Flight School in Des Moines, IA
Launch Your Airline Pilot Career From Zero Experience to Professional Pilot
No 4-year degree required. Train to CFIs & MEI in under 12 months and reach the airlines in just 2-3 years.
The Ultimate Guide to Becoming an Airline Pilot
12-step proven framework used by pilots now flying at major airlines
12-Step Career Roadmap
From medical certificate to major airlines - know exactly what to do and when
Real Salary Data
Actual pay scales from Regional First Officer to Major Airline Captain
Boeing Industry Forecast
Global pilot demand data and what it means for your career timeline
Fast Track Advantage
Why starting 3 years sooner means $554,040 more in career earnings
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"As parents of a son graduating high-school, we didn't know the first thing about Flight School. We couldn't be happier with our experience at US Flight Co!"
– Dawn Wonderlin, Parent
+4k 130+ Five-Star Reviews Tell the Story
See Why Pilots Choose Us Over Other Schools
"As parents of a son graduating high-school, we didn't know the first thing about Flight School. We couldn't be happier with our son's experience in the Fast Track Program at US Flight Co. The process was seamless, the instructors were excellent, and he was able to complete his training in a year without sacrificing quality. At 19 years old, he is now a CFII at US Flight Co. A proud moment for our family. Highly recommend!"
"Pursuing a passion for flying is a significant investment of time and money. I did a lot of research before choosing US Flight Co. and I'm really satisfied with my decision. I was pleased to find great facilities, well maintained aircraft, kind and professional staff, and flexible and efficient scheduling. I started with no experience and was able to pass my private pilot check ride with no problem. The instructors are patient and professional and built my knowledge, skills, and confidence in a way that kept it light and fun the whole time."
"After having talked with several different flight schools and also several discovery flights, I chose US Flight Co because they were able to answer my questions and address my concerns with a unique approach rather than cookie cutter answers. They actually listened to me and adapted their training to fit my schedule. Whether you are going all the way to the airlines or just looking into a new hobby, US flight Co and the CFIs are genuinely interested in working with you as an individual."
"I started my aviation journey with US Flight Co last October and have been really pleased with the company as a whole, the administrative team, the instructors (S/O to Josh!!) and the pace of the program. About 8 months in, I'm preparing for my commercial check ride and hope to complete my CFI rating by next month."
"I am currently in the process of obtaining my private pilot's license at US Flight Co, and I couldn't be more impressed. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, making each lesson both informative and enjoyable. The training facilities are top-notch, and the aircraft are well-maintained and modern. I've felt a real sense of progress with every flight, and the team has created a welcoming atmosphere that fosters learning and confidence."
"Us Flight Co is a top flight school in Des Moines. I have been pursuing my private pilots license while finishing my senior year of high school. Because of navigating high school classes I was matched one on one with an instructor. This has been a great match and I appreciate the one on one learning I am receiving. US Flight CO's fleet of aircraft is diverse and expanding. As a student you have plenty of hours for flying and ground instruction. There is also flexibility to work with your school classes or employment hours."
"US Flight Co has been amazing with my aviation journey so far! Started flying at the end of 2024, currently working towards my instrument rating. They have been super flexible and easy to work with, considering I'm in the fast track program with a full time job. Instructors are safe, knowledgeable and fun to fly with. I look forward to continuing my aviation journey with them!"
"I Joined US flight Co about 10 hours into my PPL and have been with them since. My experience has been nothing but positive and they have far exceeded my expectations. They have great Instructors, reliable aircraft, great availability, and most importantly it's all at a very reasonable price. The instructor cadre are very clearly experts in their field and are passionate about ensuring their students are safe pilots and well prepared for their checkride. Aircraft rentals at US flight Co are well priced and well maintained. TLDR: Great people, fantastic instructors all at a reasonable price!"
"I have gone through other schools where I couldn't keep an instructor or the school didn't have their stuff together. US Flight Co has been the complete opposite - professional, organized, and committed to student success."
"Absolutely amazing crew of people. Great instructors who are all willing to help, even if they are not your primary instructor. Very relaxed environment and very personable people to train with. If you are looking for quality instruction look no further."
"Went on a discovery Flight here. Super nice facilities and Jaden my instructor was AMAZING! Would highly recommend. You can tell the instructors care and love their jobs! I wouldn't go anywhere else!"
"Having tried both flight schools based in Des Moines, I can honestly say this is the better of the two"
"I'm working to overcome a fear of flying! Jared has been more than helpful and patient with me. I highly recommend US Flight Co for anyone looking to overcome their fears or learn to fly!"
"I took part in the airline fast track program. It has been an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. I have worked with several CFIs and they are all top notch."
"Flight co has been super flexible with my schedule and has a great team of instructors who are very capable and knowledgeable. I had a great experience obtaining my private pilots license with them!"
