Learn to Fly Testimonials
Dave Jardine - Sr Director International Software Company
After flying for six months with another local flying school I gave up for a year before finding Dave to resume my flight training. When Dave met me I was frustrated and needed a lot of work. My busy work travel created a lot of “stop and start” challenges that Dave was willing to work with during my training. He is very patient, professional and firm about what you need to do to be successful. Dave is going to prepare you for a successful check-ride by making sure that you understand why and how each of the fundamental components of safe flying are performed. You will be a safe, professional pilot when you finish your program with Dave. You will also realize that flying is always a learning experience that will continue to challenge you on every flight as you grow as a pilot. Dave’s program is by far the best value for your investment – personalized training based on what you need and when you need it in order to achieve your goals.
Brett Milke - Teacher and Coach
I was lucky I contacted Dave when I decide to resume my flight training. I began flying over seven years ago at a local flying school in San Diego, but did not finish my license. Dave developed a training plan that would get me to my check-ride exam very quickly. I passed on the first try! Dave will teach you exactly what you need to know as a pilot. Because of his knowledge, you will learn more in a shorter amount of time. I enjoyed working with Dave much more than the flight school I previously used. I will be working with Dave again when I decide to start my Instrument rating and would highly recommend using Dave for instruction!
Kyle Howen - Engineer, Predator UAV
Like many others I had the pleasure of training for a private pilot certificate with Dave. He was an excellent teacher from the introductory flight to my check-ride exam day. He was flexible with and responsible with our lesson schedule. Communication was always fast. Each flight was packed with extra information, emergency scenarios, and helpful techniques beyond the course syllabus. And most importantly Dave always put an emphasis on safety. Because of this I was able to confidently fly my girlfriend from San Diego to Los Angeles as soon as I got my license. I hope to continue flying and training with Dave, and would recommend the same to anyone else!
Dan Linehan - Aerospace Test Engineer
Dave remained professional and courteous at all times during my training. I was most impressed and challenged by his insistence on perfection during all stages of flight from preflight, manuevers, landing and post-flight. Because of this I felt thoroughly prepared and confident prior to the check-ride. He was always available to answer my questions, and he eagerly accomodated my busy schedule. Despite having a full-time job that requires extensive travel, Dave's excellent instruction and flexible schedule allowed me to successfully complete my private pilot certificate in only 5 months
Todd Warner - Newspaper COO
I've had the pleasure of working on my private pilot certificate with Dave Simpson and greatly appreciated his professionalism and patience. As a working professional, often my erratic schedule made consistent flight training impossible. However, Dave made himself available, mornings before work, evenings after work and weekends to accommodate my schedule. Dave was extremely patient, never chastising or making me feel incompetent - he was always professional. He never had any doubt I could complete the certificate which is more than I could say for myself. As a private instructor, I knew Dave was in this for the joy of instructing, not just to build hours to move onto a career the airlines. He demonstrates a true passion for general aviation and sharing that joy with others. I look forward to continuing my training with Dave.
Allwin Agnel - Wharton MBA Student
I wanted to get my private pilot certificate and I wanted it fast. I had just over 35 days because I was going to be graduating from Wharton and wanted to get my flight license at the same time. I needed someone to work with me at my schedule and also be flexible, yet focused. I was lucky to find Dave who is an experienced, patient and focused flight instructor. I thoroughly enjoyed Dave's style of teaching because he did not overload me with information, but structured the course to ensure that there was ample learning every time we met. Furthermore, he was professional at all times and was on time for every lesson we had scheduled. I had a lot of obscure questions for him and he always answered them and in case he wasn't sure he made it a point to look it up and get back to me the very next day either by email or in person.
His teaching style is very professional and coming from a professional background, I thoroughly enjoyed it and it was a joy to learn from someone who was willing to teach. Dave's goals in aviation are not to rack up more hours and it shows - he is an excellent teacher and a wonderful person to know. While it was challenging to fly almost everyday especially when the weather wasn't being too co-operative, Dave worked extremely hard to make sure all lessons were covered and had to restructure the course almost every day to ensure the deadline was met. Without his support and dedication, I wouldn't be a pilot today. If you value your time, money and are keen on learning - you should talk to Dave. But be prepared to work hard because he does, at all times.
Taylor Wallace - Student
Dave Simpson is an excellent flight instructor. He is extremely knowledgeable and can explain concepts easily. He is willing to instruct at a pace that is right for you and I would highly recommend him to anyone who is interested in learning to fly. I passed my private checkride on the first attempt even though before the training I had never flown a plane before. I am now enrolled in the aviation program at St Cloud University and plan to become a commercial airline pilot.
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.