The Most Experienced Flight Training School in Central Florida
With 22+ years of aviation experience, we prioritize safety, confidence, and real-world readiness at every stage of training.
Safety First
In-house maintenance by certified professionals keeps our aircraft reliable and ready.
Gold Seal Instructors
FAA-certified instructors with real-world experience. We prioritize hiring CFIs who completed their training with CFFT.
One-on-One Training
Personalized instruction tailored to your goals, pace, and schedule.
Flexible Scheduling
Available 7 days a week based on availability — train when it works for you.
Convenient Location
Based at Zephyrhills Airport (KZPH) in Pasco County, serving students from Wesley Chapel, the wider Tampa Bay area, Orlando, and Central Florida.
Real-World Ready
We’re not just teaching you to pass a test — we’re preparing you to fly safely and confidently.
Proven Safety Record
A proud training history with no incidents or accidents and a consistent focus on risk management.
5-Star Google Rating
Proudly rated 5 stars on Google by pilots, students, and visitors to our Zephyrhills location.
Proven Student Pathways
Former students have advanced to careers in airline, cargo, charter, and air-ambulance flying, as well as military aviation, banner towing, and skydive flying.
FAA Part 61 Flight Training Programs
From your first discovery flight to professional certifications — we guide you step-by-step.
Private Pilot Training
The foundation of your flying journey. Minimum 40 hours. Fly for personal use in Cessna 172 or 150 aircraft.
Instrument Rating / IFR Training
Master flying in the clouds and the ATC system used by professionals. Builds serious skill and confidence.
Commercial Pilot Training
Get paid to fly. Requires 250 hours total time. Prepares you for professional aviation careers.
Flight Instructor Training: CFI / CFII
CFI / CFII — Learn to teach and mentor, build hours, and gain real-world flying experience. One of the best paths to the airlines. We prefer to hire CFIs who have trained with us at Central Florida Flight Training.
Career PathHigh Performance & TAA
Train in a glass-panel Cessna 182 with modern avionics, autopilot, and advanced systems.
Technically AdvancedTime Building & More
Custom plans for hour building, aerobatic instruction, and BATD simulator training.
Flexible OptionsContact Central Florida Flight Training for a personalized estimate based on your current flight experience and actual flight time needs.
Start with a Discovery FlightFlight Training Questions
How much does flight training cost?
Private pilot training starts at $7,000, instrument rating training starts at $7,000, and commercial pilot training starts at $12,000. Contact CFFT for a personalized estimate based on your current experience and actual flight time needs.
Can I try flying before starting a program?
Yes. Book a $100 discovery flight at Zephyrhills Airport with an FAA-certified flight instructor. No previous flying experience is required.
Where will my flight lessons take place?
Training takes place at Zephyrhills Airport (KZPH), 39442 South Ave, Zephyrhills, FL 33542. Whether you live in Tampa Bay or the Orlando area, contact us to discuss scheduling your lessons at this location.
Pilot Training Financing Through AOPA
Explore flight training financing through AOPA Aviation Finance for private pilot training, instrument ratings, commercial certificates, and more. AOPA membership is required to apply. Financing is subject to credit approval; review current eligibility, rates, and terms with AOPA.
Well-Maintained Training Aircraft
In-house maintenance keeps the fleet reliable and ready. Wet rates include fuel. Instruction is $60/hour for all ratings.
FAA-Certified Instructors
Train with a Gold Seal Instructor on staff and a team that brings real-world aviation experience to every lesson.
Erik Meredith
CFI · CFII · MEI · AGI · IGI · Gold Seal
22+ years in aviation as a Part 135 cargo and charter captain, FAA Part 141 Chief Instructor, and adjunct Professor of Aeronautical Science. Erik has 9,000 flight hours, experience flying more than 50 aircraft makes and models, and a seaplane rating. His focus is on safety, operational excellence, and long-term pilot success.
Alex B.
Alex has been flying for 22 years and has logged more than 1,500 flight hours. A passionate aviator and instructor, he enjoys teaching new skills and sharing his knowledge with future aviators. He is qualified to train initial CFI applicants.
Ryan
Ryan is a CFI and multi-engine-rated pilot, aircraft owner, and has logged more than 1,200 flight hours of experience.
Michael
Michael is a CFI and CFII with more than 600 flight hours. When he is not working, he enjoys flying his Grumman AA-5.
Elliott
Elliott has been flying for four years and has logged more than 400 flight hours. He currently holds a CFI certificate and is working toward his CFII and multi-engine rating.
Savannah
Savannah is a CFI, CFII, and MEI with more than 1,200 flight hours of experience.
Schedule Your Discovery Flight
Take the controls of a real aircraft with an FAA-certified instructor. No experience required — just curiosity.
- ✓ Hands-on flight time with a certified instructor
- ✓ Pre-flight briefing covering the basics
- ✓ One-on-one instruction
- ✓ Pilot logbook included
Kind words from our students
“The instructors truly care about your success — not just helping you earn your ratings, but shaping you into a skilled, confident, and safe pilot. Their dedication and passion for aviation really make a difference.”
“Instructors were very nice and professional. The owner, Erik, is very responsive. And most importantly, the aircraft are well maintained, have great availability, and exactly what you need for all of your single engine training.”
Train at Zephyrhills Airport
Year-round flying conditions and a convenient location for students across the Tampa Bay area.
Central Florida Flight Training
- Address 39442 South Ave
Zephyrhills, FL 33542 - Airport Zephyrhills (KZPH)
- Phone (813) 291-0477
- Hours 7 days a week, by appointment
Locally owned flight school focused on safety, real-world skills, and personalized training in Central Florida.
Central Florida Flight Training 