Zero to Commercial
Pilot in 7 Months
Start your journey to the airlines at ActivePILOT,
conveniently located at Van Nuys Airport (KVNY)
in Van Nuys, California.
Real Pilots
Real Results
See how ActivePILOT students are transforming their dreams into airline careers, from first Discovery Flight to flying for major carriers.
Clear Path
to the Airlines
No confusing timelines or hidden steps. At ActivePILOT, we've streamlined the journey from your first flight to a professional cockpit. Here's exactly how:
Start Flying
Start with flight lessons in Los Angeles that show you the airplane, the instructor style, and the training path before you commit.
Start Flight LessonsBuild Your Skills
Progress from your Private Pilot License through your Instrument Rating and Commercial License with a clear roadmap.
See Pilot RoadmapAdvance Ratings
Complete your Multi-Engine Ratings in our Twin Comanche. Check out our advanced programs designed to make you competitive for airline positions.
Start TrainingLaunch Your Career
Move into CFI training, build teaching skill, and prepare for the hour-building stage of your aviation career.
Explore CFI Training
Take Our Quick
Flight Training
Readiness Assessment
Answer a few clear questions about your goals, schedule, budget, and next step. Then get a FREE consultation with our Flight Training Specialists so you know what to do next.
Our Flight
Training Programs
Whether you're taking your first flight or adding advanced ratings, ActivePILOT offers a complete training path tailored to your goals. Compare the best flight school factors in Los Angeles, then choose your next step below.
Private Pilot License
Master the fundamentals and earn your wings to fly solo and carry passengers
Instrument Rating
Fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and conquer adverse weather conditions
Commercial Pilot License
Master the maneuvers of professional pilots and get paid to fly
Flight Training That
Builds Real Pilots
Every aviation career begins with the right training. Our programs are designed to guide students step by step, from their first flight to advanced certifications.
Whether you want to fly recreationally or pursue a professional aviation career, our structured curriculum and experienced instructors help you build the skills and confidence needed in the cockpit.
Private Pilot License (PPL)
Begin your aviation journey with the certification that allows you to fly independently. This program teaches the essential skills, safety procedures, and flight knowledge needed to confidently pilot an aircraft.
Instrument Rating (IR)
Expand your flying capabilities by learning to navigate using instruments. This training prepares you to fly safely in a wider range of weather conditions and improves precision and situational awareness.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Take the next step toward a professional aviation career. This certification develops advanced flying skills and prepares you for opportunities as a professional pilot.
"Active Pilot is an outstanding flight school for anyone pursuing aviation whether you’re a beginner working toward your private pilot license like me or an experienced pilot. The full team of instructors are knowledgeable and genuinely committed to helping each student succeed (sending me study guides and offering any help needed)."
"I had a great experience here at ActivePilot! The facility has a modern and welcoming environment with well-maintained classrooms. All the planes are equipped with up-to-date technology, ensuring safety during training."
Trusted by students and pilots.
Experience Your
First Flight
Curious about what it takes to become a pilot? Take the controls with an expert instructor and experience the thrill of flying over Los Angeles during a hands-on Discovery Flight.
Meet Our
Expert Instructors
At ActivePILOT, you're training with active airline captains who bring real-world experience into every lesson.
Ari Hovnanyan
Chief Pilot / Chief Operating Officer (CFI-I, ATP)
Ari grew up in Woodland Hills and attended Cal State LA where he completed his master's degree in aviation management. He earned his private pilot in 1994 and has worked as a flight instructor and also as an operations specialist at Burbank Airport. Ari now flies the Embraer E-175 as a captain for a major airline and is based in Los Angeles. He has a passion for flying and enjoys helping develop the next generation of professional pilots. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, traveling, sailing and of course flying.
View Profile
Leonardo Aristizabal
Chief Training Officer (CFI-I, ATP)
Leo was born in Cali, Colombia, and was accepted to the Colombian Naval Academy where he graduated as an officer and earned a bachelor's degree in Naval Science. After 11 years of service in the Navy, he moved to California in 2009 and served in the US military. Leo now flies the prestigious Boeing 737 as a captain for a major airline. Leo wants to combine his life experiences and knowledge to help others achieve their passion for flying. Leonardo enjoys running, hiking, going to the movies, and spending time with family and friends.
View Profile
Ryan Sharp
Lead Check Instructor (CFI-I, MEI)
Ryan is a Southern California native who is passionate about flying. Having achieved many certifications such as Commercial Pilot Multi-Engine (CMEL), Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and Complex Endorsement, Ryan excels at all aspects of pilot training. In his free time, Ryan likes to go out with friends, build engines and race cars, and do computer-aided design. Ryan has been flying for over 10 years and is ready to give you world-class pilot instruction.
View ProfileStay Ahead With
Real-Time Flight Updates
Experience the latest from our flight school, from student success stories to expert tips on navigating your aviation career.
How to Become a Pilot in California: Requirements & Training Timeline
No degree. No prior experience. Here's every requirement to become a licensed pilot in California, including age, medical, citizenship rules, and the full training timeline from student to airline.
How to Get Your Private Pilot License in Los Angeles: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to learn to fly in LA? This step-by-step guide walks you through every stage of getting your Private Pilot License in Los Angeles, from your first lesson to checkride day.
Commercial Pilot License in Los Angeles: 2026 Guide
Learn CPL requirements, cost, timeline, and next steps at ActivePILOT so you can plan commercial pilot training in Los Angeles.
