Country Skies Aviation

Country Skies Aviation is an owner/operator flight school and airplane rental organization, based at Sky Acres Airport in Dutchess County, NY

Start Your Aviation Journey

Hudson Valley NY Flight School

Luc Gregoire is the owner and chief instructor of the flight school. Luc has over 25 years and 1700 hours of flying experience and has been based at Sky Acres for nearly a decade. Country Skies Aviation offers the full gamut of general aviation training in its Piper Warrior II, equipped to take you from your initial flying license and even further, including instrument flight, commercial rating or even instructor.

Dutchess County NY Flight Lessons & Rentals

Country Skies Aviation is Part 61 flight school, which means there are no rigid flight academy schedule to follow; rather we will accommodate your schedule with a learning frequency best suited to your own situation and learning style.

Flight Instruction

Aircraft Rental

Discovery Flights

Hudson Valley Flying Lessons

Why Fly at Sky Acres Airport in Dutchess County?

Only 90 minutes from New York City, Sky Acres Airport is a relaxed and welcoming general aviation airport sitting in the middle of the Hudson Valley countryside.  Its prime location, between the Hudson River and the New York/Connecticut border, also makes it an ideal spot to enjoy the Hudson Valley and New England areas. The airport features the famous Hangar Cafe, self-service fuel, and maintenance facilities. The airport has been family owned for generations and is a popular fly in destination for the general aviation community.

Take off where flying is as exciting as it should be—at Sky Acres Airport! Here, you’ll spend more time in the air and less time waiting thanks to our non-towered, pilot-friendly environment. Every departure launches you into the breathtaking beauty of the Hudson Valley and New England, with views that make every lesson unforgettable. From day one, you’re not just riding along—you’re in the pilot’s seat, hands on the controls, living the dream.

Frequently Asked Questions

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, but the national average is closer to 60–75 hours. If you fly 2–3 times per week, you can finish in 6–10 months.

  • 16 years old: To fly solo.
  • 17 years old: To earn your Private Pilot Certificate.
  • There is no upper age limit as long as you can pass a basic medical exam!

To rent our aircraft, you must provide:

  • A valid Pilot Certificate and Medical/BasicMed.
  • A current Flight Review (BFR) endorsement.
  • A “checkout” flight with one of our instructors to ensure you are proficient in our specific aircraft and local procedures.
  • Proof of Renter’s Insurance (non-owned aircraft insurance).

A Discovery Flight is a 30–60 minute introductory lesson designed to give you a taste of what it’s like to be a pilot. You’ll sit in the pilot’s seat, and under the supervision of a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), you’ll actually get to take the controls for a portion of the flight.

While anyone can take a discovery flight, we generally recommend it for ages 14 and up. Due to aircraft safety limits, there is a weight capacity (typically around 250 lbs per seat, depending on the aircraft). Please contact us if you have specific concerns.