Whether you're considering your first aircraft, looking for professional management, or simply need access to the right airplane for your next trip, our mission is simple: help you make confident aviation decisions backed by real-world experience.
At Collar City Aviation, we believe private aviation should be accessible, understandable, and tailored to your mission—not driven by sales quotas or one-size-fits-all solutions.
Trusted Aviation Guidance, Built on Experience.
Meet the Founder
Austin Rivera
Austin's passion for aviation began at the age of 16, laying the foundation for a career built on flying, leadership, and aircraft advocacy. Over the years, he has grown from a student pilot to a U.S. Air Force pilot, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Cirrus Training Center owner, and trusted advisor to aircraft owners across the Northeast.
Today, Austin combines firsthand experience as a military aviator, flight instructor, aircraft advisor, and business leader to help clients navigate every aspect of private aviation. From selecting the right aircraft and managing ownership to coordinating charter travel, his focus is simple: provide honest, experience-driven guidance that helps clients make confident aviation decisions.
Why Collar City?
Collar City Aviation is named in honor of Troy, New York—a city known for innovation, craftsmanship, and an often-overlooked aviation legacy. Inspired by the pioneers who helped shape aviation in New York's Capital Region, we carry those same values forward by providing trusted guidance in aircraft ownership, management, and private charter.
