Meet The Founders

We're Nick and Amanda, the founders of Optimus Air.

 

For us, aviation isn't just a business—it's a passion that has been passed down through generations and has become a way of life.

Amanda grew up around aviation thanks to her grandfather, Harold Naiman. Harold owned and flew a Piper Turbo Arrow, along with several other aircraft, for decades. Some of Amanda's favorite childhood memories were sitting in the right seat beside him, watching the world from above and developing a love for flying long before she ever imagined where life would take her.

When Nick became part of the family, Harold welcomed him into that same world. Flying together quickly became more than a hobby—it became a calling. Although Nick had built businesses in several different industries, aviation was the first thing that truly felt like more than work. It became something he couldn't wait to wake up and do every single day.

When Harold, now 91 years old, decided it was time to retire from flying, we purchased his beloved Piper Turbo Arrow. It wasn't simply the purchase of an airplane—it was the continuation of a family legacy and the inspiration behind Optimus Air. From the very beginning, our vision has been to create a different kind of flight school. Learning to fly can be intimidating, and we've seen too many aspiring pilots lose confidence because they didn't have the right support system. At Optimus Air, we believe flight training should be exciting, encouraging, and confidence-building. Our instructors are more than teachers—they're mentors who celebrate every accomplishment, guide students through every challenge, and create an environment where students genuinely look forward to every lesson.

But Optimus Air is about more than earning certificates.

We're building a community where pilots at every stage—from first-time students to experienced aviators—can connect, learn, and grow together. Whether it's studying in the lounge, enjoying a cup of coffee, sharing stories after a flight, attending weekly hangar BBQs, or joining local outings, our goal is to create an aviation family that extends far beyond the runway.

Our mission is simple: to inspire the next generation of pilots and show that learning to fly doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right people, the right environment, and a genuine passion for aviation, it can become one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

We're honored to continue Harold's legacy and look forward to welcoming you into the Optimus Air family.