discovery Rate $125
Select Cherokee

Piper Archer

A modern trainer with advanced Garmin G1000 NXi avionics and air conditioning. Blends comfort, technology, and real-world performance for new pilots.
Engine 180 hp Lycoming IO-360
Cruise Speed ~128 KTAS
Avionics Modern Glass Cockpit
Safety Reliable airframe with Electronic Stability & Protection (ESP)
Air Conditioning Yes
Passengers 4
Discovery Rate $180
Select Archer

Cirrus SR20

A high-performance aircraft with a glass cockpit, advanced avionics, and a full-airframe parachute. The ultimate first-flight experience in modern aviation.
Engine 215 hp Lycoming IO-390
Cruise Speed ~145–150 KTAS
Avionics Modern Glass Cockpit
Safety CAPS parachute, airbags, and ESP
Air Conditioning Yes
Passengers 5
Discovery Rate $275
Select SR20

Simulator Discovery Flight

Aspire’s Simulator Discovery Flight is the most affordable way for students to experience aviation in Kansas City. Perfect for high school and college students exploring a future in aviation, this session places you in an FAA-approved flight simulator with real controls, immersive visuals, and a certified instructor guiding you through takeoffs, landings, and basic maneuvers.

Starting at $100

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Advanced Discovery Flight

The Advanced Discovery Flight is designed for those who want more than a first taste of flying. Train in a Cirrus SR20 or SR22 at Kansas City’s Downtown Airport (MKC) and experience what full-scale training feels like.

Choose a short cross-country flight or fly an instrument approach into Kansas City airspace for a true preview of advanced flying. Ideal for future career pilots preparing to commit to training and for executives or private flyers exploring Cirrus ownership or premium rentals.

Starting at $275

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CAREER PILOT PROFILE

How Aspire Changes the Journey

At Aspire Aviation Academy in Kansas City, students often talk about how the right mix of instructors, technology, and structure changes everything. In this story, you’ll hear how training at Aspire built confidence, accelerated progress, and helped one student move toward finishing a commercial certificate faster than expected.

Discover the Sky, Your Way

At Aspire Aviation Academy, Discovery Flights are your entry point into aviation. Choose the experience that fits you best—Intro Discovery Flights for first-timers, Advanced Discovery Flights for a deeper, more realistic session, or a Simulator Discovery Flight for an affordable, hands-on introduction.

All options put you at the controls with professional guidance at Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport (KMKC), giving you the chance to see what it feels like to be a pilot in one of Kansas City’s most advanced training environments.

Discovery Flight FAQs

How do I schedule my Discovery Flight after purchase?

After booking online, our team will contact you directly to schedule a convenient date and time at Kansas City’s Downtown Airport (MKC).

Can I purchase a Discovery Flight as a gift?

Yes. Discovery Flights make an excellent gift for aspiring pilots, aviation enthusiasts, or anyone curious about flying. Gift certificates are available.

Do I need prior flying experience?

No experience is required. A certified flight instructor will guide you through the entire process and handle all radio and airport communications.

How long is the Discovery Flight?

You can choose between 60-minute or 90-minute flights. Simulator sessions run about one hour, while Advanced Discovery Flights may last longer depending on the chosen profile.

What happens if weather cancels my flight?

Safety is always our priority. If weather prevents flying, we will reschedule at no additional cost.

Is flight time loggable toward a pilot certificate?

Yes. Time flown in the SR20, SR22, or Archer TX can be logged with your instructor toward a Private Pilot License or other rating. Simulator time may also count depending on the program.

What should I bring with me?

A government-issued photo ID is required. We recommend comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and sunglasses for your flight.