Essence Flight Academy

4.9 (72 reviews)

Flight Instruction

Closed • 9:00 am - 9:00 pm

Add Review

Call

Directions

Website

Essence Flight Academy Photos

Essence Flight Academy - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Essence Flight Academy - Cessna 162 - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Essence Flight Academy - Multi engine - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

+199

Schedule now
Free consultations

More like Essence Flight Academy

Recommended Reviews - Essence Flight Academy

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.

Start your review...

Browse more easily on the app

Reviews With Photos

Nia D.

Just did my first discover flight and had an amazing experience. Kayla was an amazing instructor and made sure to keep me informed of everything and made sure I was comfortable throughout my flight. I got to fly the plane and saw some incredible views of LA & Malibu. Learned a lot and will definitely come back here for another discover flight or even lessons. Great customer service and everything was well organized. Thanks for making my birthday special Kayla & team!

Kev G.

I took my discovery flight at essence academy. By far the best flying experience I've had. Alexis was my flight instructor and he made me feel comfortable throughout the whole process. Answered all my questions and pretty self explanatory as far as the process I want to take. As a woman I love seeing women in the field of flying and that's exactly what essence has 10/10 experiences

Arthur C.

Took my boyfriend here for his birthday , it was great. We did the luxury discovery flight and the view was beautiful.

Jiyon H.

I can't recommend Essence Flight School enough! The staff is awesome, and the whole vibe is just really positive and cool. Huge shoutout to Anthony, our flight instructor, he's the best! Super knowledgeable, and explains everything in a way that actually makes sense. You can tell he genuinely cares about teaching and loves flying. If you've ever thought about learning to fly or just go up for a day, checkout Essence Flight School and Anthony made the whole experience fantastic.

Talita A.

Best flight school in town! Very knowledgeable team and I'd like thank Alex the owner, Sophia and my CFI Anthony for being part of my journey providing the best experience one could have

Amazing experience!! Alexis was one of those instructors you can fully trust. Which gave me the confidence to take control of a plane for the very first time. 10/10 must fly with Essence.

Solae O.

Great experience 10/10 recommend i would recommend flying during the sunset it was so amazing

Shelly C.

This was the most incredible experience. My son has talked about wanting to fly a plane and he was able to fly by himself, at 9 years old. This was an experience we will never forget and will definitely do it again!!!!!

This is such a great idea for a gift !! I purchased an experience for my husband and it was the best !!! He can't stop talking about it!

Crystal S.

This is such a great idea for a gift !! I purchased an experience for my husband and it was the best !!! He can't stop talking about it!

See all

A A.

18 hours ago

Incredible experience! Discovery flight was so much fun! Loved the pilot and the entire experience read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Zaw Lin T.

4 months ago

The guy on the phone was really unwelcoming, rude and didn't even explain to me properly. But i don't mean this to the whole business but just this guy on the phone was giving me a ick. (Here is the reason's why) I never been in person to this place. And I called them and let them know about my weight cause I know with Cessna 172 , it is going to be tight since I am 6'3" with 280 pounds,Tall and big guy. But he told me I am over weight (which probably I am) and it is impossible for me so he said I have to choose multi engine to be able to lift me which is 500 $ for me. No way I am paying for 60 minutes discovery flight. So, I asked him if I sign up as a student, how do I able to learn an aircraft an he said I have to pay extra 20 k since I need a bigger airplane. Feels really insulted on the last question. So if you are a big guy then this is really not a best option cause they don't find a solution for you with care. And even in my mind, if the discovery flight goes well and the vibes of the school was good, I was going to sign up as a student for PPL program and now their first impression on me was really trash and I am disappointed. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Monika F.

1 month ago

I took my husband on a helicopter ride for his birthday about 12 years ago, and ever since then I've been fascinated by flying. Recently, I decided it was finally time to see whether learning to fly was something I wanted to pursue, so I booked a discovery flight with Essence Flight School. It was an incredible experience! My instructor was knowledgeable, patient, engaging, and made the entire flight both fun and educational. I had the opportunity to learn some basic maneuvers, including making left and right turns, performing a 360-degree turn, maintaining straight-and-level flight, and getting a feel for the aircraft controls. It was such a unique and rewarding experience. If you've ever been curious about flying, I highly recommend scheduling a discovery flight. It's the perfect way to see if aviation is right for you. I'll definitely be back to learn more about earning my pilot's license. Thank you to my instructor and everyone at Essence Flight School for making my first flight such a memorable one! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Cameron G.

18 hours ago

Fun and informative! My wife surprised me with a 1-hour discovery flight with Kayla and she was great! Very open to questions about aviation and the details of what she's doing while flying. Super fun experience, I could not recommend it more for someone who's thinking about flying for fun or for a career read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Edgar P.

18 hours ago

Such a fun experience! Alex was excellent. Very informative and interactive pilot. 10/10 experience

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nia D.

3 months ago

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kev G.

5 months ago

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Arthur C.

4 months ago

Took my boyfriend here for his birthday , it was great. We did the luxury discovery flight and the view was beautiful. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jiyon H.

10 months ago

See all

Business owner information

Alex A.

Thank you so much for the amazing review! We’re thrilled to hear you…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Lewis W.

281

198

2 months ago

Great scenic discovery flight with Kayla, thanks for the warm welcome and introduction to getting my PPL

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jen V.

1 month ago

I had the best first time flying experience, was scared but felt so safe. Highly recommend!

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Brian V.

555

4 months ago

Discovery flights awesome! Got to see Griffith, dtla, malibu, dodger stadium. Kayla is a great instructor too. PPL LETS GOOOOO read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Talita A.

