Brian Morgan, MD – Orthopedic Surgeon – Piedmont Orthopedics / Ortho Atlanta
I began flight training with Steve Shaner at American Air Flight Training in 2020, as an Instrument Rated Private Pilot interested in a Tailwheel course endorsement and Aerobatics training in a Super Decathlon. Since then, I have completed Steve’s tailwheel course and then went on to do some advanced instrument and emergency training in his flight simulator, followed by the Commercial Pilot course. I have just completed the Commercial course and successfully passed my Commercial pilot check ride with Dan Emin – the FAA-Designated Pilot Examiner at PDK airport. I give a lot of credit to Steve and his training program.
The training is extremely high quality and thorough, with a structured syllabus, including regular ground school sessions, coupled with flight lessons that are well-organized and tailored to the progress of the student. It is a very effective way to ensure that no topic is neglected. Previous topics are always reviewed at the beginning of each lesson, which keeps everything fresh to build on.
Steve’s professionalism and dedication to teaching is surpassed only by his knowledge and experience. He has decades of experience in many types of aircraft and just about every level of flying. He maintains a very strong emphasis on safety in all aspects of flight, from flight planning and aircraft preflight inspection, to securing the aircraft at the ramp. Part of safety is knowing what not to do and Steve uses accident analysis to help the student learn from the mistakes of others. He trains and tests his students to the highest standards, way beyond the minimal required training, which means there are very high expectations. “Good enough” isn’t good enough. Challenging, but well worth the effort.
As a result, I now have a much deeper understanding of systems and regulations that I ever had before. My piloting skills have improved dramatically and I am flying with more confidence and precision. I am a better, safer pilot thanks to Steve.
There are plenty of flight schools that may be cheaper and faster, but flying is a serious endeavor, and the training is not something to skimp on. In my opinion, Steve Shaner at American Air Flight Training is worth every penny to get the best training available. Highly Recommended!
— Brian Morgan – 2022