Pilot
PROGRAMS
Join LA Flight Academy and turn your aviation goals into reality. From your first discovery flight to advanced ratings, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Roadmap
Flight Training Programs at LA Flight Academy
At LA Flight Academy—based at Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles—we offer a full suite of pilot certifications and ratings, from your very first solo flight through to career preparation. Our programs combine personalized instruction, an industry-leading aircraft fleet, and a clear pathway to professional aviation roles.
1
Private Pilot License (PPL)
At LAFA, our PPL course combines flight training and ground instruction to build your confidence and foundational knowledge. This step provides the groundwork for all advanced ratings and certificates, ensuring you’re ready for the challenges ahead.
- Fundamentals of aircraft operation under visual flight rules (VFR)
- Includes solo cross‑country and night flying requirements
- Typical training: ~60–75 hours (FAA Part 61 minimum is 40 hours; most students exceed this)
What you'll learn:
- Launch your pilot journey
- Fly for personal enjoyment or travel
- Build foundational skills for advanced ratings
Why choose it:
2
Instrument Rating (IR)
At LAFA, our training ensures precision in IFR operations and prepares you for scenarios that are standard in airline operations. An IR is essential for transitioning to commercial aviation roles.
- Navigating and flying under instrument flight rules (IFR)
- Includes 50 hrs PIC cross‑country, 40 hrs actual/simulated IFR
What you'll learn:
- Fly in low-visibility, weather-related conditions
- Enhance safety and decision-making skills
- Prepare for commercial aviation roles
Why choose it:
3
Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
At LAFA, our CPL program emphasizes advanced maneuvers, complex aircraft operations, and professionalism in aviation. This certificate opens doors to roles in passenger transport, cargo, or other specialized aviation fields.
- Advanced aeronautical knowledge & skills
- Minimum 250 total flight hours required (FAA Part 61)
What you'll learn:
- Enables compensation for flying
- Covers commercial single-engine and optional multi-engine training
- Opens career doors in charter, cargo, and more
Why choose it:
4
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII/MEI)
At LAFA, we offer tailored CFI programs that prepare you to instruct with confidence and professionalism. This step immerses you in the aviation community and accelerates your progress toward your career goals.
- Teach others to fly—private, instrument, and multi-engine levels
- Includes instructional methodology, maneuvers, and communication skills
What you'll learn:
- Build solid flight hours and experience
- High-employment demand at flight schools and universities
- Launch teaching career or boost your resume
- Build hours toward ATP requirements
Why choose it:
5
Multi‑Engine Rating (ME)
Our multi-engine training focuses on precision, safety, and operational excellence. Adding this rating is a key step toward airline readiness, as it enhances your credentials and broadens your career opportunities.
- Operation of multi-engine aircraft
- Handles complex systems and performance
- FAA requires 10 hrs in complex or advanced aircraft for ME rating
What you'll learn:
- Earn more versatile flight privileges
- Critical for professional roles
- Enhances safety and efficiency in flight operations
Why choose it:
6
Advanced & Add-On Training
Each advanced training program is structured to provide an in-depth focus on specific areas of aviation expertise. From mastering high-performance aircraft to preparing for real-world flight challenges, our instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
- Complex Aircraft Training
- High-Performance Aircraft Training
- Spin Recovery Training
Advanced Training Programs:
- Biennial Flight Reviews (BFRs)
- Instrument Proficiency Checks (IPCs)
Checks and Reviews:
Ready to take the first step in your aviation journey? Enroll in LA Flight Academy’s Private Pilot Course today and begin your path to becoming an airline pilot.
The LAFA Experience
What Our Students Are Saying
At LA Flight Academy, we pride ourselves on offering top-notch training with a personal touch. Our goal is to create confident, capable pilots while fostering a professional yet welcoming atmosphere.
Check out what our students and visitors have to say about their journey with LAFA!
Share Your Experience-
Just passed my checkride with a great experience ! I work here at the airport and know what goes on and LA flight academy is the best school here. Well maintained planes, friendly and caring instructors , HONEST business tactics, owners and just a great community and vibe. Many decent schools here but this is THE place my peers and I would recommend.
Jonathan D.
