Capt. Minaya is an accomplished aviation professional with extensive experience as a commercial airline pilot, flight instructor, and educator. With a career spanning over a decade, he has amassed over 4,000 flight hours, including experience with A320, B787 and B737 aircraft. His expertise extends beyond the cockpit, contributing to the development of future aviators through his role as an adjunct professor and flight instructor. 

Capt. Minaya holds a Master of Science in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he specialized in Aviation Management and Training. He also earned a Master of Arts in IT Management from Webster University, further enhancing his analytical and managerial skill set. His foundational aviation training began at Broward College, where he completed an Associate in Science in Professional Pilot Technology. 

As a certified Airline Transport Pilot (ATP), Capt. Minaya holds multiple FAA certifications, including Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII), Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI), and Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI), demonstrating his commitment to both aviation operations and training. 

Capt. Minaya currently serves as a Captain Officer at United Airlines, where he plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of flight operations. Prior to this, he was a Captain at Spirit Airlines, overseeing flight planning, compliance, and operational execution. His tenure at Spirit Airlines also included serving as a First Officer, where he supported captains in managing flights according to regulatory and company guidelines. 

Beyond his work in commercial aviation, Capt. Minaya is deeply committed to aviation education. He is an Adjunct Professor at Miami-Dade College’s School of Aeronautics, where he provides instruction on flight planning, navigation, weather analysis, aircraft performance, and simulator procedures. Additionally, as a Flight Instructor at ADF Airways, he has trained aspiring pilots on the A320 aircraft, utilizing advanced flight training devices and simulators. 

Capt. Minaya proudly served in the United States Air Force, receiving an honorable discharge after seven years of dedicated service (2005–2012). His military background has instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment to excellence. 

Passionate about fostering diversity in aviation, Hugo is an active member of the Latino Pilots Association, where he contributes to initiatives aimed at supporting and mentoring underrepresented individuals in the aviation industry.