At Santa Monica Flyers, we keep our aircraft fleet in peak condition for safety, reliability, and a seamless flying experience.
Whether you’re taking a Discovery Flight or logging hours toward your license, our modern, fuel-efficient fleet ensures every takeoff is smooth, every landing safe, and every flight unforgettable.
Discover the future of aviation with our electric aircraft fleet, offering a clean and quiet flying experience. Designed for efficiency and ease, these eco-friendly planes are perfect for both new and experienced pilots. With expert instruction and flexible training options, you’ll soar through the skies while minimizing your environmental impact.
Straight from the future, the Velis Electro is the most eco-friendly way to learn to fly. As the world’s first type-certified, fully electric aircraft, it’s approved for pilot training in over 30 countries. With an intuitive powertrain, advanced ergonomics, and Pipistrel’s 15+ years of electric flight expertise, the Velis Electro offers a smooth, safe, and sustainable training experience.
Straight from the future, the Velis Electro is the most eco-friendly way to learn to fly. As the world’s first type-certified, fully electric aircraft, it’s approved for pilot training in over 30 countries. With an intuitive powertrain, advanced ergonomics, and Pipistrel’s 15+ years of electric flight expertise, the Velis Electro offers a smooth, safe, and sustainable training experience.
If you want to experience the thrill of flying without the time commitment of full pilot training, Santa Monica Flyers offers the perfect solution. Our light sport aircraft fleet are easy to fly, eco-friendly, and ideal for beginners. With expert instructors and comprehensive training courses, you’ll be in the air faster than you ever imagined!
The SportCruiser is a double-seat, all-metal aircraft, arranged as a low-wing monoplane with cantilevered wings and conventional empennage. The aircraft has a tricycle fixed landing gear of nose type. The SportCruiser has been approved for operation in the USA and other countries in the LSA category according to the FAA Accepted ASTM Consensus Standards.
The SportCruiser is a double-seat, all-metal aircraft, arranged as a low-wing monoplane with cantilevered wings and conventional empennage. The aircraft has a tricycle fixed landing gear of nose type. The SportCruiser has been approved for operation in the USA and other countries in the LSA category according to the FAA Accepted ASTM Consensus Standards.
The SportCruiser is a double-seat, all-metal aircraft, arranged as a low-wing monoplane with cantilevered wings and conventional empennage. The aircraft has a tricycle fixed landing gear of nose type. The SportCruiser has been approved for operation in the USA and other countries in the LSA category according to the FAA Accepted ASTM Consensus Standards.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) created the sport aircraft category in 2004 to make it easier for people to get their pilot license and sport aircraft and light sport sea. A light sport aircraft, or LSA, is a small, single-engine plane designed for recreational flying. They are typically made from composite materials and have a lighter maximum takeoff weight.
An aircraft must meet specific requirements to be classified as light sport. A light sport aircraft must meet the following:
The SportCruiser and the Velis Electro are forgiving airplanes and are perfect for someone new to flying or with limited flight time.
The rental process is simple. You must complete the required paperwork, including a renter’s agreement and a credit card authorization form. You will also need to provide your driver’s license and proof of aircraft rental insurance.
After completing the paperwork, you can schedule a checkout with a CFI from our school. The front desk can happily arrange scheduling your checkout.
To be eligible to rent our SportCruisers or the Velis Electro, you must have at least a sport pilot certificate and complete the checkout which requires and consists of:
After successfully completing a checkout with a CFI, we will upload your checkout form to your account and give you access to rent the SportCruiser / Velis Electro on your own. If need be, a flight review endorsement can be provided if requirements are met. If 3 months pass without you renting an aircraft with us (whether on your own or with an instructor), an additional brief checkout flight with a CFI will be needed to ensure you are still current in the airplane.
A pilot must have at least a sport pilot certificate to operate a light sport aircraft. This license differs from a private pilot license and only allows you to fly light sport aircraft. To obtain a sport pilot license, you must:
The rental rate at Santa Monica Flyers is $169 per hour (wet) for the SportCruiser and $179/hr for the Velis Electro.
The hourly rate for a light sport aircraft rental is the same for both residents and non-residents of California. There is no sales tax on light sport aircraft rentals in California.
Aside for the Velis, many sport pilots choose to fly nearby KSMO. This includes, but is not limited to, the following airports:
If you’re looking for an exciting way to get into the air without spending hours in flight training, light sport aircraft rentals at Santa Monica Flyers are a great option! Our SportCruiser is easy to fly, and our instructors offer comprehensive light sport airplane training courses that is perfect for beginners!
