Independent CFI / CFII at Van Nuys AirportInstruction from $70/hr
(213) 787-7175Meet your instructor
A patient teacher with a systems-minded approach.
Robert “Robbie” Rikard is an independent Commercial Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor based at Van Nuys Airport, providing one-on-one private, sport, instrument, and commercial training.
Request a free training consultation
A second career in aviation
Experience built in technology. Purpose found in the cockpit.
Robbie began flying in 2012 and earned his private pilot certificate in 2013. After a 15-year career in the technology industry—including work with an early-stage company that was later acquired by the London Stock Exchange Group—he chose to pursue aviation full time.
He became a flight instructor in 2024 and moved to Los Angeles to teach from Van Nuys Airport. His technology background influences a structured teaching style: understand how the system works, practice deliberately, and connect procedures to sound decisions.
Students can train in a suitable owner-provided aircraft or use rental aircraft available through a partner school at Van Nuys.
Airplane Single-Engine Land, Airplane Multi-Engine Land, Instrument Airplane
Airplane Single-Engine and Instrument Airplane
KVNY · Los Angeles, California
A conversation is the first step
Let’s plan your next step.
Robbie will follow up to discuss your goals, remaining requirements, aircraft options, schedule, and estimated costs. The consultation is free and there is no obligation to book lessons.