Brett Nelson, first solo ✈️✈️

Flight training looks a little different when you’re balancing a career, family life, kids sports schedules, workouts, and everything else that comes with adulthood… but Brett kept showing up and getting it done. This week, that effort led to a huge milestone: his first solo.

Learning to fly takes a lot of persistence, and Brett has brought exactly that mindset into training. Lesson by lesson, he kept putting in the work, continuing to improve, and staying committed even with a busy schedule. Working alongside instructor Shane Smith, that consistency paid off in a big way when Brett completed his first solo at KRTS on runway 26 ✈️

Outside the airport, Brett works in real estate and spends plenty of time being a dad and supporting his kids at baseball. Somewhere in the middle of all that, he also decided learning to fly sounded like a good idea… and honestly, we’re glad he did.

He’s also just an incredibly kind person to have around the school. Brett has always been friendly to the office staff, instructors, and everyone around him, and that kind of attitude makes a huge difference in the atmosphere here.

He’s already got long term aviation goals too, including wanting to own an airplane, which feels like a pretty fitting goal after catching the flying bug.

Big congratulations to Brett on an awesome accomplishment and a moment every pilot remembers forever ✈️👏 The first solo is a huge milestone, and this one was very well deserved.

Sony, officially a CFI ✈️👏

If you’ve met Sony, you know he’s not the loudest one in the room but he’s absolutely one of the most solid. Calm, reserved, and consistently kind, he’s the kind of person you trust right away, whether that’s in the airplane or just talking through a tough concept on the ground. And now he’s bringing that same steady presence into the right seat as an instructor.

His aviation story started early, getting interested at just 12 years old, and it’s clearly stuck. Fast forward to now, balancing life working at Southwest while continuing to chase this path, and turning that long time passion into something real. Becoming a CFI isn’t easy, and Sony did it the same way he does everything else, quietly, consistently, and with a ton of discipline. Huge shoutout to his instructor Shane for guiding him through it. From wanting to be a 777 captain to now teaching others how to fly, pretty solid trajectory if you ask us.

He’s from Corning, CA and a big sushi guy, which feels very on brand. When he’s not flying, he says he’s either working or sleeping, which honestly checks out… but we all know there’s probably some aviation thinking happening in there too. He also loves being outdoors and just being around airplanes in general, which makes him fit right into the GBA crew.

And one thing that really stands out about Sony is how he carries himself. He keeps it simple, stays humble, and just shows up ready to do the work every single time. No ego, no shortcuts, just steady progress and a genuine care for doing things the right way. That kind of mindset is exactly what makes a great instructor.

Big congrats, Sony. GBA’s lucky to have you on the instructor side now. Go enjoy that celebratory drink… you definitely earned it 🍻✈️

Shon Plamondon… CFI ✈️👏

Another right-seat legend has entered the chat. With Bob backing him the whole way, Shon officially earned his CFI… and did it exactly how you’d expect: no chaos, no dramatics, just quietly stacking wins until there was nothing left to say except “yep, he’s ready.”

If you know Shon, you know the energy. Calm, kind, and somehow unbothered in a way that makes the rest of us question our life choices. The radios could be a mess, the winds could be doing the absolute most, and Shon’s just sitting there like it’s a smooth-air demo flight at 7am. And on top of that, he’s genuinely one of the nicest people around GBA. Always respectful, always easy to talk to, and consistently kind to everyone… yes, including the front office (which we absolutely notice).

Which is exactly why he’s about to be such a good instructor. Students are going to feel comfortable immediately, but don’t get it twisted… he’s still going to hold a standard. It’s that perfect combo of “you’re doing great” and “we’re gonna clean that up again.” Elite teaching energy.

Also… we do need to address the power-off 180s. Because they are locked in. Like, suspiciously accurate. The kind where you’re watching from the ramp thinking “there’s no way he’s making that”… and then he absolutely does. Every time. It’s getting a little out of hand.

Outside of flying, Shon keeps it just as dialed. Big golf guy, enjoys being out on the course, and has strong opinions about sushi… which honestly tracks. Precision in the airplane, precision in his hobbies. Consistency across the board.

And now for the most on-brand part of this entire thing… how is Shon celebrating becoming a CFI?

Going home and taking a nap.

No party. No chaos. Just a solid, well-earned nap.

Honestly… future instructor of the year behavior already.

Sam Klem, Pilot of the Month ✈️

Sam keeps things lowkey… but his progress is doing the talking.

Super reserved, not big on attention, not out here announcing every move… just quietly stacking ratings like it’s part of his morning routine. And fast. Like, blink and he’s onto the next one fast. Not rushed, just consistent, prepared, and actually locked in every time he shows up. Funny what happens when you just… do the work.

Training with Greg Anthenien, Sam’s built a foundation that’s solid. He takes feedback, applies it immediately (yes, immediately), and shows up better the next flight. No drama, no excuses, just steady improvement. Rinse, repeat, succeed.

Outside of flying, this isn’t a phase, this is just Sam. Always outside. Mountain biking, skiing, somewhere in the mountains doing something most people would need a week to mentally prepare for. And his photography? Yeah… casually unreal. The kind of photos that make you question your life choices and consider going outside for once.

And somehow… Sam doesn’t like heights. At all. Yet he rock climbs and flies airplanes. Make it make sense. Honestly, it tracks though. Just picking hobbies that would send most people into a spiral and acting like it’s no big deal.

He’s also just a solid human. Kind, respectful, easygoing… the kind of person you want around without even realizing why at first.

Very well deserved, Sam. Keep casually being impressive 👏

Derrick… CFII ✈️👏

This one’s just cool to write.

Because if you’ve been around GBA for a minute, you didn’t just see Derrick become a CFII… you watched the whole thing happen. From the ramp, to the right seat, to now teaching instrument students how to actually understand what’s going on up there.

He started as a line tech… out there early, late, in the cold, in the heat, doing the stuff nobody really notices unless it’s not done. And then just kept stacking wins. Rating after rating, no shortcuts, no “look at me”… just quietly putting in the work until now it’s like yeah, of course he’s a CFII.

And the best part? He’s still Derrick.

Same energy every time… loud, funny, always laughing, and bringing a personality that’s hard to miss. He makes lessons feel fun and relaxed, but don’t let that fool you… he’s absolutely going to hold you to a high standard. One second you’re laughing, the next he’s making you run it back because he knows you can do it better. He cares, and it shows. It’s never about rushing through… it’s about actually getting it right.

Also… let’s address the obvious.

You’ll hear him before you ever see him. That Atlanta accent is strong… like, you might double check your radio to make sure you’re still at KRNO. But at this point, it’s basically part of the GBA experience… and we wouldn’t change it for anything.

He’s also a full-on girl dad, and if you know him, you know that’s everything to him. CFII is a big deal… but that role clearly comes first, and it shows.

Former college football player too, which explains a lot. Disciplined, consistent, shows up no matter what. And don’t even get him started on Georgia Bulldogs football… that’s not just a team, that’s a lifestyle.

And now he’s stepping into running the RTO this year… so hopefully he’s just as good at running it as he is at passing checkrides. We shall see 😌

Just really proud to have him here.

Big congrats, Derrick. You earned this one 🤝

Julien Azelart… FIRST SOLO ✈️

With CFI Josh Gilmore, Julien has been putting in the kind of consistent, focused work that makes a moment like this feel well-earned. He shows up ready, stays dialed in, and goes about his training with a quiet confidence that you can’t really teach. And on runway 26 at KRTS, he put all of that into action for a smooth, confident first solo. And on top of that, he’s just an incredibly kind person… always respectful, always friendly, and genuinely one of the nicest people to have around GBA.

Julien’s story is pretty cool too. He grew up in Hawaii, which definitely explains the calm, laid-back energy he brings into everything he does. But behind that is someone who’s sharp, driven, and seriously good with computers. He’s also a professional YouTuber… so casually balancing flying airplanes with that is just… normal for him, apparently.

Aviation clearly runs deep, with his dad being a pilot, and now Julien is stepping into that world himself and absolutely thriving in it.

He’s got great taste in food (huge sushi guy)… but unfortunately, and this one hurts, he does NOT like country music. We’ve tried to fix it. We’ve really tried. It’s not looking promising.

All jokes aside, this was a big one, and it couldn’t have gone to a better person. Huge congrats, Julien… just getting started 🔥👏

April 19, 2026

Big day at KRTS! Tyler Glodowski took N37JA down Runway 8 and into the solo club.

No shortcuts here. Tyler earned this the right way: consistent work, steady progress, and the kind of judgment that made his instructor step out of the airplane with confidence. When it was time, it showed. Three takeoffs, three landings, and a quiet cockpit for the first time.

Tyler is a high school student, a track and field athlete, and a big Nevada Wolfpack fan, so he knows a thing or two about showing up, competing, and putting in the work over time. That mindset carries over, and today was the result.

He’s also been into aviation for years, fishing and plane spotting when he’s not flying. Naturally, he has had his sights set on becoming a pilot for a long time . Days like this don’t happen by accident.

Big congratulations to Tyler on a milestone he won’t forget, and a shoutout to Andy Glenn for the guidance and timing to make it happen.

Next stop: Private Pilot.

Huge congrats to Kurt Finney on officially becoming a Commercial Pilot!!

If you’ve spent any time around the school, you already know Kurt isn’t just “in training,” he basically lives here. Early mornings, late nights, squeezing flights, sim sessions, and study time around a full-time job like it’s just part of the routine. No drama, no shortcuts… just quietly outworking most people.

Kurt doesn’t show up just to get through a lesson, he shows up to understand it. Usually early, already thinking three steps ahead, and just as likely to be explaining something as he is asking it. Power Off 180s, Chandelles, Eights on Pylons, and those never-ending commercial regs… if there’s a deeper layer, he’s already digging into it (probably before his CFI even finishes the brief).

There’s a level of organization and discipline behind all of this that’s easy to miss. This isn’t luck, this is structured, intentional, and built over time. And somehow, outside of flying, he’s still hitting the gym, cooking real meals, getting out on the water, traveling… and yes, maintaining what we can only assume is world-class tongue-to-nose flexibility. We’re not asking questions.

Consistent, focused, and always moving forward. No wasted time, just showing up prepared and getting it done. Honestly, zero surprise here. This was always a “when,” not an “if.”

Shoutout to his instructor, Cory Kleidosty, who’s been there every step of the way, because professionalism tends to attract… more professionalism.

Nice work, Kurt. Go enjoy it for about five minutes… then we’ll see you back here working on the next certificate.

Applications are now open for Great Basin Aviation’s 2026 Young Aviator Boot Camp.

If you have a teen ages 13–16 who is curious about flying, aircraft, and aviation careers, this is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and see what aviation is really all about. Camp runs July 6–10 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Atlantic Aviation in Reno. Students will learn about flight dynamics, airport operations, and aviation career paths, tour facilities, meet industry professionals, and even have the chance to fly.

