Advanced Rating Testimonials
Ant Bilsev, IT Consultant
I was introduced to Dave in June, while I was finishing my private certificate. I travel a lot for work and because I live in Germany, I looked for a way to finish my Instrument rating in the shortest possible time. Being a Plus One member, I was able to train in a great G1000 equipped C172. As I work in IT, I wanted to use the newest and safest technology around. Besides learning on "Glass", I also used an electronic flight bag for approach plates, AFD, FAR/AIM and checklists. Dave was a bit skeptical about the electronic plates, but really liked the use of them in the end. The first and only time I needed to carry paper was during my checkride, as the examiner didn't like the electronic device as much as I did! I selected Dave as the instructor to use for my instrument rating after a chance 10 minute meeting at the airport. After just a quick introduction and a short conversation I came away with the impression that Dave enjoyed what he did , and truly was interested in creating a positive experience for anyone interested in aviation and flying.
The training itself was great fun and very professional. Dave taught me procedures in an easy-to-understand and -remember way. We flew many hours and approaches every day and used the longer cross country flights to work on IFR planning, ATC procedures and on learning the finer points of the G1000. Even a PAR approach was part of the training. After 7 days and about 35 flight hours later, Dave signed me off for my checkride, which I took the day before I flew back to Europe. The oral and flight test were very tough but I was able to fly all approaches to PTS standard and travelled back to Germany with the rating in my pocket.
I not only enjoyed the way Dave was able to crunch so much information into 7 days and still keep it manageable and fun, but also his open minded approach to new technologies. If you like the idea of fast training, I highly recommend Dave's accelerated courses. Thanks Dave, it was a pleasure! IGary Stern, Military Surveillance Aircraft Operator (Instrument & Commercial)
I selected Dave as the instructor to use for my instrument rating after a chance 10 minute meeting at the airport. After just a quick introduction and a short conversation I came away with the impression that Dave enjoyed what he did , and truly was interested in creating a positive experience for anyone interested in aviation and flying.
I came to Dave short of experience, and although a competent VFR pilot, quite sloppy in my habits. Dave committed himself wholeheartedly to getting me up to standard, and invested his time, before and after hours, to teach me the necessary skills to pass my IFR checkride. After just 6 days of flying, instructing and teaching I passed my practical test. I give credit to Dave for making this happen. His style of instruction is calm, non threatening, friendly and professional. Dave’s’ instructional method provided me with a very efficient, cost effective and thorough way to get from my private to my instrument rating. I highly recommend Dave Simpson as a flight instructor.
I decided to get my commercial rating a few days after successfully passing my IFR check ride. I started the program but I was short of the 250 hours of PIC time needed, so flew some X-C flights to accrue the required time. My check ride was scheduled and we used the same examiner we used for the IFR check ride. I made it through the 3 hour oral then took the flight portion and passed. I now have my commercial pilot rating. Thanks for your help Dave, your style of instruction worked well for me and I would recommend you to anyone looking for a fast and effective way to earn their ratings.
Gerry Desimone, Principal, DeSimone & Huxter
II have encountered many coaches and have locked horns with some along the way. However, I always flourished when coached by one who forced me to challenge myself. Dave Simpson fits in that category. I am 50 years old and admittedly not the fastest learner. However, through Dave's tutelage I was able to fight through the mental blocks and frustration. Although the program was exhausting it simply did not allow me, as the pilot, to forget what was learned in the last session, as that was at most, a day earlier. I have and will encourage others to pursue their IFR training through a comprehensive course similar to that offered by Take Flight San Diego and, more particularly, I have recommended Dave Simpson as the instructor.
Clarence McAllister, Civial Engineer
I highly recommend Dave's 4 Day Finish up IFR program. As a busy executive, I spent almost a year on and off preparing for my IFR rating in my hometown. By getting away from the office and focusing on my training, I was able to obtain my IFR rating with the help of Dave. In the process, I was able to log a significant number of hours in actual instrument conditions.
