★★★★★
5 out of 5
a year ago
**Update** Following my recent experience with First Flight, I was contacted by Patrick, who took the time to address my concerns and ensure a positive resolution. We successfully completed my Biannual Flight Review, during which I gained valuable insights and significantly improved my understanding of aviation communications. Patrick demonstrated a high level of expertise and professionalism throughout the flight. I look forward to flying with him again soon to refine my instrument flying skills.
I would like to begin by stating that my experience with First Flight two and a half years ago was excellent. I completed a biannual flight review at the time and found both the customer service and aircraft to be outstanding. My instructor, Ross, was professional, knowledgeable, and created a positive learning environment. Over the following two years, I rented aircraft from First Flight without issue and regularly recommended the organization to many of my colleagues based on those positive experiences.
Unfortunately, my most recent visit did not meet the same standard. Three and half weeks ago, I scheduled a biannual flight review with an instructor named Patrick, booking the appointment at the front desk in advance. I arrived on the day of the review 15 minutes early to ensure punctuality, only to find that the instructor was still in the air with another student. I was informed by the front desk attendant that he would be landing shortly and also learned that supposedly I wasn't on the schedule. Forty-five minutes later, the instructor returned and was notified of my presence and scheduled appointment. After waiting an hour, we began the ground portion of the flight review.
Due to the schedule shift, we were limited in aircraft availability and could only log 0.6 hours of flight time—short of the minimum one hour required to complete a flight review. Compounding the issue, I experienced problems with my headset and had difficulty hearing both ATC and the instructor. Although I had another headset available, time constraints prevented a swap. The instructor and I mutually agreed that a follow-up flight would be necessary and scheduled it for 0900 on Sunday, two days later.
Again, I arrived 15 minutes early. Unfortunately, the instructor did not show up. I initially assumed he was running late and sent a text informing him I would begin the pre-flight inspection.
To those currently training or flying at First Flight and having positive experiences, I genuinely hope that continues. I view this situation as an unfortunate anomaly and not reflective of the entire organization. As a strong supporter of small, family-owned FBOs like First Flight, I believe they are essential to the health and growth of General Aviation. I want to see First Flight succeed and continue to serve the aviation community well.
Alex Sims
