Sports and Recreation

The local shortage of sizable hills, and therefore reliable updrafts, limits aviation to powered flight. However, quite good weather conditions, large runways and pilots who fly in a radar-controlled area make Wilmington a great place to learn how to fly a plane. Check out the Be A Pilot Program, a nonprofit organization that offers introductory flights at reasonable rates. Call (888) 232-7456 for information. Besides flying lessons, local companies offer plane rentals, introductory flights and flight instruction (see our Getting Here, Getting Around chapter).

Air Wilmington
1831 Hewlett Dr., Wilmington

(910) 763-0146

Air Wilmington can arrange for flight instruction with a private instructor and charters for companies or groups. They can also arrange for accommodations and meal delivery. A courtesy car is available with a one-hour time limit.

ISO Aero Service Inc. of Wilmington
1410 N. Kerr Ave., Wilmington
(910) 763-8898, (800) 526-0285

ISO offers rentals, flight-training instruction for all ratings, aircraft maintenance and participates in the Be A Pilot Program. ISO has an executive aviation/FBO facility at Wilmington International Airport next to U.S. Customs.