9 months ago

Best flight school in town! Very knowledgeable team and I'd like thank Alex the owner, Sophia and my CFI Anthony for being part of my journey providing the best experience one could have read more

Essence Flight Academy - Cessa 162 - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Teryan B.

4 months ago

Amazing experience!! Alexis was one of those instructors you can fully trust. Which gave me the confidence to take control of a plane for the very first time. 10/10 must fly with Essence. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Solae O.

7 months ago

Great experience 10/10 recommend i would recommend flying during the sunset it was so amazing read more

Essence Flight Academy - Flight over LA - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Natalie C.

1 month ago

Had an amazing time. Professional team and great experience. Thank you for everything.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Shelly C.

11 months ago

Essence Flight Academy - Getting ready to FLY!!! - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Essence Flight Academy - Flying in style!!! - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Essence Flight Academy - Flight Simulator!!!!! - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

See all

Business owner information

Alex A.

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Crystal S.

7 months ago

This is such a great idea for a gift !! I purchased an experience for my husband and it was the best !!! He can't stop talking about it! read more

Essence Flight Academy - This is such a great idea for a gift !! I purchased an experience for my husband and it was the best !!! He can't stop talking about it! - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Amanda G.

4 months ago

Amazing experience! Ralph was kind and incredibly informative when asked questions. I felt comfortable and safe during my trip

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nolan W.

3 months ago

I took my discovery flight with Alexis and it could not have gone better! I had so much fun learning about everything from takeoff to landing. I felt incredibly safe and he answered every question I had. If you're on the fence, do it! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nazanin J.

8 months ago

I enrolled as student at Essence Flight School in July, and I couldn't be happier with my experience. I got my Private Pilot License here, and I'm now working on my Instrument Rating. My first instructor for my ppl , Joseph, was absolutely amazing. He's patient, knowledgeable, and a really great teacher who made every lesson easy, safe, and enjoyable. I couldn't have asked for a better instructor to guide me through the ppl course. Now, I'm training with Francis for my instrument rating, and I'm just as impressed. He's incredibly supportive, and always makes sure I understand every detail before moving on to next lesson His teaching style gives me a lot of confidence as I continue my lessons! I have been flying the Cessna and now the Piper Arrow! Their scheduling has been always amazing, soofia always accommodated to my schedule times and made sure i get as many as lessons possible! I definitely recommend Essence Flight School to anyone who is interested to get their license!!!! read more

Essence Flight Academy - Plane human - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ryan C.

3 months ago

Amazing school, could not say more good things about their hospitality and professionalism. Alex is very knowledgeable and made a previously confusing process to a informative and exciting journey. Have flown with Anthony and Ralph and could not say more good things about them. You will be surprised at the amount of information they know and their teaching styles that makes learning something new very fun. Been to many schools and have not found a close second. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Bill G.

7 months ago

I had always been interested and curious about flying and the folks at Essense made it super easy to try it out. Anthony was my instructor for the discovery flight and he was super calm and provided great instruction. He also made me feel very safe! Highly recommend. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Angelo E.

9 months ago

Amazing experience! I flew my discovery flight with Alex, a great patient and informative instructor, who guided me every step of the way. Highly recommended! read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Emily V.

116

6 months ago

Super fun experience! Will be taking private pilot course. Super cool to be in the plane above all famous spots of LA

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Matt K.

1 year ago

One of the best flight experiences I've ever done! If you're looking for a fun flight, beautiful views, and even taking control of the plane, Essence Flight Academy is incredible. Thank you for the amazing experience! read more

See all

Business owner information

Alex A.

Thank you so much for the awesome review! We're thrilled to hear this…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Aar D.

4 months ago

Flying at essence academy was a great experience! In just my first lesson, I learned tons of stuff and got to pilot the plane at a multitude of moments throughout the flight. Adam was a great instructor and I learned a lot about the flying experience from him. I plan on coming back and flying more! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kenny S.

289

7 months ago

Joseph was an awesome instructor! Beautiful day to fly. I'll definitely be doing this again

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nancy N.

226

7 months ago

Pilot was amazing! This was my anniversary gift and for my boyfriend's first time, we had a blast!

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Lilian L.

7 months ago

My 15 year old son wants to learn to fly. Sophia welcomed us, and was very professional. Francis was my son's flight instructor. He was incredibly talented, patient and made his session very productive, and enjoyable. I would highly recommend to anyone thinking of learning to fly for professional or recreational purposes. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Barry S.

8 months ago

My ten year old son and I had a fantastic experience with Francis and Essence Flight School! We did a discovery flight around the LA area, flying past the Hollywood sign, downtown, and over the beach and mountains of Malibu. Francis even asked where we live and made sure we flew right over our house! He was great with my son, encouraging him to take the controls and really experience flying, and I felt completely safe and comfortable in the back of the plane. A++ all around, and we will for sure be back. Thank you! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Sam A.

9 months ago

I came here after researching many different schools in the area. Being a doctor I don't trust too many sales places as somehow they always judge me by my car and try to upsell to me. This was the only place that people seemed genuine, caring, with structured plans that had no upselling! I was assigned to Anthony as my instructor and since the very beginning he was caring, knowledgeable, and confident. Allowing me to take control and built the necessary confidence. I just solo'ed and am super excited! I have many accomplishments from getting a faculty position to the respect I get from patients, but the thrill of your first solo is something to remember forever! I highly recommend Essence flight and the wonderful team here! read more

Business owner information

Alex A.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We’re truly…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

David S.

