Jonathan Spano Builds Dual Careers in Traffic and Film

The entrepreneur balances a nationwide traffic safety company with a high-stakes aerial camera jet business.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Business — General

Jonathan Spano Builds Dual Careers in Traffic and Film

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Since founding his traffic control company in 1995, Jonathan Spano has expanded his operations to over 50 U.S. locations while establishing a successful film career. He later co-founded Phenom Camera Ship in 2016, utilizing modified jets to capture aerial sequences for major motion pictures.

Why it matters

Spano established these ventures after his eyesight disqualified him from becoming a Navy pilot, turning his aviation passion into a specialized business model. His career path demonstrates how secondary business investments can evolve into influential roles within the entertainment and safety industries.

The traffic control business generates over $1 million in daily revenue across more than 50 U.S. locations. Additionally, modifying the Embraer Phenom 300 jet required 18 months of development.

The players

Jonathan Spano

He is an entrepreneur who leads a nationwide traffic control company and co-founded an aerial camera jet production firm.

Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce

This local organization provides support to businesses and awarded Spano the Entrepreneur of the Year honor in 2023.

Phenom Camera Ship

This company provides specialized aerial cinematography services for films using modified jet aircraft.

The details

The traffic venture began by placing cones and barricades for a crane company before expanding nationwide. Spano later equipped his Embraer Phenom 300 with specialized camera systems and earned Federal Aviation Administration certification, eventually piloting aerial sequences for Top Gun: Maverick.

1995: Spano and his brother founded their traffic control business.
2014: Spano received the Latino Business of the Year award.
2016: Spano co-founded the company Phenom Camera Ship.
2023: Spano received Entrepreneur of the Year from the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.

Market Landscape

Spano’s business expansion highlights a growing trend of integrating specialized, FAA-certified aviation services into professional cinematic production. This niche positions his company as a vital technical partner within the broader film and aerial cinematography sector.

The widespread presence of Spano’s traffic control business means many motorists frequently encounter the company's equipment on public roadways. Local residents in Long Beach may recognize his impact on the regional economy following his recent local business award.

The takeaway

Jonathan Spano's career shows that diversifying into specialized technical fields can bridge the gap between traditional service industries and high-profile creative work. Pursuing certification and specialized equipment can often turn a personal hobby into a major commercial asset.