Contact the experienced team at Santa Monica Flyers today by calling (310) 800-8050
With a Private Pilot Certificate, you can fly alone or with friends and family and share in the aircraft rental expense. Certain weather minimums must be met if you do not have an instrument rating
Your Private Pilot training will involve flight and ground instruction. You can lessen the hours spent doing ground training with your instructor by studying the material at home. Remember, ground training is not required, but you will need it to pass your written and oral exams
The Cessna is widely regarded as one of the most popular training aircraft in the world. Renting a Cessna is the perfect way to elevate your piloting skills. With a balance of power, reliability, and comfort, Cessna aircraft offer a smooth, enjoyable flying experience. Featuring a dependable Lycoming engine and a spacious cockpit, they remain a classic, budget-friendly choice—ideal for both training and leisure flights.
At Santa Monica Flyers, the Cessna is one of our favorite aircraft for flight training. With its proven reliability and ease of operation, it offers a fantastic learning experience. We’re confident that you’ll enjoy flying this classic as much as we do, whether you’re just starting or advancing your skills.
The Cessna 172RG Cutlass is a high-performance version of the iconic 172, offering pilots enhanced capabilities with retractable landing gear and a more powerful engine. The 172RG retains familiar traits, while delivering improved speed, climb rates, and fuel efficiency. Retractable gear not only reduces drag for better performance but also introduces a level of complexity for pilots seeking an advanced training experience. Ideal for those pursuing complex endorsements, the 172RG combines the best of both worlds—classic Cessna durability and high-performance innovation.
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the world’s most-produced aircraft, renowned for its reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Introduced in 1956, this four-seat, single-engine, high-wing aircraft has remained a favorite among pilots for decades. Originally derived from the Cessna 170, the 172 features tricycle landing gear for easier handling. While the “Skyhawk” name started as a trim package, it soon became synonymous with the standard model. With over 44,000 units built, the Cessna 172 continues to set the standard for general aviation and remains in production today.
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the world’s most-produced aircraft, renowned for its reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Introduced in 1956, this four-seat, single-engine, high-wing aircraft has remained a favorite among pilots for decades. Originally derived from the Cessna 170, the 172 features tricycle landing gear for easier handling. While the “Skyhawk” name started as a trim package, it soon became synonymous with the standard model. With over 44,000 units built, the Cessna 172 continues to set the standard for general aviation and remains in production today.
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the world’s most-produced aircraft, renowned for its reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Introduced in 1956, this four-seat, single-engine, high-wing aircraft has remained a favorite among pilots for decades. Originally derived from the Cessna 170, the 172 features tricycle landing gear for easier handling. While the “Skyhawk” name started as a trim package, it soon became synonymous with the standard model. With over 44,000 units built, the Cessna 172 continues to set the standard for general aviation and remains in production today.
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the world’s most-produced aircraft, renowned for its reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Introduced in 1956, this four-seat, single-engine, high-wing aircraft has remained a favorite among pilots for decades. Originally derived from the Cessna 170, the 172 features tricycle landing gear for easier handling. While the “Skyhawk” name started as a trim package, it soon became synonymous with the standard model. With over 44,000 units built, the Cessna 172 continues to set the standard for general aviation and remains in production today.
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the world’s most-produced aircraft, renowned for its reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Introduced in 1956, this four-seat, single-engine, high-wing aircraft has remained a favorite among pilots for decades. Originally derived from the Cessna 170, the 172 features tricycle landing gear for easier handling. While the “Skyhawk” name started as a trim package, it soon became synonymous with the standard model. With over 44,000 units built, the Cessna 172 continues to set the standard for general aviation and remains in production today.
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the world’s most-produced aircraft, renowned for its reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Introduced in 1956, this four-seat, single-engine, high-wing aircraft has remained a favorite among pilots for decades. Originally derived from the Cessna 170, the 172 features tricycle landing gear for easier handling. While the “Skyhawk” name started as a trim package, it soon became synonymous with the standard model. With over 44,000 units built, the Cessna 172 continues to set the standard for general aviation and remains in production today.
Renting a Cessna from Santa Monica Flyers is a great way to get your flying fix at the best rate without buying your own plane. Cessna Skyhawks start at $195/hour wet. “Wet” means the cost of fuel is included in the rate.
You can also rent Cessnas for weekend getaways or longer trips with approval from management. Prices vary depending on the duration and destination of your journey.
Cessna 172S is approved for international flights under the Cessna Aircraft Company’s STC SA00420SW.