2 years ago

Had a great experience with this company. My son has been very into airplanes and his flight simulator on the computer so for his 11th birthday treated him to a real flight where he was able to fly the plane himself! Alex was great with him and we felt very comfortable through the whole experience. Would definitely recommend! read more

Essence Flight Academy - My 11yo son - Flight Instruction Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Allen H.

8 months ago

Amazing flight school. The service has been amazing here and they have great airplanes and flight simulator. My instructor Alex has been awesome, I just recently got my private pilot license and I am starting my multi engine course soon. I woukd highly recommend this school. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ines N.

11 months ago

Flew today for my birthday, and it was an incredible experience! Alex is a fantastic instructor--very professional, knowledgeable, and patient. Thank you for letting me fly your plane; everything felt safe and well-organized. Highly recommend Essence Flight School for anyone looking for a top-notch flight experience! read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Austina L.

1 year ago

The office is well equipped. Instructors are nice and professional. My son joined the teen program and he loves it.

Business owner information

Alex A.

Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so glad to hear that you…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Madison D.

1 year ago

Did a discovery flight with Logan and it was absolutely incredible. We flew over all the cool places of LA including Universal Studios, Hollywood Sign, Santa Monica Pier, Downtown LA, and many more! My instructor Logan let me fly around for a bit and it was amazing. I definitely will be recommending this place to family and friends. read more

See all

Business owner information

Alex A.

Thank you so much for the amazing review! We're thrilled to hear you…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Tim M.

1 year ago

My wife surprised me with a birthday flight with Essence Flight Academy and it was amazing!!! To see LA from up above is truly something else. Our instructor Alex was cool and collected. read more

See all

Business owner information

Alex A.

Thank you so much for the amazing review!…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Oscar I.

7 months ago

Amazing experience, super nice staff and instructor. Very informative and fun, would recommend 10/10.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

George B.

8 months ago

This was the best experience ever not only did I get to site see but I also got to take control of the plane. And the instructor even explained everything that was happening read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Page 1 of 2

See more reviews

More info about Essence Flight Academy

7900 Balboa Blvd
Ste D3
Los Angeles, CA 91406
Van Nuys
Directions
(818) 960-1285
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.essenceflight.com

Hours

What time does Essence Flight Academy open?

Essence Flight Academy opens at 9:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Essence Flight Academy close?

Essence Flight Academy closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Other Amenities

Does Essence Flight Academy have free WiFi?

Yes, Essence Flight Academy has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Established in 2018 Essence Flight School invites you to the world of Aviation in Los Angeles. Essence Flight School is the largest flight school at the business general aviation airport in Los Angeles. Whether you wish to obtain your Pilot License for pleasure in Los Angeles or wish to pursue a Professional Career in aviation, Essence Flight Academy can help. Our experienced flight instructors provide you with quality flight training and instructions. It is our goal to make your learning experience memorable! Essence Flight School Van Nuys is open 7 days week for flight training and staffed front desk for 6 days. We offer complete financing for all our pilot's courses including Private Pilot, Multi-Engine racing and commercial license

Ask the Community - Essence Flight Academy

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

Review Highlights - Essence Flight Academy

“I just did my discovery flight here today, I really liked my flight instructor Alex, he was absolutely amazing.”

Mentioned in 16 reviews

LA Flight Academy

4.8

(43 reviews)

0.0 mi

Certified professionals

Locally owned & operated

I'm incredibly grateful to LA Flight Academy and especially to Anthony, the owner. When I was…read moreresearching flight schools in the area, he was the only one who took the time to answer my questions immediately and honestly. While others felt focused on selling, Anthony felt focused on peopleand that made all the difference. During my Private Pilot License training, I genuinely had the best experience. As a queer pilot, I felt fully embraced, respected, and supported by everyone at the school. That kind of environment matters more than people realize, and LA Flight Academy delivers it effortlessly. Mason, my CFI, has an incredible way of connecting with studentsclear, patient, and motivating. Sean Haughey is also outstanding, both in ground instruction and in the air. You can tell they truly care about teaching, safety, and your growth as a pilot. The level of professionalism, security, and safety at this school is incomparable. I couldn't be more thankful to have landed here. Thank you again for an amazing semi-accelerated PPL experience. I'm excited to continue all my ratings and commercial training with you.

I'm currently training at LA Flight Academy, and it has been an incredible experience. The training…read moreand aircraft are excellent, but what really makes this school special is the people. From the owner and management to the instructors and every staff member, everyone is welcoming, helpful, and truly cares about the students. You can feel that there's a genuine sense of community here. It's a place where I always feel comfortable, supported, and excited to keep learning. I highly recommend LA Flight Academy to anyone pursuing their aviation dreams.

Photos

See all

One Source Aviation

5.0

(10 reviews)

0.3 mi

If you are curious about flying, I think the perfect place to start is here at One Source. We were…read moreactually recommended to go here by a friend who had a son go through their training program and is now a fully licensed pilot. The location is professional with ample easy parking. The large hanger has multiple planes that students can choose from. It is super cool to walk around in if you haven't been around any aircraft, like me! The folks there were so nice and patient with us and answered all our questions which gave us peace of mind, knowing that our child would be in good hands up in the air. We are really pleased with our instructor, Zach, who is just amazing. My daughter loves being taught by him because he is easy-going and very thorough & patient with his teaching. He is extremely knowledgeable and it seems like he eats breathes and dreams all things aviation. If we have any questions in regards to flying, he has all the answers. We are really excited for our daughter as she progresses through her aviation journey and can't wait until she reaches her goal of getting her pilot's license. Rumor is, One Source is actually the best flight school there is at Van Nuys Airport so we are happy we made the right decision by coming here.

