Common FAQ’s
A discovery flight is a short, introductory flight designed to give someone firsthand experience of what it’s like to fly an aircraft. It’s a good way to “test the waters” before committing to flight training. During a discovery flight you will team up with a certified flight instructor for a pre-flight overview, then take to the skies for a 30-60 minute flight where you will be able to take the controls. Its a fun hands- on way to see what pilot training is all about.
To schedule a demo flight, please click the BOOK NOW button at the top of the page or contact us directly by phone or email.
Please wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire that allows for unrestricted movement. Avoid loose or baggy clothing that could potentially interfere with the aircraft controls. Closed-toe shoes, such as sneakers or boots, are required. Sunglasses are recommended on sunny days, and minimal jewelry is advised to ensure comfort while wearing the headset.
A medical certificate is a document issued by a FAA- approved aviation medical examiner (AME) after a physical examination. The certificate ensure that the pilot meets the necessary physical and mental health standards to safely operate an aircraft. Hampton Aviators requires all students to obtain a medical within the first 5 hours of their training. To learn more about Medical certificates click HERE
Our aircraft is equipped the traditional 6 pack gauges.
No, Hampton Aviators aircraft are reserved exclusively for flight instruction purposes.
For safety and instructional purposes, we kindly ask that only the student participate in the discovery flight. This insures the instructor can focus fully on providing the best possible training experience.
We recommend scheduling your flight lesson at least 3 to 7 days in advance to ensure availability and secure your preferred date and time.
Hampton Aviators requires all students have renters insurance. To learn more about renters insurance, please click HERE
Ground school is the classroom-based portion of flight training where students learn the theoretical knowledge required to become a pilot. It prepares students to pass the FAA written knowledge test.
To obtain a private pilot license, you must be at least 17 years old. However, you can begin flight training and start logging flight hours before reaching that age. Students are eligible to fly solo – under the supervision of an instructor once they turn 16. While there is no minimum age to begin taking lessons, you must meet the age requirement of 17 to be issued the actual license.
Hampton Aviators operates under Federal Aviation Regulations Part 61. This allows us to offer a more flexible and personalized training experience, tailoring each lesson to fit the students individual schedule and learning pace. While both Part 61 and Part 141 lead to the same pilot certifications, Part 61 is ideal for students seeking a more adaptable approach to their flight training.
No, Hampton Aviators does not offer scenic or sightseeing flights at this time.
Yes, you can absolutely give a discovery flight as a gift. Its a unique and memorable experience that is perfect for anyone interested in aviation. Gift certificates are available for any occasion. Please contact us for details on how to purchase.
Hampton aviators provides training in the Cessna 172. To learn more about the aircraft please click HERE
The Private Pilot License (PPL) allows for personal, non-commercial flying and requires at least 40 flight hours. The Commercial Pilot License (CPL) enables pilots to be paid for certain flying jobs, such as flight instruction or charter work, and requires a minimum of 250 flight hours. The Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) is the highest certification, required to become a captain for an airline, and demands at least 1,500 flight hours along with a rigorous exam. Each license builds on the previous one, offering greater flying privileges and career opportunities.
At Hampton Aviators, safety is our top priority. If the weather conditions are not suitable for flight (such as high winds, low visibility, or thunderstorms) we will reschedule your lesson for a later time. Our instructors monitor the weather conditions closely and will always ensure that it is safe to fly before going up.
Yes! You can transfer flight hours from another school. Our flight instructors will review your previous training records to ensure they align with the curriculum for your current certification. In some cases, additional training or a skills evaluation may be required to ensure consistency with our training standards. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation and we’ll be happy to assist you with the transfer process.
Written exams are knowledge tests administered by the FAA that cover topics such as aerodynamics, naviation, regulations, and weather. This exam is typically taken after completing the required ground school and needed before taking your checkride. You must pass the exam with aminimum score of 70% or higher to proceed to the next step in your training
Checkrides consist of both an oral and practical flight test. The actual flight is only part of the testing process. Typically a designated pilot examiner (DPE) will oversee the practical test. You can expect to spend about 2 hours on the oral exam and 2 hours on the actual flight.
During the practical portion of the checkride you will be tested on the following
- Aircraft systems
- Cross-country flight planning
- Diverting to a nearby airport
- Emergency scenarios
- Weather theory and the effects of weather
- Demonstrating maneuvers
- Performance takeoffs and landings
Absolutely. Since we are located at a busy airport we ask that potential students reach out to us to schedule a tour with one of our instructors.
Yes, we offer instrument and commercial ratings as well as private. These certifications are designed to help you expand your flying capabilities and pursue more advanced aviation careers.
Students are expected to supply their own headset, kneeboard, charts and planning tools and sunglasses. For the discovery flight, Hampton Aviators will supply a headset.
East Hampton Airport has a seasonal part time control tower. During the summer season (around Memorial Day- Labor Day) 7AM- 8 PM.