April Gafford

April Gafford is the Founder and CEO of JATO Aviation, a company she established in 2004 that specializes in flight training, aircraft management, and pilot services.1 Based in San Mateo, California, Gafford has over 20 years of experience in the aviation industry.1

Professional Background

Gafford's aviation career includes:

• Founding JATO Aviation in 2004, where she currently serves as CEO1
• Founding JATO Charters in November 2009, which she led for over 3 years1
• Working as Chief Flight Instructor at Diamond Aviation from 1999 to 20091

Expertise and Qualifications

April Gafford is highly qualified in the field of aviation:

• She holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate
• She is a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII) and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
• Gafford is a Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP)
• She has type ratings for CE-500 and SIC: CE-510 aircraft, as well as the Cirrus SF-50 Vision Jet3

With over 4,000 hours of total flight time and more than 3,000 hours of dual instruction given, Gafford has extensive experience in various aircraft types, including Cirrus SR20/SR22, Pilatus PC12, TBM 850, and Cessna Citation models.3

JATO Aviation

Under Gafford's leadership, JATO Aviation has grown to become a Cirrus Platinum Training Center with operations at multiple locations in Northern California.2 The company focuses on providing structured, integrated flight training using technologically advanced aircraft. JATO Aviation also offers luxury air charter services featuring Pilatus and Cirrus aircraft.2

Educational Background

Gafford's educational journey includes:

• Studying at the University of Redlands (1982-1983)
• Attending Santa Barbara City College (1983-1984)
• Pursuing Astrophysics at San Francisco State University (2001-2004)
• Studying Psychology at San Jose State University (1985-1987)1

April Gafford's commitment to aviation safety and her innovative approach to flight training have made her a respected figure in the industry, particularly in the realm of technologically advanced aircraft instruction.