Orbifly

What Orbifly does

Orbifly SAS is a privately held European flight training academy founded in 1999 in Switzerland and now headquartered in Auribeau-sur-Siagne, France. The company operates as an EASA Approved Training Organization (approval FR.ATO.0291) and a 14 CFR Part 61 FAA Pilot School, delivering advanced pilot training across EASA, FAA, and UK CAA frameworks. Its core offerings include EASA CB-IR and Basic IR competency-based instrument rating training, FAA IR and CPL ground school and flight training, EASA-to-FAA license conversions, High Performance Aeroplane (HPA) and Single Engine Turbine (SET, PA46 and TBM) type training, and the full Cirrus curriculum delivered through two PLATINUM Cirrus Training Centers at Avignon and Cannes-Mandelieu. Orbifly also runs the OrbiAgent service for non-U.S.-resident FAA certificate holders, the free OrbiMap aeronautical weather visualization tool, and a Zoom-based Virtual Classroom for theoretical instruction.

The business model is fee-for-service professional training, with intensive course packages sold per program (typical disclosed ground school prices of 790–1,190 EUR per student, with flight training priced on application). Distribution is direct, via three owned French training bases (Avignon, Cannes, Le Touquet), Annecy and Bron secondary sites, mobile training on customers' own aircraft, and a US partner-school network enabling checkrides and discovery flights in New York and Miami. Channels include a website with inquiry forms, Facebook, a low-frequency newsletter (Novemb'Air, max 5/year), the annual Orbidays community event, and the international Cirrus Experience convention. Customers are individual private pilots, aircraft owners, and Cirrus pilots across Western Europe, the UK, and the US; no enterprise B2B customers are disclosed. The fleet spans Cirrus (SR20, SR22, SR22T G7/G7+), Diamond (DA40 NG, DA42, DA62), Piper, Socata TB20, and turbine aircraft (TBM, PA46), supported by Garmin Perspective Touch+, Garmin G1000/G1000NXi, and ALSIM DA42 FNPT II simulators accessed via Cannes Aviation. Orbifly holds QUALIOPI certification with 100% pass rates reported for 2023, 2024, and 2025, and is recognized by Cirrus Aircraft as International Cirrus Training Center of the Year (2025).

Name

Orbifly

Legal name

ORBIFLY SAS

Website

https://orbifly.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1999

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

Orbifly is a France-based EASA ATO and FAA Part 61 Pilot School delivering advanced pilot training (EASA CB-IR, FAA IR, Cirrus, HPA, SET) to private pilots, aircraft owners, and Cirrus customers across Europe, with PLATINUM Cirrus Training Centers at Avignon and Cannes.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Headquarters

HQ city

Auribeau-sur-Siagne

HQ country

France

HQ region

Europe

Offices6 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Advanced Pilot Training: Orbifly generates revenue primarily through fee-for-service advanced pilot training programs including EASA CB-IR, BIR, MEP, Night Rating, PBN Course; FAA IR, CPL Ground School and Flight Training; High Performance (HPA, TBM, PA46) courses; and Cirrus-specific training. Programs are sold as one-time intensive course packages, typically billed per course with pricing varying by program duration and format (classroom, virtual, in-flight).
2. Cirrus Aircraft Services: Revenue from Cirrus Training Center activities including new aircraft delivery training, proficiency and recurrent training, EMBARK programs, Partner In Command courses, and Cirrus Approach digital platform integration support. Also includes aircraft customs clearance and ferry flight organization services.
3. Aircraft Rental and Fleet Services: Orbifly rents its fleet of IFR-equipped training aircraft including Cirrus SR22 G7, Cirrus SR22T G7+, Diamond DA40 NG, DA42, DA62, Socata TB20, Piper PA32, and Piper PA28RT Arrow. Rental is available to training students and partners. Partner aircraft are also integrated into the fleet.
4. OrbiAgent Service: U.S. Agent service for FAA certificate holders who do not reside in the U.S., mandated by FAA regulation AC 3-1 since July 7, 2025. Orbifly acts as a designated agent for receiving FAA correspondence, assisting with MedExpress medical certificate registration, and providing ongoing FAA regulatory support.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels6 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

Orbifly is an EASA Approved Training Organization (ATO) that delivers advanced pilot training across EASA, FAA, and UK CAA frameworks. The company runs intensive instrument rating programs (EASA CB-IR, BIR, FAA IR), aircraft type ratings (Cirrus, TBM, PA46), multi-engine piston and night rating courses, license conversions, preventive maintenance courses, and a U.S. Agent service (OrbiAgent). Training is delivered at Orbifly's French bases (Avignon, Cannes, Le Touquet, Annecy), on the customer's own aircraft, or via virtual classroom.

