Learn to Fly in Kansas | Flight Training at Freeman Field (3JC)— Simple, Safe, Fun

We teach step-by-step, in plain English. You’ll know what to do before you ever start the engine.

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How Flight Training Works

  1. Discovery Flight (1 hour): You take the controls with a coach next to you. We show you how airplanes turn, climb, and land.
  2. Lessons + Ground School: Fly 2–3 times per week and learn weather, radios, and navigation in class or online.
  3. Checkride Day: A practical test (flight + oral). Your instructor makes sure you’re ready and calm.

What It Costs (Typical)

Costs vary by pace and aircraft. Here’s a simple snapshot so you can plan.

To keep cost down, frequency makes proficiency which is the key.

Our Local Snapshot

  • Instructor: $50–$60/hr (ground & flight)

  • Cessna 150 (2-seat): ~ $130/hr

  • Cessna 172 (4-seat): ~ $160/hr

  • Cherokee 140 (150 HP): ~$160/hr

  • Cherokee 180 (4-seat): ~ $170/hr

Exact rates and aircraft are listed on our Fleet page

National Benchmarks

  • ATP “zero-to-airline” programs often quote total paths around $86k–$116k.

  • University programs show 150/172 rentals ~$150–$280 dual per hour.

  • Independent schools (e.g., Sporty’s) list 172 rentals in the ~$168–$184/hr range.

We focus on clear teaching and fair pricing. See if our pace fits your budget.

Funding & Assistance

OUR Programs

ArmyIgnitEd

(Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard) Credential Assistance (CA). Must submit your application No later than 45 days before you start and no earlier than 90 days. *Funding limits may apply.

Stratus Financial

For Pilots, By Pilots. Stratus Financial is on a mission to help aspiring pilots like you achieve your flight dreams as swiftly as possible through our hassle-free flight school loans program.

Flight Training Finance

Flight Training Finance helps aspiring pilots achieve their dreams with accessible finance solutions.

Make a Reservation in Flight Schedule Pro for your next Flight!​


Want To Save Money On Your Training or Time Building? Secure Block Times up to 20% off! Offer Extended until 3-31-2026.

Discover Our Fleet

Cessna 172H N3202L

$ 160.00

Block time Specials:
10% off on 25hr for $3,600
20% off on 50hr for $6,400

Cessna 172H N189W

$ 160.00

Block time Specials:
10% off on 25hr for $3,600
20% off on 50hr for $6,400

Piper Cherokee 180 N9767J (TAA)

$ 170.00

Block time Specials:
10% off on 25hr for $3,825
20% off on 50hr for $6,800

Cessna 150E N6176T

$ 130.00

*Reserved for Time Building ONLY or rental Not Training

Block time Specials:
10% off on 25hr for $2,925
20% off on 50hr for $5,200

Piper Cherokee 140 (150HP) N5096T

$ 160.00

Block time Specials:
10% off on 25hr for $3,600
20% off on 50hr for $6,400

Cessna 150G N3984J

$ 130.00

*Reserved for Time Building ONLY or rental Not Training

Block time Specials:
10% off on 25hr for $2,925
20% off on 50hr for $5,200

Baron BE 95-55 N781AA

$ 485.00 with intructor included

COMING SOON!

Piper Apache 160 N88DE

$ 400.00 with intructor included

COMING SOON!

Flight Training FAQ — Matta Aviation Services

Train at Freeman Field (3JC), Junction City, Kansas. In-house maintenance, small classes, personal instruction.

Yes. Many students begin with zero time. Start with a Discovery Flight (you’ll fly with a CFI in the left seat), then we map your path: ground school, lessons, solo, and checkride prep. We handle logistics so you can focus on learning.

Most finish in 6–9 months flying 2–3×/week. FAA minimum is 40 hours; real-world averages are typically 60–70+. Our in-house maintenance keeps aircraft online to minimize downtime and keep you progressing.

Costs depend on pace, aircraft, and study habits. We keep pricing transparent—aircraft, instructor, ground, exam fees, and materials are clearly outlined. We also work with Flight Training Finance and can discuss payment plans.

Primary training in our Cessna 172s and Piper Cherokee (PA-28-140/180). All aircraft are maintained by our own A&P team for reliability and safety. You’ll work one-on-one with an experienced CFI and get regular progress reviews.

Absolutely. Many fly weekends/evenings; others train 4–5×/week. More frequency = faster (and cheaper) progress. We’ll build a realistic plan around your life and budget.

Yes—45 minutes to an hour hands-on with a CFI. Fly the airplane, get your questions answered, and see if aviation fits you. Gift certificates available. Remember this time counts towards your certificate, just no documents needed.

Call/text 334-470-7525 to book.

Yes. We’ll map your pathway: Instrument → Commercial → CFI, with advanced options (including multi-engine in our Baron 55). Start with PPL and build from there—our integrated flight + maintenance operation keeps progress smooth.

To begin, bring a government ID. Before solo you’ll need a Student Pilot Certificate (we’ll help via IACRA) and at least a Third-Class FAA Medical from a local AME. We’ll guide you through each step and timeline.

  • Full-service center — Flight, Maintenance, and A&P Prep together.
  • In-house maintenance — more uptime, less waiting.
  • Personal instruction — small groups, one-on-one attention.
  • Transparent pricing and scheduling.
  • Central Kansas — Freeman Field (3JC), serving Manhattan & Fort Riley.

Easy—reach out and we’ll schedule your Discovery Flight, outline costs, and build your plan:

Call/Text: 334-470-7525
Email: mattaaviationservices@gmail.com
Location: Freeman Field (3JC), Junction City, KS

Book a Discovery Flight