Membership Benefits

Become a member, get checked out, fly! It couldn't be easier.

Multiple Models

Everyone has a specific goal for their flying whether it's boring holes in the sky, $100 hamburgers, family vacations, or the beginnings of an aviation career. With three aircraft models to choose from, we can meet a broad range of requirements from basic training to the long cross-country (the 182 has extended range tanks). Each aircraft has it's advantages in certain circumstances. All are equipped for VFR and IFR flight. See Our Aircraft for more details.

Well Maintained Aircraft

We take pride in our aircraft and try to instill that pride in ownership in our members. We have a long list of highly qualified mechanics and maintenance shops we work with in the Puget Sound. Although we are a volunteer organization, we try hard to take care of major and minor issues alike as quickly as possible. Additionally, we try to do something each year to improve the aircraft. We frequently upgrade and replace avionics, we've recently painted some aircraft and installed leather in one aircraft as a test for durability (it's been very successful and we will likely do others this way).

Training

Not a pilot? Need a BFR? No problem! We have a bevy of instructors ready to train you in the science and art of aviation. The Valley Fliers is not a flight school, but our aircraft can be used by our members to obtain or add a certificate with one of our approved instructors. In 2008, two members obtained private pilot certificates, two members obtained their instrument ratings and two members completed their commercial ratings. Give us shout if you would like to talk to one of instructors about the training process.

Scheduling

We use ScheduleMaster to manage aircraft availability. There are no limits on how much you can fly. Scheduling limits though are currently set to a total of 10 future reservations or 8-days of total time. There are no minimum flight times for overnight trips! We ask members to be considerate and respectful of other members with regard to this privilege by not taking an aircraft during peak times to local destinations and letting it sit for extended periods. It's a great benefit that we try hard to not to over regulate.

Insurance

As a member of the club, you become an insured person on our Avemco Owned Aircraft policy. In addition to protecting the club, the policy protects you. For more information, see the Owned Aircraft policy at Avemco.

A place to hang out

We keep a small, but comfortable "office" where you can hang out before or after a flight, check the weather or file a flight plan. A computer with internet access and some big white boards makes a great place to train and hang out with your fellow pilots!