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Become an <b>Airplane</b> Pilot

Become an Airplane 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.

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

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.

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. 

MEET OUR TEAM

Why Leading Edge Flight Academy?

What sets Leading Edge Flight Academy apart? Part of it is our airport, which is situated 3,460 feet above sea level in beautiful Bend, Oregon. But it takes more than the right location to become the best flight school. Here, our people are our strength. Our experienced management team of pilots has a combined 100+ years of industry experience, and our FAA Part 141 approved training program enables students to build the highest level of skill in the most efficient time possible. 

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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. 

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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Helicopter Flight School
Frasca Cessna 172 Simulator
Airplane

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 transitioned into power line and wire work, along with Human External Cargo (HEC) operations. I enjoy the variety of work we do and hope to continue growing within the company.”

Sami Gotschall

Sami Gotschall
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“Currently, I fly for Sanford Health in the EC145 (BK117C2) as a HEMS SPIFR pilot. We are a hospital-owned system with four identical helicopters serving the Upper Midwest. My base is in Bemidji, MN, and we primarily transport patients from small rural areas to larger hospitals, including Fargo, ND, and Minneapolis, MN. We transport all types of patients, from NICU newborns to the elderly, and my medical crew provides a high level of care while in flight. The helicopter is equipped with a 3-axis autopilot, making it extremely robust and stable, which makes flying IFR a breeze.”

Cole Schwerin

Cole Schwerin
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“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 focus more on them before my checkride. The flight gave me a good example of what a checkride will feel like.”

Christopher Woerner

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

Gavin Christian

Gavin Christian
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“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 be domestic fire fighting operations or overseas part 135 work for the DOD.”

Tanner Oldenkamp

Tanner Oldenkamp
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“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 people from cruise ships to various glaciers and our dog camp location. I absolutely loved Alaska! The beauty is unmatched. And the flying was both challenging and rewarding. After Alaska I was looking for a change of pace. So I went back to flight instructing, but this time for the US ARMY. I currently am an Instructor Pilot at Fort Novosel, which is where all Army helicopter training takes place. We currently train in EC145s.”

Becca Voltin

Becca Voltin
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“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 school’s location in Bend gave me the opportunity to learn how to handle the fast-changing weather conditions typical of Alaska, with a strong focus on quick decision-making and situational awareness. The chiefs are always approachable and have their office doors open, creating a supportive learning environment. The instructors’ vast experience, combined with the school’s strong network of alumni and industry connections, played a major role in helping me land my job. I’m incredibly grateful for the skills and opportunities that Leading Edge Flight Academy provided, which set me up for success in such a demanding and dynamic environment.”

Jackson Howery

Jackson Howery
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“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 gained at Leading Edge proved vital to help me fly in this area due to all of the right waterfront and hospital rooftop helipads we often land on as well as the random off airport pickups or drop offs we have. Following that job, I took a position with an ENG company doing the news. I’m having a great time flying!”

Robert Rodgame

Robert Rodgame
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“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 of me!I am appreciative of my instructor and his true professionalism. He was always on time for our lessons and he found me an answer to every single question that I had. This rating was difficult for me, and I wouldn’t have been able to do without the reliability of a great CFII!”

Nicole Mulligan – Instrument Pilot

Nicole Mulligan – Instrument Pilot
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“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 needed to pass.”

Josiah Stranberg

Josiah Stranberg
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“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 Edge Flight Academy built my foundation and provided me with tools that I use on a daily basis to fly safely in challenging environments.”

Tori Palmer

Tori Palmer
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“What would you have liked different in training? Nothing comes to mind, compared to the previous school where I did my primary training, Leading Edge is on such a higher scale of professionalism with safety a top priority, I have no complaints!”

David Cloutier

David Cloutier
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“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 track, emphasizing safety and ADM, and ensuring we were consistently progressing. Bo’s well-rounded approach touched on every aspect of aviation, helping us build a solid understanding and respect for the field. From day one, she encouraged independence and allowed us to grow through trial and error—always with the right amount of push to help us succeed. The community at Leading Edge is just as amazing. Everyone is so welcoming, supportive, and kind—it created the perfect environment to learn, make mistakes, and grow into confident pilots. Thank you, Bo, and the entire LEFA family, for an unforgettable experience!”