It’s easy to rent Cessnas from Santa Monica Flyers if you meet the following requirements:
Cessna rentals are the perfect choice if you’re looking for an aircraft with a roomier cockpit and a more powerful engine! Cessnas are also known for their easy handling and excellent stability in air at a reasonable rate.
Renting a Cessna from Santa Monica Flyers is the perfect way to experience all that general aviation offers. With our wide variety of Cessna aircraft available, we’re sure you’ll find the ideal Cessna rental for your needs with Garmin.
If you rent Cessna 172S aircraft from Santa Monica Flyers, there’s no need to worry about how far it can fly. Cessnas are known for their long range and ability to travel great distances! The Cessna 172S has a maximum gross takeoff weight (GTOW) of 2,550 pounds and an endurance time of up to six hours with full fuel tanks.
Cessna 172RGs also feature a long range with maximum endurance times of more than seven hours! If you have questions about Cessna rental or would like a quote, please don’t hesitate to contact Santa Monica Flyers today!
Yes, insurance is required to rent any aircraft, including Cessnas, from Santa Monica Flyers. Please see our insurance requirements. The renter is responsible for the total value of the aircraft in case of damage or loss.
There are many benefits to renting an airplane, including the following:
Cessna rental from Santa Monica Flyers comes with the best safety equipment in the industry, including:
Cessna rental is an excellent choice if you want to take your piloting skills up a notch. Cessna offers the perfect combination of size and power that will have you soaring through the sky in no time! With the reliable Lycoming engine and a roomier cockpit to stretch out in, Cessna aircraft are a classic yet budget-friendly choice for many pilots, making it one of our most popular selections.
When you rent Cessnas from Santa Monica Flyers, there’s no need to worry about expensive upkeep or maintenance. Cessna rental saves money and time while providing the same high level of safety and quality that you would expect if you had your own!
If you’re interested in learning more about Cessna rentals or any of the other aircraft we have available, please get in touch with us today! We’re happy to answer any questions you may have. 310-800-8050
The Cessna Aircraft Co. was founded in 1927 by Clyde Cessna. Cessna had a passion for flying, and his company quickly became one of the most successful aircraft manufacturers in the country. The first Cessna airplane was built in Wichita, Kansas, and could carry two passengers.
Clyde Cessna continued to design and build planes until he died in 1954. The Cessna Aircraft Co. is now a subsidiary of Textron Aviation Inc., which also owns Beechcraft and Hawker aircraft.
Today, Cessna is the world’s largest manufacturer of general aviation aircraft. Cessnas are used for personal flying, business travel, instruction, directing, and government business. Cessna 172S, the most widely used trainer aircraft in the world, was traffic with Garmin. Cessnas can be found all over the globe – from Antarctica to China!
Santa Monica Flyers offers a wide range of aircraft rentals in Los Angeles for both new and experienced pilots. Our aircraft fleet includes the advanced Cirrus, with cutting-edge avionics and safety features, and the agile Super Decathlon, ideal for aerobatic training.
Cirrus training focuses on modern avionics and in-flight decision-making, while Super Decathlon training emphasizes fundamental and advanced maneuvers. We offer transparent pricing and expert guidance to ensure a smooth, enriching flight experience.
Our SR20 and SR22T Cirrus aircraft are built for performance, safety, and comfort and are available for rent with an appropriate Cirrus Transition Course Certificate.
Our fleet features the advanced Cirrus SR20 G3, a 200-horsepower aircraft equipped with a modern glass cockpit, side-stick controls, and the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) for added safety. Ideal for training and cross-country flights, it offers a smooth, high-performance flying experience while enhancing pilot proficiency. With cutting-edge avionics and a spacious cabin, the SR20 G3 provides both comfort and capability, making it a top choice for pilots looking to refine their skills.
Our fleet features the advanced Cirrus SR20 G3, a 200-horsepower aircraft equipped with a modern glass cockpit, side-stick controls, and the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) for added safety. Ideal for training and cross-country flights, it offers a smooth, high-performance flying experience while enhancing pilot proficiency. With cutting-edge avionics and a spacious cabin, the SR20 G3 provides both comfort and capability, making it a top choice for pilots looking to refine their skills.
Our fleet features the high-performance Cirrus SR22, a 310-horsepower aircraft equipped with a modern glass cockpit, side-stick controls, and the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) for enhanced safety. Designed for both advanced training and cross-country flights, it delivers a smooth yet powerful flying experience. With state-of-the-art avionics, a spacious cabin, and exceptional speed and range, the SR22 is the ideal choice for pilots looking to elevate their skills and confidence in a premium aircraft.
