Business Details
Trusted Flight Training & Helicopter Sales in Riverside, CA
California Aviation Services has been a trusted leader in aviation training and helicopter sales for over 30 years. Founded by CEO Leo Bell and co-owned with Raquel Bell, our family-operated business combines decades of real-world flight experience with FAA-approved Part 141 and Part 61 training programs. Our team of professional instructors, many with backgrounds in law enforcement, military, and commercial aviation, delivers personalized flight training tailored to individual goals, from private pilot licenses to advanced commercial ratings. With a dedicated maintenance department led by Raquels brothers, Daniel and Richard Perez, we ensure every aircraft meets rigorous safety standards.We pride ourselves on offering cost-effective, efficient training solutions while maintaining a fleet of well-maintained helicopters and airplanes for sale, including Robinson, Bell, and Cessna models. Our commitment to excellence extends to international clients through aircraft import/export services and FAA-certified assembly projects. Located at Riverside Municipal Airport, we serve aspiring pilots and aviation professionals across Southern California and beyond.
Services
Flight Training
Helicopter Sales
Aircraft Maintenance
Pilot Licensing
Demo Flights
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of FAA-approved flight training expertise
- Professional instructors with military, law enforcement, and commercial backgrounds
- Personalized training programs tailored to individual goals
- Dedicated maintenance team ensuring aircraft safety and reliability
- Extensive helicopter sales and international import/export experience
Associations and certifications
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 141
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 61
What people say
Real-world training
Experienced instructors
Personalized programs
Well-maintained fleet
Career-focused approach
Services
Flight Training
We offer FAA-approved Part 141 and Part 61 flight training programs for private, instrument, and commercial pilot licenses. Our curriculum combines ground school sessions with hands-on flight experience using Cessna 172s and Robinson R22 helicopters. Students benefit from personalized training plans tailored to their career goals and proficiency levels.
Helicopter Sales
Our helicopter sales division specializes in new and pre-owned Robinson, Bell, and Leonardo models. We provide FAA-certified assembly for imported aircraft and handle international export logistics. Current inventory includes 2020 Bell 407 GXi and 2018 AW119 MKII models, with financing and delivery support for domestic and global clients.
Aircraft Maintenance
California Aviation Services maintains a dedicated maintenance department led by experienced technicians Daniel and Richard Perez. We perform overhauls, inspections, and repairs for Robinson R22/R44 models and other helicopters, ensuring compliance with FAA safety standards and optimal aircraft performance.
Pilot Licensing
We guide students through FAA practical tests for private, instrument, and commercial pilot licenses. Our programs include ground instruction, dual flight hours, and solo training, with costs ranging from $7,580 for airplane licenses to $51,042 for helicopter commercial ratings, depending on required flight time.
Demo Flights
Experience aviation firsthand with 30-minute demo flights in Cessna 172 ($98) or Robinson R22 ($158). These introductory sessions provide first-time flyers with hands-on controls experience and an overview of our training programs, conducted by certified instructors at Riverside Municipal Airport.
People
Leo Bell
CEO & Chief Flight Instructor
Leo Bell founded California Aviation Services in 1994 after a 20-year aviation career including roles as a deputy sheriff, FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, and Allegiant Airlines captain. He oversees flight operations and training programs with over 30 years of industry expertise.
Raquel Bell
Co-Owner & Finance Director
Raquel Bell co-owns the business with Leo and manages financial operations. She coordinates aircraft maintenance teams and office administration, leveraging her business management background to ensure operational efficiency since joining full-time in 1995.
Questions
What flight training programs do you offer?
We provide FAA-approved Part 141 and Part 61 programs for private, instrument, and commercial pilot licenses using airplanes and helicopters.
Do you sell helicopters internationally?
Yes, we handle helicopter imports/exports globally, including FAA certification for assembled aircraft and logistics support for international clients.
How much does pilot training cost?
Private licenses start at $7,580 (airplane) and $11,751 (helicopter). Commercial programs range from $44,046 to $51,042 depending on aircraft type.
Are financing options available?
We offer financing for aircraft purchases and training programs – contact our office for specific terms and eligibility requirements.
What maintenance services do you provide?
Our team performs helicopter overhauls, inspections, and repairs for Robinson models, ensuring FAA compliance and aircraft safety standards.