Cost is $250, with need-based scholarships available. Space is limited to one participant per household, and applications are due by 5/31/2026.

To request an application or get more details, contact Jenn Fonda at Jenn@GreatBasinAviation.com

Your logbook called… it misses you.

If it’s been a minute since you’ve flown, this is your low-stress, no-judgment way back in. Shake off the rust, get your confidence back, and remember why you started in the first place. Also counts as the ground portion of a flight review!

Come hang with Josh and get back in the game ✈️

Sunday, April 19 from 10 AM-1 PM @ Atlantic Aviation

Ian Butler is officially a solo pilot… and somehow still one of the most low-key people to ever make it happen.

Ian took to the pattern on his own for the first time at Carson with CFI Josh Gilmore, and if you know Ian, you know this moment probably came with zero drama, zero overreaction, and just a calm “yeah that was cool” after absolutely crushing it. Quiet but mighty is the best way to describe him. He shows up, puts in the work, and then casually does things that are actually a really big deal.

When he’s not out there flying airplanes by himself (no big deal), Ian is chasing a future as a TV weatherman, which honestly tracks. Calm, composed, probably the only guy who could deliver turbulence reports and a 7-day forecast with the same chill energy. He’s also a cat guy, still drives a stick shift (respect), and has strong, unwavering opinions about one thing in life: lazy Susan cabinets are not it.

But more than anything, Ian is just a genuinely kind person. The kind of person you want around the airport, the kind of student every instructor hopes for, and the kind of pilot who makes it look easy because of how steady and consistent he is.

Huge congrats, Ian. First solo down, and plenty more ahead.

Huge congrats to Jacob Hulsizer on officially becoming a Commercial Pilot!!

If you’ve been to a weekly study session lately, you already know Jacob is basically a permanent fixture. Always there, always dialed in, and somehow always one step ahead on the knowledge. The guy doesn’t just study, he knows his stuff. Like actually knows it. Annoyingly well sometimes.

Training with Andrew Spanier has been a top-tier duo. Consistent, focused, and just quietly getting it done every single week. No shortcuts, no excuses, just showing up and putting in the work until this checkride was inevitable. The kind of team that makes it look easy… but only because of how much work is happening behind the scenes.

And honestly, this has been a long time coming. First-grade Jacob had it figured out early, writing that he wanted to be a “pilit because pilits mack lots of muny,” and somehow… he wasn’t wrong. Dream achieved, spelling still questionable.

Outside of flying, Jacob somehow still has energy to be a fast runner (like… actually fast), go fish, and chase whatever adventure is next. Pretty on brand for someone who clearly doesn’t believe in sitting still. If there’s something to improve at, he’s already working on it.

All in all, zero surprise here. This one felt like a “when,” not an “if.” He set the standard early and just kept raising it. Huge accomplishment and very well deserved.

Go enjoy it for a second… then probably start working on the next rating by tomorrow morning because we know that’s exactly who you are.

Huge congratulations to Caleb Lin on earning his Private Pilot License!!

Caleb’s background spans across the globe, born in Guam, raised in Shanghai, China, and then back to Guam, so he’s no stranger to new places and picking things up quickly. Which makes it pretty fitting that he can now just fly himself wherever he wants, ideally somewhere a little less hot since he’s made it very clear the heat is not his thing.

Caleb trained with Lucas Murphy and flew 495SP, and honestly, he made the whole process look easy. He’s one of those people who just gets it, whether it’s learning new maneuvers or understanding the “why” behind everything. And the best part is he does it all with a calm, steady mindset. No stress, just showing up, smiling, and getting it done. On checkride day he didn’t even seem nervous, just his usual super smiley self.

Around the school, Caleb is known for being genuinely kind and easy to be around. He’s super nice, always respectful, and just has that good energy people gravitate toward. Outside of flying, he also enjoys DJing, so whether it’s in the cockpit or behind the booth, he knows how to keep things smooth and on point.

When asked how he was going to celebrate, Caleb kept it simple and elite, heading to Hell’s Kitchen in Tahoe with friends. Honestly, no better way to celebrate than good food, good people, and a brand new PPL.

Caleb, you crushed it. Huge accomplishment and so well deserved. Can’t wait to see where you go next, just maybe somewhere with cooler weather.

Huge congratulations to Alyssa Yerick on being named Pilot of the Month!!

Alyssa is one of those people who casually has a lot going on and somehow makes it look easy. She’s currently studying biochemistry at UNR (not exactly a light major) but she handles it like it’s no big deal. On top of that, she works in a research lab, so yes, she’s literally out here researching genetically modified plants and then coming to fly. Casual.

Her goal is to become an optometrist, and it honestly fits her perfectly. She’s focused, detail-oriented, and brings a calm, steady approach to everything she does, especially in the airplane.

Outside of school and flying, Alyssa is always up for something fun. Whether she’s golfing, snowboarding, or line dancing, she’s all in. She’s the kind of person who’s always down to try something new and somehow ends up being good at it too. And somehow, no matter what she has going on, her hair and outfits are always perfectly put together.

What really makes Alyssa stand out, though, is who she is as a person. She is incredibly kind and genuinely humble. She could absolutely brag about everything she has going on and no one would blame her, but you’d never hear it from her. She just quietly puts in the work, shows up for others, and keeps getting better at everything she does. You’d never guess she’s the superstar that she is.

We’re so lucky to have her at GBA. Pilot of the Month is more than deserved, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.

Some people level up… and some people really level up.

Today, James Morgan officially added CFII to his name, and we couldn’t be more fired up about it. As a Great Basin Aviation instructor, James has already been putting in the work day in and day out, helping students build their skills and confidence in the airplane. Now, he’s taking it even further stepping into the world of instrument instruction and guiding pilots through one of the most challenging and rewarding phases of training.

Earning a CFII is no small feat. It takes precision, discipline, and a deep understanding of not just flying, but teaching in a whole new environment where everything depends on trust in your instruments and your training. James has proven he has what it takes, and his students are lucky to have him leading the way.

And because apparently that wasn’t enough for one season of life… he’s also about to become a dad. His little one is due soon, which means he’s about to take on his most important role yet. From briefing approaches to building cribs, James is doing it all, and doing it well.

This is what dedication looks like. Showing up, putting in the work, and continuing to grow both professionally and personally. We’re proud to have James as part of the GBA team and excited to watch him continue to make an impact on his students and the aviation community.

Huge congratulations, James. Big things ahead.

And awesome job to CFII Shane Smith for helping guide him to this milestone.

Giovanni Alvarez just proved that doing big things starts with saying “yeah, I’ll try that!”

Today at KSPZ, runway 24, Gio took N292ED up for his first solo, and if you know Gio, you know he did it with that constant, can’t-miss smile. The kind of smile that says, “this is awesome”… even when your CFI just stepped out and casually left you with an airplane.

Gio is always up for something new. New experiences, new challenges, new adventures. and today that mindset paid off in a big way. Because somewhere between the nerves, the checklist, and that moment of “okay… it’s just me now,” he did what every pilot has to do, he trusted himself.

He’ll tell you nothing scares him… and while we suspect there might’ve been just a little spike in heart rate when Trey hopped out of the left seat, he showed exactly what matters most: courage isn’t about not being nervous, it’s about going anyway.

Also, fun fact: Gio isn’t a fan of cats… which honestly just makes us like him even more (sorry to the cat lovers out there).

Huge congratulations to Gio on earning his solo wings and to his CFI Trey Casini for guiding him to this moment. This is where it all starts, the confidence, the growth, and the realization that you’re capable of way more than you think.

Keep chasing it, Gio. This is just the beginning!

March 17, 2026

Huge congrats to Austin Cannon on earning his Private Pilot License… in THREE months. Yeah, you read that right.

Austin didn’t just complete his PPL, he absolutely sprinted through it like it was on his daily checklist between saving lives and booking his next trip. Being a full-time doctor and still managing to knock out a rating that fast is honestly a little suspicious… but we’ll allow it.

Originally new to the area, Austin wasted zero time settling into the Reno lifestyle. If he’s not at the airport, he’s probably skiing, hiking, traveling somewhere new, or on the golf course. Basically, if it involves being outdoors or going somewhere cool, he’s already doing it.

He also brings strong UNC Tar Heel energy, which means confidence, competitiveness, and just enough attitude to keep things interesting. That energy has been especially directed toward Jenn, who has been on the receiving end of a steady stream of Austin commentary since day one. Truly a gift to the office.

Despite all the chaos, Austin showed up locked in every single flight, flew consistently, and made steady progress the entire way through. No drama, no delays, just got it done… fast.

Big congrats to his instructor, Andrew Spanier, as well, for guiding him along the way! Austin, we’re glad you chose GBA and brought your personality (and your speed run mentality) with you. Congrats, Doc ✈️

Julius Lorentzen has officially taken his first solo lap around the pattern!

Julius launched in N352ME at KRST on runway 26, proving that hard work, long study sessions, and apparently being about 10 feet tall all translate pretty well into flying an airplane. When he’s not in the cockpit, Julius is either working or on the golf course. He claims he’s also a mini-golf (putt putt) legend… which frankly he better be if he’s already a pro at regular golf. We expect nothing less than dominance in the windmill and pirate ship divisions.

Now we do need to address one concerning character flaw: Julius is a Patriots fan. Julius… buddy… read the room. This is Raider country. We’ll forgive it this time since you just soloed, but we’ll be watching closely.

Jokes aside, Julius’ work ethic shows through in everything he does. The studying, the preparation, the consistency, it all paid off today in a big way. This is a huge milestone and just the beginning of many more aviation goals ahead.

Big shoutout as well to his CFI, Cory Kleidosty, for getting him to this moment.

Great work, Julius. Now go celebrate… maybe with a round of mini golf. Just remember in flying, the only thing we want under par is your landing distance.

Some people discover aviation because they want a new hobby.

Charlie Tatro discovered aviation because apparently having free time just isn’t his thing.

Charlie is one of those people who always has something going on. If he’s not working, he’s probably on the pickleball court, keeping the rally alive and making sure nobody gets an easy point. And when the Reno weather warms up, you’ll likely find him up at the lake wake surfing, because sitting still has never really been part of the plan.

So naturally… aviation made perfect sense.

Today at KRTS on Runway 26, Charlie stepped onto the court in a different way and soloed N37JA for the first time. No instructor in the right seat, just Charlie, the airplane, and the skills he’s been building.

For someone who loves to travel, this moment is a pretty big deal. Charlie can now officially start taking himself places… as long as the logbook endorsements keep getting signed along the way.

The thing about aviation is that it rewards people who like to stay busy. There’s always something to study, something new to learn, another goal to chase. For a guy who hates downtime, he may have just found the perfect career choice.

You could say today was Charlie’s match point.

He kept the rally going and served up a solo flight.

Huge credit to CFI Lucas Murphy for coaching him through the process and getting him to this milestone.

Great job, Charlie. The rally’s just getting started. 

