Acadian Aviation Pilot Training Center, Lafayette

Though he wanted to fly ever since he was a young boy, life kept coming between Raja Gharazeddine and his dream. Finally, at age 30, he managed to earn his private-pilot’s license, despite juggling extra jobs and overtime hours. Today, the Gold Seal–certified flight instructor channels his lifelong love of aviation to guide students toward certifications such as recreational-pilot licenses, private-pilot licenses, and instrument ratings.

He and his team of dedicated instructors work with pupils on individual timelines, using comprehensive syllabi and a wealth of flight sources to carefully track every student's progress. Acadian Aviation’s resources also include a fleet of five Piper aircraft, suited for training and skill development before flyers operate larger aircraft. When not soaring skyward, Raja invites his students to open houses where aviators in all stages of training discuss aspects of flying such as tips for racing against pelicans.