Welcome to Pacific Flight Academy's "In The News" page! Here, we highlight media coverage, partnerships, and features that showcase our flight training programs, student successes, and contributions to aviation in Hawaii. Check back often for updates as we continue to grow and make headlines.
If you have media inquiries or want to feature Pacific Flight Academy, contact us at fly@pacificflightacademy.com.
PFA “In The News”
"The Pilot Life" Podcast
Date: August 3, 2025 (Episode 1) and August 22, 2025 (Episode 2)
Summary: PFA Co-Founder Bobby Nikkhoo joined host Brendan O'Donnell for a two-part series on "The Pilot Life." The first episode dives into Bobby's journey from finance to aviation, starting PFA during COVID, the challenges of flying in Hawaii, and our partnership with Horizon Air. The second episode includes a tour of our facility, a look at our Sling NGT aircraft, and an exciting flight around Oahu, showcasing landmarks like Diamond Head, North Shore, and Pearl Harbor.
Links:
PFA and Alaska Air Group Partnership
"Hawai‘i’s First Full-Circle Commercial Pilot Development Program Expands Opportunities For Local Students"
Date: February 2025
Summary: Horizon Air (a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group, including Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines) launched Hawaii's first comprehensive pilot development program in partnership with Pacific Flight Academy. Local students can train in Hawaii, receive a $12,500 stipend, mentorship, and a conditional job offer at Horizon Air. The announcement event at our Honolulu facility featured Hawaiian Airlines pilots, Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, and student testimonials, emphasizing opportunities for homegrown talent in aviation.
Fly Me To The Fun: Island Hopping Adventure with PFA
Date: June 2024
Summary: Aviation influencers from "Fly Me To The Fun" joined Pacific Flight Academy for an unforgettable island-hopping journey across Hawaii. They checked out with our expert CFIs at HNL and explored the islands, capturing the thrill of general aviation in paradise. From Oahu’s vibrant skies to stunning overwater routes, their videos showcase PFA’s top-tier training and Hawaii’s unique flying challenges.
Video 1: Checkout and First Flights – See the hands-on checkout process and initial flights.
Video 2: Island Hopping Highlights – Epic multi-island adventures and flying tips.
This feature highlights PFA’s role in delivering safe, exhilarating flight experiences. Follow "Fly Me To The Fun" for more aviation inspiration!
AOPA Pilot Magazine: "Simply Stunning - Flying the Islands with Oahu’s Pacific Flight Academy"
Date: August 2023
Summary: This in-depth feature by AOPA explores the unique flying experiences in Hawaii with Pacific Flight Academy. It covers our founding story during the pandemic, our diverse fleet (including Cessna 172s, Vashon Rangers, and Van’s RV-12s), the challenges of island aviation, and our plans for the future. Stunning photography highlights Oahu's beauty from the air, including Diamond Head, Jurassic Valley, and Pearl Harbor.
