Airline Pilot Central Forums - View Single Post - Reccomend an MEI at Air America in Daytona Beach, FL

07-02-2008, 07:11 PM

#6

Zeke

On Reserve

Joined APC: Dec 2007

Position: The edge of the map

Posts: 20

Quote:

Originally Posted by Crism

I've rented out of Air America and I've had a number of people with BAD experiences there...myself included. I will never rent from them again and as you already mentioned and found, the maintenance is sub-par. I don't believe they should be getting anyone's business after what happened to me. PM me if you would like me to elaborate.

I've worked for Air America for two years, and logged nearly 2000 hours in company aircraft (1,950). I can assure you that AA's aircraft are maintained to the highest industry standards. The only incidents that have involved flight school aircraft have been either pilot error or act of God (bird strike), with the exception of a gear failure in the Cutlass. The failure was attributed to a manufacturer's defect in the system, not to lax maintenance.

I personally fly for the imaging department at Air America, and it involves some of the most challenging flying I've ever done in my career. When I step into the aircraft to fly night IFR from Salt Lake City to Denver, or take the runway at Skykomish (S88-look it up, it will raise the hair on your neck, particularly if you've only flown in Florida..ahem), or cross any and every mountain range in the US, the last thing I worry about is whether the maintenance has been performed correctly- I know with absolute certainty that it has.

Beyond that, Air America (IIRC) has one of the best safety records of any flight schools based in the Daytona area. It also has some of the best prices and staff - ok, that last one is opinion.

Anyway, back on topic- I haven't seen his name on here and I'm not sure if he's still around, but check out Scott Penkes. He's a great instructor, period. Sean and Chuckles are good options as well if you have a few extra clams. Good luck!

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