Cessna aircraft parked on airport apron at Flying Gnome Flight School in Kansas City (KGPH)

LEARN TO FLY IN KANSAS CITY

Start your aviation journey with Flying Gnome. I offer affordable Part 61 flight training, based out of Midwest National Aircenter (KGPH).

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Flexible Schedule

Local to Kansas City

Austin McCoy — CFI & CFI-I

I am Austin McCoy, an independent flight instructor local to Kansas City, owner of Flying Gnome, and a prospective graduate of Kansas State University – Salina with a degree in Aeronautical Technology and a minor in Aviation Safety. I also serve as a FAASTeam Representative for the Kansas City Area

Ever since I can remember, I have been stricken by the aviation bug. Some of my earliest memories are sitting on my father's lap playing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004. I am a second-generation general aviation pilot with the goal of inspiring the next generation of pilots as my father did with me while promoting high-quality, and affordable flight training.

“I’m excited to share my passion for aviation with others and help them discover what makes flying so special. My goal is not just to train pilots to pass a checkride, but to build safe, confident, and well-equipped aviators who are prepared for whatever comes their way.”

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Private Pilot Certificate

Start your aviation journey with your Private Pilots license. Master your ground knowledge, flight maneuvers, solo flights, and cross-country navigation.

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Instrument Rating Add-On

Fly safely through clouds and low visibility. Learn IFR navigation, and instrument approaches.

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Commercial Pilot Certificate

Turn your passion into a career. Refine your flying skills, master maneuvers, and learn the regulations governing your career ambitions.

Explore CPL Program

Flight Review

Satisfy your FAA 24-calendar-month requirement and sharpen your flying skills. Tailored Part 61 ground and flight instruction designed for your specific flying needs in accordance with 14 CFR 61.56 and AC61-98B

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Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC)

Regain your IFR currency and confidence. Review hold entries, instrument approaches, and emergency procedures as per the instrument ACS.

Schedule IPC

Piper Cherokee 140

$115.00/hr (dry) @ Sky King Aviation

Cessna 172 Skyhawk

$125.00/hr (dry) @ Sky King Aviation

Flight instruction in owner aircraft in Kansas City area

Your Aircraft

Instruction in Your Airplane

Get In Touch

Ready to take to the skies or have questions about flight training? Reach out to schedule a discovery flight or discuss your aviation goals in Kansas City.

Training Location

Midwest National Aircenter (KGPH)
Kansas City Metro Area

Email Us

austin@flygnome.com

Call or Text

(816) 315-3598

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Flight Training FAQs

Find answers to common questions about earning your pilot license, discovery flights, and flight instruction in Kansas City.

How much does flight training cost in Kansas City?

The cost of flight training depends on the pilot certificate or rating you are pursuing (such as Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, or Commercial Pilot), your flight frequency, and personal dedication to the ground knowledge. One can reasonably expect to budget around $12,000 for their private.

How often should I schedule flight lessons?

Flying two to three times per week is ideal for most student pilots. Frequent flight lessons allow for quicker progression and will reduce review time between flights, and ultimately saving you time and money toward earning your pilots license.

Do I need to own an airplane to take flight lessons?

No, airplane ownership is not required. You can rent a training aircraft directly through Sky King Aviation or train in your own aircraft if it meets our requirements. Contact us to confirm aircraft compatibility for your flight training.

Can I start flight school with zero aviation experience?

Yes, most student pilots start with zero prior flight experience. Flight training begins with fundamental ground school concepts and basic aircraft control, safely advancing step-by-step until you are ready for your solo flight and FAA checkride.

Do you offer flight instruction for already certified pilots?

Yes, beyond primary Private Pilot training, we provide advanced FAA ratings and pilot currency services including Instrument Ratings (IRA), Commercial Pilot certificates, Flight Reviews, and Instrument Proficiency Checks (IPC).

How do I start my flight training journey?

The best first step is scheduling a discovery flight. You will log real flight time at the controls alongside a certified flight instructor (CFI), experience taking off and maneuvering, and discuss the best training pathway for your pilot goals.