Meet Alfredo Villalba | Airline Pilot

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alfredo Villalba and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alfredo, how does your business help the community?
In my career, I’ve met people who become pilots for different reasons. However, we all share the same passion for flying. My goal is to show how remarkable this career can be. I want to inspire and motivate young pilots and those who dream of flying. I also want to show the beauty of aviation and what it’s like to be a pilot through photos and videos.

In my career, I’ve met people who become pilots for different reasons. However, we all share the same passion for flying. My goal is to show how remarkable this career can be. I want to inspire and motivate young aviation enthusiasts and those who dream of flying. I also want to show the beauty of aviation and what it’s like to be a pilot through photos and videos. Most importantly, I want to build a place where young people can connect with experienced pilots who can help and guide them in becoming pilots themselves.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey has been long, and I’m not done yet. There are more goals to reach, but I’m grateful for where I am now and the support my family has given me from the start. As immigrants, we face a lot of challenges, like not speaking the language and feeling lonely because we left everything behind in our home country to chase our dreams. Achieving something valuable takes a lot of effort. It’s meant years of hard work, missing family gatherings, parties, and weekends. Leaving my home country was a tough choice I had to make to reach my goals. I can’t say I’ve arrived at my final destination, but I believe that with dedication and the right approach, I’ll eventually get there.

I began my aviation education at a flight school in Tamiami airport, where I earned certificates from private pilot to flight instructor. Afterward, I decided to return to my home country to convert my FAA certificates into DGAC ones. While in Ecuador, I continued my education as a flight instructor and worked as a ground instructor in Quito. Although I enjoyed teaching there, my ultimate dream was to become an airline pilot in the USA. So, I made the difficult decision to leave everything behind, including my family and friends, to start a new life from scratch.
In 2018, I came to the USA to further my education at Broward College. Simultaneously, I worked as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) at a flight school in north perry.

I obtained additional certifications, including CFII and MEI. Interestingly, as a flight instructor, I learned just as much from my students as they did from me. In 2021, I decided to continue my studies and transferred to Embry-Riddle to complete my bachelor’s degree in Aeronautics.

During my academic journey, a colleague introduced me to a friend of his who is a banker who owned a Piper Seneca aircraft. This connection allowed me to fly to the Bahamas, gaining valuable international experience and applying my knowledge as a CFI. With over 2500 total flight hours and 500 multi-engine hours, I thought all this experience was time to share it and help the future pilot generation. Here is where AV95 was born.

I’m constructing my brand, designing a logo, and solidifying my name as a legacy for future generations of aviators and colleges. With AV95, my vision is to develop products for pilots’ daily use that can withstand the abuse of everyday use. I aspire for AV95 to be recognized and well-regarded within the aviation community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m lucky to live in South Florida, also known as the Sunshine State. Here, we have a mix of cultures, delicious food, and lots to do. If friends or family visit, I’d plan a fun trip.

First, we’d start the day with a yummy breakfast at a bistro cafe in Coral Gables. Then, we’d rent paddle boards at Key Biscayne and relax by the beach. In the evening, we’d try some amazing ceviche at Dr. Limon or Salimar.

The next day, we could visit the morning farmer’s market in Coral Gables for brunch. After that, we’d take a drive down south to Key Largo, a spot known for its beautiful sunset views and fresh fish, Sun Downers.

On the last day, we’d explore the Design District and wander around Wynwood and Brickell. These areas have a unique and modern feel, showcasing the artistic side of the city. And since I’m a pilot, I’d top it all off with a sunset flight over Miami Beach. These are just some of the activities I love to share with friends and family.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Throughout my life, my family has been my biggest source of support. They’ve been there for me in all aspects of life, offering guidance both personally and professionally. Aviation has been a significant part of my life, thanks to my grandfather. Even though I never had the chance to meet him in person, his stories, ideas, and remarkable vision have had a profound impact on the person I’ve become. His legacy continues, and I’m honored to carry it forward.

I want to give a big shoutout to my family. They’ve been with me every step of the way, providing both financial and emotional support throughout this journey. Their one and only wish has been to see me succeed, and they’ve always celebrated my accomplishments. Even when I made mistakes, their support never wavered. As my dad always says, “Success comes from hard work, and there are no shortcuts for those who are willing to put in the effort.”

And last but not least, I want to recognize my close friend Pablo. Throughout my career, he has been my mentor in aviation. His dedication and commitment inspired me to chase my dreams relentlessly. To this day, he is a trusted friend and a brilliant example of what one can achieve with dedication and perseverance.

Instagram: avaviation95

Image Credits
Alfredo Villalba