Your path to
becoming a pilot
Professional flight training from your first discovery flight to a full airline career — in the heart of Northern Virginia, 30 miles from Washington D.C.
We train pilots at every level.
Whether you've never touched the controls or you're building hours toward the airlines, we have a program for you. Click any program to learn more.
Private Pilot (PPL)
This is the license that earns you the right to say "I am a pilot." Your Private Pilot License lets you fly yourself and passengers almost anywhere — day or night — without compensation.
Instrument Rating (IFR)
Often called "the second half of your private certificate." Fly in clouds and low visibility so the weather stops grounding your plans. Makes you a more capable, confident pilot in any aircraft.
Commercial Pilot (CPL)
Similar to a commercial driver's license — it's what you need to get paid to fly. If aviation is your career path, this is your next milestone after your private and instrument ratings. Requires 250 total hours.
Flight Instructor (CFI / CFII)
Becoming a CFI means sharing your knowledge with the next generation of pilots — and getting paid to build your own logbook. It's how most career pilots earn their way to 1,500 hours and the airlines.
Sport Pilot Certificate
The fastest, most affordable way into the cockpit. Fly light-sport aircraft with just a valid driver's license — no FAA medical required. Perfect if you're flying purely for the joy of it.
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
The highest pilot certificate — required to captain an airliner. Build your 1,500 hours instructing with us, complete the ATP-CTP course, and you're airline-ready. We'll map the full path with you.
You've got questions — we've got answers. (703) 415-4545 or contact@leesburgaviation.com
Starting from scratch?
This is how most of our students go from total beginner to fully certificated pilot. Each step builds on the last.
Discovery Flight
A 1–2 hour intro lesson where you're in the front seat and you take the controls. Casual, no pressure — a great way to find out if flying is for you.
Private Pilot
Plan for 4–6 months learning the basics of confident, safe flight — takeoffs, landings, navigation, and emergency procedures. Ends with a checkride with an FAA examiner.
Instrument Rating
Add the rating that lets you fly in weather most other pilots have to sit on the ground for. It rounds out your skills and is worth every hour.
What's Next?
Commercial, instructing, endorsements, or simply exploring with your license — we'll help you plan whatever comes next.
Aerobatics & Tailwheel Training
Aerobatic instruction deepens your understanding of what makes an airplane fly — and then reinforces that knowledge when you're flying loops and rolls. We include Upset Prevention & Recovery Training (UPRT) for anyone receiving aerobatic or spin instruction.
Tailwheel training is available for pilots who want the challenge and satisfaction of taming a taildragger. The skills you develop will carry over to every airplane you fly.
Schedule Aerobatic TrainingLevel up your training.
If you have your license and want to add skills, privileges, or ratings, we can help.
High-Performance Endorsement
Unlock airplanes over 200 hp — Cessna 182, Bonanza, Saratoga and more. One-time endorsement, often a single day.
14 CFR §61.31(f)Complex Airplane Endorsement
Retractable gear, constant-speed prop, flaps — the skills that lead to faster, more capable aircraft.
14 CFR §61.31(e)Upset Recovery Training (UPRT)
On-aircraft training that directly addresses aviation's #1 cause of fatal accidents — Loss of Control In-flight.
FAA AC 120-111High-Altitude / Pressurized
Moving into a pressurized turboprop or jet? Required ground and flight training for operations above 25,000 ft.
14 CFR §61.31(g)Instrument Proficiency Check
IFR currency lapsed? We'll get you current with a structured IPC so you can fly IFR again with confidence.
14 CFR §61.57(d)Advanced Navigation & Airspace
DC SFRA, Class B transitions, mountain flying, hazardous weather — our instructors can take you wherever your flying needs to go.
Available NowBook a Discovery Flight
A 1–2 hour introductory lesson where you take the controls over Northern Virginia. No experience needed. No commitment required.
Call (703) 415-4545 to BookDual controls · You fly the plane · $150–$300
Overwhelmed?
Not sure where to start?
Want to talk to a real person?
We're here to help.
Free Online Training
Visit our Free Online Training Page for your chance to use our pre-prepared flash cards for all your individual training.