These guys are some of the coolest dudes youll meet. I got about 30 hours training with one source…read more Jake is my main instructor and Zach is my back up. Both of them are super knowledgeable and able to keep us safe in the sky. Just like them, im sure the other instructors that are a part of one source are just as good. Also very cool dudes. The hanger is nice. Sweet planes inside and a spot to chill. Very welcoming to all. The planes are well maintained and on schedule. These guys respect the condition of the aircrafts they use. Always taking care of issues right way if one comes up. Good for me , good for you. I recommend One Source Aviation because of the professionalism, friendship, and all around knowledge i have gained from them. Special thanks to Alex! You the man! Still want to do that barrel roll jake!

Photos

See all

Aviators Flight Academy

4.6

(28 reviews)

0.2 mi

Amazing Experience! Must Try!!!…read more Booked: Discovery Flight for my 16 year old son Check-in Process: Simple, Booked the Room with the Owner Blake couldn't have been easier. Parking: Parking was free and is located directly in front of the hangar this was not a issue at all. Facilities: Waiting area has a clean bathroom, Mini Arcade :) tons of cool stuff to see. Offered us water. People: Mason - Flight instructor - My son could not stop talking about how great Mason was. He really explained everything to him before and while on the flight. My son was able to both fly and do a callout while in the air. If he was at all afraid mason put him at ease you rock! Blake - Owner Honestly could not be a nicer guy, explained the whole process and let me hear the ATC and we were able to track the flight the entire time. We were also able to go out and see the plane off and see it come back in. Such a cool experience and I didnt even do the flying! Plane: SportCruiser looked to be in perfect condition, such a cool little plane. My son mentioned it was extremely comfortable and he had an absolute blast. If you or anyone you know has any interest at all in flying you need to get them here ASAP. Thanks again guys

Thank you Blake and Bridger for the excellent discovery flight, I look forward to what is nextread more

Photos

See all

Clipper Aviation

5.0

(23 reviews)

0.1 mi

Clipper Aviation is the best! Love training with the…read moreInstructors and the facilities are top notch! I'm working on getting my PPL and started with very little experience in aviation. My instructor (Riese), and secondary instructors (Alex G, Zach G), not only make my training fun, informative, and educational but also are helping build my confidence and skills in becoming a great general aviation pilot! I highly recommend Clipper Aviation for all you pilot training needs if you're interested and enthusiastic about the Aviation Industry and community!

I'm not a student at Clipper but my friend Omar is getting his instrument rating there and…read moresuggested I come along for one of his lessons. His instructor Darien allowed me to sit in the backseat and tag along for the lesson. It was such a great experience!! Darien was really knowledgeable, a great instructor and made the whole experience really fun and very memorable. From my experience, I would highly recommend getting your lessons from Darien and at Clipper in general. Their facilities are clean, everyone there is friendly and they take really good care of their planes. For all new pilots definitely check out the Cirrus! Such an amazing plane.

Photos

Cirrus SR20 G6.

See all

The Flight Academy

4.5

(25 reviews)

0.2 mi

This was my first time ever being in a small prop plane like this, let alone flying one. An AirBnB…read moreExperience called "Fly an Airplane over LA" popped up and caught my interest, and I'm glad I checked it out. It was a great one-hour experience that was part sight-seeing flight, part introductory flight lesson. Nirvan at The Flight Academy was my copilot/instructor, and did a great job explaining everything and guiding me through the controls and the process. It didn't actually take long to feel pretty comfortable with controlling the yoke to ascend, descend, and bank/turn. The weather was great and the whole thing felt very safe and comfortable. Highly recommended!

English is my second language and it was difficult for me to understand, I had to repeat it and…read moreexplain it more slowly. The teacher didn't pay attention to me at all. I asked for help explaining how to use the application they sent and where to open the information for study that they sent me. I thought I had passed all the tests and didn't know what else was there. As a result, I was accused of not coping with the task. I immediately felt that she hated me. she said that I needed to wear a wedding ring, because because of my attractive appearance, I could lose my job. then she got drunk when we opened wine and champagne and brought alcohol to training in the pool. when I needed to clarify something or repeat it, she brushed me off and ignored me. she put on a show in class and lifted her legs above her head, showing off her incredible gymnastic abilities. She probably didn't like me because I didn't express any obvious ADMIRATION for her tricks and old-fashioned ways of sculpting roses from sausage and avocado. I didn't clap my hands or smile wide enough to satisfy her ego like everyone else did. Then they inflated a rescue slide at school and she screamed at the student to jump on it. the unfortunate student fell down! BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T INFLATE ENOUGH AIR!!!! THE TEACHER PRETENDED THAT NOTHING HAPPENED! It's good that there were mattresses on the ground for insurance. she herself did not jump first. after that I was afraid to jump, and asked if I could just sit down and slid down. SHE MADE me JUMP. then on a video in class they also showed emergency evacuation training. NO ONE JUMPED!! all the people sat down and moved slid down!!!! at the end the school principal talked to me AND EATED!!!! HE DID NOT STOP CHEWING WHILE TALKING! it was disgusting... I did not expect such discrimination in America. this is a paid school and I expected support and assistance in studying I decided to go to another school, which I didn't regret.... thank you for your attention )

Photos

What you get to fly!

See all

At the Van Nuys airport

Corsair Aviation

4.9

(48 reviews)

0.2 mi

Best business great service and great customer service. I would recommend it to everyoneread more

Took my bride for a 60-minute (well, more like 52-min. Engine start/stop) Air Tour in one of the…read morecompany's Cessna 172S's. Pilot Martin S. was fantastic -- great host, excellent flying. We enjoyed views of the SFV, Universal Studios, Hollywood and Griffith Park, Dodger Stadium, DTLA, Santa Monica, and the Malibu coastline before flying high above the Santa Monica Mountains en route to VNY. Overall, great flight and service from start to finish (reservation to exit).

