Experience Mesa Skies: Rent an Aircraft Nearby

There’s nothing like flying over the vibrant desert colors, winding rivers, and mountain peaks of Mesa. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and just plain fun. With aircraft rental in Mesa, you can turn an ordinary day into something unforgettable. 

At Leopard Aviation, we make that easy. Whether you’re booking a scenic flight or starting your flight training journey, we’ve got the aircraft and team to get you airborne. Our Mesa location puts you right where the views begin. Come see why flying here is something everyone should experience—and let us help you make it happen.

Why Choose Mesa for Aircraft Rentals?

There’s something special about flying over this area. With year-round sunshine, open skies, and scenic desert views, it’s one of the most rewarding places to fly in Arizona. Whether you’re just starting out or already a certified pilot, Mesa offers the ideal mix of beauty and practicality.

The consistent weather means fewer delays, giving you more control over your schedule. You’re also close to a variety of great destinations, from Sedona to San Diego, making Mesa a perfect launch point for personal trips or hour-building flights.

For anyone looking for aircraft rental near Mesa, our city combines reliable flying conditions with convenience—and we make the most of that at Leopard Aviation.

Leopard Aviation: Your Premier Choice

When it comes to aircraft rental near Mesa, we’re proud to say we’re not just an option—we’re the best option.

At Leopard Aviation, we focus on delivering a high-quality flying experience backed by a team that genuinely cares. Our Mesa location offers easy access, fast scheduling, and professional support, whether you’re renting for fun or working toward a license.

We know aviation can be intimidating for new flyers. That’s why our team is friendly, approachable, and always happy to guide you through the process. We’ve helped everyone from first-time flyers to career-bound pilots, and we tailor our services to fit your journey.

We also prioritize safety and transparency. With well-maintained aircraft, detailed pre-rental procedures, and helpful instructors, you can feel confident every time you take off.

Fleet Overview

You can’t enjoy a great flight without a great aircraft—and we’ve got exactly that.

At Leopard Aviation, we proudly operate Cessna 172S Skyhawks. These aircraft are known across the world for their reliability, simplicity, and safety. They’re comfortable, easy to fly, and ideal for both learning and leisure.

But what really sets our fleet apart is the tech. Every Cessna 172S we offer comes with:

• Garmin G1000 Avionics Suite – an advanced, intuitive glass cockpit system
• GFC 700 Integrated Autopilot – for smoother, more stable flight control
• Terrain Awareness System – added safety and situational awareness
  

These features aren’t just for show. They help you fly smarter, train more effectively, and enjoy a safer overall experience in the air.

Whether you’re doing pattern work, heading out for a weekend adventure, or refining your instrument skills, our aircraft are equipped for your mission.

Rental Opportunities and Special Occasions

Aircraft rentals aren’t just about flight time—they’re about life moments. We’ve seen our clients use our rentals for a wide variety of special experiences, and we love being part of that.

Some of the most common reasons people rent from us include:

• Marriage proposals in the air – say “yes” above the clouds
• Anniversary flights – enjoy a private picnic with a view
• Weekend getaways – quick escapes to Flagstaff, Lake Havasu, or even further
• Bucket list flights – fly over the Superstition Mountains or downtown Phoenix at sunset
• Photography or filming – get the perfect shot from the sky
  

Flying adds a personal and unforgettable touch to any experience. When you rent with us, you don’t just get an airplane—you get the chance to create a memory that lasts forever.

And if you’re a licensed pilot, it’s even easier. You can plan your own route, set your schedule, and enjoy total freedom in the sky.

Rental Requirements and Process

We make aircraft rental near Mesa as simple and stress-free as possible. But we also care deeply about safety, so we follow a process that ensures both comfort and compliance.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Checkout Flight

All new renters must complete a checkout flight with one of our Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs). This quick flight lets us confirm your comfort level and ensures you’re familiar with the aircraft’s systems.

It’s not a test—it’s a safety check. We want you to feel confident before you take the controls.

Already Have Experience?

If you’ve got experience in a Cessna 172S, you might not need a full checkout flight. We offer two options for qualified pilots:

Option 1:

• 200 total logged hours
• 50 hours in the Cessna 172S (same make and model)
• 20 hours of flight time within the last 3 months
  

Option 2:

• 125 total logged hours
• 25 hours in the Cessna 172S
• 20 hours in the last 3 months
• Plus, you must hold an instrument rating
  

If you meet either set of requirements, we’ll work with you to verify your hours and get you flying quickly.

