Flying has gotten more expensive, but not that much more expensive if you’re really motivated. Kit airplanes can be fairly cheap, $30k for a kitfox, and often can be maintained by the owner because they’re amateur built.
The issue is the same as Lindbergh’s day though. Amateur built airplanes are not safe.
$30k for a Kitfox, doesn't include an engine or avionics which is another 40k or more. You will be 3+ years on the waiting list to get your hands on the kit, then spend 1000+ hours building it.
2nd hand Kitfoxes have not been available for 30k for the last 5 years. In the current market you're looking at 60k+ for an old model with a high time engine.
The issue is the same as Lindbergh’s day though. Amateur built airplanes are not safe.