Comments from Phil C. from Canada

Dear John:

It's been a couple of months since I left Florida and returned to Canada. I've been working through the paperwork to transition my FAA documents into their equivalent Transport Canada licenses, so that I can start flying up here in the near future. As I've had some 'down-time' recently, with the Olympics being hosted here in Vancouver, I've had the opportunity to reflect on my Florida flight training. Just wanted you to know that my time with Air Orlando Aviation (March 2009 - January 2010) certainly counts as one of the best experiences of my life!

As you are aware, I had had a profoundly negative experience with another Florida-based flight school during the fall of 2008. Leaving that situation in early 2009, I was skeptical about finding a new school that would treat this student pilot, not as a number, but as an individual with unique needs. I was looking for the reassurance that my goals could be met in a timely and cost-effective manner. I was seeking experienced and personable instructors to work with. I was hoping for the option of flying a selection of different aircraft models. My search led me to your facility.

From my first phone call to Air Orlando Aviation, I knew that your organization was going to be different and it was the 'little' things that made it so. It began with the invaluable one-on-one assistance to help expedite my visa paperwork. It was present every day in the friendly smiles around the office that greeted me on my arrival for training sessions. It was demonstrated in the expert care taken by the maintenance crew to ensured safe aircraft. However, it was best illustrated by my Flight Instructors, who customized their ground and flight lessons to maximize my learning opportunities! They took the time to ensure that I not only understood the material but also had the chance to experience it from my seat in the cockpit. They continually found new ways to challenge and engage me in the learning process. They raised the bar on performance expectations and then pushed me to meet those goals. Yet, they took the time to help me celebrate each accomplishment. I felt as if I had come home and by the time I had completed all of my ratings, I truly felt as though I had become an integral part of the Air Orlando family!

John, you should be proud of your team! I would like to pass along my heart-felt thanks to each of my instructors: Carlos, Les, Jerry, Chad, Jeannie and Richard. I thank you for being patient and dedicated teachers, concerned with my success. I deeply appreciate the gifts of your time, your stories/examples, your encouragement and your friendship. As role models, you are simply the best. Note: I've been observing your techniques and now, I'm going to adopt as many good practices as I'm able!

I am a proud graduate of Air Orlando. This has been a positive and vital experience, a stepping stone on the path towards developing a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for the commercial aviation career that I'm intent on pursuing.

I look forward to staying in touch and I plan to drop in, whenever I happen to be in the vicinity.

Sincerely,

Phil C.  from Canada