Have you ever wanted to learn to fly? Or have the chance to see scenic views of Saratoga, Glens Falls and Lake George from the sky? LeafAir can take you on an adventure to do both!
LeafAir provides quality flight instruction while exposing its passengers to the beautiful vista of these three areas. The uninhibited views, steady flight platform and a range of altitudes can provide passengers with a variety of viewing opportunities.
LeafAir is also capable of providing aerial photography with an aircraft that allows you to get a clear shot through a open window. They can take you to your destination and fly at a large range of altitudes to help you get your perfect shot.
They offer scenic flights year round at any time of day: sunrise, sunset and any time in between!
Do you have a special event coming up? LeafAir offers transportation to and from the airport in their original HI Humvee. As a birthday, anniversary or any other special event, experience all of what LeafAir has to offer!
We sat down with owner, Jim Barrett and he answered our 10 questions about LeafAir:
How did you get in to the aviation business?
I was exposed to aviation at 4 years old as a result of my father working for several airlines as a manager. Back then he could put me in the cockpit and I would ride up front with the pilots. I got my private pilots license when I was 17 years old.
What kind of airplanes does LeafAir fly? Can you tell us a little about them?
Leaf Air uses the Cessna 172 aircraft for flight training and scenic flights. They are a 4 place aircraft, with a proven safety record. They are the most popular aircraft produced. The C 172 is an excellent airplane for learning to fly.
When did you take your first flight, and what was your reaction?
My first flight was at 4 years old. My first solo flight at 16 years old. You never forget your first solo flight being alone in an airplane with your instructor not sitting next to you. It is a great, exciting feeling coupled with the increased heart rate.
What is your favorite part of flying?
My favorite part of flying is being in control of the plane coupled with the spectacular views this area provides during all 4 seasons. Plus every flight is different than the one before because of different winds – weather – temperature – time of day- etc.
What was your most memorable flight?
I have had too many memorable flights to pick just one.
Have you had any marriage proposals on your flights?
I have had marriage proposal on flights. We hide the roses and ring in the back and get them out at just the right moment.
What would you say to someone who is afraid of flying?
If you understand the reasons planes can fly, you will lose your fear of flying. Planes are designed to fly. They like to fly and are made incredibly strong
What is your favorite part of being in this business?
I like training a student to fly and seeing the thrill of his or hers first solo flight. It is a moment you never forget and last a lifetime. It is rewarding watching the progress of a student that stays with the program and succeeds in earning their license to fly.
What is it like to fly over the Lake George, Saratoga and Glens Falls region?
The Lake George -Glens Falls -Saratoga region is not only beautiful with the abundance of mountains and water ways we have but the history going back to our revolution can be envisioned as you fly over Lake George – the Hudson River- Ticonderoga- Saratoga. The whole region is interesting and full of history and you can see the way navigation was done back in the old days. Lakes to rivers to valleys- etc.all the way to NYC.
Do you have any advice for aspiring pilots?
If you want to become a pilot, you will need to invest your time and mind to an endeavor, that will add other benefits to your life, on top of just being able to fly an airplane.
