I am a General Aviation Private Pilot with an Instrument Certification. I have more than 500
hours of flight time and home base at Reigle Airport (58N), Palmyra PA.
A significant amount of my flight training, ground instruction and recertification has been done
with Darrell Dethlefs, of Premier Pilot Training. Although legally licensed to fly without an FAA
Instructor, I take advantage of Darrell’s background and his proximity to Central PA to
continually learn and expand my flying experience in the air and on the ground. His personal
and professional demeanor keeps me sharp in the cockpit while not flying in fear of an
overbearing instructor who can change the experience in a heartbeat. Darrell’s experience in
single and multi-engine aircraft and turbo aircraft brings an enhanced level of instruction
because of his broad experience in general aviation. From engine start, run-up, taxi, take off,
flying and returning into the pattern for a consistent landing, Darrell’s experience in multiple
platforms ensures a safe flight…with appropriate coaching and support before and afterward.
Instruction by Darrell and the team at Premier Pilot Training will put a student pilot or an
experienced, licensed pilot in a position for a safe and enjoyable flying experience.
Tom Clemens
Private Pilot Student
Rated 5 out of 5
I am a private pilot with ground school certification and am currently working towards my instrument rating. As a retiring cardiologist, I chose to pursue aviation having the time to do so.
I was fortunate to link up with Darrell during my private pilot training, now going on 5 years ago. I was actually contemplating quitting my journey to become a private pilot at that time, I felt wasn't progressing with my current instruction. What was missing, and what Darrell provided was a systematic approach to flying, which was key to progressing in my training.
He is a disciplined instructor who allowed me to progress at a pace that was safe , by his standards, and kept me interested in the process at the same time.
Instructors sometimes look at senior students( I guess I'm in that category) with caution but I felt he truly enjoyed my company and was genuine and sincere in his role as CFI
He went with me for my successful checkride, which I was grateful for.
I also co-taught our local ground school with him for 2 years. He was collegial and supportive of me, since this was a new endeavor for me. Darrell has taught this school for quite a few years ( I was one of his former students also)
He has an intense love of flying and always makes every attempt to fly with students when he can, for both basic and IFR training.
I was excited for him when he mentioned the Cirrus opportunity. I like him and I am always looking to grow and learn everything I can about aviation.
He is definitely an asset to the Cirrus flight training program
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Isabelle Fox
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Premier Pilot Training helped me earn my private pilot's license while still in high school!
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Ruth Brajkovich
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My experience with Premier Flight School was fantastic! I was in the middle of training for my PPL at another school when I reached out to Darrell. I truly felt Darrell and his instructors cared about my success. Their encouragement and support shined through as they tailored lessons to my learning style. At 53 I discovered it’s never too late to chase a dream. Thanks to Premier and Brad‘s patience, I had the best time and learned so much. If you ever considered flying, call Darrell. I highly recommend Premier Pilot Training, absolutely outstanding flight school.
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Ken Waidelich
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I'm a recently retired major airline Captain with nearly 20,000 hours of flight time. I've been a flight instructor in the military, a flight standards line check pilot, and a simulator instructor with a multi engine ATP rating, BUT I've never gotten my ASEL commercial rating. Recently, an opportunity arose for me to fly a Cirrus aircraft for hire, and I needed an instructor to design a tailored program for me to safely reach my goal in minimal time. With very little Cirrus time in my logbook, I reached out to Darrell. He wasted no time putting a plan together and assigned me a premium instructor, Roger, to work with me. Both Darrell and Roger teamed up to give me some of the best training I've seen in my career. We accomplished the mission very quickly and safely - and I have my newest rating - ASEL. These guys are GOOD! Not only do they have a thorough knowledge of the Cirrus aircraft, but they have a deep respect for aviation and safety. Take it from a career professional pilot, Premier Pilot Training is a fantastic school for pilots of all experience levels. They do excellent work and keep it enjoyable. I'm happy that my friend suggested working with Darrell.
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James Bett
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It was a pleasure to fly with Darrell. He worked with me to get my training completed and prioritize an airplane for me to complete my check ride with several date and time changes due to weather and other conflicts. It was a great personalized experience.The airplanes fly really well and maintenance is a top priority here. I highly recommend them.
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Sophia Birbas
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I highly recommend Premier Pilot training. Darrell and the instructors are great to work with, and I feel I get a lot out of lessons. I switched from another school in the middle of my training and Darrell and the team made sure no time was wasted and I adjusted quickly. Some flight schools drag you on to keep making money, but this school genuinely wants you to succeed.
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Joshua MacGillis
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Went on a discovery flight with instructor Nick. Had a blast! Professional, fun, safe flying experience. Would highly recommend Premier Pilot
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Lee Lebbon
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My first flight with Darrell was in October of 2011 as a Private pilot student. Through the years I have flown with Darrell many times working on Instrument Rating, BFR’s, staying current and just sometimes wanting to share a flight with someone who has great knowledge and passion for aviation. Professionalism, enthusiasm and passion are words I would use to describe my experiences. When I decided to pursue advanced ratings PPT was my immediate go to. Darrell and his team have the knowledge and aircraft to cover all the bases and have made it, most important fun! They deliver the same great instruction and commitment to your learning whether in a C152 or the most modern Cirrus. Stop in, take a flight, the sky is the limit with the folks at PPT.
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sara carlson
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Great place! You can fly out of Harrisburg CXY or York TYV. I used both. Great learning environment and people. I’d recommend Brad K. as CFI to anybody.
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Devin Emenheiser
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Premier Pilot Training has a great fleet of aircraft to suit the needs of anyone looking for structured and personalized flight instruction. Their instructors have the knowledge and experience required to refine your skills as a pilot, progressing you through your tests and check rides efficiently and safely.
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Jason Sanseverino
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I've been a student at Premier Pilot Training for about two years now, and I can confidently say that their instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and experienced, with top-notch training techniques. Their airplanes are always well-maintained, and the facility is conveniently located for anyone in the greater Central Pennsylvania area. I recently completed my VFR Cirrus transition training with their certified Cirrus instructors and approved courses, which was an amazing experience. Highly recommend Premier Pilot Training!