Huge congratulations to Aidan McAllister on passing his Instrument Checkride!

The morning started off strong when Aidan spilled coffee all over the office carpet right before heading out to fly… bold pre checkride ritual, but apparently it works. We may need to add “dump coffee on carpet” to the official GBA instrument training syllabus.

Aidan trained with Eric Harned, and the two made a great team getting him ready for the clouds. His calm, steady approach made him a natural fit for instrument flying.

Aviation has been part of Aidan’s life for a long time. He’s been flying with his grandpa since he was little, and that early love of aviation clearly stuck. Outside of flight training, Aidan is also in the Army National Guard with plans to become a military pilot one day.

Weather definitely tried to be his nemesis through this process, forcing him to reschedule his checkride more than once, but he stuck with it and got it done.

Around the school, Aidan is known for being a mellow, easygoing guy who’s great to have around. He also takes the details seriously… sometimes so seriously that we’ll get 2am texts asking about maintenance logs.

When he’s not flying approaches, you’ll probably find him out skiing in the mountains.

Coffee spills aside, Aidan put in the work and earned this one. We’re proud of the dedication he showed getting to this milestone. Congratulations on the Instrument Rating, Aidan! ✈️

Josh Catron officially joined the solo club after taking off on his own from Runway 8 at Stead.

Josh and his instructor Derrick have been quite the duo throughout training. Between the flying and the matching mustaches, they’ve easily become one of the more recognizable teams around the ramp. Clearly the mustache power worked, because Josh went out and nailed his solo.

Around the school, Josh is known for being incredibly personable. He’s always stopping by the office to say hi and chat for a bit, usually with a joke or story that keeps things interesting. He’s easy to talk to, genuinely nice to everyone, and the kind of person the staff always enjoys seeing walk through the door.

One more important detail about this solo: Josh did it wearing Crocs. Bold choice. Comfortable choice. And apparently, a successful one.

You may also recognize Josh soon for another reason. He’s featured in an upcoming Great Basin video, so we might just have a future social media star on our hands.

Congrats on the solo, Josh. Mustaches, Crocs, and Runway 8, a solid combination. ✈️

Hayli Stewart just two stepped her way through the clouds and passed her Instrument Rating checkride!

From the very beginning, Hayli has been a total go-getter. Whether she is studying approaches, knocking out flight hours, or keeping everyone laughing along the way, she brings the kind of energy that makes training both productive and a whole lot of fun. She and her instructor Eric Harned have been an incredible team, always showing up ready to work and determined to keep stepping forward.

Hayli managed to line dance her way through holds, approaches, and all the twists and turns of instrument training without missing a beat. When the workload got heavy, she did not skip a step, she just kept boot scootin toward the finish line.

When she is not flying, Hayli is actually a country line dancing instructor, which honestly explains a lot. Turns out the same rhythm and coordination that keep a dance floor moving also translate pretty well to flying precise approaches and staying in step with the instruments. And of course she always shows up in the cutest outfits and coolest sunglasses, proving you can absolutely look stylish while breaking out the instrument scan.

Hayli, you absolutely crushed it. Keep calling the shots, keep leading the dance, and keep chasing those aviation goals. We cannot wait to see where your next step takes you. 🤠✈️

This month we’re celebrating Jaxton Morales: Air National Guard member, recent solo pilot, social media MVP, and now GBA’s February Pilot of the Month. 

Jaxton recently crushed his first solo (calm, confident, and absolutely ready), and we couldn’t be more proud. When he’s not flying, Jaxton can be found playing guitar, cracking jokes, or volunteering to be in just about any Great Basin social media video we throw at him. Truly elite team spirit.

His partnership with his instructor Derrick has been something special to watch.They have become an absolute dream team. The communication? Dialed. The progress? Steady. The mustaches? Historic.

Jaxton shows up ready to learn, ready to laugh, and ready to say yes to whatever challenge is next, whether that’s a short-field landing or a last-minute Instagram reel. Jaxton brings consistency, humility, and a great sense of humor to every lesson. We’re lucky to have him in our GBA family and can’t wait to watch what he accomplishes next- in the cockpit and beyond.

We’re proud to call him our Pilot of the Month and excited to watch him continue climbing.

Big congratulations to Brendan Gomez on passing his Commercial Pilot checkride.

Brendan has been flying straight through his ratings and has quietly put in a ton of work to get here. He’s someone who shows up, puts his head down, and keeps moving forward. He takes the process seriously and has built real consistency as a pilot, even if he’s usually arriving a few minutes late and almost always wearing sunglasses. At this point, it’s just part of the routine.

Outside of flying, Brendan is all about small adventures, good music, and enjoying the outdoors. A former ski racer with over 100 ski days in a year, he somehow still dislikes the cold, which feels very on brand. His long term goal has always been to become a pilot, and earning his Commercial is a big step toward that.

A big thank you to his instructor, Eric Harned, for the guidance and support throughout this stage of training.

Brendan, this is a huge milestone and one you earned through steady effort and commitment. Congrats on the Commercial and we’re excited to see where you take it next.

Huge congrats to Storm Gieringer on his first solo on Runway 8 at Stead! If you’ve spent any time around the ramp, you already know this one was coming. Storm is the definition of steady dedication, showing up, putting in the work, and earning every bit of progress along the way.

Just last month he was our Pilot of the Month, and now he’s adding “solo pilot” to the résumé. Momentum looks good on you, Storm.

Trained by the one and only Andy Glenn, this duo has put in the hours and it showed the second those wheels left the pavement. Calm, focused, and ready.

When he’s not flying, you’ll find him working at Scheels, repping the Pittsburgh Steelers, and being backed by a big, proud family who clearly support hard, we see you in the follows 👀

Storm, this is just the beginning. Runway 8 will always be your runway. Keep chasing it. We’ll be here cheering you on every takeoff.

Huge congrats to Sam Klem on officially becoming an Instrument Rated pilot ✈️🌥️

Sam has absolutely flown through his hours. Head down. Hood on. Zero drama. Just quietly stacking approaches like it’s no big deal. Instrument training is humbling for most people. Sam? Just shows up, smiles, and gets it done.

Sam lets his hard work speak for itself. Doesn’t say much, doesn’t complain, just locks in and executes. Always early. Always prepared. Always smiling like he didn’t just brief three approaches and partial panel holds.

Outside of flying, he spends his free time skiing, mountain biking, and climbing things that are objectively very high off the ground… while claiming he doesn’t like heights. Make it make sense. Apparently hanging off a cliff is questionable, but popping out at minimums in actual is totally fine.

Sam, you’ve been so focused and so consistent from day one. This rating wasn’t luck, it was earned every single lesson. Proud of you, even if you’ll probably just shrug and smile about it.

Jaxton Morales’ First Solo!!

KRTS.

Runway 14.

N495SP.

Instructor removed.

Jaxton Morales said, “I got this,” and then proceeded to absolutely prove it.

Air Guard grit? Check.

Ukulele-playing ramp morale officer? Also check.

Cool, calm, unbothered in the pattern? Big check.

Jaxton is one of those humans you’re just happy to have around. He shows up smiling, probably humming something island-vibe while running checklists, and then quietly just handles business. And today he handled it solo. Clean departures. Solid pattern work. Landings that said, “Yes, I belong here.”

So if you see him celebrating, mind your business. This is elite first-solo energy. Let him live. Let him strum. Let him replay that takeoff in his head 42 times like the rest of us did after ours.

Major props to his CFI Derrick Craine for knowing exactly when to step out and let him send it. That’s the art of instructing: build them up, then get out of the way.

Jaxton, we’re proud of you.

The runway’s shorter without the instructor’s weight… like a rocket ship taking off! (Not a jab at Derrick’s athletic physique at all)

Jaxton Morales, Private Pilot loading…

Huge congrats to Ben Novello on passing his Instrument Rating checkride.

Instrument training is no joke. It takes focus, consistency, and staying ahead of the airplane, and Ben tackled it the same way he does most things. Head down, locked in, and willing to put in the work without making it a big production.

Ben is pure Tahoe. Dirt bikes, snowboarding, and doing what he casually calls “Tahoe things” when he’s not flying. To celebrate this milestone, he’s taking his wife and daughter out to dinner, which feels like the perfect way to mark a big accomplishment. He even has a Voyager space probe tattoo, which is very on brand for someone who loves navigation, exploration, and going places most people never will.

Ben is steady, sharp, and quietly funny. He’s also a self proclaimed terrible singer, which is probably for the best because flying is clearly his lane. This rating is a big deal, and Ben earned it through real effort, discipline, and showing up every step of the way.

And a big congrats as well to his instructor, Eric Harned, for guiding Ben through this milestone.

Well done, Ben. Proud of you and excited to see where you fly next.

Let’s keep the good news rolling! 

Today, this purple-pasta-loving, scuba-diving multitasker, with that mustache, officially took to the skies solo as he kicked his instructor out of the plane for a first solo at Silver Springs, Runway 6, flying N752DW. Okay, fine, we don’t actually know if Tyler loves purple pasta, but we do know those are two of his favorite things, and yes… he scuba dives too. Add in the mustache and you’ve got a man who clearly commits to a vibe.

Tyler brought the same hands-on, fix-it mentality he’s known for straight into the cockpit. Patient, methodical, and quietly determined, he tightened up every detail and polished those landings until they were smooth, consistent, and confidence-inspiring. Enough so that his instructor Greg had that rare and satisfying instructor moment of “yep… you’ve got this,” followed immediately by being politely removed from the airplane.

This solo wasn’t about flash, it was about solid fundamentals, good judgment, and earning trust the right way. And yes, the mustache supervised the entire operation.

Huge congratulations, Tyler! We love your constant sense of humor, your steady work ethic, and the fact that you never take yourself too seriously while doing serious things. This is a massive milestone and a well-earned one. Next stop: Private Pilot Certificate.

It seems like another celebration is in order! Today Rey Arango earned his Private Pilot Certificate in his favorite blue-striped bird, N495SP (blue is his favorite color, btw). Rey is another of the Reno Air Racing Association scholarship recipients that have completed their training with us here at Great Basin Aviation. We have loved seeing Rey grow as a pilot, develop his true grit, and maintain his sense of sibling rivalry with his brother (also a GBA pilot). Rey does claim to be the better brother but we’ll let those two decide that. We love seeing Rey’s cheer here in the office and out on the flight line. He has taken this first step toward being a professional pilot with style! Don’t look or you’ll be flying yourself for fresh Sushi in Japan before you know it! Huge shout out to his dedicated instructor, Lucas. Nice work, Rey!

Keira Fong SOLOED!! KRTS, Runway 08, N752DW! 

Some people talk about “not having time.” Keira Fong went out and made it.

High school student. Reno Air Race Scholarship participant. Future USAF pilot in the making. 🇺🇸 Youth lead for our 4-H Aviation group. Young Aviator Boot Camp alum. FFA. Girl Scouts. Sports. Pet lover. Gardening aficionado. Overachiever in the most disciplined, purpose-driven way possible.

