The Best Discovery Flights in Maryland
Ever dreamed of soaring above the clouds? Experience the thrill of flight with a Discovery Flight at Positive Attitude Aviation! Our expert instructors will guide you through the basics, letting you take the controls and see Maryland from a whole new perspective.
What is a discovery flight?
A discovery flight is an introductory flight lesson that gives you the opportunity to experience the thrill of flying firsthand. During a discovery flight, you’ll sit in the pilot’s seat of a small aircraft and take the controls under the guidance of an experienced certified flight instructor. This is the ideal entry point to aviation, perfect for both aspiring pilots and those simply curious to experience flight.
Our Discovery Flight Packages
Ready to take the controls and soar through the skies? At Positive Attitude Aviation, we offer a variety of discovery flight experiences tailored to your interests. Purchase a package right through our website and we’ll be in touch to schedule your date and time!
A simple, hands-on way to test the pilot experience
$129
+ Taxes
- In-Air Instruction (30 Min)
- Ground Training (15 Min)
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Designed for professionals exploring aviation training options
$179
+ Taxes
- In-Air Instruction (30 Min)
- Ground Training (15 Min)
- Flight Simulation (15 min)
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Perfect for first-timers looking to truly feel the skies
$269
+ Taxes
- In-Air Instruction (1 Hour)
- Ground Training (30 Minute)
- Flight Simulator(15 Minute)
- Scenic Views
The most realistic flight simulator on the planet.
$60
+ Taxes
- Flight Simulation (30 Min)
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Your questions, answered. Your pace, your progress,
$44
+ Taxes
- Expert flight knowledge, tailored just for you. (60 Min)
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What to Expect on Your Discovery Flight
Here’s what you can typically expect during your discovery flight experience:
- Pre-flight Briefing: Your instructor will begin by explaining the basics of flight, including the aircraft controls, safety procedures, and what to expect during the flight.
- Aircraft Inspection: You’ll get a chance to participate in a pre-flight inspection of the aircraft, learning about its various components and how they work together.
- Takeoff: Feel the surge of excitement as you accelerate down the runway and lift off into the sky!
- In-Flight Experience: Once airborne, your instructor will guide you through basic flight maneuvers, allowing you to experience the sensation of flying firsthand. You’ll even have the chance to take the controls and pilot the aircraft yourself!
- Landing: Your instructor will demonstrate the landing approach and may even let you assist with the controls as you gently touch back down on the runway.
- Post-flight Debriefing: After the flight, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your experience with your instructor, ask questions, and learn more about the process of becoming a pilot.
Experience a Higher Standard of Flight Instruction
We’re committed to providing a truly exceptional discovery flight experience. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced Instructors: Our team of certified flight instructors is passionate about flying and dedicated to providing you with a safe and unforgettable experience.
- Well-Maintained Aircraft: We utilize modern, well-maintained aircraft that are regularly inspected to ensure your safety and comfort.
- Convenient Location: Our flight school is conveniently located in Gaithersburg, MD, easily accessible to those in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.
- Personalized Experience: We tailor each discovery flight to your individual interests and goals, ensuring you get the most out of your time in the air.
Benefits of Taking a Discovery Flight
A discovery flight offers numerous benefits beyond the sheer thrill of flying:
- Explore Your Passion: It’s the perfect way to determine if pursuing flight training and becoming a pilot is the right path for you.
- Overcome Your Fear: If you’re apprehensive about flying, a discovery flight can help you conquer your fears and gain a newfound appreciation for aviation.
- Unique Gift Idea: Surprise a loved one with an unforgettable experience they’ll cherish forever.
- Personal Growth: Stepping outside your comfort zone and taking on a new challenge can boost your confidence and sense of accomplishment.
- Unforgettable Experience: Create lasting memories as you soar above the landscape and experience the world from a whole new perspective.
Discovery Flight Testimonials
Don’t just take our word for it! See what our past discovery flight passengers have to say about their unforgettable experiences.
