Philadelphia Flight School · KPNE
Merlin Flight Training offers personalized flight instruction based at Northeast Philadelphia Airport (KPNE) — 9800 Ashton Rd, Hangar E3, Philadelphia, PA 19114. Learn to fly one-on-one with a certified flight instructor in a Direct Fly Alto 912 TG. Start with a discovery flight or talk with us about private pilot training.
01 · Where we fly from
Meet us by appointment at 9800 Ashton Rd, Hangar E3, Philadelphia, PA 19114. Before your visit, we will confirm your meeting point and airport access instructions. Travel time varies with traffic; use the directions below to plan your trip.
Open in Google Maps →02 · The aircraft
Our Alto is a two-seat, low-wing airplane with dual control sticks. You sit beside your instructor for personalized flight training, with a clear view of the controls and the Dynon glass cockpit.
N159G is based at Northeast Philadelphia Airport. Start with a discovery flight, get comfortable in the cockpit, and build your skills one lesson at a time.
See the aircraft →03 · What you can train for
Build your flying skills through personalized lessons, ground instruction, and preparation for the knowledge test and practical test. Your schedule and total training time depend on your progress and availability.
Learn more →Ask about instrument instruction, prerequisites, and a suitable aircraft for your training goals. We will help you understand the equipment and experience needed before you begin.
Learn more →Discuss your existing flight experience and commercial pilot goals with an instructor. We will help you plan the next steps and identify the aircraft and training needed.
Learn more →04 · Start with a discovery flight
Meet your instructor, discuss the airplane and flight plan, and experience flying in our Direct Fly Alto. You can try the controls under your instructor's guidance. Routes and flight activities depend on weather, air traffic, and instructor judgment. No prior flying experience is needed. Check the booking options for current prices, duration, and availability.
Book your discovery flight →05 · Getting here
Our Philadelphia location welcomes aspiring pilots from the city and surrounding communities. Compare the journey from your area:
Choosing a flight school is also about finding an instructor, aircraft, and schedule that work for you. Contact us to discuss your goals and visit our Philadelphia location before committing to a training plan.
Isaac Prestwich is a certified flight instructor and the owner of Merlin Flight Training. Our approach centers on patient explanations, practical skills, and safety. Read customer experiences on our Google Business Profile, then talk with us about your goals.
06 · Common questions
We are based at Northeast Philadelphia Airport (KPNE), 9800 Ashton Rd, Hangar E3, Philadelphia, PA 19114. Visits and lessons are by appointment. We will confirm your meeting point and airport access instructions before you arrive.
Your total depends on the instruction and aircraft time you need, plus equipment, tests, and other fees. Use our training cost calculator for an estimate and speak with an instructor about current rates and what is included.
Your timeline depends on how often you fly, weather, aircraft and instructor availability, and your progress. We will discuss a realistic lesson schedule and review your progress as you train.
Yes. Training takes place at our Philadelphia location at KPNE. Use directions to 9800 Ashton Rd, Hangar E3, to compare travel times from your home. Confirm your appointment before visiting.
A discovery flight introduces you to the airplane and flying with an instructor. You can try the controls under instructor guidance. Check current booking options for the price, duration, and inclusions. Routes and activities depend on weather, air traffic, and instructor judgment.
No prior flying experience is needed for a discovery flight. Contact us to discuss your goals, or explore the discovery flight options to take your first step.
One discovery flight tells you more than ten hours of YouTube videos. Book yours — and if it's not for you, no pressure.