When does she have the time?

The same place all driven pilots find it, between commitment, grit, and refusing to quit.

Today, all that work paid off in the best way: she kicked her CFI out of the plane, lined up on Runway 08 at KRTS, and proved that preparation + persistence = freedom. Calm hands. Sharp judgment. No drama. Just solid flying.

Huge congratulations to Keira on an unforgettable first solo, and a big shoutout to her instructor Andrew Spanier for guiding her there. The sky didn’t change today, but Keira did. And this is only the beginning. 

This is exactly why we do what we do at GBA. We don’t just train pilots, we help build confidence, discipline, and belief in what’s possible. Watching young aviators like Keira step into that moment never gets old. ✈️

Elizabeth Francis is officially a Private Pilot. 

This incredible woman somehow balances serving in the Nevada Air National Guard, going to school, and working to earn her certificate, all while keeping her eyes on the bigger goal: becoming a military pilot. We can definitely see her in the cockpit of an amazing Herc. 

No shortcuts. No excuses. Just grit, discipline, and showing up ready to fly.

Elizabeth is an absolute joy at GBA, always smiling, always confident, always calm and professional in the airplane. Truly one of those people you want around.

Now… her one and only flaw:

She has never watched a Star Wars movie from start to finish.

So no Kessel Run jokes for her (yet). But despite this tragic gap in cinematic education, we still like her. A lot.

Huge congratulations, Elizabeth. You earned every bit of this.

And a big shoutout to her CFI, Andy Glenn, for guiding her through the journey.

Private Pilot today. Military pilot goals tomorrow.

We’ll forgive the Star Wars thing… for now.

FIRST SOLO!! Patient Now Authorized to Self-Operate!

Recent transplant to Reno (not from CA, don’t worry, folks), Dr. Austin Cannon officially added a new credential to the résumé today with a successful first solo on Runway 08 at KRTS, flying N752DW. After extensive training, stable vitals, and a strict zero-tolerance policy for nonsense, the patient reviewed his own chart and determined: yes, I am good to go. His instructor concurred.

Originally from North Carolina (Go Tar Heels!), Austin brought that quiet, composed, don’t-panic-unless-it’s-actually-time-to-panic energy to the cockpit. The kind of flying that doesn’t need theatrics, just clean execution, solid judgment, and a landing that says, “We’re done here.” Exactly what you want from both a doctor and a pilot.

Also worth noting: rumors persist that he’s a very good golfer. We can neither confirm nor deny, but the hand-eye coordination checks out. And when he’s not in the clinic or the cockpit, he’s fully leaned into Reno life as a snow bunny on the slopes.

We give him a hard time (or he gives it to us), but in all seriousness, for everything he’s juggling between medicine, flying, and life in general, this milestone is seriously impressive.

Huge credit to instructors Cory Kleidosty and Andrew Spanier for knowing when to teach, when to challenge, and when to hop out and let the doctor do what he does best, handle business calmly and correctly.

Diagnosis: Solo Pilot

Prognosis: excellent

Treatment plan: more flying, continued proficiency, and frequent runway exposure until further notice.

Big congratulations to Tyler Shelton on officially passing his Private Pilot checkride!

Tyler’s path to his PPL feels less like a straight line and more like a highlight reel of “how does this keep happening to one person?,” and yet somehow, he just keeps smiling, laughing, and showing up ready to learn. Hurricanes (yes, Hurricane Katrina), hitchhikers, wild stories and the absolute nonsense that seems to occur every single time he solos… if chaos had a co-pilot, it would be Tyler.

Through all of it, Tyler never lost his curiosity, work ethic, or sense of humor. No matter what curveball showed up, aviation-related or otherwise, he trusted the process, leaned in, and kept pushing forward. That perseverance showed loud and clear on checkride day.

Tyler is pure GBA gold. Effortlessly funny, endlessly kind, and somehow always wearing the coolest shirts in the building, and shorts even for his early morning frosty flights. He’s an unreal baker and cook (a fact the office benefits from regularly), casually upgraded our lives by gifting us a dart board, and instantly cemented his status as a flight school legend.

Huge shoutout to his instructor, Lucas Murphy, whose steady guidance, trust, and well-timed laughs helped turn Tyler’s controlled chaos into checkride success. Their teamwork made all the difference.

Tyler, your ability to handle life’s absolute nonsense with a grin, learn through it all, and still have fun makes this achievement so well deserved. We’re incredibly proud of you, and honestly a little scared of what story comes next.

Pilot of the Month goes to Storm!!

Storm has been making awesome progress in his training and is one of those students who just gets it. He shows up consistently, puts in the work, and always brings a positive attitude even when flying decides to keep things interesting. No bad vibes, no complaining, just ready to learn and improve every time he walks through the door.

When he’s not flying, Storm is working at Scheels, probably talking sports, fantasy football, or repping the Steelers (even though we definitely don’t all agree there). He’s also one of the nicest people you’ll meet around the school, especially to the office staff. Always friendly, always respectful, always in a good mood and it absolutely does not go unnoticed.

Huge shoutout to his instructor, Andy, for helping Storm keep the momentum going and build confidence in the airplane. From Bay Area roots to pilot goals, Storm is doing things the right way and we’re pumped to have him as our Pilot of the Month.

Huge congratulations to De Angelo Guerra on passing his Private Pilot checkride and officially becoming a licensed pilot 🛩️

De Angelo’s journey to this milestone is a perfect example of what steady work ethic and a great attitude can accomplish. He showed up consistently, put in the work even on the hard days, and handled challenges the way every pilot should by adapting, learning, and bouncing back stronger each time. No matter what came his way, he stayed positive, coachable, and committed to improving. That mindset is a huge part of why he’s standing here with his certificate today.

On top of being a hardworking student, De Angelo is just an all around good human. He’s incredibly kind to the office staff, respectful to everyone he interacts with, and always brings a lighthearted, goofy energy that makes the flight school a better place to be. He’s the kind of person people naturally root for.

A big shoutout to his instructor, Cody, for the guidance and support throughout his training. The teamwork between them clearly made a difference.

We’ve also been told that De Angelo makes excellent spaghetti. We haven’t seen proof yet, but we remain hopeful.

We’re so proud of you, De Angelo. Earning your Private Pilot Certificate is no small feat, and this is just the beginning of what’s ahead.t

Kyle Brazil is officially a commercial pilot.

Yes, that Kyle, the guy who wears the overalls as his flight suit (we don’t judge). 

Pilot. Dad. Husband. And, when he grows up, aspiring underwater basket weaver (career planning is a journey, not a destination).

We’re not entirely sure how a Commercial Pilot Certificate factors into that long-term vision, but around here, we support dreams in all forms, especially the wildly specific ones.

In all seriousness, earning a commercial certificate takes commitment, discipline, and a whole lot of showing up, and Kyle did exactly that. He worked hard, stayed the course, and somehow managed to dish out more sarcasm than we could ever serve back, a true talent in itself.

Huge congratulations as well to his CFI, Derrick Craine, for guiding Kyle through the process, keeping standards high, and proving once again that patience is, in fact, a learned skill.

Kyle, congrats on this milestone. Whether your future includes flying professionally, basket weaving underwater, or some combination we haven’t thought of yet, you’ve earned this one. We’re proud of you and glad to have been part of the ride.

Cleared for takeoff… and apparently for weaving. 

Some students solo an airplane.

Others bring a whole lifetime of adventure with them.

Today, Ravi Patel officially joined the solo club, lifting off from KRNO, Runway 17L, in N495SP, and honestly… this one just makes sense.

Ravi was born in Indiana, raised everywhere, and shaped by the kind of life that comes with multiple passports, multiple cultures, and an accent that depends entirely on jet lag. Bay Area. Mexico City. San Diego. Argentina. Spain. Tanzania. China. Mongolia. (Yes, Mongolia.) If aviation is about movement, perspective, and curiosity, Ravi has been training for this moment his entire life.

A Fulbright Scholar and U.S. cultural ambassador, Ravi spent years representing our country abroad before deciding to add “pilot” to the résumé. Because when you’ve already gone around the world 20 times and flown through every longitude… the only logical next step is flying yourself.

He loves airplanes, history, food with actual flavor, and refuses to tolerate bland meals or Hawaiian pizza (hot pineapple, really??). When he’s not flying, he’s probably being a nerd (his words), explaining that Mongolia is neither Russia nor China, or crushing a Ben & Jerry’s while casually knowing more about the world than Google.

Today’s solo wasn’t just a milestone, it was inevitable.

Congrats, as well, to his CFI Cody Klein for his instruction and guidance for Ravi to hit this milestone, all before he heads back to Mongolia tomorrow.

Ravi, the logbook is officially catching up to the life. Well flown and well earned!

Big congrats to Hudson Neal on earning his CFII today, and yes, he absolutely shredded that checkride. From dialing in approaches to dialing in guitar solos, Hudson proves that precision, timing, and feel matter whether you’re on an ILS, a tee box, or ripping through Cliffs of Dover note-for-note (no big deal).

Flying and golfing… shocking combo, we know…But when he’s not chasing greens or needles, he’s cranking on the guitar and bringing serious rock-star energy to the cockpit and also, now the classroom.

Also a huge congrats to CFII Shane Smith for guiding this solo to the top of the charts, solid instruction, clean execution, encore-worthy results.

And heads up, GBA crew and students: Hudson isn’t going anywhere. As our Private Pilot Ground School instructor, you’re going to be seeing a lot more of this face around Great Basin Aviation, turning knowledge up to 11 and helping the next generation of pilots find their rhythm.

Well played, Hudsie Wudsie! New rating unlocked, amps turned up, and another GBA pilot proving that when preparation meets passion, the result is pure music.

#greatbasinaviation #reno #rno #learntofly #renosmallbusiness

Yes, that Porter, the self-proclaimed procrastinator who somehow did not procrastinate his way to one of the biggest milestones in flight training. Growth happened at KRTS, runway 08 in N37JA this evening.

Hailing from Winnemucca, Porter carries that small-town pride in the best way: show up, work hard, and don’t make excuses. Coming in after work, late flights, after-hours lessons, none of it stopped him. He didn’t wait for the perfect schedule, perfect weather, or the stars to align. He just kept showing up and putting in the work, which is exactly how solos actually happen.

Porter also has a special talent for being able to sound like Donald Duck (a skill he responsibly keeps in his back pocket, ATC appreciates it). Jokes aside, this milestone came from discipline, consistency, and a willingness to learn even when it wasn’t easy or convenient.

Huge shoutout to his CFI, Lucas Murphy, for the steady guidance, trust, and encouragement that helped Porter reach this moment.

Porter, enjoy that solo glow. You earned it the honest, hard-working, small-town way. Blue skies and many more milestones ahead.

January 9, 2025

Big congratulations to Michael Abawi on officially passing his Private Pilot checkride and earning his wings!