Rental Rates

Our pricing is straightforward:

• Mesa Location – $189 per hour (wet rate, includes fuel)
• Mesa Location (Falcon Field) – $169 per hour (wet rate)

We keep our pricing competitive and transparent. No hidden fees, no surprises.

Rental Rates and Locations

At Leopard Aviation, we offer competitive rental rates and convenient locations to serve your flying needs. Our aircraft rental near Mesa is designed to provide flexibility and affordability.

• Mesa Location: Situated at 14700 N Airport Dr #101, Mesa, AZ 85260, our Mesa facility offers ground school training.
• Mesa Location (Falcon Field): Located at 4901 E Falcon Drive, Mesa, AZ 85215, just 20 minutes from Mesa, our Mesa location provides comprehensive flight training and aircraft rental services.
  

Rental Requirements and Process

To ensure safety and compliance, we have specific rental requirements:

• Checkout Flight: All renters must complete a checkout flight with one of our Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs).
• Alternative Qualifications: Experienced pilots may qualify with:
  • 200 total logged hours, with 50 hours in the same make and model, and 20 hours within the previous 3 months.
  • Or, 125 total logged hours, with 25 hours in the same make and model, 20 hours within the previous 3 months, and an instrument rating.
    

Rental Opportunities and Special Occasions

Our aircraft rentals are perfect for various special occasions:

• Romantic Picnics: Create unforgettable memories with a scenic flight to a secluded picnic spot.
• Special Anniversaries: Celebrate milestones by taking to the skies and experiencing the beauty of Arizona from above.
• Weekend Getaways: Escape the routine with a weekend trip to nearby destinations, enjoying the convenience of private air travel.
• Marriage Proposals: Make your proposal extraordinary by popping the question amidst the clouds.
  

Additional Services and Training

Beyond aircraft rentals, we offer a range of flight training programs:

• Private Pilot License (PPL): Begin your aviation journey by learning the fundamentals of flight, navigation, and safety.
• Instrument Rating (IR): Enhance your skills by learning to fly in various weather conditions using instrument navigation.
• Commercial Pilot License (CPL): Advance towards a professional flying career with comprehensive training and flight experience.
• Multi-Engine Rating: Expand your capabilities by learning to operate aircraft with multiple engines.
• Discovery Flights: Experience the thrill of flying firsthand with an introductory flight, perfect for those new to aviation.
  

At Leopard Aviation, we’re committed to providing exceptional aircraft rental near Mesa and comprehensive flight training programs to help you achieve your aviation goals.

See Mesa from a New View

If you’re looking for aircraft rental in Mesa, we’ve got you covered. At Leopard Aviation, we make it easy to take off—whether you’re planning something special or chasing your pilot dreams. 

Our fleet is modern, our instructors are experienced, and our team is here to help every step of the way. 

From romantic flights to full training programs, we offer everything you need to get in the air. Come fly with us and experience the freedom, beauty, and thrill of flight over Mesa. We’re ready when you are. Let’s make your next adventure unforgettable.

FAQs

1. Why rent an aircraft in Mesa?

Mesa offers stunning desert landscapes and clear skies, making it a popular flying destination. Renting an aircraft here allows licensed pilots to enjoy beautiful scenic routes, escape on quick getaways, or log hours—all without the commitment of owning a plane or leaving the Phoenix area.

2. What qualifications do I need to rent an aircraft in Mesa?

You need a valid pilot’s license and recent flight experience. Leopard Aviation also requires a checkout flight with one of their instructors to confirm your proficiency. Once approved, you can rent aircraft confidently and safely from their Mesa location.

3. Can I rent an aircraft for a sightseeing flight over Mesa?

Yes, as long as you’re a qualified pilot, you can rent a plane for sightseeing or personal enjoyment. Mesa’s views—from desert mountains to cityscapes—make it ideal for scenic flying. You can bring a guest and explore the skies from a whole new perspective.

4. What aircraft are available to rent in Mesa?

Leopard Aviation rents out Cessna 172 Skyhawks equipped with Garmin G1000 glass cockpits. These aircraft are stable, reliable, and easy to operate—perfect for experienced pilots or those looking to build hours in modern, well-equipped planes close to home.

5. How do I schedule a rental at the Mesa location?

Start by contacting Leopard Aviation through their website or phone. After completing your checkout flight and paperwork, you’ll get access to their rental schedule. You can book time based on availability and your personal flying goals, whether for fun or flight hour building.