What students actually say

★★★★★

“I want to thank Lakey and his crew of CFIs in helping me achieve my dream of being a private pilot and a plane owner. I started my path a little over a year ago and have been making steady progress toward earning my PPL. Lakey is an extremely talented instructor and is always willing to go the extra mile. Lakey and his team has supporting me fully in learning to fly and still be able to work full time. I encourage anyone to take up flying at Vortex Flight School. It is not only the most affordable flight school in the area, but it is the best flight school.”

★★★★★

“I’ve been flying with Lakey for a little over half a year now. I got my tailwheel with Lakey and I’m finishing out my PPL with him and his other instructors. By far the best flight school I’ve had the pleasure to learn at, Lakey and his team bring great experience to the table at a decent cost and do a wonderful job of tailoring to individual needs, so much so I commute from Augusta County (over 50 miles) to fly at Vortex. The aircraft are well maintained and have wonderful avionics.”

★★★★★

“Lakey is extremely knowledgeable and patient. He has a very laid back teaching style which helped ease the anxiety I was feeling for my first lesson. By the time I had my second lesson, I was having so much fun, there wasn’t any time to feel anxious! Highly recommend Vortex Flight School and Lakey for learning to fly!”

★★★★★

“Vortex is an exceptional flight training school and Lakey is an excellent instructor. He creates a relaxed but professional environment to gradually learn and improve. Providing enough space to push and improve skills but still operate within manageable current knowledge and skill levels. I would highly recommend Vortex if you are a new pilot just getting into the exciting world of flight or a seasoned pilot looking to advance your training.”

★★★★★

“Huge shout out to Lakey Harkrader and his team for helping my son realize his dream of getting his private pilot’s license - the first step in his goal of becoming a commercial pilot. Lakey and Alex have provided the encouragement, patience, skill, and knowledge to inspire my son to do something most 17 year olds only dream of. I can’t recommend enough! Thank you Lakey!!!!”

★★★★★

“Lakey provides great customer service and is very down to earth. He keeps his schedule flexible to accommodate school aged young adults who want to fly. He is my sons favorite instructor. Highly recommend Vortex to anyone interested in learning to fly!”

★★★★★

“My son had his first night flight experience last night! Departed around 8:00 pm and landed about 9:40 pm. Lakey provides experience, knowledge and kindness. Thank you, Vortex Flight School.”