-
Amazing Service, Fantastic Instructors, and Great Aircraft! I recently had the pleasure of flying with LA Flight Academy, and I can’t say enough good things about my experience. From start to finish, the service was top-notch. The staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating, making the entire process smooth and enjoyable. The instructors are fantastic—knowledgeable and truly passionate about flying. Their expertise and enthusiasm are truly inspiring. The aircraft are well-maintained and in excellent condition. I had the opportunity to fly a Baron BE55, and it was an absolute joy. The views during our flight to Catalina Island were breathtaking, especially the south coastal transition over LAX. The landing at the Airport in the Sky was an unforgettable experience.
Kaine S.
-
I seriously can't recommend LA Flight Academy enough! I'm a career student here and the instructors, planes, and staff are the best I've come across since I started flying. If you are thinking about getting your pilot's license for fun or flying as a career you should definitely make LA Flight Academy your first stop when looking for a school!
Henry S.
-
The best flight school in California. I took here my Instrument and commercial. Amazing instructors, the planes in very good condition. Nice atmosphere. Definitely recommend!
Shlomi E.
-
If you are looking for somewhere to learn to fly, seriously look no further. After coming from a not so good flight school, LA Flight Academy took me in and turned me into a really confident safe pilot. I went from student pilot through to CFi with them and I wouldn't have it any other way. The aircraft are always maintained well and are safe, the flight instructors are professional and their only goal it to have you succeed. The business is very transparent and the owner is extremely accommodating and it is a very friendly Environment place to come and learn. I can't recommend this place enough, go see for yourself!
Matthew R.
-
I completed my commercial multi engine rating at this school and had the best experience here . The first day I enrolled the owner of the school got me a check ride date on the spot ; the owner is very responsive , kind and cares about the progress of students and CFIs . My instructor was Alex feldman, he’s very knowledgeable and makes the learning process extremely easy and straightforward. My instructor made sure I was very proficient in my knowledge and flying before he signed me off for the Checkride .My training took less than a week to complete . Overall this school has a very great culture where CFIs care a lot about the progress of their students . The owner also hosts holidays/events and brings people together which I think is very awesome.
Ajuma O.
-
LA Flight Academy is a great flight school with great instructors and team of employees. Recently got checked out to rent with them and they were one of the only flight schools in the area that were reasonable with checkout flight requirements. In the short time flying with them, their commitment to excellent training and flight instruction was evident, and I wouldn’t hesitate to fly with any of their instructors again.
Boaz F.
Take the First Step
With a Discovery Flight
Experience the excitement of flying with a discovery flight at LA Flight Academy. Whether you're pursuing a passion or preparing for a professional aviation career, this is your chance to take control and explore the skies over Los Angeles and beyond. Book your discovery flight today and start your journey into aviation!
Fly Here. Get Hired Here.
Through our exclusive partnership with SOFAR — a Part 135 charter company — LA Flight Academy graduates have a direct path to real-world pilot jobs. When SOFAR needs pilots, they come to us first.
This means no job boards. No application black holes. Just opportunities that come directly from our network — and your training.
Explore
Our Training Programs
Whether you're starting your aviation journey, advancing your skills, or pursuing a career in aviation, LA Flight Academy offers tailored programs for all experience levels.
-
Private Pilot
Take the first step toward becoming a pilot with our comprehensive Private Pilot Course.
Explore
-
Instrument Rating
Enhance your skills and safely navigate through low-visibility conditions with our Instrument Rating course.
Explore
-
Commercial Pilot
Pursue your career as a professional pilot with our structured Commercial Pilot Course.
Explore
-
Multi-Engine Rating
Expand your capabilities with our Multi-Engine Rating course, designed to elevate your aviation skills.
Explore
-
Certified Flight Instructor
Share your passion for flying and inspire the next generation of pilots by becoming a Certified Flight Instructor.
Explore
-
Advanced Training & Add-Ons
Looking to specialize? Explore Spin Training, BFRs, IPCs, and more advanced programs to enhance your skills.
Explore
-
Cirrus Training
Train in our Cirrus SR20 GTS — a Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA) perfect for Commercial, Instrument, and time-building. Fly with glass panel avionics and modern systems used in today's charter and corporate aircraft.
Explore
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
- Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Instrument Rating (IR)
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
- Multi-Engine Rating (ME)
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, MEI)
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
- Complex and high-performance aircraft training
- Spin training, BFRs, and IPCs
- Completion of a discovery flight
- A valid FAA Medical Certificate (preferred)
- Training materials such as a logbook, headset, FAR/AIM, charts, a headlamp, and a kneeboard