Photos

See all

Ascent Aviation Academy

4.6

(9 reviews)

1.4 mi

This is the essence of a great training school -- not fancy but in the zone. Seth is totally…read moretransparent about fees and sets us students up for success. They have a large fleet and great group of instructors.. It can be busy so you better book your planes and instruction in advance but the instructors here are all excellent. They really care about learning and helping me along what's a long and complex learning journey. They have the best safety records and a near perfect PPL pass rate Too. Although I haven't attended another school as a student pilot I did a lot of research and visited other places. The big advantage of having the fueling system they do saves so much time and money compared to others.

***UPDATE 7/2/2024***…read more Whatever you do, without a doubt, do not go to Ascent Flight Academy!!! STAY AWAY! This place will rob you blind and not prepare you for any checkride at all. I was sent to a checkride without being properly endorsed for it and was made a fool when I arrived to my checkride. I was told over and over again that I was ready when in fact I was not even close to being ready. As a student, we put our trust and faith into the CFI, and to see that they don't take care you of you is insane. Not to mention their planes are absolute trash, barely taken care of, parts missing or broken, Jerry rigged and improperly calibrated. It's just a matter of time before there's an accident. Seth, the owner is horrible. He only cares about you when you are lining his pockets with money. DO NOT BUY THE TIME BLOCKS. If for some reason you have extra money left over, you will not get a refund. Make sure you turn off "auto renew" on your account so they don't automatically charge you. Leave that place as soon as your account drops to zero and never look back.

Photos

First solo!!

See all

ActivePILOT

4.6

(16 reviews)

0.0 mi

I got my PPL through Active Pilot and now working on my instrument rating. The facilities are…read moregreat, makes it really easy to plan and debrief flights with your instructor as well as spaces to study. The instructors are all great as well I've trained with a few of them, but wanted to give a shoutout to my instructor Joe! The planes are all very clean inside and out and well maintained. They're washed every week and if there are any squawks placed they'd handled pretty much immediately. Prices are reasonable for Van Nuys and would definitely recommend if you're looking to fly.

From the moment I walked through the door, Leo and Ari made me feel supported, encouraged, and…read morecared for every step of the way - even long after earning my license. My instructor, Ryan, was simply exceptional. His depth of knowledge, patience, and commitment to helping his students succeed go far beyond what you could ever expect. Every flight lesson with him made me a more confident and capable pilot. If you get Ryan as an instructor, consider yourself very lucky! The entire ActivePILOT team shares that same passion and dedication, and it shows in everything they do. Thank you ActivePILOT!!

Photos

Dual Cross Country planning with CFI Gian Caterina and student pilot Annabelle Garcia.

See all

Vainer Aviation

5.0

(1 review)

0.3 mi

I recently had the pleasure to work with Alex and Joey. From the very beginning, I was greeted and…read moremade felt welcomed, not just as a student but as part of the family. Alex and I had a great conversation about life experiences and background in aviation and goals. Working with Joey was great as well. He was patient, knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. Did receive my endorsement but willing to work with him to become proficient. Overall it was an amazing experience and will be back.

From the owner: Vainer Aviation is your one stop shop to satisfy your aviation needs. Located at the world famous…read moreVan Nuys Airport, Vainer Aviation has plenty to offer. Our team is equipped with top notch instructors who have plenty of experience in aviation and are here to go the extra mile for you. Whether it's Flight Instruction, Aircraft Rental, Aircraft Management or Professional Pilot Services, we are the one's for you. We look forward to seeing you!

Photos

See all

UEI College - Reseda

3.9

(41 reviews)

1.9 mi

had a great experience at UEI College while going through the electrician program. The school gave…read moreme the opportunity to really focus on learning the trade and building a foundation for my future career. The hands-on training helped me understand how things work in real life, not just from a book. I feel more confident reading blueprints, understanding NEC code basics, and working safely because of what I learned there. Mr. Shaun was an amazing instructor. He took the time to explain things clearly and made sure we actually understood the material. If we didn't get something the first time, he would break it down in a simple way until it made sense. He pushed us to do our best but also supported us when we needed help. You can tell he truly cares about his students and wants to see them succeed in the electrical field. I'm thankful for everything I learned and I would definitely recommend UEI College to anyone interested in becoming an electrician.

If it wasn't for Sandra Bojorquez I wouldn't know what to do. She made the enrollment process very…read moreeasy. She explained the course well and showed me around the campus ensuring me that I'm in good hands. If it wasn't for her I wouldn't have attended.

Photos

Dental Assistant students performing tasks.

Medical Assistant students performing tasks on each other.

See all

Pharmacy Technician lab.

Kawai Kids

4.9

(28 reviews)

25.2 mi

There aren't enough ways or words to express how thankful I am for Kawai Kids. My son just started…read morethis August and I was so nervous about the new transition. His first day came and all my worries went away immediately. The way my son walked right in and was welcomed with such warm smiles and hugs made my mama heart explode with happiness. I knew he was going to be okay. Knowing that my son is in great hands with such caring staff is exactly what puts my mind at ease. I appreciate all the ways that they encourage my very picky eater to at least try new foods and celebrate all his wins! Forever thankful to Kawai Kids!

Our older son previously attended this daycare, and as soon as we found out I was pregnant, we knew…read morewithout hesitation that we wanted to come back, so we immediately put ourselves on the waitlist. Leaving our 18 months old was incredibly nerve-wracking, However, from the very beginning, Kawaii Kids went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable and supported. The staff is exceptionally caring, patient, and attentive, and it was clear how much they genuinely love and care for the children. They took the time to communicate with us, answer our questions, and reassure us every step of the way. We highly recommend them to any parent looking for a trustworthy, loving, and high-quality daycare.

