ABOUT
Our Story

Built by Pilots,
For Pilots

For over 20 years, Apex Aviation has been producing safe, skilled, and career-ready aviators. Here's the story behind the school.

Aircraft on tarmac
Founded 2004FAA Part 141 Certified
How We Started

A School Born From a Passion for Flight

Apex Aviation was founded in 2004 by Captain James Harrington, a former regional airline captain who wanted to create the flight school he wished had existed when he was learning to fly — one where students are treated as the next generation of professional aviators, not just paying customers.

What started as a two-aircraft operation has grown into one of the region's most respected flight training academies, with a fleet of 15+ aircraft, a full-motion simulator, and a team of instructors who collectively have logged over 80,000 flight hours across every category of aviation.

Our mission has never changed: produce pilots who are not just certificate holders, but truly safe and capable aviators who are ready for whatever comes next — whether that's weekend cross-countries or an airline cockpit.

500+ Graduates
20+ Years in Operation
98% First-Attempt Pass Rate
15+ Aircraft in Fleet
What We Stand For

Our Mission & Values

Everything we do is guided by three core principles that have defined Apex Aviation since day one.

Safety First

Every decision we make — from aircraft maintenance to training syllabus design — starts with safety. We train pilots to exercise sound judgment, not just follow checklists. Our culture of safety is why our graduates have an exceptional safety record.

Expert Instruction

We hire only highly experienced instructors with real-world aviation backgrounds — not newly certificated CFIs looking for a quick hour-building job. Every instructor at Apex has at least 1,500 hours and brings genuine expertise to every lesson.

Your Goals, Our Mission

Every student is different. Whether you want to fly recreationally on weekends or pursue a career at a major airline, we tailor your training path, schedule, and pace to your personal goals. Your success is our success.

Our Team

Meet Your Instructors

Our instructors bring real-world flying experience into every lesson. You won't find hour-builders here — only dedicated professionals committed to your progress.

Capt. James Harrington

Capt. James Harrington

Founder & Chief Flight Instructor

James founded Apex Aviation in 2004 after a 15-year career flying regional jets. With over 12,000 flight hours and 18 years of full-time instructing experience, he brings unmatched depth to every student interaction. James holds ATP, CFII, MEI, and AGI certificates and is a designated FAA Safety Team Representative.

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Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen

Instrument & IFR Specialist

Sarah is currently a First Officer at a regional airline and instructs part-time because she genuinely loves teaching. With 4,200 hours and a specialty in glass-cockpit avionics and IFR procedures, she is one of the most sought-after instrument instructors in the region. Her students consistently pass their IFR checkrides on the first attempt.

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Marcus Webb

Marcus Webb

Commercial & Multi-Engine Lead

Marcus is a commercial pilot and charter captain with 3,800 hours across single and multi-engine aircraft. He specializes in accelerated commercial programs and multi-engine training, and has helped dozens of students reach the 1,500-hour ATP minimums. His practical, career-focused approach resonates with students who have professional goals.

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Credentials

Certifications & Affiliations

Apex Aviation holds the certifications and memberships that matter to the aviation community.

FAA Part 141Approved Flight School
AOPA MemberAircraft Owners & Pilots Association
FAA Safety TeamFAAST Representative
NAFI MemberNational Assoc. of Flight Instructors
VA ApprovedGI Bill Flight Training
Join the Family

Ready to Train with the Best?

Come tour our facility, meet the team, and take your first flight — all for just $199.

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