Hello all! New here, but not to the airline industry....

Anyway, I'm located in Southern California (between LAX and ONT) and eager to become a pilot. Currently, circumstances are limiting the amount of full on ATP training, so I'm looking at getting a start with a PPL.

Anyone in the So Cal area that can train me or know of a school/club that has a great maintenance record and isn't gonna cost me an arm and a leg?

Also, a pilot I talked to recently told me to look into the type of practice area a airport has (I think he said restrictions, A,B,C, or D?.) Which airport in So Cal has the best (largest) practice area? I know LGB is basically San Pedro harbor and parts of Palos Verde.

I just met a CFII that flys out of Van Nuys. He does it as a passion. PM me and I can refer you to him. Van Nuys may be a little out of the way.

There are a lot of airports between LAX and ONT so it's unclear where specifically you are. At El Monte(EMT and Brackett(POC)in La Verne there is SoCal Flying Club with a fleet of Diamonds. Lots of training out that way so you'll be ok. Don't get caught up the BCD airspace stuff right now, no matter where you are in the LA area you'll have to learn that stuff. Just find a place and start learning. And flight training isn't cheap no matter where you go!
So Cal Flying Club

Just looking for recommendations along the freeway system between LAX and ONT, as that's where I have the most resources. Figured that makes the most sense then saying just in So Cal in general or LA area. Being a native to the area, driving here is nothing....

I've contacted So Cal flying club and no response to emails or calls

After more research, doing training in a high traffic area would benefit me as a professional as I'll have to be more on my toes and scanning more. So I agree with you on disregarding airspace.

Be smart and go to a 141 school if you want to fly for the airlines.