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With nothing but good things to say about Coast Flight it’s hard to know where to begin. That being said I can tell you with confidence you will have a hard time finding a better program due to the accelerated pace they allow you to move at. I came to Coast Flight with only a handful of hours and In just over a year I earned my PPL, IFR, Commercial (ASEL,AMEL) CFI, CFII, and MEI without a single bust on my record. Read More... Without a shadow of a doubt this wouldn’t have been accomplished without the dedicated, hard working, experienced instructors that always go above and beyond creating the next best generation of professional pilots. Their drive for perfection equipped me with the fundamental skills and attitude required to take on just about any job in the aviation industry. Coast’s advanced aircraft were an essential part in preparing me for a career as a professional pilot. The meticulous standards to which they maintain their aircraft always gave me peace-of-mind knowing that I was safe, while the well-equipped classroom and training facilities created an excellent environment in which to learn. The camaraderie created by this welcoming environment led to relationships and memories that will last a lifetime. I take the skills and experience that I gained during my time at Coast Flight with me every day I go to work, making me a better and safer pilot. I will never forget where I came from and always consider Coast Flight my home away from home. Read Less...
I began flying as a hobby while working in my previous career. Several months into my private pilot training, I began to research options for full-time training and applied to the American Airlines Cadet Academy. I was accepted and chose to attend Coast Flight Training in San Marcos. Read More... My experience with Coast has been excellent. The instructors are knowledgeable and friendly, yet they hold students to high standards. The school has a structured curriculum which can be adapted to students' needs and emphasizes safety and sound decision-making skills, and it produces high-quality pilots as a result. I would recommend Coast to any current or future pilot who is willing to put in the work to achieve their goals. Read Less...
The best decision I made when embarking on a career in Aviation was choosing Coast Flight. Their incredible team of Instructors will take you to new heights and keep you safe. With a legendary in-house maintenance team on site, you will be in reliable and modern aircraft. Read More... Everyone at Coast Flight from the top down genuinely cares about each other. Everyone is working together to bring one another up and win as a team. If you’re looking to learn from the best, fly the best planes and be a part of something big, come to Coast Flight. Read Less...
I am an American Airlines Cadet attending CFT San Diego! I chose this location because airspace is a GREAT learning environment. You’ll find that the controllers at KMYF are highly trained and very patient. Read More... The staff at CFT are very helpful, everyone knows everyone and there is always someone available to help you throughout your training. The fleet is kept clean and the maintenance on the field does a great job staying on top of all the required inspections. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and would recommend CFT. Read Less...
There are many things about Coast that sets it apart from other flight schools but the biggest for me was how I was treated as an individual student. The staff at CFT are very helpful, everyone knows everyone and there is always someone available to help you throughout your training. Read More... The fleet is kept clean and the maintenance on the field does a great job staying on top of all the required inspections. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and would recommend CFT. Read Less...
Choosing a flight school is a daunting task, beyond just the decision to consider a part 141 verses part 61 schoolhouse. This decision was further complicated because I chose to enroll at Coast Flight and effectively leave behind a promising nine year career as an engineer at a major aerospace firm. Read More... Coast Flight has treated every part of my training, from the excellent maintenance of it's state-of-the-art aircraft to the professionalism of it's instructors, with the pedigree you'd expect of a school that has partnered with American Airlines. While I believe that every pilot's journey is going to involve a considerable amount of self study and commitment, Coast Flight provides an ample set of tools for every student to succeed and fosters an environment where proficiency and knowledge come second only to safety. It is for these reasons I chose Coast Flight and will look back proudly in my decision to be affiliated with the organization. I wish you luck on your own journey! Read Less...
After obtaining a Private Pilot Certificate from a Part 61 flight school, I began searching for a way to expedite my training after deciding to pursue a career in aviation. Read More... As a Part 141 flight school, Coast Flight adheres to a stringent curriculum in a fast-paced learning environment. The exceptional staff and professional yet personable instructors provide students all the tools necessary to succeed in the highly-competitive aviation industry. If you are passionate about aviation and have the drive, Coast Flight is both an indispensable asset and investment into your future. Read Less...
Going into Flight School, I had no idea of what to expect. My instructors and controllers not only made the initial transition a breeze, but have continued to create a very easy and comfortable environment to learn. From my time at Coast, I couldn’t imagine doing my training anywhere else.
“When I decided I wanted to become a pilot, I didn’t know where to start. The only role model I had was my step dad who learned how to fly in the Air Force, but other than him, I didn’t know other pilots or had zero idea on how to get started. Read More...