From the start, Michael’s goal of becoming a pilot was clear. He consistently showed up prepared, focused, and willing to put in the work it takes to succeed in flight training, even on the days when flying felt less fun and more like work. Coming from Gardnerville and balancing school alongside training, he kept a steady, no drama approach that paid off on checkride day.

Michael isn’t locked into one specific path in aviation and that fits him well. He’s keeping an open mind and letting flying take him where it will. When asked how he planned to celebrate passing his checkride, his answer was exactly what you’d expect after a long day of performing under pressure: a nap. Respect.

A big shoutout to his instructor, James Morgan, whose guidance, patience, and instruction played a major role in Michael’s success. Strong instructor student teamwork like this is what makes flight training work.

We’re proud of you, Michael. From the discipline and consistency to the calm confidence and that great smile, this milestone is well earned. We’re excited to see where aviation takes you next. Congratulations, Pilot!

Congrats to Giovani Rodriguez on earning his Instrument Rating today, officially putting more wins on the board this year than the Dallas Cowboys.

While the Cowboys were busy finding creative ways to disappoint their fans, Giovani was out here executing a solid game plan. He balanced instrument training, just graduated college, serves in the Air National Guard, helps keep the GBA office running, and still shows up every day for his beautiful family, his wife and three kids. That’s a full-season grind with no bye weeks.

Instrument training isn’t flashy. It’s about discipline, preparation, and making the right call when the pressure is on, and Giovani delivered. Calm under pressure, consistent in execution, and finishing strong when it mattered most. Unlike some teams we could mention.

Huge credit to his CFII, Eric Harned, for coaching him through the process and getting him across the goal line.

Giovani, you didn’t just make the playoffs, you won your championship this season. Cowboys fans can only hope next year looks more like your logbook.

Now it’s time to move up the league (and maybe pick a different football team).
On to Commercial! And that shirt…

Big congratulations to Maile Tsuchiyama-Sando, who just earned her Private Pilot Certificate, and did it the Maile way: with grit, grace, and a whole lot of heart.

Maile somehow balances full-time school (mechanical engineering, y’all), an internship, real life, frequent trips back and forth to Vegas for family, and the occasional hula dance (she’s a pro). Add in some less-than-cooperative winter weather up here, and it would’ve been easy to hit pause.

Instead, Maile did what great pilots do, she adapted.

When the weather wasn’t playing nice, she reached out to a Cessna Pilot Center in Henderson, @cactusaviationlv (huge mahalo to those guys for the assist) and was able to complete her checkride with a DPE while home for the holidays. That kind of initiative, flexibility, and follow-through says everything about the pilot she’s becoming.

Now it’s back to school, back to work, and back to living a full, balanced life, with a pilot certificate in her pocket and the sky wide open ahead of her. This is exactly why we do what we do.

Huge shoutout as well to her instructor, Andrew Spanier, for guiding her journey and supporting her all the way to the finish line.

Maile, you bring aloha, determination, and quiet confidence into everything you do. We are so proud of you.

Private Pilot Ground School - See Flyer for Details

This isn’t a cram course.

And it’s not about memorizing answers just to pass a test.

Our in-person Private Pilot Ground School is designed to build real understanding, so the written makes sense, the oral doesn’t feel overwhelming, and the flying that follows is safer, smarter, and more confident.

At Great Basin Aviation, ground school is where strong habits start. We focus on application, decision-making, and long-term proficiency, not shortcuts. Whether you’re brand new to flight training or already working through the material on your own, this course is built to support the pilot you’re becoming.

If you want structure, accountability, and instruction that carries into the cockpit, this is where it begins.

Call the office to claim your seat!

This month, we are excited to celebrate Maile Tsuchiyama-Sando as our Pilot of the Month. Maile swung by the office today before heading back home to study for her differential equations exam tomorrow, casually balancing flying and engineering like it is no big deal.

Maile is incredibly smart, motivated, and hardworking, and she somehow manages to juggle flight training, challenging engineering coursework, internships, and extracurriculars all at once. Whether she is in the cockpit or buried in textbooks, she shows up focused, prepared, and ready to work. She trains with her instructor Andrew, and their teamwork and steady progress speak for themselves.

We are so proud to have Maile as part of our aviation community and love watching her chase big goals with such determination. Good luck on that exam, Maile, though we have a feeling you will crush it.

Tyler Macke is officially a Private Pilot!

One half of the legendary over-studying duo (we’ll be recognizing the other half soon), Tyler passed his checkride with flying colors and truly earned every bit of it.

If there’s one thing everyone at GBA knows, it’s that no one can question Tyler’s work ethic. He showed up day after day (seriously, every day, all day) with consistency, discipline, and an unshakable commitment to getting better. Studying, flying, debriefing, and repeating, Tyler embraced the process fully. He didn’t rush it, didn’t cut corners, and trusted the work. When it came time to perform, it showed. 

Tyler also deserves real credit for his resilience, especially in the face of our relentless (and loving-ish) teasing about just how much he studied. He took it in stride, kept his sense of humor, and stayed focused on the goal. That ability to absorb pressure, stay grounded, and keep moving forward is a quality that will serve him well far beyond this checkride.

He became an everyday fixture at GBA, and when he wasn’t here, he was working, working out, or preparing for the next step. Tyler is an incredible human with strong character, quiet confidence, and a level of dedication that truly stands out. The skills, focus, and passion he brings to aviation will take this lefty all the way to his goal of commercial aviation and beyond. We are proud of the pilot you’ve become and even prouder of the person you are, Tyler. This milestone was earned the right way.

Congratulations as well to his CFI, Cody Klein, for guidance and steady support throughout Tyler’s training. A strong student-instructor partnership makes all the difference, and this one clearly delivered. Well done, Tyler. Onward and upward.

December 10th, 2025

CASSIDY BELL- PPL

Congratulations to Summer Benjamin for soaring through her commercial checkride this morning, adding another major achievement to her aviation journey alongside her commercial multi engine rating. Even with a 7 a.m. checkride and an early drive in from Tahoe, she showed up focused, calm, and completely ready to go. Her dedication, professionalism, and bright pink personality make her a standout in every way, and her kindness leaves a positive impact on everyone she flies with.

The day before her checkride came with a minor curveball when her Apple Pencil went missing, but she handled it with the same levelheadedness she brings to flying. She didn’t let it distract her, kept preparing, and walked into her checkride confident and well-studied.

A huge shoutout goes to her instructor Nicole for her outstanding guidance and support throughout Summer’s commercial training. Their teamwork truly showed today.

We are so proud of you, Summer. Congratulations on earning your Commercial Single Engine rating. Your future in aviation is bright, inspiring, and of course, a little pink. 💗✈️🌟

Cassidy Bell did a thing today… and by “thing,” we mean she became a private pilot. Our office coordinator turned runway-regular, and former collegiate soccer star (now proudly living the NARP life), has officially joined the PIC club!

Let’s be honest: Cassidy probably couldn’t tell you what day it is, what month we’re in, or whether Christmas already happened, because she has been living in a world of checklists, airspace, and ACS standards for weeks. The only time she came up for air was to outrun Richard on the treadmill… and honestly, that alone deserved an endorsement.

Cassidy has been grinding harder than anyone wants to admit. Sunrise study sessions, late-night chair flying, flashcards in her lunch, quizzing herself between phone calls, she has put in the work. The discipline, the focus, the “don’t talk to me, I’m memorizing cloud clearance requirements” energy… it all paid off today.

And now? Now she gets to breathe. Maybe put the books down. Maybe enjoy that shiny new freedom certificate. Maybe, just maybe, have a glass of wine and relax for five minutes before she starts instrument training. (We know her. It’s coming.)

Huge congratulations to Cassidy and a shoutout to her CFI, Cory Kleidosty, for guiding her through the chaos, the confidence-building, and every steep turn in between.

Cassidy, you did it. We’re proud of you. Now go celebrate like someone who just earned their wings… and please, for the love of all things GBA, put the books down for 5 minutes! You earned it.

Nicole has officially added another set of wings to her name, and we couldn’t be more proud. Already one of our resident rockstar CFIs, she continues to raise the bar with her dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for the students she guides. Anyone who has trained with Nicole knows how much she pours into her lessons, her patience, her high standards, and her ability to make complex topics click are what set her apart.

Achieving the CFII is no small feat. It takes discipline, strong aeronautical knowledge, and the kind of work ethic that doesn’t happen by accident. Nicole showed up for every challenge, pushed through the tough study days, and refined her craft with the same focus she brings to every flight. This is a milestone she truly earned.

A huge shoutout as well to her instructor, CFII Richard Brong, for helping her sharpen her instrument instruction skills and preparing her for the next level of teaching excellence.

We’re excited to see Nicole bring her trademark energy and student-first mindset into the instrument side of flight training. Our future instrument pilots are in incredibly good hands.

Congratulations, Nicole, welcome to the CFII crew!

A huge congratulations to Dalton Drum, who officially earned his Private Pilot Certificate today!

Dalton is one of the most laid-back, unshakeable people you’ll ever meet in flight training. No matter what the day throws at him, weather delays, busy patterns, last-minute schedule changes, or the general chaos that is aviation, he stays calm, focused, and steady.

But don’t let the relaxed vibe fool you, Dalton put in the work. Hours of study, early mornings, late evenings, and the grind that comes with turning “someday I’ll be a pilot” into “I passed my checkride!” He earned every bit of this accomplishment, and then some.

As a lefty, Dalton proved that southpaws really do have superpowers, from the left seat to those buttery left turns, he made it look easy. And through it all, he was nothing but respectful, kind, and an absolute pleasure every time he walked through the office door.

Huge shoutout as well to his instructor, CFI James Morgan, for guiding him through the journey with skill, patience, and a whole lot of good teaching.

Dalton, congratulations on becoming a Private Pilot. You worked hard, you stayed humble, and you crushed it.

Now someone get this guy a beer.

Please join us in celebrating Aki Nyrhinen, who just earned his Instrument Rating! This is one of the biggest milestones in a pilot’s training journey, and Aki tackled it with calm focus, humility, and the kind of patience he listed as his favorite personal trait, and it absolutely showed.

Originally from Finland, Aki brings a unique blend of precision, curiosity, and quiet determination into every flight. When he’s not in the air, you’ll find him skiing, riding bikes, writing software, or shoveling snow, which honestly makes flying through IMC seem pretty relaxing in comparison.

Aki excelled in instrument flying from the start, especially when it came to smooth, controlled approaches and landings. He even noted that he is good at landing, and he proved it over and over. One of our favorite facts about him is that he’s smooth enough on steep turns that it used to rock his daughter to sleep. That’s exactly the kind of finesse you want in a newly minted instrument pilot.

Huge shoutout to his CFII, Andrew Spanier, for guiding, teaching, and flying alongside Aki all the way to this accomplishment. Your mentorship played a key role in today’s success.

