Heritage Flight Academy

Heritage Flight Academy
2075 Smithtown Avenue
Ronkonkoma, New York 11779
(631) 471-3550



Airports
   Long Island Mac Arthur Airport (KISP) - Primary
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Flight School Ratings
Quality of Aircraft 3.7 Quality of Instruction 4.5
Availability of Aircraft 3 Availability of Instruction 3.3
Cleanliness of Aircraft 3 Facility Amenities 2.5
Community Atmosphere 2.7 Friendliness of Staff 2.7
Professionalism of Staff 2.3 Value of Training 3

Overall Score: 3/5

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Flight School Features

Certificates and Ratings Offered:

These are the different certificates and ratings that be obtained at this flight school. Certificates and Ratings Offered:
   

Part 141 Training

Does this school offer Part 141 training? Part 141 is a section of the Federal Aviation Regulations that provide additional oversight by the FAA. Typically Part 141 schools are more structured, more professional, and provide additional services that a Part 61 flight school may not. Because of this, the FAA allows pilots to obtain their certificates/ratings with lower hourly requirements. However, a part 141 program does require stage checks. This type of learning environment is better for some, but is not necessarily right for everyone. Part 141 Training:		Yes
   

Private - Part 61

Does this school offer Private Pilot training under FAR Part 61. Part 61 training is the section of the Federal Aviation Regulations that details the training requirements to obtain a pilot certificate or rating. Part 61 schools may be large professional institutions, or they may be a single instructor operating on their own. It is important that a prospective student look into how a part 61 flight school operates. Private - Part 61:		Yes
   

Instrument Rating

Does this school offer training for your Instrument Rating? If you want to legally fly in the clouds, certain airspace, and avoid travel delays, you'll need an Instrument Rating. An Instrument Rating allows a pilot to fly in Instrument Meteorological Conditions. IMC definitions vary based on airspace, but typically are defined as visibility less than 3 statue miles and a cloud ceiling of less than 1000ft. Instrument Rating:		Yes
   

Commercial Pilot Certificate

Does this school offer training towards a Commercial Pilot Certificate? It is required to receive compensation for flying. Allows you to pursue a professional career as a pilot. Commercial Pilot Certificate:		Yes
   

Multi-Engine Rating

Does this school offer Multi-Engine Rating training? It is required to fly any aircraft with more than one engine. Multi-Engine Rating:		Yes
   

ATP Certificate

Does this school offer training for an ATP Certificate? An Airline Transport Pilot Certificate replaces your Commercial Certificate and allows you to act as Pilot in Command on a part 121 (scheduled air carrier) or part 135 (on-demand charter) operation. This certificate is available for both single and multi-engine aircraft. On January 1st 2013, all airline pilots will be required to possess this certificate. ATP Certificate:		Multi/Single
   

Rotorcraft Rating

Required to fly rotorcraft category aircraft (helicopters and gyrocopters). Rotorcraft Rating:		No
   

Certified Flight Instructor

This certificate is required to act as an instructor and legally provide flight training, endorsements, and recommendations for pilots. Certified Flight Instructor:		Yes
   

Certified Flight Instructor Instrument

Required to instruct individuals for their instrument rating or to conduct Instrument Proficiency Checks. Certified Flight Instructor Instrument:		Yes
   

Certified Flight Instructor Multi-Engine

Required to provide flight training in Multi-Engine aircraft. Certified Flight Instructor Multi-Engine:		Yes
   

Certified Flight Instructor Sport

This flight school offers the required training to become a flight instructor to conduct Sport Pilot training. Certified Flight Instructor Sport:		N/A
   

Sport Pilot

Requires half the flight training hours of a private pilot certificate and you do not require a medical exam. However, you are limited to Light-Sport aircraft that can not exceed 120 knots, may not carry more than 1 passenger, must be single engine, and may not have a retractable landing gear. Other limitations apply. Please refer to the Federal Aviation Regulations. Sport Pilot:		N/A
   

Recreational Pilot

The recreational pilot certificate requires less training and offers fewer privileges than the private certificate. It was originally created for flying small single-engine planes, and has since been largely supplanted by the Sport Pilot certificate. It is significantly more restrictive than a private pilot certificate. The holder is restricted to 50 nautical miles from his/her field of departure and from operating in the vicinity of airports with a control tower, though these restrictions can be lifted with additional training and endorsements. Recreational Pilot :		N/A
   

Glider Rating

Required to operate glider category aircraft Glider Rating:		N/A
   

Float Rating (ASES, AMES)

Required to operate an aircraft on floats. Float Rating (ASES, AMES):		No
   

Lighter-Than-Air: Airship Class

Required training towards an Airship Class LTA rating. Lighter-Than-Air: Airship Class:		N/A
   

