Meet the Team
The team at Aviation Academy of Louisiana is made up of hand-selected commercial pilots, experienced flight instructors (CFI/CFII), licensed aircraft mechanics, and dedicated customer service representatives—all committed to providing top-tier flight training and support.
With a focus on safety, professionalism, and personalized instruction, every member plays a key role in ensuring your success, whether you're training in helicopters or airplanes, purchasing an aircraft, or maintaining your fleet.
Manager, ATP/CFI/CFI-I
Craig Simon
Assistant Manager, Commercial Airplane CFI, MEI
Kale LeBlanc
Assistant Manager, Commercial Airplane CFI, MEI
Chris Babin
Commercial Helicopter CFI, CFI-I
Carson Noriega
Craig has 2 decades of experience in aviation. ATP, CFI and CFI-I (certified flight instructor instrument) in helicopters. Commercially rated in single & multi engine airplanes, as well as CFI and CFI-I. He is also type rated in the Phenom 100 jet. He is honored to be certified by the FAA as a Gold Seal Instructor. McNeese State University has also awarded him a bachelors degree.
Kale is a lifelong aviation enthusiast with over 16 years of experience managing high-paced operations in the oilfield industry. At Aviation Academy of Louisiana, he oversees daily operations—from strategy sessions with new students and financing options to spearheading key regulatory certification upgrades that keep our training at the forefront of industry standards. His discipline and commitment are integral to ensuring our academy runs smoothly every day.
Chris is a dedicated pilot and flight instructor at Aviation Academy of Louisiana, inspired by his grandfather, a WWII US Marine Corps fighter pilot. A native of the Acadiana area and a USMC veteran, Chris holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. He is an instrument-rated commercial airplane pilot with extensive experience in business operations and company management. Recently honored with Acadiana’s Top 20 Under 40 Leadership Award, Chris is known for his loyalty, honesty, and compassion.
Carson Noriega is one of our top Commercial Helicopter Certified Flight Instructors and Instrument Instructors at Aviation Academy of Louisiana. Renowned for his precision and safety-first approach, Carson inspires aspiring pilots with his exceptional teaching skills. His professionalism and commitment to excellence ensure every student receives top-quality training and gains hands-on experience and confidence in the cockpit.
Commercial Airplane CFI, CFI-I, MEI
Nick Manning
Commercial Airplane CFI, CFI-I, MEI
Andrew Broussard
Commercial Airplane CFI, CFI-I, MEI
Yehuda Lelah
Commercial Airplane CFI, CFI-I, MEI
Andrew Ripple
Nick Manning is a commercially rated Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFI-I), and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI), with a type rating in the Phenom 100 jet. Formerly a paramedic featured on the TV show Nightwatch, Nick brings a diverse skill set and a unique perspective to flight training. Now also an actor and a passionate advocate for dog rescue, he infuses his teaching with creativity, empathy, and real-world experience. Nick's multifaceted background not only enriches his instruction but also inspires the next generation of pilots.
Andrew is a highly skilled airplane flight instructor, holding ratings as a CFI, CFI-I, and MEI. A graduate of the University of Louisiana Lafayette with a bachelor’s degree in business, he is also type rated in the Phenom 100 jet. Originally from Opelousas and recently married, Andrew enjoys hiking, boating, and traveling with his wife. His technical expertise and passion for adventure inspire students at Aviation Academy of Louisiana to reach new heights in their aviation careers.
Yehuda Lelah, a Los Angeles native, discovered his passion for aviation after studying computer engineering at Syracuse University. Returning to LA, he pursued his dream of flying and earned all his pilot ratings. Yehuda’s journey into aviation was shaped by the profound impact his own instructors had on him, and he strives to leave the same lasting impression on his students.
With a strong love for aviation and a commitment to inspiring the next generation of pilots, Yehuda is excited to share his knowledge and passion with those eager to take flight.
Andrew has always been passionate about aviation for as long as he can remember. Starting at a young age, he took his discovery flight at 16 years old and has since received his commercial and instructor certificates for both single and multi engine airplanes. With experience flying all across the Gulf and up the East Coast, Andrew offers great perspective to those looking to adventure out. As a proud LSU graduate, he is excited for the opportunity to spend more time in South Louisiana and to help train the newest generation of pilots.
Commercial Helicopter CFI
Derek Gaspard
Commercial Airplane CFI, Commercial Helicopter Pilot
John Wehrkamp
Commercial Helicopter CFI, CFI-I
Gianluca Mayer
Commercial Airplane CFI, CFI-I, MEI
Cade Bailey
Derek is an aviation enthusiast from Lafayette, LA, who has been passionate about aviation for over a decade. With six years of flying experience, he has gained expertise with multiple aircraft, including Bell, MD, and Robinson Helicopters. Derek is also the proud owner of Parish Pix, a Real Estate media business serving Lafayette and the surrounding areas. Beyond his professional pursuits, Derek enjoys the outdoors, creating video and photography content, playing basketball, and spending quality time with his wife Mikayla and their Goldendoodle, Krewe.
John is a first-generation pilot from Dayton, Ohio. His passion for aviation began early in his life, being from the birthplace of aviation. John attended Ohio University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts. He was also commissioned as an Army Officer. His aviation career began after university when he attended Fort Novosel as an Army Aviator. He graduated from Army Flight School as an AH-64 Apache pilot and currently serves in the Texas National Guard. Apart from his professional aviation pursuits, John enjoys playing tennis, traveling, and working out.
