We have focused on the optical form that is low cost while maintaining high performance for airborne application. We report the optical design as well as the alignment and test results for a push-broom imaging spectrometer. The smart architecture of the prism-grating based spectrometer ensures high uniformity and image quality. Moreover, an effective method for aligning the spectrometer is also proposed. The results of laboratory-based optical tests and a flight test confirm the easy manufacture and excellent performance. Thus, the proposed system should be suitable for use as a hyperspectral instrument that can be loaded onto airborne and unmanned aerial vehicles.