Photos

Learning through art and play.

See all

Activity calendar. Lots of fun activities!

Honeybee Bilingual Children's Center

5.0

(21 reviews)

22.5 mi

Women-owned & operated

Locally owned & operated

We are so grateful for our time at Honeybee Bilingual daycare - this was our daughter's first…read moredaycare experience, and Ms. Sandy helped make the transition so smooth! She and the other teachers gave us so much confidence in the care and safety provided each day we dropped our baby off. Our daughter loved the thoughtfully curated story time, the bilingual curriculum, the outside play, and the love from each and every teacher she interacted with. It was so wonderful to receive updates on her day and many pictures/videos of her activities through their app. We would recommend Honeybee to anyone in a heartbeat!

My son has been going here since he was 2 and will be graduating this year, heading off to kinder…read more My daughter started here at 5 months old which was really hard for me but I had to go back to work. She has been there for over a year now. The staff are all wonderful and I know they really care for my children, which makes it a lot easier to leave them in their care. My children love going, have learned so much and are always happy to be there. They offer lots of great activities and also do thoughtful things for the parents as well. I also think the price is pretty good for the amazing service.

Photos

Bumblebees Classroom

See all

Montessori Academy Of West Adams

Women-owned & operated

Our family has had such a wonderful experience at Montessori Academy of West Adams over the past…read moretwo years. From the very beginning, we were drawn to their individualized academic approach, which truly allows each child to grow at their own pace while building confidence and a genuine love of learning. It has been incredible to watch our daughter thrive in an environment that recognizes her unique strengths and encourages her curiosity every single day. The teachers are absolutely amazing--warm, attentive, and deeply committed to making every child feel supported and valued. We especially appreciate all the extra thought and creativity that goes into making her early school years so memorable, from engaging activities to special events that bring so much joy to my daughter. Thanks to this wonderful community, our daughter's first experiences with school has been nothing short of extraordinary, and we are so grateful to be part of it.

We had a very good experience with MAWA. Great teachers and attentive staff. Our child was in…read moreseveral classrooms, but most recently in Pink Tower. Weekly lessons, visiting educational experiences, and optional activities like dance, yoga, and gymnastics. Would recommend!

Photos

Learning about the continents through music and songs!

See all

One on one academic help is a benefit of our low teacher to student ratio.

Aqua Fit

5.0

(26 reviews)

15.2 mi

I took 1 on 1 adult lessons with Allyson to work on improving my swimming skills and I can…read moreconfidently recommend. A lot of great tips and tools provided to help isolate and work on specific mechanics. I started out knowing how to swim generally, but worked on getting more confident in the water and now have a fresh round of feedback to better coach myself during practice sessions. Pro tip: there is a waiting list. I spent a few months on this list so plan in advance. Thank you Allyson

Allyson is the best. I am training for my first triathlon and knew my swimming needed help. I…read morebooked beginner triathlon lessons with her and felt so much stronger even after just my first lesson! She gave me swimming tips that made sense and were easy to understand and follow. Allyson is easy going, attentive, and approachable. She's patient, kind, and was extremely flexible with scheduling lessons. The ocean swim lesson was very helpful and she gave great tips for entering/exiting during the race. Bottom line she is a great swim coach. Highly recommend. Thanks so much Allyson!

Photos

One hour Shallow water classes.

11am Shallow water aerobics

See all

Stand Up Paddle Board

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

104 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Timothy H.

11 months ago

If I could give this place zero stars, I would. Actually, let's just invent a new rating: minus five stars. I started my instrument training here, and just before my checkride, my credit card got fraudulently charged at a restaurant. Funny thing? The only place I ever used that card was this flight school. Checked the restaurant's cameras, didn't recognize the guy. Showed the owners a picture of the school's staff and owner--suddenly they recognized all of them. Wow, what a coincidence. The owner's response? "Not my problem." Real leadership material right there. And don't get me started on the planes. Their "fleet" of Pipers is basically a museum exhibit on how not to maintain an aircraft. Rust, duct tape, and prayers hold these things together. During one preflight I even found wire snips sitting on the cylinder head like a ticking time bomb. Nothing says "professional maintenance" like leaving your tools inside the engine. The instructors? Some are solid, but most are just biding their time until they hit their hours and bolt. And honestly, who can blame them? Nobody sticks around to watch this slow-motion train wreck. Now for the big clown running this circus. The owner had his pilot and instructor certificates revoked for falsifying student logbooks. Don't believe me? Google the official NTSB report (NTSB-1 No. SE-30147). Yep--this guy literally isn't allowed to teach or fly, yet somehow runs a flight school. You couldn't write a sketch comedy this good. And let's not forget his last attempt at running a school--Encore. Spoiler alert: that one magically "closed down," probably under the weight of bad reviews, lawsuits, and karma finally catching up. When you run flight schools like a Ponzi scheme with wings, don't be shocked when they go belly-up. Most of the five-star reviews here are from discovery flights where someone's just thrilled they got to play pilot for half an hour. The real reviews are the one-stars over on the encore yelp page. Read those before you throw your money away. This school is a scam, the planes are junkyard rejects, and the owner is one shady Google search away from a Netflix true-crime documentary. Do yourself a favor--fly literally anywhere else. Look up Essence Flight Academy on reddit, you'll thank me later. read more

Tim M.