7 Reasons Pilots Choose to Train With Us
Discover what makes US Flight Co different
Experienced Flight Instructors
Learn from pilots with real-world experience
- 10+ instructors including 2 FAA Gold Seal CFIs
- From military aviators to bush pilots, learn from instructors with diverse backgrounds
- Motivated CFIs available 7 days/week
- Structured, accountable one-on-one instruction
Next-Gen Fleet & Facilities
Learn both steam gauges & the latest technology
- Pipistrel Alpha Trainers with modern glass cockpits
- Proven Cessna 172s with both traditional six packs and modern glass cockpits
- State-of-the-art facility at Des Moines International
- Multiple aircraft per model ensures availability
Structured, Proven Curriculum
Clear path from zero experience to commercial pilot and beyond
- Structured stage checks and progress tracking
- Accelerated timeline options - CFI in 9 months
- Transparent syllabus - know exactly what you'll learn
Your Success, Your Pace
1-on-1 instruction tailored to you
- No competing for instructor attention
- Move fast through strengths, focus on weaknesses
- Schedule flexibility that fits your life
Maximum Aircraft Availability
Keep your training on schedule
- In-house maintenance team (30+ years combined experience)
- 3 FAA certified A&P mechanics on-site
- Multiple aircraft per model minimizes scheduling delays
Radio Confidence From Day One
Never fear ATC again
- Class C airspace = talk to controllers every flight
- Same radio skills you'll use at airlines
- Perfect balance: real experience without major delays
Train Beyond Minimums
Professional-grade AATD simulator
- Practice emergencies safely
- Log 20 hours toward Instrument, 50 toward Commercial
- Near-exact replica of our aircraft avionics - save up to $6,750 on aircraft rental costs
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Des Moines Flight Training Programs
From First Flight to Professional Pilot
Fast Track Airline Program
Private Pilot
Instrument Rating
Fast Track CFI Program
Commercial Pilot
CFI
Multi-Engine Rating
Sport Pilot
CFII
MEI
Multi-Engine Commercial
Not sure where to start?
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about flight training
How much does flight training cost?
It depends on where you are in your journey. If you already hold certificates and just need an add-on rating, you're looking at $5,000-$15,000. If you're starting from zero and want to reach the airlines as fast as possible, our Fast Track Airline Program is $94,995 + tax, a fixed price that includes 295 logged hours and every certificate from Private Pilot through CFI/CFII/MEI. No surprise fees along the way. The only thing not included are checkride and testing fees paid directly to third-party examiners. And if cost is the thing standing between you and the cockpit, we offer financing options to help you get started.
How long does it take to become a commercial pilot?
Great question, and an important distinction. A Commercial Pilot Certificate (which allows you to fly for hire) can be earned in as little as 7 months through our Fast Track program starting from zero experience. However, flying for an airline requires an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which has a minimum of 1,500 flight hours. Here's the good news: once you graduate and start instructing at a busy flight school, you can realistically reach those 1,500 hours and be sitting in an airline cockpit within 2-3 years of starting from zero. Our Fast Track program is built to get you there, earning a paycheck as a CFI while you build the hours that put you in the captain's seat.
What are the requirements to start flight training?
Less than you might think. There's no age limit to start training, but you must be 16 to solo and 17 to take the Private Pilot checkride. You'll need to be able to read, speak, write, and understand English. You'll also need to be a US citizen or have approval through the FTSP foreign student program. If you're pursuing a career, you'll need to pass an FAA medical exam. No prior flight experience required. We walk every student through the process from day one so nothing catches you off guard.
Do you offer financing or payment plans?
Yes, and we've built multiple ways to make it work. Fast Track students split tuition into 3 payments spread across the program. Self-paced students pay as they go, lesson by lesson. We also created our own financing company, US Flight Finance, because frankly the existing options in this industry weren't good enough. Financing spots are limited by available capital, so if that's the route you're considering, reach out early to secure your spot.
Can I train part-time while working?
Absolutely! Many of our students train part-time around their work schedules. We have instructors available 7 days a week with flexible scheduling. While part-time training takes longer than full-time programs, we'll create a training plan that works for your availability and goals.
Still have questions?
Flight Training Resources
Expert guides to help you navigate your pilot career journey
Pilot Salary: How Much Do Airline Pilots Make in 2025?
Complete breakdown of airline pilot salaries from regional carriers to major airlines, including first officer and captain pay scales.
The Complete Guide to Getting Your FAA Flight Medical Certificate
Everything you need to know about FAA medical requirements, the exam process, and how to prepare for your aviation medical.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Airline Pilot?
Realistic timeline from zero flight experience to airline cockpit, including training milestones and hour-building strategies.
Flexible Financing Available
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