Pilot Training in St. Louis

The Place for Pilots

START FLYING TODAY

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
Student Pilot at Ideal Aviation Flying a Helicopter

How to Get Started

If you've always dreamed of becoming a pilot, now is the perfect time to get started. We offer a range of programs and services to help you achieve your aviation goals

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 can help guide you through the process and answer any questions you have about becoming a pilot. Click here to help you understand the pilot training process, and requirements.

BECOME A PILOT

Take a Discovery Flight

The best way to experience flying is to take a Discovery Flight. This is a short introductory flight with one of our experienced instructors that will give you a taste of what it's like to fly an aircraft. You'll have the opportunity to take the controls and learn basic maneuvers and enjoy the incredible views from above.

SCHEDULE TODAY

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 facility and fleet are meticulously maintained to ensure you receive the best training possible.

OUR COURSES

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 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

★★★★★

Why Choose Ideal Aviation?

Fly the Ideal Way. Ideal Aviation is the place for pilots in St. Louis, Missouri. We maintain the highest standards of safety in all of our operations. Our certified flight instructors have decades of combined experience, ensuring that you have the knowledge and skills you need to fly safely and confidently.

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.

JOIN THE FAMILY
Ideal Aviation Team Photo

State of the Art Facilities

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.

TAKE A TOUR
Cessna 172 Outside the Ideal Aviation Hangar During Sunset

Helicopter and Airplane Pilot Programs

Ideal Aviation offers Part 141 and Part 61 pilot training for rotary wing and fixed wing aircraft. From private pilot all the way to commercial and CFII MEI, Ideal Aviation is here to help you reach your goals. Ideal Aviation has also partnered with Southwestern Illinois College to provide college credit for flight and ground pilot training.

Ideal Aviation is the best flight school in the St. Louis area. Full staff of CFIs, aircraft availability, clean hangars, and study areas to create the best environment for your pilot training. Start flying with Ideal Aviation today!

VIEW PROGRAMS
Student Pilot Passes Private Pilot Checkride at Ideal Aviation

Become a Pilot at Ideal Aviation

The Place for Pilots

In St. Louis

At Ideal Aviation, we are proud to have trained a diverse group of pilots who have gone on to achieve great things in their aviation careers. Our flight school has been the starting point for many pilots who have gone on to work for commercial airlines, private corporations, and even the military.

We believe that the key to your success lies in our commitment to providing the highest quality flight training available, with a focus on safety, professionalism, and individual attention.

Visit Ideal Aviation Today

Come visit Ideal Aviation and speak to one of our team members. We are located at St. Louis Downtown Airport (KCPS) just minutes away from the Gateway Arch.

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5600 Vector Dr
Sauget, IL 62206
VISIT IDEAL

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

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