Built on discipline, safety, and real-world leadership.
Train with Matthew Cortez, CFI through Deep Sky Aviation for structured, professional flight lessons in San Diego. Whether you are starting your Private Pilot journey or sharpening your skills, each lesson is built with a clear purpose and a safety-first mindset.
Professional instruction backed by leadership and a passion for teaching.
After completing a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership in December 2023, Matthew began his aviation journey in February 2024 looking for a new challenge. What started as a new pursuit quickly became a real passion for flying, learning, and mentoring others in aviation.
He earned his Private Pilot Certificate on June 3, 2024, Instrument Rating in March 2025, Commercial Pilot Certificate in October 2025, and FAA Certificated Flight Instructor certificate in December 2025.
As an active-duty U.S. Navy Chief Warrant Officer and Master Diver, Matthew brings calm professionalism, accountability, and disciplined preparation into every lesson. The goal is simple: help students become safe, capable, and confident pilots.
Focused flight instruction for motivated students in San Diego.
Private Pilot Training
Structured lessons for students starting from zero and working toward their first certificate.
Commercial Pilot Training
Professional maneuver instruction built around standards, precision, and confidence in the aircraft.
Flight Reviews
Safety-focused review lessons to keep you current, sharp, and confident in the cockpit.
Aircraft Checkouts
Checkout lessons in common Plus One Flyers aircraft including the Cessna 172, Piper Archer, and Piper Warrior.
Rusty Pilot Refresher
A structured path back into flying for pilots returning after time away from aviation.
Advanced Maneuver Training
Focused lessons to improve aircraft control, confidence, and overall precision flying skills.
Training through Plus One Flyers at two strong San Diego airports.
Instruction is conducted through aircraft available via Plus One Flyers. Students become Plus One members to reserve the aircraft used for lessons.
Montgomery Field
KMYF
Gillespie Field
KSEE
Clear standards. Calm instruction. Lessons with purpose.
- Structured lessons with defined goals
- Honest feedback and accountability
- Calm, professional learning environment
- Safety-first mindset on every lesson
- Instruction shaped by real leadership experience
A clear path for learning to fly in San Diego.
Contact Deep Sky Aviation
Reach out by phone, email, or the quick inquiry form below to discuss your goals and experience level.
Join Plus One Flyers
Students reserve training aircraft through Plus One Flyers membership and club aircraft access.
Begin structured lessons
Each lesson is built around clear objectives, steady progress, and a strong foundation in safety and decision-making.
Work toward your goal
Whether you are pursuing Private Pilot, Commercial, a checkout, or a refresher, you will have a clear plan from day one.
From graduate studies to CFI in less than two years.
Ready to start flight training?
Reach out to discuss your training goals, availability, and the best path forward. Deep Sky Aviation is designed for motivated students who want professional instruction and clear progress.
Instruction rate: $65/hour • Availability: Weekdays after 4:00 PM and weekends