50+ Years of Pilots.
One Mission.
From a one-man flight school to a nationally recognized training program — the story of JB Aeronautics is the story of aviation in the Central Valley.
Built on a Legacy of
Excellence & Safety
JB Aeronautics was founded by Jim Brannan — a Designated Pilot Examiner since 1978 and one of the most experienced aviation educators in California. Jim spent decades as President and Chief Flight Instructor at Mazzei Flying Service, one of the state's oldest flight schools dating back to 1936.
When Mazzei closed its doors, Jim wasn't done. He and his wife Patti launched JB Aeronautics at Fresno Yosemite International Airport — because after 50 years, the passion for training pilots never faded. Together they built a school known for safety-first protocols, personalized instruction, and a fleet of well-maintained Pipers that has produced hundreds of career-ready aviators.
Jim's track record is unmatched: over 50 years of continuous flight instruction, an impeccable safety record, and the ability to examine pilots across every certificate from Private through ATP. His philosophy — that every flight hour should build real mastery, not just log time — remains the foundation of everything we do.
Jim Brannan begins flight instruction career in Fresno
Designated Pilot Examiner appointment — Fresno FSDO
President & Chief Flight Instructor at Mazzei Flying Service
JB Aeronautics founded at KFAT with Jim & Patti Brannan
Anywhere Aero team assumes leadership — carrying the legacy forward
Same Standards. New Firepower.
After decades of building one of the Central Valley's most respected flight schools, Jim and Patti Brannan graciously passed the torch to the Anywhere Aero team — a group of former TOPGUN instructors and Naval Aviators who share Jim's commitment to safety, precision, and student-first training.
The mission hasn't changed: produce career-ready pilots with the highest safety standards in the industry. What's new is a team that brings decades of tactical military aviation experience, modern training methodologies, and a passion for making the military-to-airline transition seamless.
Meet the Team
100% veteran-owned. Former fighter pilots who've traded carrier landings for checkride prep.
Bo "GIMP" Locke
Director of Operations
Retired Navy Captain and former TOPGUN Flight Instructor. Commanded VFA-125 "Rough Raiders" — the Navy's F-35C Fleet Replacement Squadron at NAS Lemoore. Oversaw 3,300+ flight hours and 2,000+ mishap-free sorties. Led the F-35C to Initial Operational Capability. Now brings that same precision and safety culture to every student at JB Aeronautics.
Jon Miller
Co-Founder
Former Naval Aviator who flew the F/A-18 Hornet and F-35 Lightning II. Completed a tour as Strike Fighter Weapons and Tactics Instructor (TOPGUN) and served as training officer for the first operational Navy F-35 squadron. Purdue-educated engineer who saw firsthand how broken the military-to-airline pipeline was — and built Anywhere Aero to fix it.
Loren
Co-Founder
Former Naval Aviator and TOPGUN instructor from Washington state. Holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Saint Martin's University. Combines the analytical rigor of engineering with the tactical precision of carrier aviation. Focused on building structured, outcome-driven training programs that get students from zero experience to airline-ready.
The Anywhere Aero team also includes experienced multi-engine instructors, DPEs, and support staff dedicated to your success.
The Vanguard Standard
Safety First
An impeccable safety record spanning 50+ years. Maintenance standards that exceed FAA requirements.
Student-First
Military-style structured training with personalized attention. Your CFI knows your name, your weaknesses, and your career goals. You're never a number here.
Military Precision
Our leadership team brings tactical discipline from TOPGUN and carrier aviation to every lesson plan, briefing, and debrief.
Accessible Training
Rates up to 40% lower than national chains. VA-approved programs. No enrollment fees. The same FAA certificates — dramatically less debt.
Come See
the Difference.
Tour the facility, meet the team, and see why pilots have trusted this ramp for over 50 years.