After months reaching out to extremely busy and unavailable local flight instructors and flight schools, trying to figure out how to start my aviation training, I finally found out about the American Airlines Cadet Academy through CAE Women in Flight scholarship program.
I applied, and even when I didn’t get the scholarship, I got accepted in the Academy. I was so happy and proud of myself for making the first step towards my aviation dream of becoming a pilot, however I couldn’t start my flight training until 6 months after giving birth to my son.
Of all the schools the AA Academy offers, I chose @coastflighttraining and the reason is simple, they are simply INCREDIBLE. From their customer service, their attention to detail, the way they design their course outlines and programs, the instructors they hire and how professional and knowledgeable they are, plus top of the line fleet with the latest technology, I feel extremely blessed and proud to be a Coast Flight Training student.
Coast offers a fast paced program which can be extremely challenging at times, specially for someone like me who has to raise and take care of a little one and make sure to keep up with all my school assignments, however, CFT makes sure to help you in every possible way so you can be a successful student if you’re willing to work hard and do your best, and I am proof of that.
If you’re looking to learn how to fly and want to make an investment in your aviation education, learn from the best, checkout Coast Flight Training and start your journey to becoming a professional pilot along with becoming the best version of you.” Read Less...
In September 2018, I decided to take a leap of faith and apply to the American Airlines Cadet Academy. While this was a significant career change, since I would be going from being a flight attendant to flying the plane, I had confidence in American that they only partner with exceptional flight schools. Coast Flight is everything that I could ask for. Read More...
From the time that I first interacted with the staff at Coast, I could tell that they had a student-focused training environment and cared about my success. I came into the program with exactly one flight hour and instantly received personalized training to get me up-to-speed with all others in the program. After 7 months of intense training, I have gone from a novice student to an instrument-rated private pilot currently working on my commercial rating. I am confident that when I graduate I will be better equipped than my peers at other flight schools and feel prepared to head to an airline.
If you are a new or experienced pilot, I highly recommend looking into training at Coast. Safety is paramount in everything they do, but instructors also work to make flying a fun, enjoyable process. It is one of the best decisions I have ever made! Read Less...
I chose Coast Flight San Diego because I wanted to challenge myself to become a better pilot. I earned my private pilot license at a small uncontrolled airfield in the Central Texas so I knew by moving to San Diego, I would be exposing myself to some of the busiest airspace in the United States. Read More... I began the American Airlines Cadet Program in January and today I am currently wrapping up CFII and multi. I have greatly improved my communications through constant contact with SoCal approach and I have gained confidence in my overall ability as a pilot by navigating San Diego’s complicated airspace. I have enjoyed my time at Coast Flight and have made lasting friendships along the way. Read Less...
Besides Coast Flight Training San Diego being located in one of the most exciting and beautiful cities in the world, the friendly atmosphere, motivating instructors and helpful staff make it the best choice for your flight training needs. Read More... I love the new fleet, with updated avionics and on site maintenance personnel for any unexpected issues or questions. My personal experience was successful, completing my training with my CFI, CFII and CMEL licenses. Coast flight training will help you reach your aviation goals as well. Read Less...
It has always been a dream of mine to be a pilot for American Airlines. I am the daughter of an AA fight attendant and I myself was an AA flight attendant. Read More... Ever since I was a little girl I wanted to be in the flight deck but life always got in the way so I waited to apply to the AA Cadet Academy program till it was a more established program. When I got accepted and learned that I could attend Coast Flight training in San Diego I was ecstatic. I spent my early childhood years growing up in the San Diego area so I jumped at the opportunity to move back. Training at coast has been such a great experience. I am currently working on my commercial license right now. I like with this program that amount of work we have to put in to it. I believe I have gained an immense amount of knowledge of our Piper Archers, G1000, San Diego’s wild airspace as well as much more. I am happy with my choice in choosing Coast Flight Training. Read Less...
Searching for the right flight school is a tough task, no doubt. In my search, I was looking for a place where I could fully immerse myself in the aviation world, build relationships with like-minded peers, and focus on developing the fundamental skills needed to become a professional in the industry. Read More... By the end of Coast’s flight training program, I felt fully equipped to take on any job, or challenge, that lay ahead. Flight training is what you make of it. If you are motivated and have lofty goals, Coast’s program provides a great platform to achieve them. Read Less...
