The skies are blue, the wind is calm, visibility is excellent—a perfect day to take your Cirrus SR20 out for a training flight! 

But before climbing in and firing up the engine to head skyward at 175 miles per hour, there are critical tasks to perform on the ground—as every pilot knows, preparation is the key to safe flying. Join us in the Aviation Learning Center for a unique chance to experience a slice of daily life for a student pilot. These programs use a real Cirrus SR20 aircraft and simulators built to flight school standards to create a unique opportunity for students to step across the airport fence and get hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used by real pilots every day!

We offer two programs in the Aviation Learning Center: The Pilot Experience and Elements of Flight.

This structured field trip experience fulfills Next Generation Science Standards, Common Core State Standards, and 21st Century Skills. See Program FAQs below for details.


Note: The Aviation Learning Center facility is fully ADA accessible. Access to the Cirrus SR22 in the Cirrus Hangar requires stepping and walking on a narrow area. Flight Simulators are stationary.

The Pilot Experience

This 75-minute program focuses on the hands-on practical skills involved in flying a plane for training and recreation. Students will gain hands-on experience with real checklist items and planning tools used by pilots to ensure a safe flight, and will try their hand at piloting a simulated flight from takeoff to landing.

  • Suitable for students 4th grade and up
  • Program Length: 75-minutes
  • Maximum group size: 36 participants (Note: Larger groups are encouraged to work with our scheduling team to create a visit itinerary that includes multiple sessions)
  • Student groups require one chaperone for every 10 students

Availability & Price:

Multiple start times are available Monday through Friday. Please reach out to us during registration if you need to arrange an alternative time. Financial assistance is available for field trip fee and transportation costs.

  • Fee: $300*

Register for The Pilot Experience

*Beginning January 1, 2025, the program fee will increase to $350. All reservations made prior to January 1, 2025, will receive 2024 pricing.

Elements of Flight

This program gives students a 2-hour dive into the world of a beginner pilot. In the Rajpaul Learning Lab, they will engage and experiment with the physics and math learned by pilots in ground school. Then, enter the Cirrus Hangar where students will conduct their own preflight check on a real aircraft. The experience concludes as students take to the skies in a simulated training flight, using the skills and knowledge they’ve just learned!

  • Suitable for students in 4th grade and up
  • Program Length: 2 hours
  • Maximum group size: 36 participants (Note: Larger groups are encouraged to work with our scheduling team to create a visit itinerary that includes multiple sessions)
  • Student groups require one chaperone for every 10 students

Availability & Price:

Multiple start times are available Monday through Friday. Please reach out to us during registration if you need to arrange an alternative time. Financial assistance is available for field trip fee and transportation costs.

  • Fee: $500*

Register for Elements of Flight

*Beginning January 1, 2025, the program fee will increase to $575. All reservations made prior to January 1, 2025, will receive 2024 pricing.


What skills and standards does this program support?

This program aligns with NGSS, Common Core, and 21st Century Skills.

Download ALC Objectives & Standards

What are the expectations for the teacher/group leader upon arrival at the Museum?

Please refer to your confirmation email for up-to-date arrival logistics.

What should I complete before arriving at the Museum?

There is no required pre-work for this program.

Students work in pairs in the Aviation Learning Center. If you have preferences for which students work together, please pre-assign partnerships.

Have additional questions?

Please call 206-764-0384 or email education@museumofflight.org

How soon can I make my reservation?

Programs must be requested at least two weeks prior to the date(s) you would like to reserve, but sooner is better.

Is Financial Assistance available?

Yes! Please visit our Financial Assistance page to learn more.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations made more than seven days in advance of the scheduled program date are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made within seven days of the program date, including no-shows, are eligible for a refund minus a $50 administrative fee.

When is payment due?

Payment is due at least two weeks prior to your program date(s). Payment can be made over the phone by credit card (preferred) or purchase order (PO).

May I register for days/times that are not listed on the reservation calendar?

Possibly! Please call our Education team at 206-764-0384 to discuss options.

Are chaperones required? How many can accompany the group?

Yes! Student groups require at least 1 chaperone per 10 students. A maximum of (10) chaperones are included in your registration. If you have more than 10 chaperones, additional general admission tickets will need to be purchased at the Admissions Desk.

Is admission to the Museum included with this program?

Yes. Full-day admission is included for all students and chaperones participating in the program.

More questions?

Please call 206-764-0384 or email education@museumofflight.org.


More questions? Please call 206-764-0384 or email Education@museumofflight.org