Aki, congratulations. Earning your Instrument Rating is a serious achievement, and you’ve handled the training, the workload, and the challenge with true pilot discipline. We are incredibly proud of you.

Blue skies and even smoother approaches ahead. Great job, Aki! 🛩️❄️💙

Huge congratulations to Josh Gilmore, officially Reno’s newest CFI! That’s right, the same Josh who has graciously become whatever we needed for social media content, our T-Rex on the line, our Most Interesting Man in the World, and the man we’re all eagerly waiting to watch make his full redneck debut (just wait for it). If GBA needed a mascot, a model, or a meme… Josh showed up.

He’s worn just about every hat imaginable here, line tech, Dungeons & Dragons master, reluctant influencer, occasional dinosaur, and part-time chaos generator, all while being one of the hardest-working and most genuine people you’ll ever meet. And yes, even as a line tech, he somehow still parks a plane in the wrong spot every now and then… like today, his checkride day. But, at least he checked it in.

Through all the jokes, characters, and social media antics, Josh has remained steady, humble, and dedicated. He’s the kind of guy you can’t help but roast a little, because he makes it too easy, but you also can’t help but respect him, because he works hard and cares deeply. That’s exactly the kind of instructor students will be lucky to have.

Huge shout-out to his CFI, Richard Brong, for guiding him through this journey and helping him unlock the mighty “CFI” achievement.

Congrats, Josh,  time to take that right seat, start shaping new pilots, and maybe, just maybe, learn to park an airplane where it actually belongs. We’re proud of you!

Huge congratulations to Skyler Steele, who earned his Private Pilot Certificate today! Skyler has put in the work, stayed focused, and showed up day after day with determination, and today all of that effort paid off in a big way. This achievement is no accident, it’s the result of commitment, consistency, and a whole lot of heart.

Skyler is one of those genuinely good people we’re incredibly lucky to have as part of the GBA family. He’s humble, hardworking, and one of our silent frost heroes who quietly comes in at night to put wing covers on so your airplane is ready to go first thing in the morning. He never asks for recognition, but he absolutely deserves it.

All of these amazing qualities still don’t compensate for him being a 49ers fan, but we’ll keep him around anyway. His loyalty runs deep, even if it’s to the wrong team.

Now Skyler gets to enjoy the holidays, watch some football tomorrow, maybe a strong margarita tonight, take a well-earned breather, and then jump right back into training as he starts charging toward his instrument rating. The momentum is strong, his attitude is exactly where it needs to be, and we have no doubt he’ll keep climbing.

Awesome job, Skyler, and great work as well to his CFI, Lucas Murphy.

Join us in celebrating Kayleigh Dohm, our newest Private Pilot! Kayleigh has absolutely poured herself into this goal, especially over the past week. She has been at Great Basin Aviation nearly nonstop, studying from open to close, reviewing every detail, and preparing with a level of drive and focus that inspired everyone around her.

Kayleigh’s dedication is no surprise to anyone who knows her. With her master’s degree, she’s already proven she can take on big goals, and she brings that same intensity to her aviation journey. Add in her unwavering loyalty as a New York Rangers fan, and you can see exactly where her determination comes from.

This week alone, Kayleigh put in full days of study and preparation, showing up ready to learn and ready to work. Her hard work paid off today in the best way possible. She completed her checkride with confidence and earned the title of Private Pilot.

Kayleigh, we’re so proud of you. Your commitment, passion, and heart for aviation shine through in everything you do. We also want to extend a huge congratulations to her CFI, Greg, for guiding her, supporting her, and helping her reach this milestone.

Congratulations, the sky is yours! 🛩️💙


Huge congratulations to Randy Scheffler, who officially earned his Instrument Rating today!

Randy is one of the most humble, steady, quietly exceptional people you’ll ever meet. He drives in from Susanville without blinking an eye and somehow balances law enforcement, military service, family life, and flight training like it’s just another Tuesday. The kind of service-before-self mindset he brings to his work on the ground absolutely shows up in the cockpit, calm, disciplined, and always pushing himself to be better.

We’re incredibly honored to support someone who gives so much to his community and country, and still shows up ready to learn, ready to fly, and ready to do whatever challenge we throw at him… including being a social media model. (He may be humble, but the camera loves him.)

Huge shoutout to his instructor, Richard Brong, for guiding Randy through the grind, the precision, and the IFR brain-melt moments that come with earning this rating.

Randy, your dedication is inspiring, your service is deeply appreciated, and your achievement today is beyond well-earned. Congratulations on becoming an instrument-rated pilot! Now onto your Commercial Certificate!

Pilot of the Month: Cassidy Bell

You see her all the time in the office, but that’s not why she’s Pilot of the Month (and definitely not because she puts up with Jenn). Cassidy earned this title because she’s been absolutely crushing it in the air and on the ground.

She’s taken charge of her flight training journey and it shows. Cassidy continually proves that the effort you put in on the ground directly translates to performance in the airplane. She doesn’t wait for answers, she seeks them out, asks smart questions, and puts that knowledge to work every time she flies.

Lately, all that solo time has sparked a major transformation, from student to true Pilot-in-Command. The confidence, the decision-making, the smooth landings… it’s all coming together.

Keep leading the way, Cassidy! Your dedication, curiosity, and drive are what the GBA spirit is all about.

Big applause (and maybe a fuel truck horn or two) for Brayden Bishop, who just earned his Commercial Pilot Certificate!

If you’ve spent any time around Great Basin Aviation, you’ve probably met Brayden, one of our dedicated line techs who keeps the ramp running like clockwork. From early morning preheats to late-night refuels, he’s part of the hardworking crew that keeps every C172 fueled, spotless, and mission-ready.

What stands out about Brayden isn’t just his work ethic, but his character. He shows up every day with a genuine smile, steady attitude, and quiet professionalism that make him the kind of person you’re just glad to have on your team. He treats everyone with respect, takes pride in every task, and carries himself with the same calm confidence you’d want in any pilot.

Now that the Commercial Certificate is in the books, the next chapter begins, and knowing Brayden, it’s just the start. Whether it’s instructing, military, charter, or even airline life, we know he’ll bring the same dedication and humility that got him here.

Big congratulations as well to his instructor, CFI Andrew Spanier, for the expert guidance and mentorship that helped make this milestone possible.

Brayden, you’re proof that great pilots aren’t just made in the cockpit , they’re also built on the ramp, one hardworking day at a time.

Family, Flight, and Focus! Huge congratulations to Holden Stone on earning his Commercial Pilot Certificate! This accomplishment didn’t just come from flight hours, it came from countless early mornings, late nights, and the kind of determination only a dad with young kids, a full-time job, and a long commute could pull off.Holden’s the definition of calm and steady, the kind of pilot who makes everything look easy even when life’s throwing in turbulence from every direction. Between diaper duty, deadlines, and distance drives, he still managed to chase this goal with focus and heart. That quiet dedication and “get it done” attitude have paid off in the best way possible.

Next stop? Maybe CFI, maybe something else, but whatever direction he flies, you can bet he’ll handle it with that trademark dad composure and a few good dad jokes in his flight bag. (We can already hear it: “You know what the prop said to the spinner? Stop spinning my stories.”)

Awesome work as well to his instructor, CFI Eric Harned, for guiding Holden through the training, checkride prep, and the million other details that make this level possible.

Holden, your example shows that you don’t have to put your dreams on hold, just strap them into the backseat and keep climbing.

Every pilot has a story, but Bobby Yarhi’s is one that truly inspires. His path to earning a Private Pilot Certificate is a testament to perseverance, grit, and determination. Life threw him its fair share of challenges, yet Bobby faced every one of them head-on, never losing sight of his dream to fly.

Balancing the demands of flight training while juggling school and everyday responsibilities is no small feat. Through long study nights, early mornings, unpredictable weather, and the occasional setback that every pilot knows too well, Bobby stayed the course. He showed what happens when passion outlasts every obstacle, and today, that dedication has officially paid off.

Now, with his wings earned, Bobby joins the ranks of licensed pilots, ready to take on new horizons. His story reminds us all that persistence and purpose can lift you higher than you ever imagined.

A big congratulations also goes to CFI Nicole Gonzalez for her incredible instruction, mentorship, and commitment to her students’ success. Bobby, your hard work and heart have taken flight, and we can’t wait to see where you go from here.

Superwoman Takes Flight! 

Huge congratulations to Elizabeth Francis, who took to the skies solo today at KRTS in N328ME on runway 08! 

Elizabeth’s journey is the very definition of persistence, grit, and heart. She started her flight training, hit pause to serve our country through boot camp and tech school, and came right back ready to climb higher than ever. Balancing her duties with the Nevada Air National Guard, her college coursework, and flight training would be a challenge for anyone, but Elizabeth handles it all like a pro, with focus, determination, and a sense of humor that keeps everyone around her smiling.

And yes… we have to mention that ridiculous email address, because it’s pure Elizabeth: unforgettable, a little chaotic, and full of personality. It’s the perfect reflection of someone who refuses to fit into a box (or stay on the ground).

Today, all her dedication paid off as she lifted off alone for the first time, just her, the sky, and that unbeatable feeling of true freedom.

Outstanding job, Elizabeth! Your hard work, drive, and fearless energy make you an inspiration to every pilot chasing their dream. Huge shoutout as well to her CFI Andy Glenn for the excellent instruction and support leading up to this milestone moment.

.

Huge congratulations to Sam Klem, who just carved his name into the skies as Great Basin Aviation’s newest Private Pilot!

Sam takes his love of adventure from the slopes to the skies. Whether he’s dropping into a powder day or a steep final approach, he’s always calm, focused, and in control. His hard work, preparation, and determination are second to none , and he makes it all look as smooth as fresh corduroy at sunrise.

He’s the kind of pilot who shows up early, studies late, and keeps the same upbeat attitude no matter what challenges the weather, the lesson, or the office harassment brings. Truly one of the most pleasant, easygoing, and hard-working students to grace our ramp.

When he’s not preflighting or briefing, Sam’s out there doing what he loves, chasing peaks, exploring the outdoors, and getting ready to shred the pow-pow the way he just shredded his checkride.

Big shoutout to CFI Greg Anthenien for helping Sam navigate the bumps, find the lift, and carve out a perfect line to success. Congrats, Sam, your turns just went from carving slopes to carving clouds. Keep shredding, Private Pilot!

Huge congratulations to Cristobal “Cris” Alvarenga, who just soared into the skies as a freshly certified Private Pilot!

Cris has been one of the most dedicated and prepared students to ever taxi onto the Great Basin Aviation ramp. From day one, he’s shown unmatched focus, drive, and grit, never cutting corners, never showing up unprepared, and always putting in the extra work to be ready for whatever the day (or the weather) throws at him.

Outside of aviation, Cris is just as impressive. He’s a devoted family man who somehow manages to balance his flight training with his beautiful family and full time flight training, making sure every part of his life gets the attention and heart it deserves. That kind of balance takes real skill.