My name is Cole Schmitt and I am a Coast Flight and American Airlines Cadet Academy graduate. I always wanted to be a pilot. Read More... During high school, I struggled to figure out what would be the best path forward to become a Captain for a major airline. Although I had earned a lacrosse scholarship to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to train to be a pilot, I had heard about American Airline’s innovative cadet academy and applied even though I knew it was a long shot given how competitive their applicant pool was. Almost immediately after I moved into my dorm room at Embry-Riddle, I received my acceptance email from American Airlines Cadet Academy. My family was almost in disbelief when I told them I wanted to pass up my scholarship and report to Coast Flight to start my journey as an American Airline pilot. From that day, I never looked back and could not be more excited about my future. Why was the decision so easy? Over the past year, I have validated first-hand what makes Coast Flight and the American Cadet Academy so special. I have benefited immensely from their choreographed flight training track and I cannot wait to take advantage of their flow through agreement since my ultimate goal is to be an American Airlines First Officer. Because of the all-inclusive and deferred financing that is offered to cadets by their dedicated program lender, I was able to focus on my training instead of bogged down by financial worries and fast-track the following certifications: Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, Multi-Engine Rating, Flight Instructor Certificate (CFI, CFII). Coast Flight and American Cadet Academy provided me with an immersive program with personalized attention and modern aircraft. I was able to progress through their coursework at a very rapid rate and gain confidence with each successful check ride. Who would have thought that at 19 years old, I would be living independently in program provided luxury apartment while chasing my dream to become a pilot. On my CFI certification; and, in my opinion my examiner summed it up best, ”Cole, you are old school...I am impressed with your knowledge and understanding…you have a bright future ahead of you”. Without a doubt, I would not have been able to pass the CFI examine which less than 20% pass on their first try without Coast Flight’s top-rated instructors, curriculum and predictable rhythm of study. Their lesson, review, study, written exam or check ride can be exhausting at times, but this intensive approach builds professionalism and a solid foundation of both flying expertise and aviation knowledge. I am so grateful that I was offered the opportunity to participate in the American Airlines Cadet Academy and earn my wings at Coast Flight’s state of the art facilities. What are you waiting for...learn it from the ground up like I did and let the American Airlines Academy and Coast Flight teach you how to fly so you can soar! Read Less...
Where do I begin with this amazing journey...Funny story is that I found Coast Flight by accident, one night at work I was just messing around on google and I searched how to become a pilot well one link lead to another and poof there was Coast Flight’s website. Read More...
I went and did my tour of the facility, scheduled my Discovery Flight and from there I was hooked. Started Part 61 training with an amazing instructor who was very passionate about flying and that made learning that much more enjoyable. Little did I know then that I’d be in the American Cadet Academy currently working on my Commercial Rating. Coast Flight has become a second family for me. I’d be the first in my family to become an airlines pilot and I couldn’t be more excited to see what my future is going to look like when this all said and done!!! Read Less...
From the time I started flight training at Coast in June of 2020, having little prior knowledge of the world of flying, I have learned more than I could have imagined in a well-paced, short length of time. Read More... The instructors and students I have worked with have been nothing but supportive and professional throughout the course of my training. I have made many incredible memories that will define the beginning of my career as an airline pilot that I can reflect on knowing I made the right decision to fly with Coast. Joining this program has been an extremely seamless and smooth process and I'm looking forward to finishing out the program strong to help the next batch of students to come through! Read Less...
"Coast Flight Training provided a structured program to get me from no experience to airline ready. However, being able to use my Post 9-11 GI Bill® is what really drew me to Coast. The cherry on top was the conditional offer of employment by SkyWest Airlines prior to the start of my training."
"I chose Coast Flight Training for the ACT Program. Being able to utilize my Post-9/11 GI Bill® for this program is an amazing opportunity to help me achieve my lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. Coast is an outstanding school with a great group of individuals, all of whom are supportive and imperative to my success. The unique opportunity to have a job with SkyWest Airlines at the end of this training is perfect for me."
"I chose Coast Flight because I’ve dreamt of flight ever since I can remember. When this opportunity presented itself to me, I knew that this was the pathway that I was going to continue on for the rest of my life. The fact that this training opportunity is paired with a career as an airline pilot makes it a dream come true."
"I cannot imagine having studied for my pilot’s license anywhere but Coast. The experience has been life-changing, and the memories of this exhilarating process will be with me forever. It has challenged me, increased my confidence, and opened up new realms. Going to Coast, I feel like a valuable member of a team. I have made life-long friends and found a vocation which brings me tremendous enjoyment."
I chose to become a pilot because it’s always been a dream of mine and it’s one of those jobs where you’re just doing your hobby and doesn’t feel like “work”. Coast Flight Training has made this process so enjoyable and smooth coming in with zero knowledge. I’ve received such great training so far and work with the best group of people I’ll always look back on my time here and remember it as a challenging, rewarding, and fun season of life.
