Pilot License Near Me: Start Your Training In Los Angeles

If you live anywhere in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley or the Westside, your nearest place to earn a pilot license may be Van Nuys Airport. You Fly LA is the largest flight school there, with 20 airplanes we own, our own maintenance shop, and zero accidents or incidents since 2008.

Where We Are

  • Address: 7900 Balboa Blvd, Main Terminal Unit 108, Van Nuys, CA 91406
  • Hours: 9 AM to 9 PM, seven days a week
  • Phone: (818) 330-1318. Directions and parking: Contact Us

From the 405, take Sherman Way west about a mile and a half to Balboa. From the 101, exit at Balboa Blvd and drive north. From the 118, come south on Balboa along the west side of the field.

How To Get Your Pilot License, Step By Step

  1. Take a discovery flight ($229) to fly the airplane yourself with an instructor.
  2. Get an FAA medical certificate from an aviation medical examiner.
  3. Apply for your student pilot certificate. Your instructor helps you file it.
  4. Train in the airplane, in ground school and in our full-motion simulator.
  5. Solo, then fly solo cross-countries.
  6. Pass the FAA knowledge test and the checkride with an examiner.

The FAA requires at least 40 flight hours for a private pilot license under Part 61. Most people need more. Flying two or three times a week is the fastest and cheapest way through.

Why Students Choose Van Nuys

  • A real tower from day one. You'll be comfortable with busy airspace by your first solo.
  • Airplanes when you need them. 20 owned airplanes and our own maintenance shop mean fewer cancellations.
  • Easy booking. Book online and track your hours, lessons and checklists in the You Fly LA app.
  • 5-star reviews on Google and Yelp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take To Get A Pilot License?

Flying twice a week, most students finish a private pilot license in about five to six months.

Is There A Minimum Age To Start?

There's no minimum age for lessons. You need to be 16 to solo and 17 for a private pilot certificate.

Do I Need A Medical Before My First Lesson?

No. You need one before you solo. Get it early so there are no surprises.
Flight Training At Van Nuys Airport

See Yourself In The Left Seat.

Our fleet, our instructors and the view over Los Angeles — every discovery flight and every course starts right here on the ramp.

Book A Discovery Flight