EXCELLENT Based on 97 reviews Posted on Teshara Wyche-Ouattara This was such a great fun experience for my husband and I. This was a birthday gift for my husband since he always dreamt flying a plane. I'm so happy that I was able to make that happen. Also, I would like to Thank Manuel Amaya for being a great instructor. We learned so much information that we weren't aware of. Manuel was fun to be around with and kept me and my husband laughing so that made us comfortable. We came all the way from Richmond, VA by the way. I recommend anyone to check Positive Attitude Aviation out.Posted on Jason Levine Great airplanes and good staff!Posted on Nancy Zelaya My son had his first introductory flight lesson and absolutely loved it! His flight instructor (Fernando) was great. Thank you! 🙏🏻😊Posted on Linda Mai I bought the Discovery Flight ticket on Groupon and brought in my grandfather for the flight. Manuel Amaya was our Flight Instructor, he did so much for us and was taking such great care of my family during the process/flight. It was truly a wonderful experience. My grandfather was so excited to be back in the sky. It had been 55+ years since he was flying. Please please book with Manuel Amaya, he went above and beyond for my grandfather and allowed our family to have wonderful memories, photos, and videos to look back on fondly. Words can not explain how grateful we are for him. He was very thorough about educating us, engaging with everyone, and overall made the experience just soooo much better!! 11/10 will absolutely book again. Thank you to Joshua Oletsky for outstanding customer service support. He was extremely helpful and polite.Posted on Christina Green This review is way overdue, but I got a lesson for my husband for his birthday and it was amazing. Our instructor Koku was the best. He was very enthusiastic, down to earth, and made us feel like the day was especially for us. It was such a positive experience and my husband can't wait for his next flight!Posted on J W 10/10 - Discovery Flight for my birthday., It was an exhilarating experience to take off after pushing the throttle, and I haven’t felt such a rush of adrenaline in a long time! You will receive some ground instruction training and then go fly. I was given extra fly time & It was great to have more time flying with my instructor. Shoutout to the pilot/instructor ( Tonya ) for helping me capture the best shots for photos and videos. 📸 Greatest Birthday Gift Ever!!Posted on Naga M Reddy P Attention to detail by Instructors, affordable prices, all and all excellent place to start as enthusiast or aviation career.Posted on Sandy Strawderman I bought a hands on flight for my son for early birthday present. Joshua was a great instructor and my son had a great experience.Posted on Thadass gaming Man this was the most exciting day of my life! The staff was amazing and the trainer who took me up had a amazing personality and knew how to explain things in simple terms
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Discovery flight cost?
We offer discovery flight options tailored to your aspirations and budget:
$129.00 for our Introductory Flight: A fantastic starting point to explore aviation.
$179.00 for our Aviation Discovery Flight: Dive deeper with a more hands-on experience.
$269.00 for our Premium Discovery Flight: Maximize your airtime with our most comprehensive option.
Curious but not quite ready for the air? Our Redbird flight simulator offers an excellent, affordable introduction to flying. We’re happy to answer any questions and help you select the perfect package for your journey!
What is the minimum age to participate in a discovery flight?
There is no specific minimum age requirement for discovery flights. However, participants should be able to understand and follow instructions from the flight instructor. We typically recommend that participants be at least 14 years old to get the most out of the experience.
How long is a discovery flight?
A typical discovery flight lasts approximately 30-60 minutes. The exact duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic.
How should I prepare for my discovery flight?
Getting ready for your discovery flight is easy! Here’s what you’ll need:
A valid ID.
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes (sneakers are perfect).
No need to bundle up, our cockpit is always warm and comfortable!
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my scheduled flight?
In the event of inclement weather, your flight will be rescheduled for another day. Your safety is our top priority, and we will not fly if conditions are unsafe.
Can I take photos or videos during my discovery flight?
Yes, you are welcome to take photos and videos during your flight. However, we ask that you be mindful of the instructor’s guidance and avoid any actions that could interfere with the safe operation of the aircraft.
What is the booking policy for a discovery flight?
To secure your Discovery Flight, full payment is required upon booking. Please note that payments are non-refundable. However, we offer flexible rescheduling – your balance can always be applied to a new flight date that works for you.
Can I bring a friend?
Yes, you can bring 1 additional on your discovery flight for an additional $30.
Do I need any prior experience to take a discovery flight?
No prior experience is necessary! Discovery flights are designed for individuals with no prior flight experience. Our experienced instructors will guide you through every step of the process.
What if I get airsick during the flight?
While airsickness is generally rare during discovery flights, it’s always a possibility. If you’re prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking an over-the-counter motion sickness medication before your flight. Additionally, be sure to let your instructor know if you begin to feel unwell during the flight.
Is a discovery flight the first step towards getting my pilot's license?
Yes, a discovery flight is a great way to experience flying firsthand and determine if you’re interested in pursuing a private pilot license. If you decide to continue your training, the time spent on your discovery flight can be logged as part of your required flight hours for your pilot’s license.
Still Have Questions About Our Discovery Flights?
Our team is here to answer your questions and get you on your way to your first discovery flight. For more information or to speak with someone:
Fill out the form or call us at 301-232-3550
Email Us at info@positiveattitudeaviation.org
Mon-Fri : 09:00 am to 05:00pm


