AVZ FLIGHT ACADEMY NEWS:
The Fleet Expands!
We are excited to announce the addition of two new aircraft and the long-awaited flight simulator. The aircraft consists of a beautiful instrument-certified Cessna 172 and a Cessna 150. Our simulator is a state-of-the-art 5 panel simulating machine that is perfect for keeping training costs efficient. Go check out these new additions in the Fleet tab for pictures and rates or come take a look at them on-site.
FLEET EXPANSION SPECIAL DEALS:
Limited time only
The first 10 students to purchase a 30 hour block of time for our new Cessna 150 will receive it at a rate of $95/hr.
The first 10 instrument students will receive their first 10 hours of simulator time at $70/hr.

About Us
Ever since opening our doors, we’ve helped countless individuals achieve their career and life dreams, and we would like to help you reach them too! We are committed to providing excellent education, training, and resources so that our students will thrive in today’s competitive world. We are a Part 61 flight school teaching a well-structured FAA approved Part 141 curriculum. Located at Mcghee Tyson Airport, we provide the crucial experience of operating within a Class C airspace. Along with our flexible program options and great instructors, we’re sure you’ll be satisfied with your education at AvZ Flight Academy.
Discovery Flight
Soar alongside the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains and experience what it means to be a pilot on the first day. At the end of the one hour affair, the accompanying certified pilot will sign off on your first hour of flight.
Contact us today to set up your Discovery Flight.
Weight restrictions will apply.
$199
123's of Communications
Committed to Education
Providing our students with a well-rounded education is the core of AvZ Flight Academy. To ensure that the depth of knowledge expected is available to all, we designed an online session with Air Traffic Controller, Kevin Brehmer. This is a one-on-one online session detailing everything you need to know about the tower, the controllers that operate it, and how you, as a pilot, interact with them.
To further this experience we are also offering scheduled in-class group sessions. Although the core content is the same, at the end of the class, there will be a guided-tour of McGhee Tyson's very own control tower!
Due to COVID-19, we will not be facilitating the in-class sessions and tour until it is safe to do so.
$50
Available Programs
By offering several programs, AvZ Flight Academy can give you the tools to gain an advantage in aviation through specialized training. Taken all together, we can help you achieve the dream of becoming a Commerical Pilot. Learn more about your options below.
Career Pilot Program
This Professional Pilot Course is designed to be a self-paced, well supervised, quality, career-oriented flight training program. The program will reinforce and instill the set of comprehensive aeronautical knowledge and skills necessary for you to become a safe, proficient, and fully competent Commercial Pilot.
Private Pilot
Whether you’re considering a career change or simply looking to gain a new skillset, our Private Pilot Course offers everything you need to get started in aviation and more.
Instrument Rating
The Instrument Course is prepared to take you from start to finish or wrap-up your instruction to get you ready for the check-ride. We’ll customize the best instrument rating program to meet your needs.
Certified Flight Instructor
To be able to translate the knowledge and experience of flight to another is the real test for any pilot. Our Certified Flight Instructor Course will prepare you for all of the responsibilities of being in the right seat and, after completion, you can begin to have students of your own!
Certified Flight Instructor Instrument Rating
Expand your opportunities as an instructor by adding the instrument rating to your CFI arsenal.
Multi-Engine Rating
The multi-engine rating applies your current knowledge in a more complex environment and prepares you for a successful checkride.
Fleet
Cessna 172
N7665X
$145/hr
Cessna 172
N1785F
$145/hr
Cessna 172
N84429
$145/hr
Cessna 150
N60836
$110/hr
Piper Warrior III
N40842
$155/hr
ELITE PI-135 Simulator
AVAILABLE NOW!
$80/hr
An Instructor Fee of $65/hr is added to sessions requiring ground/instruction.
Hall of Fame
Adrian VanZyl
Company CEO
Adrian is a decorated, retired fighter pilot and holds multiple type ratings and has experience ranging from combat operations to airline Captain.
Andy Siperly
Flight Instructor
Born and raised in Maryville, TN, Andy is a graduate of ATP Flight School and is a CFI, CFII, and MEI.
"There's a feller"
Kevin Brehmer
Flight Instructor
Kevin is a full time air traffic control operator and previously flew for American Airlines. Kevin is a CFI and CFII
Alex Eades
Director of Operations/Flight Instructor
Alex is originally from Abingdon, Virginia and has lived in Knoxville for the past four years. He graduated from Carson-Newman University in 2016 and from Lincoln Memorial University's School of Law in 2019. He's flown since he was 13 and loves every minute of it! He looks forward to helping everyone achieve whatever their aviation goals are! When he is not flying you can find him with his girlfriend out and about in our beautiful city!
"Riiiiiiiiiiight Rudder"
Ken Cable
Office Assistant
Loved by students and staff alike, Ken brings enthusiasm and joy to AvZ Flight Academy. Ken is an invaluable member of the team.
Stephanie Burr
Flight Instructor
Stephanie has been flying since 2001 and has been an instructor since 2005. Stephanie worked as a First Officer for a regional airline until, unfortunately, the airline had to close due to COVID-19. Stephanie loves flying more than just about anything and loves helping new students realize their dream of flight.
She knew from a young age she wanted to be a professional pilot, having first documented this on a First Grade assignment titled, "When I grow up." She loves swimming, recycling, reading, and animals and is still working on the growing up part! Stephanie is a lifelong East Tennessean.
Tony Pape
Chief Flight Instructor
Tony is a seasoned professional pilot having been a CFI for over 20 years and Captain at an airline for 11 years. Tony currently flies corporate jets and is based in Knoxville.