But let’s address the turbulence in the room, Cris is a Giants fan. Yep… those Giants that finished third in the NL West. So naturally, it’s only right that we take a moment to say…HOW ‘BOUT THEM DODGERS?! 

All jokes aside, this accomplishment took dedication, sacrifice, and true passion. We’re beyond proud of you, Cris, and a big shoutout to your incredible instructor, CFI Nicole Gonzalez, for her guidance, patience, and top-notch instruction. Enjoy the view, Private Pilot, you’ve earned every bit of it! 

From mastering the ramp to mastering the hold entries, Lucas Murphy is officially a CFII!

Humble, sharp, and always up for a challenge (or a HIT workout), Lucas brings the same energy to the gym that he does to the cockpit. Total precision, no excuses, and a steady, coach-style vibe that lifts everyone around him. If you’ve seen him on those early-morning briefs, you know: weather, approach plates, frequencies, and plan B/C are dialed before the Hobbs even turns.

As a CFII, Lucas is stepping fully into the clouds: teaching rock-solid instrument scan, radio calm under pressure, holds and entries, approach strategy, missed-approach discipline, and real-world ADM. He’s the instructor who turns “I think I get it” into “I’ve got this”  building confidence one briefing, one procedure, one stabilized approach at a time. Our safety culture is better because of the way he prepares, teaches, and cares about every student’s progress.

Huge congrats as well to CFII Cody Klein for top-tier mentorship and guidance along the way. The teamwork shows.

Cleared for the ILS to Awesome, Lucas! If you’re ready to level up your IFR game, come train with Lucas.

Huge congratulations to Tyler Macke!

Tyler just completed his first solo flight, and we couldn’t be more proud! From day one, he’s brought an incredible work ethic, a sharp sense of humor, and a genuine love for aviation to every lesson. He’s always here bright and early, 6 a.m. sharp, ready to preflight, learn, and take off toward his goals. Tyler is one of those students who never cuts corners; he studies hard, asks smart questions, and gives 100% effort whether he’s in the pattern or in ground school. Today, all that dedication truly paid off as he took to the skies solo for the very first time!

Originally from Las Vegas, Tyler is working toward becoming a commercial pilot, and if his determination so far is any indication, he’s well on his way. When he’s not flying, you can find him at the gym, at work as a server, or spending time with friends, but we have a feeling his favorite place to “serve” might now be a few thousand feet above the ground.

Big shoutout to his instructor, Cody Klein, for guiding him through every checklist, crosswind, and confidence boost that led to this milestone. Congratulations, Tyler, your solo flight is just the beginning. You’ve truly earned your wings, and we can’t wait to watch your aviation journey keep climbing!

Pilot of the Month: Skyler Steele ✈️

Meet Skyler Steele, our newest Pilot of the Month, and honestly, it’s about time! Skyler is one of those people who makes everyone’s day a little brighter the moment he walks in. He’s endlessly kind, always willing to help, and just has that calm, positive energy that makes you think, yep, I’d totally trust him with the controls.

Skyler has been flying through his milestones like it’s nothing, showing up with focus, consistency, and a great attitude every single time. When he’s not in the air, you’ll catch him helping out around the school, or even starring in one of our social media videos (because of course he nailed that too).

Originally from Livermore, California, Skyler’s working toward becoming a commercial or private pilot, and with his drive, work ethic, and kindness, he’s absolutely on track to make it happen.

A big congrats to Skyler and his instructor, Lucas Murphy, who nominated him for this well-earned recognition. Skyler, you make GBA a friendlier, happier place, and we couldn’t be prouder of you! 🌤️

Congratulations to Trey Casini, CFII!

The smartest guy in the room (still out for debate) just proved that brains and dedication make quite the combo. Sure, he can solve a Rubik’s Cube, whatever…but now he can also teach others how to fly confidently through the clouds.

Trey has been full-throttle at Great Basin Aviation since his private pilot days, grinding through each rating with focus, grit, and that trademark grin that somehow survives even our worst sass. He’s no stranger to hard work, early mornings, or showing up in his PJs… or in shorts and a t-shirt when it’s subzero outside. Dedication and questionable wardrobe choices run deep.

And then there’s the hair. Always perfect. Always camera-ready. Not even a headset can mess it up. If great hair and great flying were Olympic sports, Trey would medal in both.

Huge congrats as well to his instructor, Richard Brong, for helping guide Trey to this next level of aviation excellence. We’re so proud of both of you and can’t wait to see Trey pass along his knowledge (and maybe his haircare secrets) to his students.

Big news: Andy Glenn is now a CFII! Proof that focus and determination, sprinkled with tee times, a concert or two, and our trademark “so…how’s that checkride prep?” nagging, can carry you all the way across the finish line. Andy put in the reps and showed up ready every time, and it shows in the way he teaches: calm cockpit, sharp standards, real-world IFR scenarios, clean Garmin flows, and weather judgment you can actually use when the mountains get moody. He’s the kind of instructor who meets you where you are, pushes you one notch further, and makes every rep count. Huge thanks to Richard Brong, CFII, for the steady mentorship and instruction that helped polish the edges. If you’re looking to level up before winter, instrument students, rusty IFR pilots, or VFR folks getting serious, reach out to get on Andy’s schedule. Let’s turn “I hope” into “I have it.”

Congratulations to Jared Garrido! 

Jared just soared through his Instrument checkride with flying colors, and immediately announced he was heading home for the most well-deserved nap of his life. After countless hours of studying, flying through simulated clouds, and proving he can handle anything ATC throws his way, we’d say he’s earned it.

From Sparks, NV, Jared has been all about aviation since day one. When he’s not flying, he’s playing video games, making aviation TikToks, or brushing up on flight knowledge (because apparently, this guy doesn’t know how to not talk about airplanes). He’s incredibly sharp, the kind of student who can nail steep turns one day and ace math problems the next.

And get this, Jared graduated high school as a junior so he can dive into his aviation career even faster. Talk about commitment! His dream? To become an air traffic controller, though he’s so talented he could easily do both, pilot and controller. Basically, the guy could be giving himself clearances one day. ✈️

He loves blue skies, Mexican food, and a smooth flight, but don’t even mention bad weather or the Dodgers, instant no-fly zone.

Huge shoutout to his instructor, Shane Smith, for helping him reach this incredible milestone. Amazing job, Jared, the sky (and the tower) are both yours for the taking. Now go enjoy that nap, Captain… you’ve earned it. 😎🛫💤

October 1, 2025

Big congratulations to Grant White for passing his Instrument Rating check ride!

Grant has shown incredible dedication throughout his training here at Great Basin Aviation. From the very beginning, he’s put in the hard work to sharpen his skills and continue progressing toward his dream of becoming a pilot. His strong work ethic, passion for aviation, and drive to keep learning have all carried him to this milestone.

Outside the cockpit, Grant enjoys the outdoors, whether it’s hunting, fishing, or just staying active, and he always brings that same determination and focus into his flying. Achieving the Instrument Rating is no small feat, and it marks a huge step forward in his aviation journey.

Huge congratulations to Grant on this incredible achievement, and to his instructor, Greg, whose guidance and support were instrumental throughout the journey. This accomplishment is a true reflection of their hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

We’re so proud of you, Grant, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll accomplish next. Congratulations on earning your Instrument Rating! 🎉👏

Today, Skyler Steele taxied out on Runway 26 at KRTS, took a deep breath, told gluten to mind its business (no bread for this guy), and flew a clean, confident first solo. Not bad for a California transplant (we won’t hold it against him), a Costco power shopper, and a football diehard who knows the value of yardage, because every lap in the pattern is earned.

Here’s the deal with Skyler: he doesn’t make noise; he makes progress. Shows up. Listens. Practices. Shows up again. That kind of consistency turns “someday” into rotate faster than you can say “Costco taco kit.” He took the long list of little things like checklists, crosswinds, centerline discipline, and did the unglamorous work until it looked effortless. (It isn’t. He just makes it look that way.)

In the office, he’s the kind of pilot who makes the room lighter, even when we’re giving him a good-natured hard time. On the ramp, he’s disciplined and calm. In the cockpit, he’s the pilot you want in the left seat when the air gets honest. That’s why today happened quickly: not luck, not a loophole, work.

Major kudos to CFI Lucas Murphy for the coaching. Great instruction, combined with a teachable student, is a dangerous combination, in the best possible way. Awesome job guys!!

Big congratulations to Riis on earning his Instrument Rating!

If there’s one thing that stands out about Riis, it’s that he doesn’t do anything halfway. From working sunup to sundown (or sometimes even sundown to sunup) as a plumber, to being a true workout fanatic, to his love for pitbulls, everything he takes on gets his full commitment. That same relentless drive carried him through the challenges of instrument training, and it’s no surprise he came out successful.

The instrument rating is no small accomplishment, it takes focus, discipline, and persistence. Riis showed all of that and more, proving once again that when he sets his mind to something, he gives it everything he’s got.

Huge congratulations to Riis on this incredible achievement, and to his instructor, Andrew, whose guidance and support were instrumental throughout the journey. This accomplishment is a true reflection of their hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

We couldn’t be more proud of the effort he’s put into reaching this milestone. Congratulations, Riis! Your hard work in and out of the cockpit continues to inspire, and the sky is truly the limit from here. 

We are proud to recognize Alex Florez as our Pilot of the Month! Alex, a commercial pilot currently working toward his CFI under the instruction of Eric Harned, has shown outstanding dedication and professionalism throughout his training.

From the very beginning, Alex’s consistency, preparation, and maturity have set him apart. He approaches every lesson with determination and focus, balancing the demands of advanced training while maintaining the same enthusiasm that first brought him into aviation. His commitment is evident in the steady progress he continues to make and the positive presence he brings to the hangar.

As a recipient of the Reno Air Races Scholarship, Alex exemplifies what it means to carry ambition through every stage of training. He has taken that opportunity and built upon it with tireless effort, proving that his success is no accident but the result of hard work, persistence, and a passion for excellence.

Alex’s pleasant demeanor, professionalism, and dedication make him not only a deserving recipient of this award but also a role model for fellow students. We are excited to see him continue his journey toward becoming a CFI and sharing his passion for aviation with others.

Huge congratulations to Alex on this incredible achievement, and to his instructor, Eric, whose guidance and support were instrumental throughout the journey. This accomplishment is a true reflection of their hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

Congratulations, Alex, your hard work and consistency have truly paid off, and this recognition is well earned! 

Huge Congratulations to Reeve Lester on His First Solo Flight! 

Today, Reeve reached one of the biggest milestones in any pilot’s journey, the very first time flying completely solo! After hours of hard work and training, he lifted off, flew the pattern, and made smooth landings with no instructor in the right seat. That moment of quiet in the cockpit when it’s just you, the plane, and the sky is one every pilot remembers forever, and now Reeve has that memory to hold onto. 

