New Haven Aviation Center is a Connecticut flight school, serving New Haven, East Haven, West Haven, Milford, Branford, Guilford and the Shore line! After hearing that Tweed New Haven Airport was without a training school for the past few years and that there were unhappy individuals looking for a family-friendly and professional flight training facility locally, we have brought our well-received courses among the local aviation community to this location.
We also have a sister school in Meriden, so we are convenient to you, and we can work with your available schedule! And because we are a Part 61 FAA school, we are more flexible and less structured; ideal if you are balancing training with work or family (or both).
We prioritize instructor quality, safety culture, and aircraft availability, all of which means you will have a great time, and get great training (including Garmin G430 GPS).

A little bit about the financials! We will not ask you to pay for your full tuition in advance. We prefer "pay-as-you-go" or small "block time" deposits, this way you are always in charge of your time and your commitments. We have no hidden fees, like landing or membership dues, and our flight rates always include fuel.

We are proud that our first-try pass rate for FAA checkrides is 89%.

The best place to start the process of getting your pilots license is with an discovery flight with one of our instructors.
We also provide:

• Introductory Flight
• Aircraft Rentals
• Gift Certificates
• GPS Training
• Advanced Training/Ratings

Meet the Team

• Maxwell Chubet

  Lead Flight Instructor (CFI)
  Maxwell is a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) with a great passion for helping students achieve their pilot certifications. He began his training at Auburn University, where he developed a strong foundation in aviation.
  Maxwell's enthusiasm for teaching and dedication to his students' success is evident in his engaging and supportive instructional style. He finds immense satisfaction in guiding aspiring pilots through their training journey.
  In his free time, Maxwell enjoys hanging out with friends and traveling.

• Lila Pettes

  Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, MEI)
  Lila Pettes discovered her passion for aviation the moment she took her first intro flight at Meriden Aviation Center—and she’s been soaring ever since. As a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Instrument Instructor (CFII), and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI).
  Lila is deeply committed to helping each student succeed by tailoring her instruction to their unique learning style and goals. Her philosophy is simple: no two students are the same, and every pilot deserves personalized, high-quality training.
  Outside the cockpit, Lila enjoys staying active with Pilates and skiing, spending quality time with her family, and gardening.

• Ben Neubig

  Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
  Ben is a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) with over 1,000 hours of flight experience. Having trained at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Ben is well-versed in the Part 141 school structure and brings a strong academic foundation to his instruction.
  Ben has a unique ability to connect with his students on a personal level, creating a positive and effective learning environment that fosters both confidence and skill. His approachable teaching style makes him a valuable mentor to aspiring pilots.
  In his free time, Ben enjoys playing the guitar and engaging with his community through volunteer work at his local firehouse.

• Nicholas Goncalves

  Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, CE, MEI)
  Nicholas recently completed his training at ATP Flight School and holds CFI, CFII, Commercial, and Multi-Engine certificates, along with just over 300 hours of total time. He has always been passionate about aviation, but more importantly, he enjoys helping others learn.
  He loves making a real impact on students and helping them grow into safe, confident pilots.