Lighter-Than-Air: Balloon Class

Required Rating to operate Balloon Class LTA's Lighter-Than-Air: Balloon Class:		N/A

Additional Endorsements and Programs:

These are additional training programs and endorsements that are offered at this flight school. Additional Endorsements and Programs:
   

Biennial Flight Review (BFR)

Does this school offer Biennial Flight Reviews? A BFR is a required review of a pilot's abilities that must be conducted every 24 calendar months. This review must be conducted by a CFI or a Designated Pilot Examiner. It is required to consist of at least 1 hour of ground review and 1 hour of flight review. Biennial Flight Review (BFR):		N/A
   

Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC)

Does this school offer Instrument Proficiency Checks? An IPC is required after a pilot has let his/her instrument currency expire for more than 6 months. An IPC can only be conducted by CFII's and DPE's or other approved FAA officials. Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC):		N/A
   

Discovery Flights

Does this flight school offer flights to demonstrate what it is like to fly personal aircraft to experience flight? Discovery Flights:		N/A
   

Glass Cockpit Transition Training

Glass cockpits are the 'way of the future' in aviation. What this refers to is an aircraft that is equipped with modern avionics that uses video screens 'glass' to display flight instruments along with other important flight information. Most new aircraft are built with glass cockpits, and more and more older aircraft are being updated to glass cockpits. Glass Cockpit Transition Training:		N/A
   

Complex Endorsement

An endorsement from an authorized instructor is required to operate complex aircraft. A complex aircraft is any aircraft that has retractable landing gears, flaps, and a constant-speed or variable pitch propellor. Complex Endorsement:		Yes
   

High Performance Endorsement

Does the school provide training in high performance aircraft? A high performance aircraft is any aircraft having an engine with more than 200hp. High Performance Endorsement:		N/A
   

Tail Wheel Endorsement

An endorsement by an authorized instructor is required to operate tail wheel aircraft. Tail Wheel Endorsement:		Yes
   

Spin Endorsement

A spin endorsement is required for all pilots seeking to be a flight instructor. Only certain aircraft can be legally put into a spin on purpose. Spin Endorsement:		Yes
   

Unusual Attitudes

Does the school provide additional or specialized training in scenarios where a pilot may be disoriented and in a difficult to recover aircraft position. This training is designed to increase pilot awareness and safety. Unusual Attitudes:		Yes
   

Aerobatics

Training in aerobatics. Typically a specially designed aerobatic aircraft that is designed to withstand the heavy G-forces imposed during aerobatic maneuvering is used. Training typically involves specialized maneuvers that are often used in aerobatic competitions. Aerobatics:		N/A
   

Pinch Hitter Course

Training for friends and family who are interested in flying. Program is typically designed to train an individual to take over control of the aircraft in the event of an in-flight emergency where the pilot is incapacitated. Pinch Hitter Course:		N/A
   

Formal Mountain Training

Does the flight school offer a formal mountain training program. Mountain flying offers its own rewards, challenges, and dangers. It is strongly encouraged that a pilot receive formal training in mountainous operations prior to operating in the vicinity of large hills or mountains. Formal Mountain Training:		N/A
   

Ski Training

Required to learn to operate an aircraft equipped with skis. Ski Training:		N/A
   

Ultralight/ Hang Glider Training

Although no training or certification is required to operate an ultralight or hang glider vehicle, it is strongly recommended that all pilots looking to fly one receive some formal training. Ultralight/ Hang Glider Training:		N/A
   

Pressurized High Altitude Endorsement

Endorsement required to act as pilot in command of a pressurized aircraft above 25,0000ft MSL Pressurized High Altitude Endorsement:		N/A
   

Stage Checks

Stage checks or Progress Checks are a legal requirement under Part 141 training. A stage check is an evaluation of a pilot's ability and knowledge and is used to determine whether or not the individual is ready and safe to move onto the next stage of their training. They are typically conducted by more senior and experienced instructors to ensure that a pilot is receiving adequate and proper instruction from their primary instructor. They are additional flights during your training, but often provide valuable learning experiences that come from another instructor's insight. Stage Checks:		Yes
   

Training In Owner's Aircraft

Does this flight school offer training in an owner's aircraft? Some flight schools have the policy of only instructing in aircraft they operate. This is likely due to insurance reasons. Training In Owner's Aircraft:		N/A
   

Type Rating Training

A type rating is required for anyone operating an aircraft as Pilot In Command that is certificated with a maximum takeoff weight of more than 12,500lbs, has a turbo-jet engine, or any other aircraft specified by the FAA Administrator. Type Rating Training:		N/A

Ground Training Programs

How students are taught their ground school lessons. Ground Training Programs
   

1 on 1

One on one lessons with an instructor 1 on 1:		Yes
   

Classroom Training

One instructor to many students in ground school. Classroom Training:		Yes
   

Additional Seminars

Additional seminars on various topics such as airplane maintanence, checkrides, glass cockpit training...etc. Additional Seminars:		Yes
   

