Independent CFI · Central Iowa · KDSM

Flight Training
Built Around You.

From your first flight to your Private Pilot Certificate — serious, personal instruction in your aircraft or through the Central Iowa Flying Club.

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2013

Flying Since

Part 61

Certified CFI

$80/hr

Flight Instruction

KDSM

Des Moines Int'l

Ethan Narber, Certificated Flight Instructor, Des Moines Iowa

10+

Years Flying

About Ethan

Your CFI in Central Iowa

I've been flying since 2013 and became a member of the Central Iowa Flying Club at KDSM in 2019. As an independent CFI, I provide focused, one-on-one instruction that is professional and tailored to you — without the bureaucracy of a large flight school. Based in Des Moines, I'm also available to travel throughout the Central Iowa area — including surrounding airports and fields — upon availability.

I'm qualified to provide Private and Commercial pilot instruction, Biennial Flight Reviews, High Performance and Complex endorsements, and refresher flights. Available select weekdays and weekends — flexible around your schedule.

NAFI Member AOPA Member COPA Member Part 61 CFI Central Iowa Flying Club

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What I Offer

Instruction Services

Whether you're starting from zero or maintaining currency, every service is one-on-one and built around your goals.

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Private Pilot Instruction

Zero to PPL. Focused, one-on-one instruction tailored to your pace, your aircraft, and your goals — without the rigidity of a structured school program. Train in your airplane or through the Central Iowa Flying Club.

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Commercial Pilot Instruction

Already have your private? Take the next step. Commercial instruction focused on precision, professionalism, and the maneuvers and standards the ACS demands.

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Biennial Flight Reviews

Stay legal and sharp. A thorough BFR per FAR 61.56 with honest feedback, not a rubber stamp. Ground review plus flight evaluation tailored to how you fly.

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High Performance Endorsement

Transition into aircraft with more than 200 horsepower. Focused training on the handling and systems differences that matter when moving up.

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Complex Endorsement

Retractable gear, flaps, and controllable-pitch propeller — the three pillars of complex aircraft. Get endorsed with confidence and full systems understanding.

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Refresher Flights

Returning after time away from the cockpit? A focused refresher rebuilds your confidence and sharpens your skills before you start flying solo again.

Transparent Pricing

Straightforward Rates.
No Surprises.

Flat hourly rates with no hidden fees. You bring the airplane — or fly through the Central Iowa Flying Club — and I bring the instruction. Based at KDSM, I'm also available to travel to other Central Iowa airports upon availability.

Flight Instruction

All services — PPL, CPL, BFR, endorsements, and refreshers. Ground brief and debrief included.

$80 /hr

🤝 Referral Program: Refer a friend who books instruction and you both receive 20% off your next flight instruction session. Just have them mention your name when they reach out.

Let's Fly

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you're brand new to aviation or an experienced pilot looking to stay sharp — reach out and we'll find a time that works. I typically respond within one business day.

ethan@narberaviation.com

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Based At

KDSM — Des Moines Int'l

Email Ethan Call (515) 822-1923