Siima Mushendwa, Tour Operator, Tanzania
Dear Dave, it has been a pleasure working with you. Take Flight San Diego has enabled me to get my Instrument Rating by going thoroughly over ground school and detailed instruction. Dave is calm and explains everything in detail. Dave set a date for the checkride and we worked to get me ready for it.
Shairrie Van Duzer, Commander Civil Air Patrol
I have been a college and high school teacher for almost 30 years, as well as a pilot for 17. Three years ago I got serious about completing my CFI. I worked with one instructor, who recommended I go out of town because of the high failure rate for CFI's at our local FSDO. I tried that too, only to pay a lot of money and time going out of the area. After that bad experience, I met with Dave, and we efficiently reviewed all of the ground and finished off the flying portion. He is always very encouraging, positive, patience and calm. He also teaches above and beyond, to a high level of correlation and never wastes time. I passed on my first try at our local FSDO which boasts a 70% first time failure rate. His organization, preparation and teaching is exceptional. Thank you Dave!
Mike Maas - General Manager, U.S. Enterprise Marketing, Microsoft Corporation
I just wanted to say thank you for teaching me to fly IFR. Training with you was a terrific experience in all respects. Your deep knowledge, patience, and true passion for flying combine to make you a great instructor for an Instrument Rating. Most importantly, I found your personality to be highly conducive to learning: I felt comfortable and supported at all times, yet also challenged to excel. I really enjoyed working with you and look forward to another rating someday under your guidance.
Mark Duncan - Manager, Marketstar Corporation
I just completed the 5-Day Commercial program with Dave and couldn't be more pleased with the results. As an advanced instructor, Dave is a great mentor and coach while being very exacting about teaching the skills necessary to become a Commercial Pilot. With the accelerated program, you get Dave's complete personal attention from start to finish. This focused attention is invaluable as you develop new skills and then are able to immediately refine and reinforce your learning. You will develop the skills required to pass the commercial checkride (both the practical and oral exam) while developing a more complete understanding of aircraft aerodynamics and aircraft systems. I found the 5-Day Commercial program to be very cost and time efficient to achieve a higher level of flying skill and knowledge. The results speak for themselves, the examiner remarked (after the checkride) "you fly very well".
Kyle Olson - Pharmaceutical Executive
I highly recommend the 7 Day Instrument Program with Dave Simpson. Doing all the simulator training followed by 5 days of flying was a great way to get it all done efficiently and economically. I know several people who took lessons on and off for over a year and still hadn't gotten it done. I took my checkride with no problems at all. This weekend I flew an IFR trip and the return flight was IFR due to clouds. It was no problem at all. I'm very comfortable with my skills from this program. Dave's style is very easy going and the repetition you get from flying so much in a condensed time frame is a great benefit.
David Walsh - City Comptroller
I am writing this after completion of Dave's 7 Day Accelerated IFR training program and resultant successful completion of the oral and checkride. Dave's program was thorough, intuitive and efficient. Especially noteworthy is Dave's ability to simplify many of the complex processes associated with IFR coursework and present a simple, real-world solution that "sticks." I came to Dave with many misconceptions gleaned from prior instructors and a lack of the IFR discipline that differentiates IFR from VFR. Within a short time I learned more than I had in months of prior training. Even after I was "signed-off," and weather delayed the checkride, Dave provided timely refresher training to ensure that the learned skills did not erode. Needless to say, I believe Dave's approach works. It certainly worked with the examiner today. I would recommend him to anyone seeking an IFR rating.
Craig Foster - Jet Ownership Manager
For those interested in obtaining their instrument rating in a timely and efficient manner, I recommend Dave Simpson's IFR course. After completing his seven-day course and within five days of passing the checkride, I was confidently and safely flying within the ATC system. Dave's methodology is to focus intently on those areas required to pass both the oral and practical tests while also providing real-world knowledge based on his personal experience. The first few days were spent drilling and practicing on his in-home flight simulator. The last few days were spent doing air work. Each night was spent alone studying and reviewing systems and procedures and preparing for the next day's lesson. If you are one who is unable to spend countless months of on-again/off-again training at a local flight school, then I strongly suggest you contact Mr. Simpson to see how his program will help you successfully obtain your instrument rating both safely and efficiently.
