About
ActivePILOT
Experience premier flight training at Van Nuys Airport (KVNY) with ActivePILOT.
ActivePILOT:
Meet Our History
Established on November 1, 2017, ActivePILOT was co-founded by Ari Hovnanyand and Leonardo Aristizabal, two active airline captains. Combining Ari's local aviation background in Woodland Hills and Leonardo's rigorous experience as a former Colombian Naval Officer, the two pilots sought to modernize flight training in the San Fernando Valley.
Their core vision was to bridge the gap between small-scale flight schools and professional airline standards, creating a distinct 'career-first' learning environment.
To achieve this, they strategically chose to headquarter the school at Van Nuys Airport (KVNY). As one of the world's busiest general aviation hubs, its complex airspace and parallel runways provide the perfect training ground for developing highly competent, real-world ready pilots. Since its founding, ActivePILOT has steadily evolved from a boutique flight school into a high-volume professional academy. Today, the school houses the largest fleet of Piper Warrior aircraft at Van Nuys and has successfully guided hundreds of graduates to careers with major commercial airlines.
Train at the Center
of Aviation Excellence
Strategically located at Van Nuys Airport (KVNY), you'll train at one of the world's busiest general aviation hubs. With over 220,000 annual operations, you'll gain unmatched experience in a professional environment that prepares you for real-world aviation challenges.
Featuring an 8,000-foot primary runway with full ILS and a dedicated 4,000-foot training runway, KVNY provides the perfect infrastructure to master everything from takeoffs to advanced instrument approaches in a high-density airspace.
Your High-Flight Dreams,
Made Accessible
Stop dreaming about flight and start experiencing it. We’ve redefined traditional flight training to match modern industry standards while keeping costs effective.
At ActivePILOT Flight Academy, you can transform your passion for aviation into professional pilot skills through innovation and a culture of continuous learning.
Seamlessly Integrated
Professional Facilities
Operating directly from the main Van Nuys terminal, you get immediate access to the ramp and general aviation parking. No long walks or logistical delays—just more time focusing on your flight training. See what sets our flight school in Van Nuys apart, or compare every program on our flight training in Los Angeles page.
Our state-of-the-art facilities include a fully equipped pilot shop, quiet study rooms, and a lecture hall designed for an immersive learning experience that goes beyond the cockpit.
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Guided by
Passionate Mentors
At ActivePILOT, your professional success is our top priority. You’re not just a student; you’re a future colleague. Our team of experienced flight instructors provides one-on-one guidance, ensuring your success every step of the way.
Our instructors are dedicated mentors who go beyond technical instruction to inspire confidence and adventure. Learn from our expert team who brings a wealth of expertise across all facets of aviation, from PPL to advanced ratings.
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Meet Our
Expert Instructors
At ActivePILOT, you're training with active airline captains who bring real-world experience into every lesson.
Ari Hovnanyan
Chief Pilot / Chief Operating Officer (CFI-I, ATP)
Ari grew up in Woodland Hills and attended Cal State LA where he completed his master's degree in aviation management. He earned his private pilot in 1994 and has worked as a flight instructor and also as an operations specialist at Burbank Airport. Ari now flies the Embraer E-175 as a captain for a major airline and is based in Los Angeles. He has a passion for flying and enjoys helping develop the next generation of professional pilots. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, traveling, sailing and of course flying.
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Leonardo Aristizabal
Chief Training Officer (CFI-I, ATP)
Leo was born in Cali, Colombia, and was accepted to the Colombian Naval Academy where he graduated as an officer and earned a bachelor's degree in Naval Science. After 11 years of service in the Navy, he moved to California in 2009 and served in the US military. Leo now flies the prestigious Boeing 737 as a captain for a major airline. Leo wants to combine his life experiences and knowledge to help others achieve their passion for flying. Leonardo enjoys running, hiking, going to the movies, and spending time with family and friends.
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Ryan Sharp
Lead Check Instructor (CFI-I, MEI)
Ryan is a Southern California native who is passionate about flying. Having achieved many certifications such as Commercial Pilot Multi-Engine (CMEL), Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and Complex Endorsement, Ryan excels at all aspects of pilot training. In his free time, Ryan likes to go out with friends, build engines and race cars, and do computer-aided design. Ryan has been flying for over 10 years and is ready to give you world-class pilot instruction.
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