Alan Longstreet gives flying a try at Millennium Flight - KMSP-TV

The Thunder of Michigan Air Show takes to the air on August 4.  While there, you will have the chance to catch the best of the best in flight.

But what is it like to take control of the cockpit on your own?  Intriguing, sure, but isn't it expensive?  Not necessarily.  Check out the Millennium Flight Center in Grosse Ile.  They offer introductory flight courses for $75.

"We have 'Come Out and Fly' for new students, and they go up for about an hour and they get loggable time," said a representative with Millennium Flight.

Affordability.  Check.  Aerophobia.  Double check.  So how does one get over the nerves?

"Get to know you instructor first because it's real important to be with an instructor that fits your personality."

Bill has been a pilot since 1979, an instructor for over a decade and the guy knows his stuff.

"Generally the first flight we walk them through everything on the plane.  We don't really fly much, and then we go up and we start with just basic maneuvers.  How to make it take off.  How to make it land.  How to turn.  How to climb.  How to descend," he said.

We cruised to altitude and Bill made his first and only mistake of the day.  He handed the controls over to me.  Let's just say I was a little hesitant to take over.  No worries though, Bill briefed me on the aileron and the rudder peddles, and before long I was banking and rolling on a very amateur level.

If you want to give it a shot, visit www.flymillennium.com for more information.