With SUN 'n FUN just around the corner, are you itching to take to the skies? Dobbs Flight Service is helping Lakelanders hop in the pilot's seat with more accessible training.

This isn't like your high school driver's ed class. It takes a lot of flight time to earn different licenses, from 40+ hours for a private pilot license to 1,500+ hours for a commercial pilot license. As you progress, you can add certifications, like Certified Flight Instructor.

Students learn everything from pre-flight checks, which Dobbs completed before our discovery flight in this Cessna, to safe landings. | Photo by LALtoday

Full training can cost nearly six figures at most flight schools, but owner + lead flight instructor Trevor Dobbs said the average here is closer to $65,000. Private pilot hopefuls can expect to pay $12,000 to $17,000.

The discovery flight lets you see how you fare in the air. Plus, you get one-of-a-kind views like this — can you guess the lake from above? | Photo by LALtoday

Ready to earn your wings? Every student starts with a discovery flight — we joined one and even got to take the controls. Total beginners are welcome, and Dobbs says consistent training will get you flight-ready in just one to 1.5 years.