Home Study Ground School

Does this school offer a ground school option that allows the student to study at home? These courses typically will use a combination of books, CDs, and DVDs. They have the advantage of often being less expensive than a traditional classroom course and can be learned at a students own pace. The disadvantage is that even though an instructor may be able to review your progress online. They are not physically there to answer any questions that you may have. Home Study Ground School:		N/A
   

Online Home Study Ground School

Similar to most home study courses, the online CBT (Computer Based Training) can be done from any device that is connected to the internet. This gives the student even more flexibility into when and where they study. Online Home Study Ground School:		N/A

VFR Flying Days per Year

What is the average number of Visual Flight Rules flying days per year. This is an important factor in determining how much time you'll need to commit to your training. If there are only 200 VFR flying days a year, then expect 1 out of every 3 lessons to be cancelled due to weather. This is often seasonal in most parts of the United States. However, do not assume that any season is better or worse than any other. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages. Talk with your local flight school for their professional opinion on your region. VFR Flying Days per Year:		251-300

Staff and Amenities

Information regarding staff and amenities at this flight school. Staff and Amenities
   

Number of Instructors

How many instructors are employeed by the school. Number of Instructors:		6-10
   

Avg # of Students per Instructor

How many students is the average instructor teaching on a regular basis. Avg # of Students per Instructor:		N/A
   

Designated Pilot Examiner on Staff

Does the flight school have an examiner on staff. A DPE is an individual that is authorized by the FAA to provide practical exam check-rides (this is the flight test required at the end of your training to receive your certificate or rating). It is almost never a bad thing to have an "in house" examiner that you can ask questions and get to know prior to your exam. Designated Pilot Examiner on Staff:		N/A
   

Dispatcher

A dispatcher is an individual that provides scheduling, payment processing, oversight, and other miscellaneous administrative duties at a flight school. Dispatcher:		Yes
   

Online Scheduling

Can you schedule instruction or aircraft online without having to contact the flight school or your instructor directly Online Scheduling:		No
   

Simulator on Site

Is there an FAA approved simulator on site that can be used to log flight training or to maintain pilot currency requirements Simulator on Site:		Yes
   

Computerized Testing On Site

Most pilot certificates require you to pass a knowledge exam (often referred to as a "written exam"). These tests are administered using a computer based system at FAA approved locations. Computerized Testing On Site:		Yes
   

WiFi Access

Does this school offer WiFi access for its students and customers. WiFi Access:		N/A
   

Pilot Shop

Does the flight school have a Pilot Shop to purchase things such as headsets, books, checklists, sectional charts... Pilot Shop:		Yes
   

Pilot Lounge

Is there a place for pilots and students to lounge and relax in. Pilot Lounge:		N/A
   

Lodging Available

Is local lodging available or nearby for displaced students. Lodging Available:		Yes
   

Training At Your Home Airport

Does the flight school provide the service of sending an aircraft and/or an instructor to your local airport to train you? Training At Your Home Airport:		N/A

Fleet Maintenance

Maintaining the fleet of airplanes. Fleet Maintenance
   

Line Service Available

Line service is a term used to describe individuals who are responsible for looking after the fleet of aircraft between flights. They will typically provide fueling, cleaning, preventative maintenance, and other services that are often over-looked till you find yourself at a location that does not provide them. These individuals are almost always a luxury to have around! Line Service Available:		N/A
   

Maintain their own fleet

Does the flight school maintain their own aircraft. Maintain their own fleet:		Yes
   

Contracted Out

Does the flight school contract out their aircraft maintenance. Contracted Out:		No
   

Aircraft Sales

Is the flight school also a dealer for any type of aircraft. Aircraft Sales:		No
   

Hangar Space

Does this flight school offer space within their hangars to store your aircraft. Hangar Space:		N/A

Students and Careers

Additional programs or offerings that a student may be interested in. Students and Careers
   

Accept Foreign M-1 Visa Applicants

Does the school sponsor foreign students looking to train under an M-1 Visa. Accept Foreign M-1 Visa Applicants:		Yes
   

Affiliation with a College/University

Is the flight school affiliated with a college or university? Can your flight training count for college credits? Affiliation with a College/University:		Yes
   

Bridge Program

Is there a bridge program for career oriented student pilots. Bridge programs are in place with typically airlines or charter services that provide an easy and likely route into being a professional pilot. Bridge Program:		No
   

Disabled Pilot Training

Training specifically designed for the physically disabled individual. With this training an individual who has a physical disability can receive a Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SoDA) from the Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) and are eligible to become a certificated pilot. Typically special flight controls are needed inside the cockpit. Disabled Pilot Training:		N/A

