11-year-old pilot-in-training takes flight in Costa Mesa

COSTA MESA, Calif. (KABC) -- An 11-year-old with big dreams of becoming a pilot is already making moves and logging hours at a flight school in Costa Mesa.

Rafael Tellez's passion for airplanes started when he was just four years old.

"When we went to Oregon, you could just tell that he had just a love and awe of being in the skies," Rafael's dad, Edgar Tellez, said.

"I like going, being in the air and having a nice view of everything," Rafael said.

Rafael is now cultivating his passion at the Pacific Flight Aviation in Costa Mesa.

"I've been flying in an actual airplane for about four to five months now," Rafael added.

"It's great seeing someone that age be so passionate about aviation. He's a natural, honestly, so it's great to see," his flight instructor, Jonah Montes, said.

The young aspiring pilot is working toward his private pilot license.

Although he has to be at least 17 years old to obtain it, Rafael plans to keep practicing until then.

"I would like to work at Delta or American Airlines or fly private planes for a living," Rafael said.

He also provided some advice to other kids seeking their dreams.

"Don't give up, don't quit and just keep doing what you like to do."