Have you ever watched a plane cross the sky and wondered what it would feel like to be at the controls? At Bay Flying Services, we make that dream a reality. Located at Saginaw County H.W. Browne Airport in Saginaw, Michigan, we are a Part 61 flight school proudly serving student pilots across Mid-Michigan — from Bay City and Midland to Flint, Mount Pleasant, and beyond.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or returning to flying after a break, our experienced Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) will guide you every step of the way toward earning your FAA Private Pilot Certificate.
A Private Pilot Certificate is your ticket to the sky. It allows you to fly single-engine aircraft for personal travel, recreation, and adventure — taking friends and family along for the ride. You’ll be able to fly to destinations across the country, explore Michigan from above, or simply enjoy the freedom of flight on a clear afternoon.
Under FAA Part 61 regulations, training is flexible and self-paced, meaning you work with your instructor on a schedule that fits your life — not the other way around.
At Bay Flying Services, flight training is never one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand your goals, your schedule, and your learning style, then build a training plan around you. Here’s what sets us apart:
Personalized, one-on-one instruction. You’ll work directly with a dedicated CFI who knows your progress and is invested in your success — not rotating through a roster of unfamiliar faces.
Flexible Part 61 scheduling. Unlike structured Part 141 programs, Part 61 training works around your life. Early mornings, evenings, weekends — we work with you.
Local expertise. We know Mid-Michigan skies, airspace, and weather. That local knowledge makes you a better, more prepared pilot from day one.
A welcoming environment. Flying can feel intimidating at first. Our instructors are patient, encouraging, and committed to making your training experience both safe and enjoyable.
Earning your private certificate takes focus and dedication, but it’s more achievable than most people think. Here’s what the journey looks like:
Discovery Flight Before you commit to anything, take to the skies with one of our CFIs on a discovery flight. You’ll experience the aircraft firsthand, get a feel for the controls, and see Mid-Michigan from a perspective most people never get. Many students walk away from their discovery flight knowing flying is for them.
Ground Training Flying is as much about knowledge as it is about stick-and-rudder skill. Ground training covers aerodynamics, weather interpretation, FAA regulations, navigation, radio communications, and aircraft systems. You’ll study for and pass the FAA Private Pilot written knowledge test as part of this phase.
Flight Training This is where the magic happens. You and your CFI will fly together regularly, building your skills lesson by lesson — from basic aircraft control and takeoffs and landings, to steep turns, stall recovery, emergency procedures, and cross-country navigation. The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours, including at least 20 hours of dual instruction and 10 hours of solo flight time.
Solo Flight One of the most memorable moments in any pilot’s life: your first solo flight. When your CFI determines you’re ready, you’ll take the aircraft up entirely on your own. It’s a milestone that never gets old to watch.
Checkride The final step is your FAA checkride — an oral examination and a practical flight test with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). Pass both, and you walk away a certificated private pilot.
Written test: Passed before the checkride; we’ll help you prepare
The sky over Mid-Michigan is waiting for you. Whether you’re ready to schedule your discovery flight or just have a few questions, the team at Bay Flying Services is here to help. Contact us today! Your first flight might be closer than you think.
4807 Janes Rd, Saginaw MI 48601
fly@bayflyingservices.com
(989) 439-4332
