Why Choose Leaf Air for Flight Training?
A well-respected pilot examiner called us an “anomaly” in the world of flight training! Why? In business since 2005, our experienced, professional instructors bring you over 100 years of combined experience in teaching and real-world flying. We care about your time, money and success! We offer flexible scheduling and one-on-one instruction convenient for both young people and adult learners. Former students are now flying for personal recreation, business, as military aviators and with the airlines. We ensure that your training will result in you becoming a safe, competent and proficient pilot
Choose the program that will fulfill your dreams of flight. From first flight to preparing for a career, we can guide you on your aviation journey. If new to aviation, schedule a “Discovery Flight” to confirm that flight training is right for you.
Also offering proficiency training for your flight review, aircraft transition, high performance/complex endorsements, FAA Wings, and aircraft rentals.
Flight Instruction Programs
Discovery Flight
A Discovery Flight is a hands-on flying experience where you will sit in the pilot’s seat and see what being a pilot is really like. You’ll learn how the flight controls operate, try some basic flight maneuvers, and we’ll answer any questions you have about flight training. The flight will help you decide if flight training is right for you. Discovery Flights also make excellent gifts for anyone curious about aviation.
Sport Pilot
The Sport Pilot certificate is for anyone wishing to fly for purely for recreation. It requires the least number of hours to complete although it has some restrictions. These can later be removed with training. Licensed pilots wishing to return to aviation can fly for fun under the Sport Pilot requirements without the need for an FAA medical using a current driver’s license.
Private Pilot
Obtaining your Private Pilot certificate allows you to fly anywhere with more freedom than Sport Pilot. It is the first step towards a pilot career. You will be able to fly various types of aircraft, with friends and family, to thousands of destinations, even to other countries.
Instrument Rating
The Instrument Rating is one of the most satisfying types of flying. Training will hone your skills in aircraft control, allow you to fly in less than perfect weather, increase safety and teach you to use the National Airspace System just like commercial operations. Anyone planning to pursue a career in aviation will need to obtain their Instrument Rating.
Commercial Pilot
Get paid to fly! The Commercial Pilot certificate is your steppingstone into the world of commercial aviation. Learn advanced skills in higher performance aircraft and professionalism, while building hours towards an airline career.
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
As a CFI, you will master the art of teaching others to fly. It is one way to build hours toward a career but is also a great opportunity for anyone that enjoys teaching and wants to help mentor the next generation of pilots.
Meet the Instructors
Jim Barrett
CFII, Owner, Leaf Air
Jim Barrett, CFII, Owner, Leaf Air Recipient of the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award 2024; 7500+ hours total time, over 20 years as an instructor. Jim loves to fly and has successfully helped applicants for Sport Pilot through CFI realize their dreams of flight. He enjoys high performance/complex training in his 182RG as well as being the primary pilot for scenic air tours.
Chris Abrams
CFII
Over 4600 hours total time including 2900 instruction given. Airline experience as a captain of Jetstream aircraft. Chris holds an ATP and Single Engine airplane, land and sea ratings. Chris specializes in instrument flight training.
Melodie Viele
CFII
Commercial Single/multi engine land ratings. 5500 hours total flight time, 3900 instruction given. Recipient of FAA Flight Instructor of the Year Award/Albany FSDO region. Over 30 years as a flight instructor. Melodie is a full time instructor with flexible schedule ready to help you reach your goals.
Aiden Mcdonell
CFI
2025 Embry Riddle/Daytona Beach Graduate receiving a BS in Aeronautical Science. Aiden holds a Commercial single engine/multi engine land and ATP CTP. Aiden is devoted to aviation and is passionate in teaching others how to fly.
About Flight Training at Leaf Air
We train in the legendary C172 – the world’s most popular training aircraft. We are serious about aircraft maintenance and all aircraft have IFR approved GPS and modern avionics. At Leaf Air, we teach you old school “stick and rudder” and decision making skills making you a better pilot overall plus the modern approach to navigation and operating in all types of airspace.
Scheduling is easy and flexible based on your availability. We operate daily and year-round. Our base at the Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport is a well-maintained facility with a good mix of air traffic, close to all types of airspace and surrounded by beautiful scenery in the foothills of the Adirondacks.
Start Your Flight Training Journey
Ready to take the first step toward your aviation goals? Whether you’re exploring flight training for the first time or looking to advance your certifications, our team is here to help you find the right path. Reach out today and let’s get you in the air.
Main: (518) 415-8453
Office: (518) 502-3371
Daily Hours:
8:00am – 6:00pm