Who We Are

Take Flight San Diego is owned and operated by Dave Simpson and specializes in Part 61 accelerated private, instrument and commercial flight instruction in the San Diego area. Dave has earned FAA Gold Seal and National Association of Flight Instructors Master CFI accreditation, a distinction held by only 200 of the 92,000 flight instructors in the U.S.A and only two in San Diego. Dave has been flying since 1993 and enjoys a 98% track record of checkride success among his private, instrument, commercial, and CFI students.

Take Flight San Diego’s philosophy centers on the critical role of the flight instructor in providing the quality necessary to achieve and maintain this enviable record of checkride success. Dave Simpson and his staff are experienced teachers, who exhibit the highest standards of professionalism and dedication to achieving the outcomes you desire. The beginner and advanced student testimonials on this website provide the best insight into what you can expect as a client.

Take Flight San Diego is unique in the flight training industry. Although instructors will provide training in almost any location in any airplane, the majority of the training takes place in conjunction with Plus One Flyers, a non profit corporation dedicated to providing airplanes and training, at three airports in the San Diego area, SEE, MYF, and RNM. The diverse fleet of over 35 airplanes ranging from a C150 to a Cirrus at rates lower than most FBO’s make Plus One Flyers the best choice for those who don’t own their own airplane.