2 years ago

My experience with the Discovery Flight school was nothing short of exhilarating. As someone who has always been fascinated by aviation but never quite took the leap into flying, this introductory flight was the perfect opportunity to satisfy my curiosity and delve into the world of piloting. From the moment I arrived at the airport, the professionalism and enthusiasm of the pilot and staff were evident. They guided me through a brief but comprehensive pre-flight briefing, explaining the basics of the aircraft and what to expect during the flight. Safety protocols were clearly emphasized, which immediately put me at ease and assured me of their commitment to a secure and enjoyable experience. Once we boarded the aircraft, I was struck by the pilot's skill and confidence. Throughout the flight, they seamlessly balanced giving me the opportunity to take the controls and experience the thrill of flying firsthand, while also showcasing their expertise through smooth maneuvers and clear communication with air traffic control. The scenery from above was breathtaking; seeing familiar landmarks from a new perspective was a highlight of the flight. The pilot's narration added depth to the experience, pointing out interesting features and sharing insights into flying techniques and navigation. What stood out most was the Alex's (pilot) passion for aviation. Their love for flying was infectious, and it made me appreciate the art and science of piloting even more. When some pilots try to make it over complicate it, Alex simplified and made us feel comfortable. They patiently answered all my questions and encouraged me to explore further if I wanted to pursue flight training. Overall, my Discovery Flight Pilot experience was unforgettable. It was not just a flight; it was an introduction to a whole new world of possibilities. Whether you're a novice like me or someone considering aviation as a career, I highly recommend this program as a perfect first step into the skies. read more

Daniel A.

2 years ago

I recently had the incredible opportunity to experience a discovery flight with Essence Flight School, and it was nothing short of amazing. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the most friendly and welcoming staff and instructors. They made me feel at ease and excited for the adventure ahead. The quality of their equipment impressed me; everything was high-tech and well-maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable flight. What stood out to me the most was the instructor's approach. They provided clear, easy-to-understand guidance, making the learning process both fun and informative. I was amazed at how much control over the airplane I was allowed, which truly made the experience exhilarating and genuinely hands-on. It's clear that Essence Flight School prioritizes not just the safety of their flights but also the quality of their training and the overall experience of their students. For anyone curious about flying or considering pilot training, I highly recommend Essence Flight School. Their blend of professional, high-quality training equipment, and genuinely caring and supportive staff made my discovery flight an unforgettable adventure. read more

Micke J.

1 year ago

Flying has always been a dream of mine. I'm visiting from Sweden and booked a Discovery Flight with Essence Flight Academy, and honestly, it was one of the coolest things I've ever done. I actually got to fly the plane myself--a Cirrus SR22T. We took off, climbed to 1800ft, flew past the Hollywood Sign, looped around Downtown LA, then cruised between LAX and Santa Monica before following the coastline past Malibu and heading inland over Calabasas. Seeing LA from the air like that was unreal. I've seen it numerous times flying in to LAX on commercial flights as a passenger, but this is something completely different. The whole experience was top-notch. The instructor was super chill, made everything easy to understand, and let me take control while keeping it all safe, educational and fun. Flying a Cirrus definitely adds to the experience--glass cockpit, parachute system, the whole package that makes you feel safe. If you've ever thought about flying, book a discovery flight with Essence. Whether you're serious about getting a license or just want an unforgettable experience, this is 100% worth it. Can't wait to do it again! read more

Adam S.

1 year ago

I did my Multi Engine flight training with this team and I can say with full confidence that I made the right choice! I struggled finding a multi engine program, upon contacting this school I was met with kindness and high levels of professionalism from their instructors. Almost immediately I was able to start training. The training went great and I couldn't recommend them enough. No matter what rating you are trying to achieve this is without a doubt the best school you could pick and I honestly wish I found them sooner. They have a nice fleet of aircraft and instructors, and a very nice setup for a flight school. You'll feel right at home! Also for pilots, learning at the busy Van Nuys class delta is a huge benefit to your skills. Learning here will make every other airport feel so much easier. 10/10, couldn't recommend enough! read more

Louie C.

Elite 16

314

130

1 year ago

I had an incredible experience at Flight School Essence in Van Nuys. From the moment I arrived, Alex made me feel welcome and confident about the journey ahead. He was highly professional, patient, and clearly passionate about aviation, which made all the difference. The highlight of my day was actually getting to control the plane during the flight. It was a surreal and empowering moment. The entire experience was well-guided and smooth, especially for a first-timer like me. I felt safe, supported, and completely thrilled throughout. This experience confirmed for me that I want to take flight classes and continue learning. If you've ever dreamed of flying or just want to try something unforgettable, this is the place to do it. 5/5 stars. I'm definitely coming back. read more

Zach V.

1 year ago

Just completed my Multi ATP here. The staff was extremely accommodating. The instruction was top notch, and Alex efficiently prepared me to the fullest extent for the check ride. The new engines on their Piper Seminole also preformed exceptionally well, and their Redbird simulator with motion was a game changer, especially when preparing for a check ride requiring a twin engine aircraft. The sim saved quite a bit of money, and I was able to focus on the areas that needed the most work without having to contend with all of the inflight distractions. Going through the major emergency procedures in the sim that you're not able to safely conduct in the actual aircraft was essential as well. Check ride passed! I highly recommend using this school. read more

Jillian N.

853

1 year ago

My team recently had the pleasure of working with Essence Flight and I can't speak highly enough of their outstanding customer service. From the very first inquiry, their team was incredibly responsive, accommodating, friendly, and professional. Every interaction felt personal and efficient, with clear communication and a genuine willingness to help. I had so many questions and they never made me feel like I was a bother. It's rare to come across a team so committed to supporting their clients, and Essence Flight went above and beyond in every regard. Whether you're considering flight training or simply looking for a business that values excellence, Essence Flight sets the bar high. Highly recommended :) read more

Eric S.

