Have you ever dreamed of seeing the majestic Adirondack Mountains and Lake George from the air? Did you know there is a convenient and affordable way to do just that? Leaf Air operates out of Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport in Queensbury, New York. Leaf Air offers gorgeous, year-round scenic travel packages and flight training in their Cessna 172 aircraft.
We spoke with Melodie Viele from Leaf Air to learn more about this unique Warren County business.
Tell us about Leaf Air.
Leaf Air, LLC was started by Jim Barrett. Jim learned to fly through what was then Cape Air at the Warren County Airport with the well-known owner and instructor Gus Ham. Gus operated the airport in the 1950s through the 1970s, after moving his operation to the airport from the original location where the Queensbury School is now located. Gus had trained many pilots during World War II and passed along his attitude of safety and flying skills to his young student. Jim received his license in 1967 at the age of 17. Jim maintained his license and added more ratings throughout the years and always stayed in general aviation, becoming a well-recognized figure at the airport.
Leaf Air was started a little over 20 years ago to fill a need for a quality flight school at the airport. At first, it operated by leasing Cessna 172 aircraft to Empire East Aviation, where Jim served as a flight instructor. Within a few years, Leaf Air became a totally independent flight school providing primary through commercial pilot training, including instrument ratings to individuals with the desire to learn to fly. Leaf Air also provides the only FAA-approved scenic sightseeing flights from the airport and aerial photography flights providing these services through agreements with Rich Air and Warren County.
How can folks partake in the services you offer, such as flight instruction and scenic flights?
Anyone interested in learning to fly or take a scenic flight can visit our website for more information on our services. They may also call Jim at 518-415-8453 or Melodie at 518-502-3371. We are happy to answer any questions. Leaf Air operates 7 days a week, year-round, weather permitting. We have four experienced flight instructors and operate three well-maintained, reliable aircraft.
Why did you choose Warren County for your business?
Warren County was a natural for our services because of the absolute beauty of its geography. Many people have no idea of just how beautiful this region is – the lake, mountains, valleys, the seasons, and changing weather. It all adds up to a spectacular flight! You can really appreciate it when you can see it, not from 30,000 feet, but up close.
Why should people relocate to Warren County and/or start a business here?
Warren County offers opportunities, especially for unique businesses. A good quality of life, not found in cities or many other areas of the state, attracts not only visitors but new residents to the area. Year-round residents enjoy the changing of the seasons and all the different activities that they bring.
