Lone Eagle Flying School

Lone Eagle Flying School Review: Affordable Flight Training in Clifton, Queensland

Are you dreaming of taking to the skies? Looking for flight training near Clifton QLD? Lone Eagle Flying School offers the perfect opportunity to turn those dreams into reality. Located at the historic Clifton Airfield just 549 Clifton-Leyburn Road, this community-based flight school has been helping ordinary Queenslanders become pilots since 2002.

Why Choose Lone Eagle Flying School for Your Pilot Training?

Community-Focused Flight Training
What sets Lone Eagle Flying School apart is its status as a not-for-profit, community-based aviation club operated by the Darling Downs Sport Aircraft Association Inc. This means more affordable training rates and a supportive environment where everyone shares your passion for flight.

The school is entirely volunteer-run, with experienced instructors and engineers donating their time to help new pilots earn their wings. This dedication creates a welcoming atmosphere that commercial flight schools simply can't match.

Award-Winning Instruction
Learning to fly is a significant undertaking, and having the right instructor makes all the difference. Lone Eagle's Chief Flying Instructor, Trevor Bange OAM, brings over 50 years of aviation experience to your training. His expertise was formally recognized when he received the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2022 for his service to recreational flying and gliding.
Under such accomplished leadership, students receive thorough, safety-focused training from instructors who truly care about your development as a pilot.

Flexible Training Schedule
Unlike many flight schools with rigid schedules, Lone Eagle Flying School operates 7 days a week during daylight hours. This flexibility allows you to train around your existing commitments, making it ideal for busy professionals, students, or anyone with variable availability.

What to Expect: The Training Process

Aircraft Fleet
Your training will take place in well-maintained light aircraft that are perfect for learning the fundamentals of flight:

Drifter – A simple, responsive aircraft ideal for beginners
Jabiru J160-C – An Australian-made training aircraft known for reliability
Jabiru J230-C – A slightly larger model offering excellent visibility and handling with speeds to 120kts cruise for travelling.

Getting Your Wings
Lone Eagle Flying School offers comprehensive training for the Recreational Aviation Australia (RAAus) Pilot Certificate. The program includes:

Ground theory instruction
Dual instruction flights with experienced teachers
Supervised solo flying as your skills develop
Competency-based progression at your own pace

While the minimum required flying time for certification is 20 hours, most students complete approximately 30 hours before achieving their certificate. This ensures you're not just meeting minimum requirements but developing true confidence and competence in the air.

Is Flying Safe and Affordable?

Safety First Approach
Safety is paramount at Lone Eagle Flying School. All aircraft undergo regular maintenance by qualified engineers, and instructors emphasize proper procedures and decision-making throughout your training. Recreational aviation has an excellent safety record when pilots follow proper training and protocols—exactly what you'll learn at Lone Eagle.

Experience Flight Before Committing
Not sure if flying is for you? Lone Eagle Flying School offers introductory Air Experience Flights that let you get a feel for flying before committing to a full training program. For just $198, you can take the controls of an aircraft under the guidance of an experienced instructor.

This trial flight is the perfect way to:

Experience the thrill of controlling an aircraft
Get a taste of what pilot training involves
Make an informed decision about pursuing your pilot certificate

Even if you decide not to continue with training, you'll always be able to say, "I flew a plane!" It's an experience few people get to enjoy, and one you'll remember for a lifetime.

Community and Events
The school fosters a strong aviation community through regular events including the annual Clifton Fly-In Breakfast. Scheduled for June 15, 2025, this popular gathering attracts aviation enthusiasts from across the region with aircraft displays, a free breakfast, and opportunities to chat with pilots and instructors.

Lone Eagle Flying School also actively supports youth engagement in aviation through scholarships and encouragement. Their success stories include pilots as young as 16 who have earned their certificates through the school's training program.

On-site Facilities
The 800-meter runway at Clifton Airfield has been serving pilots since 1932 and provides an excellent training environment. The facility includes:

On-site camping facilities (suggested donation: $10 per person per night)
A welcoming clubhouse atmosphere
Regular community gatherings and training sessions

Ready to Take to the Skies?

Whether you're serious about becoming a pilot or simply curious about experiencing flight firsthand, Lone Eagle Flying School welcomes your inquiry. Their passionate volunteers are ready to help you discover the freedom and exhilaration that comes with flying.

Don't just dream about flying—take the controls and discover if you were born to fly. Book your introductory flight today and take the first step toward earning your wings at Clifton's premier flight school.