Online flight school · Ages 12–18
Flight school for the price of a video game.
10 self-paced video modules taught by a pilot with 10,000+ flight hours. FAA rules, the free TRUST test, simulator practice, then their first real flight.
Start flight school now, fly on Christmas morning.
The Liftoff Academy: Teen Pilot Course
$69- Instant access – start tonight
- 10 modules, self-paced, lifetime access
- Works with any beginner drone
No account to create first. The course login arrives by email right after you pay. 14-day refund on the course.
Enrolled in under a minute
Tap Enroll and pay
Apple Pay, Shop Pay, Google Pay or a card. One screen, no sign-up form.
Get the login by email
A welcome email with a one-tap link to the course. Forward it to your kid, or print it for under the tree.
Start Module 1 tonight
Watch on a phone, tablet or laptop. Progress saves, so they pick up where they left off.
What they learn, in 10 modules
- 01Getting Started with DronesTypes of drones, basic rules and gear
- 02Parts of a DroneSpot problems before something breaks
- 03Pre-Flight Safety ChecklistIs it safe and legal to fly here?
- 04The TRUST TestTake the free FAA test and keep the certificate
- 05Learning to Fly in a SimulatorPractice the controls before the real thing
- 06Your First FlightTakeoff, landing and confidence drills
- 07TroubleshootingFix common problems and stay safe
- 08Flying in Different ConditionsWind, weather and how to adjust
- 09FPVWhat it is and how to keep learning
- 10From Planning to LandingPlan and fly a full real-world mission
Taught by a real pilot, not a YouTube tutorial
Jonathan Smith has logged 10,000+ flight hours, flown for Discovery Channel and Fortune 500 clients, and volunteers on the FAA Safety Team. He built his first drone at 16. This course is the one he wishes he'd had.
Parents ask
Do we need a drone to start?
No. Modules 1 to 5 need no drone, and the simulator module uses a free phone app. Any beginner drone works for the flight modules, or add ours for $59.
What ages is it for?
Built for ages 12 to 18. Anyone who can read can take it, and parents often watch along.
How long do they have access?
Lifetime access. It is self-paced, so they can do a module a night or binge a weekend.
Is flying a drone legal for my kid?
Yes, for recreation, once they pass the free FAA TRUST test. Module 4 walks them through it step by step.
What if it is not a fit?
Course purchases are refundable within 14 days. Email info@theliftoffacademy.com.
Same thumbs. Real sky.
Online flight school for ages 12–18. 10 modules · $69 · Start tonight.
The Liftoff Academy provides educational information about drone operations and basic safety. Nothing here is legal advice. You are responsible for following all applicable laws and FAA rules when flying any drone. Already enrolled? Log in.