After working for 8 years in the aviation industry as a flight attendant while getting my Private Pilot License and a BS in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, I was lucky to follow my true passion and join the American Airlines Academy Cadet Program earlier this year. Read More... Shortly after starting the program I found out that I was pregnant, which was a big surprise, however did not stop me from continuing my training. I was very lucky to receive tremendous support from the flight school and American Airlines, which has really helped me along the way. Thanks to my amazing mentor who motivated me throughout the entire program as well as my flight instructor who continued to push and bring out the best in me I managed to reach my personal goals and get all the way to my commercial rating, which is an amazing achievement on its own but even more so while being pregnant. I am now in my third trimester and very excited to soon welcome a little baby girl named Amelia who will hopefully share my passion for aviation and continue to fly with me. As a woman and immigrant in this country I am incredibly proud to be selected and part of this amazing program and hope to inspire many other female aviators in pursuing their dreams. Read Less...
In the first six months at Coast Flight I have gained an impressive amount of knowledge and flight experience that I otherwise would not have gained at another school in the same time frame. Read More... From flight instructors to admin staff, everyone here roots for your success and will support you through any challenges that may occur. Thank you Coast Flight Academy for making my transition from a flight attendant to a pilot a reality! Read Less...
There are a vast number of flight schools, but schools that are professional and organized are difficult to come by. I found Coast's unique approach to flight training allows for a well organized environment that helped me excel. Read More... I was paired with knowledgeable and safe instructors that took personal interest in my success. I felt reassured that I was equipped with strong fundamentals in flight manipulation, safety, and readiness for checkrides. Read Less...
From the knowledgeable and talented instructors to the impressive aircraft and attentive staff, I could not be happier with the experience I have had training with Coast Flight. Read More... Both the instructors and staff are consistently willing to go above and beyond to ensure students are prepared for their check rides and, ultimately, future aviation careers. I couldn’t recommend Coast Flight enough to those who are serious about aviation. Read Less...
Coast Flight training have the best instructors, such as Chase DeLaurie and Eric Dittmann; For a person who have no prior experience in aviation, they did not get frustrated from all the mistakes I made or just tell me I’m doing things wrong; rather they explain to me what I did wrong and allow me to learn from it. Having instructors that cares about student is definitely a bonus in flight training!
After researching different paths and options available, I chose to pursue my aviation goals through the American Airlines Cadet Academy program with Coast Flight because of their good reputation and structured program. Read More... Having a structured program and flight school capable of providing all of the resources necessary to train allows you to fully focus and devote yourself to succeeding on the phase of training you are in. I have had a positive experience working with my instructors as I continue to learn and gain experience. I am excited to see what the future of my aviation career holds! Read Less...
I am drawn to a career in aviation because I want to help get people to pivotal moments in their life - maybe an important business meeting, a well-deserved vacation, a best friends wedding or home for the holidays. Read More... The American Airlines Cadet Academy at Coast Flight Training offers the consistency, structure and professionalism that I was searching for in a flight school. With the help of best in the industry aircraft and incredible instructors, I am quickly progressing through my ratings and will be flying professionally in no time! Read Less...
My experience with Coast Flight Training started in 2019 while I was working full time as an accountant. I started out as a student in Coast’s ACT program and completed my Private Pilot’s License later that year. Read More... After receiving my license, I was sold on becoming an airline pilot and decided to pursue a career change; continuing my aviation studies full time on the American Airlines Cadet Academy side of Coast. Having experienced both sides, I can tell you Coast offers plenty of resources for its students' training as cadets or general student population - Quick maintenance and fuel through Coast’s own FBO, well kept maintenance records of aircraft, and a knowledgeable and accomplished staff that wants to see you succeed! I highly recommend Coast Flight Training to anyone interested in learning to fly! Read Less...
Flying at Coast Flight Training in Dallas has been overwhelmingly positive. All instructors, dispatchers and management hold themselves to lofty professional standards. Though I fly with my primary instructor, Cam, on 95% of my flights, there is consistency when getting into the plane with other CFI's or Check Instructors. I genuinely feel that the entire CFT team is invested in our success as pilots. Read More...
In any flight training environment, of course there can be hiccups - it's how our team handles those hiccups to keep everyone on track in our training. Our maintenance team goes further than just fixing and maintaining our fleet. In studying for checkrides, many of us have been able to talk with our maintainers about the specifics of our planes. We’ve also been over to the hangar to see what the plane looks like in the middle of an annual inspection.
I have flown at several different flight schools around the country, but the difference is that CFT has consistently high standards for all aspects of the operation. As students, we learn the tools for success. We study and lean on each other, but we can always approach our CFI's, Check CFI's or Chief CFI with further questions or concerns. Read Less...