Mike Dechnik - IT Professional
It was a pleasure working with Dave Simpson while pursuing my instrument rating. I passed the practical test and obtained the rating in just two weeks after contacting you. I had really struggled in my previous flight training while flying only once or twice a week and the accelerated instrument training that you provided was the perfect solution for getting me back on track, thoroughly learning the IFR system, and reinforcing the procedures to the point where they became good flying habits. After spending several hours on the simulator, I certainly felt more at ease with the holds and different approaches, and began to feel really confident as I felt it all coming together. Together we set an aggressive goal, and achieved it. What a great feeling! I was able to file an IFR flight plan and fly down to Sun N' Fun in Lakeland, FL just a few days after getting the ticket, while my VFR-only friends never made it, waiting for ceilings and weather to improve along the route. That alone made your training program worth every penny! I have already recommended your accelerated instrument training program to others and will continue to do so in the future.
Ami Bagia - Student
Testimonial from Ami's Parents
We cannot thank you enough for all you have done for Ami in getting her instrument rating. We believe this is all because of your program. There was never a time that Jay and I ever had a doubt about Ami flying with you and learning under your direction. We heard second hand via Ami about your skills, your patience and your incredible knowledge base. We were amazed at how confident but cautious Ami became as a pilot. We were astonished at the growth of her level of comfort in piloting and navigating. We witnessed her commitment and watched as Ami gained confidence and ability. We witnessed her excitement after attending your week long intensive flight school. Each night she would come home after studying straight for 8 long hours ready to get up in the morning and go again!
We were so proud when Ami passed her IFR written test with great scores and then passed the actual flight exam with glowing accolades from the FAA examiner. We attribute her success to you and your program. How can we thank you? Ami is only 21 and has years of flying ahead of her. But her passion for flying has been enhanced via your enthusiasm, your piloting acumen and your systematic and supportive style of teaching. Ami never felt threatened by you, never felt overwhelmed and never felt she couldn't succeed. Your trips with Ami to Ocean City, Maryland, Harrisburg, PA, and Toronto, Canada (including a buzz around the Falls) were incredible. You never stayed with just the familiar but rather always encouraged her to try more.I doubt if Ami will ever be able to duplicate your incredible teaching style and knowledge with another instructor. Thank you for giving Ami the foundation she needs to be the best pilot ever. Thanks to you our daughter has an incredible future ahead of her.
John Morrow - Plant Maintenance Director
Dave Simpson is a thoroughly professional flight instructor. He was extremely organized and dedicated to my successful completion of this training. Dave made the learning experience very enjoyable for me. His training methods impart all of the skills needed to obtain the IFR rating in a very short period of time. After completing the training, I felt well prepared for the checkride. He was able to adapt the program to cover a few areas of weakness in my flying experience due to limited flight experience in the last two years. This experience will be something that I will look back on as a worthy investment in both time and money. I highly recommend Dave to anyone considering pilot training.
John Matter - Construction Company Owner
Wow! Now that I can relax and enjoy this major accomplishment, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for doing such a great job as my instructor. To successfully complete the Commercial Pilot Certificate in five days was nothing short of incredible! Your total knowledge of the flying requirements, the ability to have me perform at my best and your overall total professional capability made this successful outcome possible. There was a tremendous amount of technical information and flying maneuvers to squeeze into a short span of time. At the start, it seemed to be an overwhelming task to undertake. You were able to accommodate my schedule and never had me feel rushed or pressured. I know you were not satisfied until you thought I was ready. It was your relaxing, yet so thorough approach during those many practice hours that made it possible for me to hear those words, "You passed!
Mike Costello - Auto Sales Manager
I had been taking my IFR training with another instructor. I had lots of training hours with not too much to show for it. Finally, I reached the point where I realized I was not really progressing and certainly not building my IFR confidence level. I approached Dave Simpson and asked if he would be willing to take me on and hopefully complete my training. The rest is history! Dave laid out a specialized training schedule for me and in no time at all, I was ready for my check ride which I passed! Today, I have the confidence to fly in the IFR system and my approaches are still right on! Thanks Dave!