Become an <b>Airplane</b> Pilot

Become an Airplane Pilot

Our FAA-approved airplane training program takes people from zero experience to professional airplane pilot in less time with higher quality and better overall value.

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Become a <b>Helicopter</b> Pilot

Become a Helicopter Pilot

Build and hone the skills you need to launch a fulfilling career at Leading Edge Flight Academy’s FAA-approved helicopter pilot training program.

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Experience Limitless Possibilities

The Leading Edge Flight Academy Advantage

Our expert team of aviation professionals has spent nearly 20 years supporting our students as they reach their personal and professional goals. We’re taking higher education to new heights with our commitment to quality service, expert instruction, and best-in-class safety. 

Beaitiful sunset skies and helicopters
Airplane and Helicopter Training
Night Vision Helicopter Training
Leading Edge airplane against a cloudy sky

Flight Academy Careers

Leading Edge Flight Academy graduates who become LEFA instructors are recognized industry-wide for their talent and skill. We work with our graduates and industry partners to provide job placement opportunities well-matched to each individual’s interests and abilities.

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Flight Academy Students

Our aviation students come from all walks of life and from all around the world. With our hands-on, service-first approach to flight training, we get to know each student’s unique goals so we can help them reach their full potential. Those who excel as students will have the opportunity to become flight instructors, contributing to our strong leadership and safety culture while growing their careers. 

Pilot Career Blog

A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the Different Types of Pilot Certificates

Entering the world of aviation involves making informed decisions about which pilot path best aligns with your career or hobby aspirations. Navigating through the different types of pilot certificates can be complex, but understanding each will help you choose the right path. Here, we will explore these options, shedding light on their key differences, requirements, and the unique opportunities they present.

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“I work for PJ Helicopters in Northern California and have been there for four years now! I started flying a Bell 407 for firefighting and have since... read more

Sami Gotschall

Sami Gotschall
“Currently, I fly for Sanford Health in the EC145 (BK117C2) as a HEMS SPIFR pilot. We are a hospital-owned system with four identical... read more

Cole Schwerin

Cole Schwerin
“My stage check prepared me for the checkride because the ground was far more in depth. I found my weak points in my knowledge and was able to... read more

Christopher Woerner

Christopher Woerner
“My instructors really helped me be prepared for checkride as they challenged my ground knowledge and flight skills.”

Gavin Christian

Gavin Christian
“For the past 2 years I’ve been working for Columbia Helicopters as an SIC in multiple aircraft types supporting their missions worldwide, whether that... read more

Tanner Oldenkamp

Tanner Oldenkamp
“After LEFA I spent two summers working for TEMSCO in Skagway, AK. The company utilizes AS350 B2/B3s to fly tours. I spent my time flying... read more

Becca Voltin

Becca Voltin
“Training at Leading Edge Flight Academy was key to preparing me for a successful career flying helicopters in Alaska’s oil and gas industry. The... read more

Jackson Howery

Jackson Howery
“After attaining my 1000hrs, I took a job in the New York City region at first flying tours and charters. The off airport and cross country experience I... read more

Robert Rodgame

Robert Rodgame
“The cross country was a huge confidence boost! And, of course, taking my foggles off at the DA and seeing that there’s an actual runway right in front... read more

Nicole Mulligan – Instrument Pilot

Nicole Mulligan – Instrument Pilot
“My instructor was very thorough during the End Of Course check. I was beyond prepared for my checkride and went into it with all the information I... read more

Josiah Stranberg

Josiah Stranberg
“Over the past few years I have had the opportunity to fly a variety of utility work to include Alaska Heli Ski and Power Line Construction. Attending Leading... read more

Tori Palmer

Tori Palmer
“What would you have liked different in training? Nothing comes to mind, compared to the previous school where I did my primary training, Leading... read more

David Cloutier

David Cloutier
“Bo’s passion for teaching and sharing her deep knowledge of aviation was truly inspiring. She was tough when it mattered, always keeping us on... read more

Zoe Rischitelli – Student

Zoe Rischitelli – Student
“Currently, I am a pilot with Air and Marine Operations as an Air Interdiction Agent with US Customs and Border protection. Leading Edge set... read more

Mario Armendariz

Mario Armendariz
Starting flight training which was a completely new endeavor, in a completely new state can be quite the challenge. Leading Edge Flight Academy,... read more

Katani Best – First Officer FreightRunners Express

Katani Best – First Officer FreightRunners Express
“I really enjoy the culture, professional atmosphere, and how welcoming and friendly everyone is from the top down. There is so much to learn, and I... read more

Nick Clements

Nick Clements
“Leading Edge prepared me for my career in many ways. The high standards of proficiency taught me persistence and instilled a sense of pride in giving... read more

Sy Murdoch

Sy Murdoch
Becoming an airline pilot has always been my ultimate goal, and Leading Edge provided the best opportunity to build my flight experience up to the... read more

Garrett Ross

Garrett Ross
I started my aviation journey with Leading Edge. I received exceptional training that set me up for success as a 135 cargo pilot as well as the 121... read more

Mitch Bumby

Mitch Bumby
Air Methods Corporation provides advanced air ambulance services as a flying ICU (Intensive Care Unit). The crew consists of one nurse, one... read more

Will Lawrence

Will Lawrence
Instructing at LEFA for 2.5 years not only got me the flight hours and experience necessary to make the next step in my career, but made the transition to... read more

Cullen Foss

Cullen Foss
I work for JR Helicopters as an OAS-carded fire and short haul helicopter pilot flying AS-350b3 Astars. I fight fires and do search-and-rescue for Sequoia... read more

Jordan Kunhmuench

Jordan Kunhmuench
Leading Edge Flight Academy, in partnership with Central Oregon Community College, is very happy to announce the new Instrument Rating... read more

Nicole Wolf

Nicole Wolf