Our Story
In 1966, John LaMascus purchased N42478—a 1945 Piper J3—for just $500 as an affordable way to earn his pilot’s license. After only six hours of instruction, he was signed off to solo the Cub and flew it home to Monterey, California. Once he earned his license, he fully restored the aircraft in a single-car garage in Pacific Grove.
Growing up surrounded by aviation, John’s son Mark developed the same passion. In 1988, he earned his pilot’s license after purchasing a Piper PA-18, seeking a faster and more capable aircraft. Eager to pass on his love for flying, Mark took his son Taylor on his first flight on his second birthday.
Though he initially preferred the Super Cub, in 2009 he purchased a J3, believing it to be the most fun airplane to fly—and the perfect trainer for his kids. For Mark, teaching his children to fly was a way to instill integrity, build confidence, and develop a mindset that embraces opportunity with the hopes of them to live bold and adventurous lives through the world of flight.
John and Mark LaMascus with N42478.
You may recognize this airplane as it was later featured in the documentary One Six Right.
Awarded in 1978 at the 26th Annual International Sport Aviation Convention in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
Owner and lead CFI Taylor LaMascus is a third-generation pilot who knew from a young age that he wanted to fly. When he began training for his license, he was drawn to the idea of becoming an instructor, though he wasn’t sure where that path would lead.
After earning his Private Pilot License, Taylor began traveling and connecting with incredible people in the aviation community. From fly-ins to back country adventures, he was hooked—and eventually bought his first airplane, a Cessna 170. Taylor thrives on the constant challenge of flying. He believes that no matter how long you’ve been in the air, there’s always something new to learn.
Taylor continued pursuing his ratings and discovered a true passion for teaching after earning his CFI. He began instructing in the South Bay Area and found his home at San Martin Airport—an ideal spot for flight training just south of San Jose, with a welcoming airport community.
At the heart of LaMascus Flight Training is a passion for aviation and sharing it with others whether you come from an aviation background or are a first generation pilot.
Our mission is to provide top-quality flight training with a strong emphasis on safety, personalized instruction, and student success. Whether you're flying for fun or pursuing a career, we're here to support and inspire every step of the way.