Reeve comes to us from Oregon, and has big dreams of becoming a pilot. When he’s not flying, he’s often diving into robotics or playing video games, a true mix of curiosity and creativity. He’s also got a fun side: his favorite food is fresh pineapple, his favorite color is heliotrope, and he proudly calls himself a “nerd,” which in aviation, usually just means passionate and detail-oriented.

Huge congratulations to Reeve on this incredible achievement, and to his instructor, Eric, whose guidance and support were instrumental throughout the journey. This accomplishment is a true reflection of their hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

Reeve, we’re so proud of your hard work and determination. Your first solo is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to see where your flying journey takes you next. Congratulations again on this unforgettable achievement, the sky is yours!

Brendan Gomez is now Instrument Rated!! Nerves? Only in the photos.

Another one of our line-tech extraordinaires put the foggles on and flew like a metronome. Localizer alive, centered. Glideslope captured, smooth. Intercepts on point, holds tidy, and the 3 Ts (turn–time–twist) happened before you could even say “procedure turn.” When visibility went blah, Brendan’s scan stayed calm and crisp, needles living inside half-scale like they pay rent. Missed approach briefed, timer running, calls clean, pure IFR discipline.

He may look a little tense in the pictures, but there were zero nerves in the cockpit, just a pilot doing the work, step by step. Former ski racer, which tracks: he carves the airway like fresh corduroy, precise lines, measured corrections, no drama. He briefed the plate, set up the box, verified fixes, and stayed ahead of the airplane the whole time. Even the little IFR gotchas, timing, wind correction, and that “don’t chase the needle” patience, were handled like he’s been living under the hood for years.

Huge congrats to CFII Eric Harned for the right-seat zen and sharp coaching. Next time you see Brendan on the ramp, hit him with a congrats. He’s probably celebrating tonight, and it’s well deserved. Enjoy the new superpower, Brendan: when visibility is optional, your precision isn’t.

A huge congratulations to Kiera Grange on passing her CFI checkride!

From day one, Kiera has shown that persistence and discipline are the cornerstones of her journey. Whether she’s training for triathlons, perfecting her swimming, or putting in the countless hours of study and flight time, she approaches every challenge with determination and focus. That drive has carried her all the way to earning her Certified Flight Instructor certificate, a milestone that proves just how dedicated she is to chasing her dreams.

Her ability to balance being active, disciplined, and passionate about aviation is a true example for others. A big shoutout to her instructor, Danny, for his mentorship and support throughout this journey. 

We couldn’t be prouder of you, Kiera. Your persistence and passion are proof that when you stay committed to your goals, the sky is truly the limit. Here’s to inspiring future aviators and all the incredible adventures ahead!

Huge congratulations to Sanddon for passing his CFI check ride!

What makes this milestone even more special is that Sanddon has been with us at Great Basin Aviation since day one, from private pilot all the way through earning his Certified Flight Instructor certificate. Watching his dedication, perseverance, and growth as a pilot has been nothing short of inspiring, and we couldn’t be prouder to see him reach this point.

Outside the cockpit, Sanddon is a personal trainer who loves lifting heavy weights, and he’s brought that same drive, discipline, and passion to his flight training. Just like in the gym, he’s been racking up the reps, one flight at a time, building the foundation that got him here today.

A big shoutout as well to Bob, his instructor, whose guidance and mentorship have been instrumental in Sanddon’s journey. Bob’s expertise and support helped shape Sanddon into the pilot and instructor he is today.

We’re excited to see Sanddon step into this new role as a CFI and begin sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for aviation with the next generation of pilots.

Helping people make connections, strengthen community, and be a part or something bigger than individual pursuits. That is one thing Great Basin Aviation’s owner, Jennifer Fonda, does and does well. Today she was honored with the Education and Lifelong Learning award at the Accentuate the Positive ceremony hosted by Truckee Meadows Tomorrow, a local non-profit that provides important data on quality of life for our community. Jenn is a constant reminder that aviation is about more than flying solo. It is a pathway to develop leadership, build bridges in the community, and inspire the next generation in all their pursuits. Congratulations on this well deserved honor!

Today we celebrate a huge milestone—Maile has officially completed her very first solo flight!

Maile, who comes to us from Las Vegas, has always been a high achiever on the ground and now in the sky. When she’s not training, she’s hard at work as a mechanical engineering intern at SNC and pursuing her dream of becoming an aerospace engineer.

But what makes Maile especially inspiring is how much she gives back outside the cockpit. She’s been deeply involved in extracurricular clubs and community organizations—from volunteering with FIRST Robotics to touring a nuclear reactor with the American Nuclear Society. Her dedication, teamwork, and curiosity know no bounds.

On top of that, Maile has spent twelve years playing piano, mastered Taiko (Japanese drums), and is also skilled in Hula dancing. Whether it’s music, science, or aviation, she pours herself fully into everything she does.

A big congratulations also goes out to her instructor, CFII Andrew Spanier, whose guidance and support helped prepare Maile for this unforgettable day.

Soloing isn’t just about flying an airplane alone—it’s about trust, growth, and courage. Maile, you’ve proven that you can rise to any challenge, and your journey in aviation is just beginning. We can’t wait to see where the skies take you next!

GOOOAAAL! Cassidy Bell soloed!!

If you’ve ever been greeted by the friendliest face in the GBA office, you already know Cassidy Bell, but don’t let that sweet smile fool you. Today she laced up for her biggest match yet and soloed Runway 17L at KRNO in N752DW, a true one-player breakaway to the net.

On the pitch and in the pattern, Cassidy plays box-to-box: D-1 soccer standout, miles-for-breakfast runner, MBA brain, and now pilot, reading the field, keeping her head on a swivel, and making crisp, purposeful moves. She widened the touchline on downwind, set up a perfect cross on base, and finished on final with a top-corner landing. Call it a captain’s performance: composed, disciplined, and clinical in the last 100 feet.

Originally from Dallas (and a loyal Cowboys fan), Cassidy clearly knows her footballs, both kinds, but today was pure soccer poetry: patience in the build-up, precision in the approach, and a calm finish when it counted. She’s a force to be reckoned with, and this solo is only the first goal in a very long season.

Huge congratulations to Cassidy, and to her CFI Cory Kleidosty for the perfectly timed assist. First solo in the books. Scoreline: Cassidy 1, Nerves 0

Critical Hit: Josh Gilmore Levels Up to Commercial Pilot! Roll initiative for applause, because Josh Gilmore just completed the ultimate boss battle, the commercial checkride, and scored a Nat 20. Our line-tech extraordinaries (keeper of the ramp, vanquisher of belly grime, and occasional caster of the Golf Cart Donut spell) proved he’s not just a pretty face sprinting across the flight line, he’s a bona fide Commercial Aviator.

Here’s the part the whole party already knows: Josh is the teammate you always want in your adventuring group, steady hands, quiet leadership, and clutch saves when the quest gets weird. He’s the first to pick up a side quest, the last to leave the dungeon, and the one who keeps morale high with equal parts humility and humor. That same character showed up in the cockpit: ACS maneuvers like well-timed spell slots, communication that would make any tower bard sing, and professionalism that rolls a reliable 20 every time.

By day, Josh is the Ranger of Refuel and Paladin of Pavement, herding arrivals, dispatching departures, and keeping the realm (ahem, ramp) lawful and orderly. When the quest marker lit up, he swapped chocks for checklists and crushed the commercial, chandelles, lazy eights, and a power-off 180 right on the treasure tile. Consider this an official multi-class: Line Tech ➜ Commercial Pilot. Same hustle, new proficiency bonus.

A huge well played to his party wizard, CFI Greg Anthenien, for masterfully DM’ing the campaign and guiding our hero through every trap, trial, and turbulence hex.

Raise your d20s (and maybe a donut) for Josh. He’s proof that when you prep like a pro, keep your party tight, and stay humble, you level up, and make the whole guild better while you do it. Onward to the next quest!

Congratulations to Jeremy Ellison, Reno’s newest Private Pilot! For months, we thought Jeremy was a ghost. Why? Because we never saw him but the plane flew. While the rest of us were still fumbling for coffee and unlocking the office, Jeremy had already been here, grinding away at his training before heading off to tackle work and family life. Turns out he wasn’t invisible, he was just outworking the rest of us.

Balancing flight training is tough. Balancing flight training while being a dedicated dad and professional? That takes a whole different level of discipline. Jeremy showed us all how it’s done: he carved out the time, showed up prepared, and made every lesson count.

Now, let’s not overlook his questionable taste in pizza toppings. Yes, Jeremy is that guy who proudly orders pineapple on his pizza () And while we’ll save the “hot fruit debate” for another time, one thing’s for sure, his work ethic is just as bold as his menu choices.

Jeremy’s story is proof that if you want something badly enough, you don’t make excuses, you make it happen. All while staying humble, coachable, and focused on what matters. Major kudos also to his CFI James Morgan for being the steady hand guiding him through this journey.

Jeremy, we’re proud of you. Your kids have a dad who just proved what determination looks like. Way to go, Private Pilot Ellison!

That’s right, after decades of helping build the world from the ground up, we finally got Monk off the ground accompanied by Chief CFI Richard.

If you haven’t had the privilege of meeting him, Monk is in our office every Thursday from noon to 4pm. He’s a retired engineer who literally left his fingerprints on America. From Boeing facilities, iconic LA hotels, 1/2 of San Francisco, and even the original Reno MGM. This guy knows steel! He’s also a huge community volunteer, a U.S. Marine and a Vietnam Veteran, a man whose lifelong commitment to service continues to inspire. Monk has been both an Honor Flight honoree and an escort, honoring his brothers and sisters in arms while keeping their stories alive.

These days, Monk channels that same grit and passion into aviation. Seeing him take flight is just another reminder that you’re never too seasoned to chase new adventures. Stop in on a Thursday to say hi, but fair warning: stick around too long and you might find yourself roped into helping him with his ground school.

Here’s to Monk! Proof that legends don’t just stay on the ground, they take to the skies. Next up, we get Noreen airborne. She just does not know it yet.

Big congratulations to Jacob Hulsizer on passing his Instrument Rating checkride! Jacob continues to prove that hard work and discipline pay off, whether in the air or on the ground. If you know Jacob, you know he’s never one to do things halfway. From the moment he started training, he’s brought his trademark energy and determination into every lesson. Outside of flying, he keeps busy with fishing, snowboarding, and following his favorite team, the Chargers.

As a die-hard Chargers fan, Jacob knows how to “bolt” through challenges, “charge” into new opportunities, and keep his eye on the end zone. Just like his team, he’s powered up for success and ready to take on any IFR conditions that come his way.

We’re proud of Jacob’s work ethic, dedication, and passion for flying. His determination, enthusiasm, and love for chasing his dreams set him apart, and we can’t wait to see where he’ll go from here. This milestone is just another step toward an exciting future in aviation. We also want to congratulate Andrew Spanier, Jacob’s CFII, for successfully guiding him through this journey.

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