View from inside the cockpit of the instrument panel and the left turbine in a flying airplane

Aviation News and Highlights

Stay updated with aviation news, student success stories, and flight training highlights from Cirrus Aviation.

Pilot in front of an airplane's tail smiling to the camera

NewsFeb 16, 2026Nayda Cattin

The Professional Pilot Career in 2026: What Aspiring Aviators Should Know

Explore what a professional pilot career looks like in 2026, including training paths, certifications, and opportunities in Florida. Learn how Cirrus Aviation in Sarasota can help you get started.

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Front view of a Pipistrel Alpha Trainer airplane

NewsJan 20, 2026Nayda Cattin

How Aviation Safety Standards Shape the Cirrus Aviation Experience

When you fly an airplane, safety is always the most important thing. At Cirrus Aviation in Sarasota, Florida, keeping students and instructors safe is part of everything we do; from your very first lesson to your final check ride.

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Cessna 172 SP NAV III N56206 - Instrument panel

NewsJan 9, 2026Nayda Cattin

IFR Ground School: Build a Strong Foundation for Instrument Training

This Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Ground School is designed to provide pilots with a structured, practical pathway to mastering instrument flying concepts and procedures.

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CFI making explanation to student over a table

NewsJan 9, 2026Nayda Cattin

CFI Accelerated Ground School: Master the Right Seat with Confidence

This program integrates focused ground instruction with a structured flight syllabus. Classroom sessions build the foundational knowledge required for safe, effective instruction and decision-making, while flight lessons reinforce teaching techniques, performance standards, and maneuver proficiency from the right seat.

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Front view of a Pipistrel Alpha Trainer airplane

NewsNov 19, 2024Gabe Forman

Announcing the Pipistrel Alpha Trainer is now FAA 141 Approved!

We're excited to announce that the Pipistrel Alpha Trainer has officially received FAA Part 141 approval, making it the latest addition to our fleet and a top choice for students seeking high-performance, cost-effective flight training.

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View from inside the cockpit of a Pipistrel Alpha Trainer airplane flying

HighlightsOct 18, 2024Gabe Forman

Elevate Your Flight Training Experience with the Pipistrel Alpha Trainer

Are you searching for the perfect flight training aircraft that combines cutting-edge technology with exceptional performance? Look no further than the Pipistrel Alpha Trainer.

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Pilot standing in front of an airplane with arms crossed. Cirrus Aviation logo in the bottom right

HighlightsOct 15, 2024Gabe Forman

Discovery Flight to Certified Flight Instructor

Ever wondered where a single flight could take you? For Chase, it took him from his first thrilling Discovery Flight in Sarasota to becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) at Cirrus Aviation. Whether you’re aiming for a career or just want to explore the skies, a Discovery Flight is your perfect gateway to aviation.

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Cirrus Aviation's aircraft fleet on the runway

NewsOct 12, 2024Nayda Cattin

Cirrus Aviation Soars Again!

Cirrus Aviation is thrilled to announce that we are back to flying after Hurricane Milton! Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the storm, and we want to express our unwavering support for our aviation family during this recovery process.

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Alpha Trainer airplane seen from the front

NewsOct 7, 2024Gabe Forman

Introducing the Alpha Trainer for Just $149/hr Introductory Price!

We’re excited to announce the latest addition to our fleet at Cirrus Aviation, a premier flight school in Sarasota: the Alpha Trainer! This cutting-edge aircraft is available for an introductory price of just $149/hr. Designed with student pilots in mind, the Alpha Trainer combines affordability, safety, and innovative features that enhance the flying experience.

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CFI making explanation to student over a table

NewsOct 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

October Ground School Calendar

As the skies shift into fall, now’s the perfect time to dive into your aviation education with our October Ground School! Whether you’re a new student eager to get started or an experienced pilot refreshing your knowledge, our comprehensive ground school curriculum is tailored to set you up for success.

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DA-42NG aircraft seen from the front surrounded by people

NewsAug 23, 2024Gabe Forman

Our New DA-42NG Aircraft is FAA-Approved for 141 Training in Sarasota!

We’re thrilled to announce a major upgrade to our fleet at Cirrus Aviation, a leading Sarasota flight school. Our latest aircraft, the Diamond DA-42NG, is now FAA-approved for our Part 141 flight training programs. This advanced twin-engine plane is set to elevate your flight training experience with its state-of-the-art technology and superior features.

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Airplanes lined up with the sunset and airplane hangars in the background

HighlightsAug 16, 2024Nayda Cattin

Celebrating 30 Years of Cirrus Aviation with a Stunning Sarasota Sunset

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the Sarasota sky in hues of orange and pink, our fleet stood proudly on the tarmac—a testament to three decades of excellence in aviation training. This breathtaking moment, encapsulates not just the beauty of flight but also the passion that has driven Cirrus Aviation for the past 30 years.