While researching flight schools for the American Airlines Cadet Academy, Coast Flight Training stood out as an easy choice! Read More...
Starting with a professional website, it was easy to find information about both of their locations, including pictures and detailed information about the cost and structure of the program. Additionally, I came into the program with many questions regarding flight training and housing and their staff addressed all my questions promptly.
Coast Flight Training offers a well-structured fast-paced program with a syllabus to get you through training. They offer top of the line aircraft, training facilities, and staff to help you progress. From the first time walking through the doors, I felt like I was apart of their family, and I couldn’t see myself training anywhere else.
Although the program can be rigorous and stressful at times, With the top of the line flight instructors and staff, they are there for you to become the best they know you can be, and that's why I chose Coast Flight Training! Read Less...
My name is Charlie Hoesel and I successfully completed the American Airlines Cadet Academy with Coast Flight in December 2020. Read More... I went from being a timid student pilot all the way to Certified Flight Instructor and received my commercial pilot certificate with single and multi-engine ratings. This company has given me the opportunity to pursue my goals as well as exposure to many unique experiences that helped me grow not only as a person, but as a future airline pilot in the aviation world. The culture and community of Coast and the interworking thereof make this program and flight school somewhere anyone can be proud to chase their dreams and aspirations. Read Less...
Becoming a pilot has always been my dream and I am beyond thankful I was given the opportunity to accomplish it with the American Airlines/Coast Academy. Read More... The professionalism and organization displayed by Coast is one of the biggest advantages to this experience and my education. Not only has the flight school excelled in giving me everything I need to acquire my certificates and ratings, it has also given me friendships and professional connections to last a life time and no other school would have been a better choice for me. Wishing a Happy Holidays to everyone at Coast and a delightful New Year with plenty of new adventures! Read Less...
Becoming a pilot has always been a dream of mine. After being accepted into American Airlines Cadet Academy, choosing Coast Flight Training was an easy decision. Read More... I liked that the program offered structured coursework, living accommodations, and brand new aircraft with the G1000 system! Through my training so far, I have had a great experience working with my instructor who is always willing to go above and beyond to help. Learning in some of the most complex airspace in the United States in San Diego has also built my confidence and skills. After my training is complete, I know I will be very well prepared for the world of aviation! Read Less...
I’ve been inspired by aviation through my mother’s employment as a flight attendant and have dreamed of becoming a pilot for a long time. With the help of the American Airlines Cadet Academy, I was given the opportunity to make these dreams a reality! Read More...
Coast Flight has enveloped flight training with a supportive community that drives one another to succeed. The instructors are actively invested in your success paired with the cadets alongside you. I couldn’t ask for a better flight school to train with and will always remember my time at Coast fondly. Read Less...
I chose Coast Flight Training primarily because of the prime location of their school in San Marcos, Tx. Read More... This allows for more time to be spent in the air perfecting your maneuvers rather than on the ground waiting for a takeoff clearance! Also, with Coast’s in-house maintenance and G1000-equipped Cessnas, you’ll never be downed because of inoperative equipment. Lastly, the administrative staff and instructors alone will make you want to choose Coast because of their knowledge of the industry combined with their professionalism! You will love this school! Read Less...
Coast Flight Training is a great flight school that provides excellent instruction from the ground lessons to the flights. With top notch facilities and aircraft, Coast truly provides the best opportunity to succeed in your aviation career.
"I was able to teach at Coast Flight and make money, all while I finished my college degree online. I have now been accepted into the SkyWest Airlines Bridge Program and will shortly be an airline pilot, all thanks to the support of Coast."
"Aircraft ownership could not have been made easier without the guidance of Coast's Pre-Purchase services! I purchased my SR22 Turbo through Coast and have had it under Coast management since 2008. I can rely on a valet service that an owner would expect. Coast treats the airplane as though it was their personal aircraft and maintains the highest standards!"
"When I decided to attend Coast Flight Training, I thought that I was going to find a school, but I ended up finding the best flying school with the best instructors and the best planes. They have been extremely efficient since the beginning, helping me throughout the application process and all the paperwork that I needed as an international student. They soon became a great group of friends that have made my training period one of the best times of my life."
"Oddly enough, in a world craving change, advancement, and cutting edge approaches, the aviation education community fails to deliver. Uniquely, that is where Coast Flight excels. Having seen it developed from the ground up, I can assure you that every decision has been made with the intent to improve the training quality and experience. For those individuals seeking a flight training school, I would suggest serious consideration of Coast Flight Training. In a world of conformity, Coast Flight Training is different. While the rest of the AVIATION TRAINING community zigs, they zag, and it makes all the difference."
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