2 years ago

I recently received my private pilot license from Essence Flight Academy,and I couldn't be happier with the entire experience. Training with Alex was a great experienc he's not only knowledgeable but also truly passionate about it, making every session engaging and informative. The academy's facilities are top-notch, the staff is incredibly supportive, and the atmosphere is perfect for learning. I felt well-prepared and confident at every step, thanks to their comprehensive training program and expert guidance. I highly recommend Essence Flight Academy to anyone looking to pursue a career in becoming a pilot . A big thank you to the entire team for making my dream of flying come true! read more

Mena M.

1 year ago

An Amazing Experience with Essence Flight Academy and CFI Joseph Flying with Essence Flight Academy was such a memorable experience! From the moment I arrived, everything was smooth and professional. CFI Joseph was fantastic--super knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and made the whole flight feel safe and fun. Getting to fly the Diamond plane was the best part. It's such a sleek, modern aircraft, and it handled like a dream. The views, the feel of the controls--everything was just awesome. If you've ever thought about flying or just want to try something new and exciting, definitely check out Essence Flight Academy. Ask for Joseph--you won't regret it! read more

niyousha a.

9 months ago

Amazing flight school in van nuys airport. I have been a student here for the past few months and i could not be happier. I started doing a lot of research looking to different flight schools in Los Angeles area, I compared the aircraft and the flight simulators, they have really nice airplanes. Very nicely maintained and the loon and fly amazing. The most interesting thing about this school is the full motion simulator they have, it cost a lot less to practice your maneuvers and landings, it is brand new and it's very realistic. Overall the customer service is great and their prices are very fair. Go see Soofia, she is awesome. read more

Sara A.

2 years ago

I recently had the opportunity to experience a Discovery Flight with Essence flight in Los Angeles, and I am absolutely thrilled with how it went! From the moment I arrived, the staff were welcoming and thoroughly professional, ensuring I felt comfortable and informed every step of the way. The highlight was undoubtedly the flight itself. My instructor was knowledgeable and patient, explaining everything clearly and allowing me to take control of the aircraft under their guidance. The views of Los Angeles from above were simply breathtaking, and the thrill of flying was amazing read more

Валентин Б.

7 months ago

Huge thanks to the entire team -- this was an absolutely incredible experience. Adam, the pilot, was very friendly, calm, and highly professional. He explained everything clearly and made the flight both exciting and comfortable. This was something I had never tried before, and I'm really glad I did it with this flight school. Everything felt well-organized, safe, and genuinely enjoyable. I will definitely come back again and absolutely recommend this place to anyone who wants a unique and unforgettable flying experience. Thank you, Adam, and thank you to the whole team! read more

Nicole L.

1 year ago

We had the best experience at Essence Flight Academy's Teen Program! From the moment we walked in, everyone was so welcoming and friendly. My 12-year-old felt comfortable right away and had such an amazing time. The staff really went out of their way to explain things and kept the whole experience fun and exciting. You can tell they genuinely care about making it special for the kids (and reassuring for us parents too!). My child left feeling inspired. Highly recommend this program if you're looking for something unique and unforgettable for your teen! read more

Diran T.

1 year ago

I recently received flight instruction from Alex at Essence Flight Academy in their Piper Seminole and Redbird MCX Flight Simulator. I'm a retired 787 Captain and I was very impressed with the quality of the instruction that I received. The entire staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and very professional. The Redbird simulator is an amazing training aid, and a cost effective tool for their clients. Alex is a fantastic flight instructor, and I highly recommend Essence Flight Academy to anyone seeking a top notch flight training experience. read more

Sam L.

1 year ago

I had an amazing experience with Essence Flight School! From the moment I walked in, Eli was incredibly welcoming and professional. The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, and truly passionate about flying, which made each lesson feel personalized and valuable. The planes are well-maintained, and the facilities are top-notch, creating a comfortable and safe learning environment. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your skills, Essence Flight School provides outstanding training and support. read more

Olha K.

6 months ago

I absolutely loved the flight! My instructor was Kayla, and she was wonderful. It was an exciting and unforgettable experience, we got to see the main landmarks of the city. It was my very first time flying, and I even had the chance to take the controls while flying over the ocean. They also took into account my request to fly over the ocean specifically at sunset, because it was a small personal dream of mine to watch the sunset from the air. Thank you so much for this amazing experience! read more

Jude H.

7 months ago

I came in with zero experience looking for a discovery flight because I have an interest in airline flight as a profession. My instructor was Francis and he was extremely knowledgeable and a very good teacher. Francis walked me through many basic maneuvers and made difficult looking controls feel manageable and easy he further expanded my aviation intrests and I highly recommend for all those interested in flight looking to see if they want to fly in the future. very fun. read more

Ashton J.

10 days ago

10/10. I did my multi training here and it took me less than a week to complete my flight training and be checkride ready . Although putting in the work and staying proficient was key to being successful, also my instructor Alexis also helped me throughout most of my training . From pointing out my weak areas to keeping me on top of my P's and Q's , without a doubt I recommend Essence Flight academy as a flight school of your choice if youre located anywhere . read more

Sonya K.

2 years ago

Essence Flight Academy exceeded my expectations in every way on my journey to obtaining my private pilot license. The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, guiding me through every step of the process with patience and professionalism. The facilities were top-notch, providing a comfortable and conducive environment for learning. I highly recommend Essence Flight Academy to anyone looking to pursue their dreams of becoming a pilot. read more

See more unrecommended reviews