Payment Info

Payment Info Payment Info
   

Flying Club

Operates as a flying club where members usually are required to pay monthly or yearly dues to gain access and discounts on renting their aircraft. Flying Club:		N/A
   

Renter's Insurance Required

Is the student required to carry their own insurance policy as a renter or student? Renter's Insurance Required:		N/A
   

Pre-Pay Benefits

Does the flight school offer pre-pay benefits like credits when paying in advance. This is typically a % bonus added onto down payments that you make or a 'block rate' when you purchase a number of hours in advance. Pre-Pay Benefits:		N/A
   

VA Benefits Accepted

Students who are active duty, reservist, national guard, veteran or veteran’s dependent (spouse, child) may receive up to 60% of their flight training paid for by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA Benefits Accepted:		Yes
   

Financial Aid

Does the flight school offer financial aid to students. Financial Aid:		Yes
   

Visa

Do they accept Visa cards Visa:		N/A
   

Mastercard

Do they accept Mastercard Mastercard:		N/A
   

American Express

Do they accept American Express American Express:		N/A
   

Discover

Do they accept Discover credit cards Discover:		N/A
   

Check

Do they accept Checks Check:		N/A
   

Cash

Do they accept Cash? It may seem incredible, but yes there are flight schools that do not accept cash. For example some university training programs will not take cash on the spot. Cash:		N/A



Flight School Reviews
adpilotage wrote on 8/24/2012 12:44:27 PM:
Quality of Aircraft 4 Quality of Instruction N/A
Availability of Aircraft 5 Availability of Instruction 5
Cleanliness of Aircraft 4 Facility Amenities N/A
Community Atmosphere 4 Friendliness of Staff 4
Professionalism of Staff 5 Value of Training 3
Overall Score: 4.2/5
Employee(s) worked with: Mike, Rich, Rick, Neil

Reason for visit: Flight Training

I recommend this flight school: Yes

Pros

Great scheduling
Good instruction very adaptable based on student needs

Cons

A bit pricey

My Review of Heritage Flight Academy:
Heritage Flight Academy is located in MacArthur airport. Prices there are above national averages both for instruction and aircraft rental. That said, they offer a quality product and will do their best to make sure your goals are met in the time frame you expect.

Like any other flight program, student dedication is also important. Provided you are willing to put the time in outside of lessons, you should have a great experience.

avdude2012 wrote on 7/17/2012 5:21:35 PM:
Quality of Aircraft 4 Quality of Instruction 5
Availability of Aircraft 2 Availability of Instruction 2
Cleanliness of Aircraft 3 Facility Amenities 2
Community Atmosphere 1 Friendliness of Staff 1
Professionalism of Staff 1 Value of Training 3
Overall Score: 2.4/5
Employee(s) worked with: steve, neil, ramin, rick, etc

Reason for visit: Flight Training

I recommend this flight school: Yes

Pros

CFI's are great, love to fly; Neil; Work with you when things are tight

Cons

STEVE

My Review of Heritage Flight Academy:
The instructors really care, and love to fly, especially Ramin and Rick. Neil is awesome and works with you, and will develop a plan that works for you. When things get tight schedule wise, Neil will work with you to get things going. The other office staff are also great...except for Steve. Just as the previous reviewer mentions, he treats the staff like garbage and talks down to everyone, even his A&P students. Its sick. He will talk all high and mighty about aviation, woo you with stories, all the while, whether he realizes it or not (and Im sure he does), being condescending. Some days Ive felt bad enough for the staff that I just felt like going home. If it wasnt for him, or should I say other than him, Heritage is a great school with high quality instructors that really have a passion for aviation and teaching. I highly recommend Ramin.

guyflyer23 wrote on 6/28/2012 8:32:23 AM:
Quality of Aircraft 3 Quality of Instruction 4
Availability of Aircraft 2 Availability of Instruction 3
Cleanliness of Aircraft 2 Facility Amenities 3
Community Atmosphere 3 Friendliness of Staff 3
Professionalism of Staff 1 Value of Training 3
Overall Score: 2.7/5
Employee(s) worked with: steve, neil, rick, remin

Reason for visit: Flight Training

I recommend this flight school: No

Pros

CFI's were nice, aircraft were kind of new (2000-) no glass, they refuse to get glass, said its not the future

Cons

Steve

My Review of Heritage Flight Academy:
The head guy Steve is for lack of a better word, an idiot. He will BS you until you leave, promise you the world, and tell you lies. He treats his staff terrible, and makes the community atmosphere feel like a living hell. He will try to tell you about flying, but he has nothing to do with flying himself. He forces the CFI to fly on days they don't feel comfortable with. The CFI's are all nice, and they will make sure you get done. Neil is very nice, he will custom build a program for you inorder to get you done as quickly as possible.


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