Product overview

Orbifly is a flight training academy offering advanced pilot training across multiple regulatory frameworks (EASA, FAA, UK CAA). The core offering consists of instrument rating programs (EASA CB-IR and Basic IR, FAA IR), aircraft type ratings (Cirrus, PA46, TBM), and specialized courses (HPA, PBN, maintenance). The company operates as both an EASA Approved Training Organization (ATO) and FAA Part 61 flight school. Orbifly has been a Cirrus Training Center since 2023, now with Platinum status at Avignon and Cannes bases. Additional offerings include OrbiMap weather tool, Virtual Classroom online training platform, OrbiAgent FAA service, and free seminars.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• EASA CB-IR Training Competency-Based Instrument Rating training enabling pilots to fly IFR as pilot-in-command on European-registered aircraft, organized in 3 intensive phases of 5 days each with in-flight assessment; targeted at private PPL or higher-licensed pilots.
• EASA Basic IR (BIR) Training Lighter instrument rating qualification for non-profit IFR flying on non-HPA single/multi-engine aircraft, delivered in a modular structure of 3-4 modules for flexibility.
• Multi-Engine Piston (MEP) Class Rating Training for multi-engine piston airplane operations; minimum 6 hours including 3.5 hours engine-out operations and 2.5 hours normal flight conditions.
• Night Rating Training Night flying qualification training for pilots, providing the certification required to operate aircraft at night under EASA rules.
• EASA PBN Course Performance-Based Navigation training covering GNSS procedures for approaches, departures, arrivals, and en-route phases; mandatory for EASA IR pilots since April 2021.
• FAA IR Ground School 3-day intensive course preparing students for the FAA Instrument Rating written exam (IRA/IFP), covering weather, navigation, regulations, and procedures; priced at 1190 EUR per student.
• FAA CPL Ground School 2-3 day intensive course for FAA Commercial Pilot License written exam preparation covering aerodynamics, aircraft systems, and regulations; 790 EUR per student for the 2-day course.
• FAA IR Flight Training Intensive flight training for FAA Instrument Rating organized in phases (initial, advanced, finish-up, check); available as full Europe, full US, or mixed training options.
• EASA to FAA License Conversion Validation and conversion services for EASA pilots to obtain FAA Pilot Certificates, including instrument rating validation and flight review.
• Cirrus Transition Training Full aircraft familiarization for new Cirrus owners covering Garmin Perspective Touch+ avionics mastery, normal and emergency procedures, and Cirrus philosophy, delivered at a PLATINUM Cirrus Training Center.
• Cirrus EMBARK Training 3-day intensive Cirrus training fully funded by Cirrus Aircraft for pre-owned aircraft owners; financed by Cirrus even outside the official sales network, authorized in an official Cirrus framework.
• Cirrus Proficiency and Recurrent Training Tailored Cirrus proficiency training including difference training between models (SR20, SR22, SR22T G1-G7+), avionics configurations (Avidyne vs Garmin), and IFR training on Cirrus aircraft.
• Partner In Command Course Training for regular flying companions to understand the Cirrus environment, support pilots, and react appropriately in abnormal situations.
• EASA HPA Course High Performance Aeroplane theoretical knowledge course required for pilots without ATPL exam passes to enter class/type courses for TBM, PC12, or similar aircraft.
• SET PA46 Flight Training Single Engine Turbine training on Piper PA46 (turbine and piston versions); 16 hours theory plus 8 hours flight minimum; available as standalone or integrated EASA/FAA courses.
• SET TBM Flight Training Single Engine Turbine training on Daher TBM; 10 hours flight minimum plus online theory; available as standalone or integrated EASA/FAA courses.
• Preventive Maintenance for Pilots Course 3-day intensive course teaching FAA preventive maintenance for N-registered aircraft owners, covering administrative requirements, inspection skills, and basic maintenance; 1000 EUR per solo trainee.
• La Môle (LFTZ) Competency Check Specific training for La Môle airfield operations; e-learning phase plus flight reconnaissance with approved instructor, granting a class-specific authorization.
• OrbiAgent U.S. Agent Service Designated U.S. Agent service for FAA certificate holders not residing in the U.S., mandated by FAA regulation AC 3-1 since July 7, 2025; includes receiving FAA correspondence, MedExpress medical certificate registration, and ongoing FAA regulatory support.
• CB-IR and BIR Ground School (with Institut Mermoz) EASA CB-IR and BIR theoretical training delivered in partnership with Institut Mermoz; 3-day initial course plus e-learning (80 hours) and 7 certificate exams, with Orbifly managing student relationships.

Quantifiable outcome

• 100% success rate on QUALIOPI-covered training programs (2023, 2024, 2025)
• +2 more outcomes

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration8 records

Feature3 records

Partnerships

Eleven partnerships are on record, tiered flagship, core and minor.