A Cirrus Authorized Training Center, or CTC, is authorized by Cirrus Aircraft to provide Cirrus training. Our CSIP (Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot) and TCI (Training Center Instructor) are Cirrus-certified instructors with extensive experience flying and teaching in Cirrus aircraft. Santa Monica Flyers is not a CTC but provides Cirrus flight instruction with Cirrus-certified instructors.
We offer a variety of courses, from Private Pilot certification to Cirrus Transition Training available at cirrusapproach.com.
The Cirrus rental process is similar to our other aircraft with one extra step outlined in the next paragraphs. You’ll need to be 17 years old or older with at least a private pilot certificate (or endorsement as a student pilot), a current FAA medical certificate.
Additionally, the PIC of any Cirrus on our fleet is required to have an appropriate Cirrus Transition Course Certificate on file at our school. The transition course raises the bar ten fold on pilot training. It consists of online videos accessible through Cirrus LMS–the online program used for Cirrus training–in addition to actual hands-on training with your flight instructor that is aligned with the online course. Many of our students who have graduated/obtained a Cirrus transition course certificate rave about how much safer and confident they feel in operating the Cirrus. This is largely thanks to the unrivaled design and bite-sized video modules from the online course. We will be happy to work with you on obtaining all the necessary endorsements and the transition course certificate needed to operate our Cirrus’ if you do not already have one.
It’s best to give us a call so we can inform you on the transition course process including information on time, costs, and scheduling. Typically, the average certified private pilot can expect a minimum of 10 and up to about 20 hours to successfully complete a transition course from scratch. The curriculum is specifically outlined and is conducted in accordance with the purchased course on cirrusapproach.com in conjunction with your flight instructor here at SMF. A VFR transition course from Cirrus’ LMS website in the SR20 costs $700. This course and its up-front, one-time cost is independent/separate of the instruction and aircraft rental rates/costs offered at SMF which are necessary to complete the course.
Once the online course is completed (all of the videos have been watched), all of the ground and flight lessons outlined in the course successfully completed, and the final lesson, known as the stage check, successfully completed, you will earn the transition certificate which means you can rent the airplane solo.
Should you wish or want to operate other Cirrus models such as the SR22T or the same model with a different avionics package, you would only need the appropriate differences course (which is much shorter, easier, and cheaper to obtain). A short differences course is required if you don’t have a certificate with one or the other avionics type.
If you already have a transition course and/or appropriate differences course from Cirrus, then at least one checkout flight will be required prior to rental. More than one flight may be necessary if the pilot receiving the checkout does not consistently conform to Cirrus’ Flight Operation Manual (FOM).
Cirrus aircraft are perfect for various purposes, from sightseeing to business travel. The Cirrus SR20 is ideal for travel if you want comfort and style. Cirrus Aircraft has created an airplane that can cruise at 175 knots while burning just nine gallons of fuel per hour, with a maximum range of over 900 miles.
Cirrus’s advanced avionics systems make flying safer and more accessible. Cirrus rental gives you access to Cirrus’s unique Cirrus Perspective cockpit. The Cirrus Perspective system integrates GPS, terrain mapping, traffic information, and more into a single display. This system can give you the peace of mind to fly in any condition.
Cirrus has built its reputation on flight safety, and they continue that tradition. The Cirrus is perfect for those looking for a little more performance and luxury out of their rental experience. The Cirrus is equipped with a Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), which allows pilots to make a safe, controlled descent in an emergency.
Rental of any aircraft at SMF is subject to the same insurance requirements. Please navigate to insurance requirements. Additionally, all pilots who wish to rent a Cirrus at SMF must have an appropriate Cirrus Transition Course Certificate and/or appropriate difference course certificate(s).
Cirrus aircraft rental rates vary depending on the particular Cirrus model and include the fuel used (wet rate). Since March 2025, all Cirrus models, including the SR22T, rent wet.
“Dry” means the price of fuel is not included in the rental, meaning you would pay for fuel in addition to the rental sort of how you would while renting a car. You will pay the going rate for 100LL fuel at KSMO if you bring the airplane back with less fuel than it was dispatched with. To get the most accurate quote for training in our Cirrus, please get in touch with us by calling 310-800-8050. We will be happy to provide a detailed estimate based on your needs and requirements.
Yes! Cirrus aircraft are considered to be some of the best single-engine airplanes in existence. Cirrus rental provides an excellent opportunity for new pilots to get their foot in the door with a high-quality, safe flying experience. We even have a handful of student pilots who have started training and only fly the Cirrus. Even their first solo flight was in a Cirrus.
