Congratulations to Zak Mahannah on earning his Instrument Rating!! Nothing like spending an afternoon under the foggles. Earning this rating is a huge achievement and one step closer to his goal of a career in aviation. Zak earned his PPL in a tail-wheel aircraft which adds an extra layer of challenge to training. This showcases Zak's skills and adaptability as a pilot which carried into his instrument training. Not only is he impressive as a pilot, but he was also an impressive former UNR football player and now alumni. Balancing sports and academics can be demanding, and it speaks to his determination and discipline. Zak works full time and flies full time, plus probably has a little fun. He trained under the rigorous 141 curriculum and handled the fast-paced training like a champ. Now onto Commercial! Zak’s accomplishments are commendable, and we are sure we will see that same focus and success moving forward. Awesome job Zak and congratulations as well to his CFI Greg Rudman! ​

Exciting news! Based on attendance from the last FREE ground school supplement class, we will be starting a series of once a month courses. These are not loggable ground sessions, but a supplement to topics you might want to dig a little deeper into. The next class will be on Sunday, August 20th from 1pm-2pm (or longer if you have questions) in the large upstairs conference room at Atlantic Aviation. This class will be taught by Commercial Pilot, Line tech extraordinaire, and CFI candidate, Derek Davis! Derek will be instructing on aviation weather. What conditions breed what weather patterns. This will include discussion about fronts, systems, prognostic charts, turbulence charts, and open questions. No need to RSVP. Please show up by 1pm with your aviation weather questions.  

 Ladies and gentlemen, gather 'round for some aviation excitement! Let's give a big round of applause to the incredible Reese Davis, who just nailed it and earned his Instrument Pilot Certificate! Looks like Reese has been taking his flying game seriously, because now he's "instrument-rated" and ready to navigate through clouds like a pro! And hey, did you know he's not just a whiz in the skies? Reese also rocks it as a crew chief in the Air National Guard, balancing both roles like a champ! So, here's to Reese, our Friday aviation superhero! Cheers to your sky-high achievements and may your future be filled with smooth flights and continued success! Congratulations as well to his CFI Danny Britson! to edit.

​Our favorite Finn is back in the spotlight! Aki Nyrhinen is now a Private Pilot! Today, even in the intense heat, Aki kept his cool and showed the examiner that he trained and earned his private pilot privileges. Aki overcame the long cold winter and the hot summer (so far) to earn this first certificate in his aviation journey. No surprise at all being Aki is a very skilled pilot. He is even known for his smooth steep turns that lull his adorable young daughter to sleep when she accompanies him on a lesson. When he is not flying, he is out skiing, riding his bike, writing software, or spending time with his family. A little rest for this new aviator then he will be hitting the sky, having some fun and enjoying this newfound freedom! Congratulations to Aki and his CFI Ryan Mill!

What goes on in Jarrett McDonald’s brain? If he is not thinking about airplanes, he is thinking about race cars. If it isn’t race cars, then it is airplanes. This guy likes to go fast. However, today he had to throttle back a little on his speed obsession and be happy with about 100kts. But, those were the most memorable 100kts ever. Today Jarrett McDonald soloed in N495SP at KSPZ, runway 24. And, in front of an audience. His Mom and Dad joined his CFI Nik Joshi, on the ramp as Jarrett greased his landings. Jarrett is a RARA scholarship recipient and working to earn his Private Pilot before he starts his senior year at Reed. Based on his success so far, I’d say this guy will be walking the halls as a private pilot once mid-August comes around. Awesome job Jarrett!! Congratulations as well to his CFI Nik!