Flying Club & Flight Training in Bend, Oregon
High Sierra Pilots is a membership flying club at Bend Municipal Airport (KBDN) offering flight training, aircraft access, and a community for people who love flying.
We’re welcoming new students and already-certificated pilots. Whether you’re taking your first lesson, returning to aviation, or looking for an airplane for your next trip, we’ll help you find your place in the club.
Learn to Fly in Bend
You don’t need a pilot certificate—or any flight experience—to get started.
Our instructors help student members build the skills, knowledge, and judgment needed to become pilots. Along the way, you’ll be part of a club where you can meet other students, learn from experienced aviators, and see what flying can become beyond your lessons.
If you’re curious but haven’t decided to pursue training, a discovery flight is a practical first step. Meet an instructor, experience flying a small airplane, and talk through what learning to fly would involve.
Contact our Bend team about flight training or a discovery flight.
Already a Pilot? Put Your Certificate to Use.
High Sierra Pilots gives certificated pilots access to aircraft for proficiency flying, continued training, and personal travel.
Maybe you want to fly regularly without buying an airplane. Maybe you’re ready to move beyond the aircraft you trained in. Or perhaps you want a community that gives you more reasons to head to the airport.
We’ll help you understand the membership options and checkout requirements for the aircraft you want to fly. Access depends on your qualifications, required training, club policies, and aircraft availability.
Our Bend Aircraft
Our Bend fleet offers several options for training and personal flying:
| Aircraft | What it offers |
|---|---|
| Cessna 172 — N5426J | A familiar platform for primary training, proficiency flying, and personal trips. |
| Piper Cherokee 180 TAA | A technically advanced aircraft with an avionics-equipped cockpit for training and cross-country flying. |
| Cessna 182 — N182UL | A high-performance aircraft for pilots looking to expand their capabilities and travel options. |
| Beechcraft Bonanza F33 | A retractable-gear, high-performance aircraft for appropriately qualified and checked-out members. |
We also plan to bring a Piper J-3 Cub to Bend, adding another way to experience flying and develop tailwheel skills. It is not yet part of the available Bend fleet; contact us for updates on its arrival and training availability.
Explore our Bend aircraft or speak with our team about which airplane fits your goals.
How Membership Works
High Sierra Pilots combines membership dues with aircraft operating charges. Members reserve aircraft through our online scheduling system after completing the applicable onboarding and checkout requirements.
Our aircraft rates are dry, meaning fuel is paid separately. Instruction and other applicable expenses are additional. We’ll help you understand the costs before you commit, including any required prepaid flight time and renter’s insurance.
Visit How It Works for current membership options, pricing, and club policies.
A Flying Community in Central Oregon
Flying is more rewarding when you have people to share it with.
Our community welcomes people at different stages of aviation. You can take part in club activities, focus on your own training and travel, or enjoy a mix of both.
Why Join a Flying Club?
A flying club can make regular access to aircraft possible without taking on the full responsibility of aircraft ownership.
The club coordinates aircraft maintenance and manages the fleet. Members contribute through dues, operating charges, and considerate care of the aircraft they fly.
You also have somewhere to continue after earning your certificate. Training can lead naturally into personal trips, new aircraft checkouts, and continued learning with people you know.
High Sierra Pilots also has a location at Carson City Airport in Northern Nevada, connecting our Bend community with fellow aviators near Reno and Lake Tahoe.
Common Questions
Can I join if I’ve never flown before?
Yes. We welcome new students, and you can begin flight training through the club without already holding a pilot certificate.
Can I join if I already have my pilot certificate?
Yes. We welcome certificated pilots looking for aircraft access, continued training, and a flying community. Our team will explain the checkouts and other requirements for your chosen aircraft.
Is this a flying club or a flight school?
High Sierra Pilots is a membership flying club that offers flight training. Members can learn to fly here and continue using club aircraft after earning their certificates.
Is fuel included in the aircraft rate?
No. Our published aircraft rates are dry, so fuel is a separate expense. See our membership information for current pricing and details.
Can I take an aircraft on a trip?
Members can use club aircraft for personal travel within the club’s scheduling and operating policies. Contact us about your plans, particularly for overnight or multi-day trips.
How do I get started?
Contact our Bend team to discuss your goals, arrange a visit, or book a discovery flight. If you’re ready to join, complete the membership application.
Visit High Sierra Pilots at Bend Airport
Our Bend location serves students and pilots throughout Central Oregon, including Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and nearby communities.
Come meet us, talk about your goals, and learn how membership works.
High Sierra Pilots — Bend
63132 Powell Butte Highway, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Phone: 458-600-4150
Email: bend@highsierrapilots.club