Gianluca grew up in Switzerland, where he flew for more than 150 hours on the R22 and R44 and finished all the EASA ATPL Exams, before he decided to take his career to the United States. For the first five months he lived in Hawaii to complete his FAA licenses, from Commercial all the way to CFI-I. Gianluca loves teaching, where he can show his passion for aviation to other Aviation Academy students.
Cade Bailey is a first-generation pilot from Thibodaux, Louisiana, proudly serving as a Commercial Pilot Instructor at Aviation Academy of Louisiana. Demonstrating remarkable dedication and passion, Cade began his aviation training with unwavering commitment and successfully earned his Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), CFI-Instrument (CFI-I), and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) certifications within just one year. Driven by a desire to give back to the aviation community, Cade is passionate about training the next generation of pilots, sharing his expertise, and inspiring aspiring aviators to achieve their dreams in the skies.
Commercial Airplane CFI, Commercial Helicopter CFI
Hunter David
Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic with Inspection Authority
Matt Prejean
Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic
Aaron Mouton
Mechanic Assistant
Josue Lima
Hunter David is a Commercial Airplane and Helicopter Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) at Aviation Academy of Louisiana. A native of the Acadiana area and a lifelong aviation enthusiast, Hunter brings a passion for flying and comprehensive expertise to his teaching. With dual CFI certifications, he provides top-quality training for both airplane and helicopter pilots. Known for his patient and supportive approach, Hunter is dedicated to helping students achieve their aviation dreams.
Matt is a licensed Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) mechanic with Inspection Authority and was the very first employee at Aviation Academy of Louisiana. His extensive experience and meticulous attention to detail ensure that every aircraft is maintained to the highest standards. Matt’s unwavering commitment to safety and quality truly exemplifies our core value: maintenance is our top priority. As our most experienced mechanic, he plays a crucial role in keeping our fleet operating safely and efficiently.
Aaron is a dedicated aviation maintenance professional who has earned his Airframe certification while actively pursuing his Powerplant certifications. With an unwavering attention to detail and a strong commitment to safety, Aaron focuses on delivering top-quality maintenance that ensures every flight is both secure and enjoyable. His proactive approach and in-depth understanding of aircraft systems help maintain our fleet at peak performance, contributing to a reliable and fun flying experience for all.
Josue Lima, born and raised in New Iberia, Louisiana, is currently an A&P apprentice. His passion for aviation took flight after a discovery flight at Aviation Academy of Louisiana, sparking his journey toward obtaining both his Private Pilot’s License and A&P certification. Eager to deepen his understanding of aircraft systems, technology, and navigation, Josue is dedicated to growing in the field. When he’s not focused on aviation, he enjoys playing basketball and going to the gym with friends.
Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic with Inspection Authority
Matt Prejean
Customer Service Representative
Miranda Ronsonet
Mechanic Helper
Aaron Mouton
Customer Service Representative
Tori Van de Klundert
Mechanic Helper
Josue Lima
Aviation Academy Intern
Jacob Mullins
Matt is a licensed A&P (Airframe & Power Plant) mechanic with Inspection Authority. He was the 1st employee of Aviation Academy of Louisiana which goes to show, MAINTENANCE IS OUR TOP PRIORITY!
Miranda is a dedicated customer service representative at Aviation Academy of Louisiana. Originally from Franklin, LA, she moved to New Iberia during high school and graduated from NISH in 2001. Engaged to Jay and a proud soccer mom to two boys (plus their dog, Oreo), Miranda enjoys baking, beach days with her family, and is a big fan of the Blue Angels. Her warm personality and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable part of our team.
Aaron is a recent SLCC aviation maintenance technician graduate, who has earned his Airframe certification while pursuing Powerplant certifications. With a keen eye for attention to detail his main goal is to provide the highest quality maintenance to ensure a safe and fun flying experience.
Tori is a dedicated customer service representative at Aviation Academy of Louisiana. Originally from Maurice, she is a 2008 North Vermilion graduate and holds an associate degree in Business Management while pursuing her bachelor's at ULL. With experience managing a veterinary clinic, Tori brings a unique blend of business insight and genuine care to her role. Married with three kids and two dogs, she loves animals—actively involved in rescue efforts and dock dog competitions with her family. Tori’s focus, dedication, and positive energy make her a reliable and valued member of our team.
Josue Lima, born and raised in New Iberia, Louisiana, is currently an A&P apprentice. His passion for aviation took flight after a discovery flight at Aviation Academy of Louisiana, sparking his journey toward obtaining both his Private Pilot’s License and A&P certification. Eager to deepen his understanding of aircraft systems, technology, and navigation, Josue is dedicated to growing in the field. When he’s not focused on aviation, he enjoys playing basketball and going to the gym with friends.
Jacob is an Aviation Academy Intern based in New Iberia and a proud graduate of Acadiana Christian School. Striving to become an A&P Apprentice, he brings enthusiasm and a fresh perspective to our team. Outside of aviation, Jacob enjoys gaming, reading, and even practicing knife throwing. His diverse interests and commitment to learning make him a valuable asset at Aviation Academy of Louisiana.
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Aviation Academy of Louisiana
705 Hangar Dr
New Iberia, LA 70560
337-591-5680
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