The Cirrus SR20 is ideal for first-time renters and experienced Cirrus flyers.
Cirrus aircraft are easy to fly, and Cirrus rental is an excellent way for any new or experienced pilot to get their feet wet. Cirrus Aircraft has created an airplane that can be accessed by nearly every type of pilot to make flying safe and accessible for everyone.
With advanced safety features like Cirrus’ Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), Cirrus rental provides peace of mind for pilots and passengers alike. Cirrus Aircraft is the only aircraft manufacturer that offers a full-plane parachute system as standard equipment on all of its airplanes.
There are many benefits to Cirrus aircraft rental. First and foremost, Cirrus renters have access to Cirrus’s unique Cirrus Perspective cockpit system, which provides a wealth of information for pilots. Additionally, Cirrus Aircraft is known for its high safety and quality. With a Cirrus rental, you can be assured that you’re flying in a safe and reliable aircraft. Cirrus also offers excellent value for your flying dollar, with fuel-efficient Cirrus aircraft that provide a high performance-to-cost ratio.
There are several benefits to Cirrus aircraft rental instead of owning an airplane. First, Cirrus renters have access to the latest Cirrus technology and safety features. Additionally, Cirrus Aircraft offers a wide variety of support services to its renters, from maintenance and avionics service to insurance.
Cirrus also offers excellent value for your flying dollar, with Cirrus aircraft that provide a high performance-to-cost ratio. Renting a Cirrus also eliminates the need for expensive hangar space and storage fees.
Cirrus Aircraft was launched in 1994 by brothers Dale and Alan Klapmeier. The pair were aviation enthusiasts who dreamed of building the perfect aircraft. As Cirrus Aircraft has evolved, so too has its plane. Cirrus’s first aircraft, the SR20, was introduced in 1997 and became an instant success. Cirrus has continued to build high-quality aircraft, including the SR20 GTS and Cirrus Vision SF50 jet.
Cirrus Aircraft has also entered the training market with Cirrus Training International or CTI. Their aircraft are some of the safest and most technologically advanced on the planet. Cirrus is known for its industry-leading safety record, including a perfect fatal accident record since 2002, which no other aviation manufacturer can claim. Cirrus aircraft are at the forefront of safety and technology, which is why Cirrus has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted aviation brands.
Our aircraft fleet also includes the versatile Super Decathlon, renowned for its agility and performance, making it an ideal choice for advanced flight training. With instructor rates ranging from $110 to $125 per hour, we provide cost-effective solutions without compromising on the quality of training.
In addition to our aircraft rentals, we also offer a Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD), equipped with RealSimGear for instrument training. This FAA-approved simulator allows pilots to log time toward their instrument rating or maintain proficiency in a highly realistic and cost-effective environment. It’s an ideal solution for refining IFR procedures, approaches, and cockpit workflows without ever leaving the ground.
Whether you are looking to enhance your flying skills or simply experience the joy of flight, our aircraft rental services in Los Angeles are designed to meet a variety of needs. We take pride in offering transparent pricing and detailed guidance throughout your training, ensuring a seamless and enriching flying experience.
Our fleet includes the versatile Super Decathlon, a 180-horsepower aircraft with an inverted oil and fuel system, perfect for introductory to intermediate aerobatics, spin training, and tailwheel endorsement. Renowned for its agility and performance, it offers an exciting yet cost-effective way to advance your flying skills. You’ll enjoy the thrill of flying a high-performance aircraft under the guidance of experienced instructors—without compromising on quality. (Max passenger weight is 200 pounds.)
The C172 G1000 Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD) is a perfect way to start out the training for the instrument rating. In fact, because it is an FAA-approved Flight Simulator, up to 10 hours may be credited towards the instrument rating. It also has great utility for student pilots in practicing under certain conditions that are either hard to replicate in real life or, in the interest of safety, better left for a simulator. Up to 2.5 hours may be credited towards the training requirements for the Private Pilot Certificate.
Per FAA regulations, creditable training in the BATD must be provided by an authorized CFI. However, instrument recency (6 approaches and holding) for existing instrument pilots is available without a CFI. An IPC is not permitted to be conducted using the BATD.
Danny received his private pilot certificate back in 2012 in Texas. After many years of recreational flying, he earned his CFI-Sport Certificate in early 2022. He is currently working on his instrument rating and commercial certificate. Besides flying, he enjoys teaching hot yoga and playing music.
