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Flying has always been a part of my life. Growing up in Argentina, my family owned a crop dusting business which operated C-188 Agwagons and Agtracks, as well as converted Cessna-182s and PA-11s. My childhood was filled with fond memories of flying imaginary dogfights in that old Piper Cub, though I could not yet look over the dash board! I started flight training in 1996 while on summer break from college. After earning my Bachelors degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from UC Berkeley, I gained valuable experience working as project manager in biotechnology, medical consulting, and academic research projects. Finally I decided that life was too short, and the rest is history. In two years I earned the Instrument Rating, Commercial license, and became a CFI; all at West Valley Flying Club. In 2007 I accepted a First Officer position flying the Canadair Regional Jet for United Express and Delta Connection. Although I loved flying the jet and being "the pilot up front" responsible for all those people in the back, I was really not happy with the lifestyle, and lack of control over my own schedule and life.
After a year at the airline, I am now back as a full-time Flight Instructor, working at West Valley Flying Club in the San Carlos and Palo Alto Airport. I love to learn and teach, and there is nothing better than waking up each morning knowing that I am helping others fulfill their dreams of flight. This I call real inspiration. |
Teaches at: PAO SQL
Accepting new students? Yes
Email: gabe@flybayarea.com
Website: www.flybayarea.com
Hourly instruction rate: $ 60 
Special: Introductory Flight Lesson for $195!
Ratings held: I hold a Commercial Pilot License with Multiengine and Instrument Ratings. Additionally I have an SIC Type Rating in the CL65 (Canadair Regional Jet). I am a FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII/MEI) qualified to teach Private Pilot, Commercial, Instrument, ATP, and CFI students in both Single and Multi-Engine Land Airplanes.
May instruct in these aircraft types: *Checkpilot
C-152,
C-172,
C-172RG,
C-172SG1000,
C-172SP,
C-182,
C-182T-G1000,
DA-42,
PA28-161,
PA28-181,
T34-B,
G1000 Frasca Simulator,
AST200 and AST300 Simulator,
ELITE PCATD Simulator
Do you tend to favor PAO, SQL, HWD or E16, and how might it affect a student's ability to schedule time?
I fly primarily out of San Carlos and Palo Alto. I can commute easily to either location. Please allow 30 minutes between scheduled flights at different airports.
How would you describe your availability in general?
I am available 7 days a week, from 7am to 7pm. Typically, our lessons will run 3 hrs, and I have my students schedule their preferred days and slots a month in advance. When scheduling please select one of the following times:
7:00am to 10:00am
10:00am to 1:00pm
1:00pm to 4:00pm
4:00pm to 7:00pm
What method of ground school do you prefer and how does it relate to your syllabus?
Everyone learns differently. If time allows, I would recommend attending a formal ground school offered by the club. If you don't have time for ground school or study better on your own, I recommend the Pilot DVD Ground School available from MS Aviation.
I use the ASA Syllabus for Private Pilots and the Instrument Rating. I recommend you get a copy of the Airplane Flying Handbook and the Pilot Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. Here's a link to my website where you can download the FREE PDF version of the FAA Handbooks.
What is your favorite aircraft to instruct in?
I love flying any airplane, and the great thing about the club is that we have so many different makes and models to choose from! That being said, every once in a while I get to fly the T34 and that's a real kick!. I hope to teach in tailwheel aircraft someday.
What are your aircraft recommendations for a new student?
If you are new to flying, I would recommend a C152 (inexpensive), a C172 (old or new), or a Piper Warrior or Archer. These are all great training airplanes.
What percentage of your students pass their checkride on the first try?
100%
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