• Cirrus AircraftflagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2023Orbifly is an official Cirrus Training Center (now PLATINUM CTC) authorized by Cirrus Aircraft. This is Orbifly's flagship partnership — delivering the full suite of Cirrus training programs including transition training, EMBARK, proficiency training, and Cirrus Approach LMS integration. Orbifly was awarded International Cirrus Training Center of the Year at CX2025 and International CSIP of the Year at CX26.
• OysteraircoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOrbifly is a secondary base in France for Oysterair, a UK ATO specialized in high-performance aeroplane (SET, HPA) training. The partnership enables Orbifly to offer EASA SET and UK CAA SET trainings, potentially combined with FAA endorsements. Orbifly also serves as an Oysterair secondary base for High Performance courses. Training can take place at Orbifly's French bases or Oysterair's UK bases.
• Cannes AviationcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorCannes Aviation is a French ATO based in Cannes, specialized in EASA Airline and Commercial pilot training (integrated ATP). They provide Orbifly access to two ALSIM DA42 FNPT II simulators with Garmin G1000 at the Cannes base, enabling IFR and PBN training on a simulator. Orbifly's Cirrus Training Center at Cannes is co-located with Cannes Aviation.
• ForeFlightminorGTM or Marketing PartnerOrbifly has developed a partnership with ForeFlight to allow its students to use ForeFlight's integrated flight app at a discounted price. This is particularly relevant for IFR training and reduces the overall cost of training.
• JeppesenminorGTM or Marketing PartnerJeppesen allows Orbifly's students to access IFR and VFR data in ForeFlight at discounted prices, in partnership with ForeFlight. This makes training more affordable for Orbifly students.
• Institut MermozcoreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerOrbifly has a partnership with Institut Mermoz for CB-IR and BIR theoretical training. Mermoz provides the e-learning platform, study materials, QCM e-learning, and examination framework. Orbifly provides the initial 3-day classroom stage, ongoing personalized tutoring, and manages the student relationship. Services are billed through Orbifly at Mermoz rates (no commission markup).
• AIR MELminorOthersAIR MEL is an aeronautical structure supporting race and international competition activities for aerobatic champion Mélanie Astles. Orbifly supports AIR MEL as part of its community engagement.
• Let's FlyminorOthersLet's Fly provides tailor-made transfer solutions by helicopter or jet on the French Riviera. Orbifly refers students and visitors for ground transportation needs.
• US Partner Flight SchoolscoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOrbifly partners with flight schools in the USA to enable students to take their FAA checkrides in the US after completing training in Europe. Partner schools provide aircraft rental and local support for Orbifly's 'Mixed' training format. Locations include New York (Cirrus) and Miami (Cessna). Orbifly accompanies students on these discovery/finish-up stays.
• Des Ailes dans les YeuxminorOthersNon-profit aeronautical association serving families and siblings who have lost a child. Orbifly supports this association as part of its social commitment.
• France DC3minorOthersNon-profit aeronautical association dedicated to a D-Day veteran Dakota airplane. Orbifly supports this association.

Scale indicators6 records

Recent moves10 records

Expansion highlights7 records

Broad incumbents

• FlightSafety International: World's largest professional aviation training organization delivering pilot and instructor training across multiple aircraft types and regulatory frameworks. Comparable in advanced pilot training mission but operates at much larger scale with simulator-centric delivery and broader corporate/airline clientele.
• CAE: Global aviation training leader operating pilot training academies and a large simulator network worldwide. Directly comparable flight training services but at enterprise scale, including integrated ATPL and airline type-rating programs that sit outside Orbifly's owner-pilot focus.
• Lufthansa Aviation Training: Subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group providing professional pilot and cabin crew training across type ratings and ab-initio programs. Comparable in advanced pilot training capability but at airline-focused, enterprise scale with broader portfolio including full-flight simulators and cadet programs.

Direct peers

• ATP Flight School: US-based Part 141 flight training school offering FAA-certified pilot programs from private through airline track. Comparable in delivering FAA IR/CPL training at scale but focused primarily on US career-track pilots rather than European owner-pilot and Cirrus training.
• Epic Flight Academy: US-based FAA Part 141 flight training academy offering PPL through CFI and instrument training. Comparable in flight training delivery model and pricing structure, though focused on US PPL-to-CFI pipeline rather than European owner-pilot/Cirrus segment.
• Airways Aviation: European aviation academy group operating EASA-aligned pilot training across multiple countries. Directly comparable in modular and integrated EASA training delivery, with overlapping IR and type-rating curriculum and multi-base European footprint.
• BAA Training: Lithuania-based aviation academy offering integrated ATPL and modular pilot training programs across Europe with multiple bases. Comparable in advanced European pilot training delivery, including IR and type rating pathways, though focused more on the cadet/airline-track segment.
• Oysterair: UK ATO specializing in high-performance aeroplane (SET, HPA) training that is Orbifly's named partner for offering EASA/UK CAA SET trainings from Orbifly's French bases. Overlaps directly in advanced piston and turbine pilot training, regulatory licensing services, and European owner-pilot segment.
• Institut Mermoz: French aviation training institute that is Orbifly's named partner for delivering CB-IR and BIR theoretical training, e-learning platform, and QCM examinations. Overlaps directly in EASA IR theoretical curriculum and competency-based IR assessment.

Others

• Cirrus Aircraft: Manufacturer of the SR20, SR22, and SR22T and Orbifly's flagship partnership; does not directly compete on training services but operates the CTC authorization framework and Cirrus Approach LMS that define Orbifly's go-to-market in Cirrus training.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Facebookfacebook.com/orbifly
• Instagraminstagram.com/orbifly
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/orbifly

Compliance4 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles9 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Orbifly