MOUNTAIN FLYING

TAKE ON HIGHER ALTITUDES WITH MOUNTAIN FLYING

Inside a helicopter cockpit with two pilots flying over a desert landscape with mountains and a body of water in the background.

Flying in the mountains is unique and challenging! Airfields are few and far between, airplane performance changes drastically at higher altitudes, the air flow is disturbed by the terrain contours, and it can be dangerous for the unprepared pilot. However, with proper knowledge and training, flying in the mountains can be as safe as anywhere, and very rewarding. This course will be an approximately 5 hrs dual flight, 3 hours ground.

Snow-capped mountain range with a clear blue sky and yellow grass in the foreground.

HIGH ELEVATION FLYING

ALL THE PLACES YOU WILL GO

An airplane parked on a snowy runway with mountains and a forested landscape in the background under a blue sky.

Right on the doorstep of the San Francisco Bay Area is the Sierras, the highest mountains in the continental US. They contain many airports over a mile high.

Our Mountain Flying program involves ground instruction, followed by a full day’s flying to several airports, at successively greater elevations. Airports will vary depending on conditions and your preferences, but typically may include Mammoth, Blue Canyon, Truckee, Reno, and South Lake Tahoe. We can customize the course to your needs, including an overnight to break up the flight training.

Learn how to handle high-elevation airports, how to read mountain winds, and how to fly the Sierras safely for some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

Getting started

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Getting started ᯓ ✈︎

Learn what it takes to MOUNTAIN FLY

A scenic view of a large lake surrounded by dense green forests and mountains under a partly cloudy sky, with numerous boats on the water.

    • Student or Private Pilot Certificate

  • On average, approximately $1200 in one of our airplanes, depending on which airplane we fly.

    We can also use your own airplane. In that case, Instructor rate varies between $55-80 per hour for flight and ground training.

Prices and rates are subject to change without notice. All training and rentals are subject to the terms and conditions in the Renter's Agreement. Minimum 24 hours' notice required for cancellation or you may be charged for the rental time.