Zoe Rischitelli – Student

Zoe Rischitelli – Student
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“Currently, I am a pilot with Air and Marine Operations as an Air Interdiction Agent with US Customs and Border protection. Leading Edge set the foundation for my career goals. The wealth of knowledge I learned while at LEFA is still with me till this day.”

Mario Armendariz

Mario Armendariz
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Starting flight training which was a completely new endeavor, in a completely new state can be quite the challenge. Leading Edge Flight Academy, however made that transition a breeze. At Leading Edge Flight Academy everyone is treated like family and they thoroughly ensure every student such as myself was prepared for our futures in Aviation, from every preflight to check ride, no matter where it took us. From being Deputy operating as a Sheriffs Department Tactical Flight Officer, to being dual qualified on the Beechcraft 99 and the 120 LEFA paved the way. As Jack would always say “Only you can decide your aviation future but we will ensure you get there.”

Katani Best – First Officer FreightRunners Express

Katani Best – First Officer FreightRunners Express
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“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 haven’t asked a question and gotten anything other than an answer or help finding one, and friendly chats and conversations are easy to come by.”

Nick Clements

Nick Clements
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“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 110 percent every day. The experience and backgrounds of each instructor and supervisor were invaluable in providing crucial insight and honesty I needed to choose the career path best for me outside of school. I felt at home at Leading Edge. There was always an open door, a listening ear, and at times a shoulder to cry on. I strongly urge that anyone interested in this program not only attend for its high standard of training but for its support and camaraderie.”

Sy Murdoch

Sy Murdoch
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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 minimums required by the airlines. I grew up watching airplanes fly into the Bend airport, and flying over my hometown on a daily basis is one of the highlights of my career so far. As a SkyWest pilot, I now find myself flying into many of the same airports I first visited during my time at Leading Edge!

Garrett Ross

Garrett Ross
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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 flying I’m doing now. The best part of training and working at Leading Edge, was working alongside some of the most kind, knowledgable and skilled aviators in the industry. I was provided with not only the skills to succeed but a network of people who have moved into all facets of the industry. That in itself is invaluable.

Mitch Bumby

Mitch Bumby
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Air Methods Corporation provides advanced air ambulance services as a flying ICU (Intensive Care Unit). The crew consists of one nurse, one paramedic, and the pilot. We respond at the request of EMS to rural scenes, and also transfer patients between hospitals. Our base in located in Osage Beach, Missouri. Air Methods has over 330 bases in 48 states. The education I received from Leading Edge and COCC prepared me in all aspects of flying, from air traffic-controlled environments to rural off-airport operations in the Cascade Mountain range. Flying in the mountains of Oregon prepared me perfectly to be an air ambulance pilot (now) and a bush pilot in Alaska (my previous 4 years experience). 

Will Lawrence

Will Lawrence
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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 flying bigger/faster aircraft easier. LEFA’s safety oriented, fast paced and professional program helped me sharpen valuable skills that have been necessary to meet the high safety and punctuality standards in the corporate pilot industry.

Cullen Foss

Cullen Foss
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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 National Park in California. In the winter months, I am on-call for Part 135 commercial work. I couldn’t have asked for better training than I received at Leading Edge Aviation and COCC. They prepared me above-and-beyond with both my flight training and knowledge-base for my career in aviation. On top of that, I got to do it all in amazing Central Oregon!

Jordan Kunhmuench

Jordan Kunhmuench
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Leading Edge Flight Academy, in partnership with Central Oregon Community College, is very happy to announce the new Instrument Rating Scholarship. We are excited to be joining the list of Whirly Girl contributors and help advance women pilots in the industry. The recipient will receive the required training for a helicopter instrument rating, gaining the invaluable skills necessary to become a better, safer pilot. At Leading Edge, we instill our values of safety and professionalism with each student we graduate through a course; helping the aviation community grow, one success story at a time. Director of Flight School Operations

Nicole Wolf

Nicole Wolf