For those interested in becoming a pilot, Cloud Nine Aviation, Inc., located in Picayune, offers such services.

Cloud Nine Aviation, Inc. owner Mikel Wayne Wilson said it begins with an introductory flight. During that flight, the potential pilot will get a glimpse of the requirements involved to become licensed. 

To begin flight lessons, the potential trainee will have to prove he or she is a U.S. citizen by providing a photo ID, a valid passport or a birth certificate.

Wilson said the lessons consist of both hands-on practice and bookwork. After the trainee has undergone over 10 hours of instructor monitored flight time and is able to efficiently perform basic plane maneuvers, then they can start flying solo. Some of the lessons focus on effectively making turns, dealing with engine stalls, how to use the radio controls, learning traffic patterns, taking off and, of course, landing a plane.

“Before a person goes up into the air, it is very important that they know everything about their plane,” Wilson said. “Even though everyone learns at different paces, I have noticed that the hardest maneuver for anyone to learn is how to land a plane.”

Private pilots are required to have a minimum of 40 hours of flight time and also know how to perform a soft land, hard land, fly at night and complete a three hour cross country flight.

Wilson said cross country flying entails taking off from the Picayune Municipal Airport and landing either in New Orleans, Gulfport or Stennis Space Center.

“Completing a cross country flight will not only help a person become a better pilot, but also teach them how to communicate properly with a control tower,” Wilson said.

Flight lesson fees are $140 per hour with a trainer and $100 per hour solo. He also said he will work around anyone’s schedule to conduct training.

Wilson also offers a sightseeing service where individuals can enjoy a plane ride and take aerial photographs.

For more information about flight lessons, contact Wilson at (601) 590-0260.

“Flying is a great hobby and it’s also a great stress reliever,” Wilson said.