Whether you desire to fly recreationally, for business or become an airline pilot, Leaf Air can help you fulfill your dreams. When you are learning to fly, you deserve the best training available.
What sets us apart? Leaf Air provides professional instruction in our Cessna 172 aircraft – one of the most popular training aircraft in the world! Our aircraft are exceptionally well maintained for safety and reliability. All aircraft are equipped with Garmin GPS and G-275 ready for any airspace.
Our experienced instructors have years worth of teaching and real-world experience to pass on to you without wasting your time and money. We care about your goals and success! Our students are now flying for the airlines, military or just for fun. We will ensure that your training will result in you becoming a safe, competent and proficient pilot. Leaf Air provides instruction for Private, Instrument, Commercial and CFI. Learn to fly on your schedule, year round, seven days a week
While the FAA minimum for a private pilot’s license is 40 hours, the national average from start of training to completion of a private pilot’s license is 60-70 hours and $15,000-$18,000. How many hours it takes is based on the individual’s ability to learn, how often they can fly and willingless to study. You can greatly reduce the number of hours, and therefore costs, by flying at least once a week (more often is better), study in advance of lessons and in preparation for the written test and be focused on your training.
Advanced instruction is available in our Cessna 182RG for high performance/complex endorsements. We look forward to flying with you to complete your Flight Review, Wings Program or aircraft rental checkout.
Meet our instructors!
Jim Barrett, CFII (Owner, Leaf Air) 518-415-8453. Recipient of the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in 2024; 7500 hrs total time; over 20 years instructing, loves to fly and has successfully trained light sport through CFI applicants. email: jim@leafair.net
Chris Abrams, CFII – 518-307-6093 4600 hours including 2900 instruction given. Airline experience as a captain in Jetstream aircraft, holds ATP and Single engine land and sea. Specializes in instrument flight training. email: abramsc@roadrunner.com
Melodie Viele, CFII – 518-502-3371 Recipient of FAA Flight Instructor of the Year Award/ Albany FSDO region 2023. 3500 hrs total time; over 30 years as an instructor; full time, flexible schedule. ready to help you reach your goals. email: leafaircfi@gmail.com
Leaf Air’s well maintained aircraft are available for rent. Our Cessna 172s feature Garmin IFR approved GPS. The A22LS is full glass cockpit with autopilot.
A checkout is required with one of our instructors prior to rental. A minimum one hour will be charged for the checkout. Depending on pilot experience and proficiency, more than one hour may be required.