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View of the wing of an airplane and the city below during flight. Clouds and sun in the background

HighlightsAug 7, 2024Nayda Cattin

Daniel’s Morning Flight

Ground school is a crucial part of your aviation journey, and mastering weather principles is essential for every pilot. At Cirrus Aviation, our Weather Ground School class is designed to provide you with in-depth knowledge and practical skills to handle various meteorological conditions confidently.

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Student holding certificate and smiling at the camera, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsAug 2, 2024Nayda Cattin

Celebrating a Milestone: Sivan Achieves Her Private Pilot License

We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news from Cirrus Aviation in Sarasota! Congratulations to Sivan for achieving her Private Pilot License (PPL) - a significant milestone in her aviation journey. Her dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence have culminated in this impressive accomplishment.

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View of the sea and land in Sarasota, Florida from an airplane's open window

HighlightsAug 2, 2024Nayda Cattin

Stephen’s Sunrise Flight

We’re excited to share a breathtaking sunrise filmed from the sky by our exceptional CFI, Stephen. This stunning aerial footage not only highlights the beauty of Sarasota but also exemplifies the unique perspectives and experiences that Cirrus Aviation offers.

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Alsim stand with people in a semi-circle in uniform at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024

NewsAug 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

Cirrus Aviation Featured by AFM

We are excited to announce that Cirrus Aviation has been prominently featured by AFM in their latest article, highlighting our collaboration with Alsim at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024! This recognition underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence in flight training.

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CFI making explanation to student

NewsAug 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

August Ground School Calendar

Get ready to elevate your aviation knowledge with our August Ground School! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your skills, our comprehensive Ground School program is designed to provide you with a solid foundation for your flying journey.

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Student holding certificate with CFI in front of a Cessna aircraft, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsAug 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Laetitia, Our Newest Commercial Pilot!

We are overjoyed to announce that Laetitia has achieved her Commercial Pilot certification! This significant milestone represents a new chapter in Laetitia’s aviation career and reflects her hard work, dedication, and passion for flying.

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Alsim flight simulator instrument panel

NewsAug 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

AVweb Feature at EAA AirVenture 2024

We’re thrilled to announce that our feature on AVweb with Alsim is now live from EAA AirVenture 2024! This feature offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from our owner, Nayda Cattin, as she provides valuable insights into the latest trends in aviation and shares exciting updates from our flight school.

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Student holding t-shirt with First Solo written on it, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsAug 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Levi on His First Solo Flight!

We’re excited to share that Levi has successfully completed his first solo flight, marking a major milestone in his aviation career! With the exceptional guidance and support from CFI Raine, Levi has reached this important achievement with skill and confidence.

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View from the back of an Alsim flight simulator with three people seated and one person filming

NewsAug 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024

Day 4 at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 has been nothing short of spectacular. The AL250 simulator by Alsim is drawing considerable attention from aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike.

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Student and CFI standing in front of Piper Warrior aircraft, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsAug 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

Celebrating a Milestone: Rachel’s First Solo Flight

We’re thrilled to announce that Rachel S. has achieved a significant milestone in her aviation journey—her first solo flight! Under the expert guidance of CFI Tom, Rachel has demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and focus.

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Student and CFI standing in front of a Cessna aircraft, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 24, 2024Nayda Cattin

Celebrating a Milestone: Nicolas’ First Solo Flight!

We’re excited to share the news of Nicolas’ recent milestone—his first solo flight under the stunning Florida clear blue sky! This is a significant achievement in his aviation journey, and we couldn’t be prouder. A big thank you goes to his exceptional instructor, Stan, whose guidance has been instrumental in reaching this point.

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Alsim flight simulator booth

NewsJul 24, 2024Nayda Cattin

Day 3 at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 with Alsim!

As the sun rises over the bustling grounds of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024, the excitement in the air is palpable. Aviation enthusiasts from all corners of the globe gather for this extraordinary celebration of flight, and today marks the third day of our incredible journey with Alsim.

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Cirrus Aviation owners Nayda and David Cattin with Brian Hough at the King Schools booth, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024

NewsJul 24, 2024Nayda Cattin

Proud Partners: King Schools & Cirrus Aviation at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024

Our partnership with King Schools this year highlights our commitment to delivering exceptional flight training and pilot education. Our owners, Nayda and David Cattin, were captured in a moment of camaraderie with Brian Hough at the King Schools booth. This picture signifies our partnership and our shared passion for aviation education and innovation, a testament to the vibrant aviation community at Oshkosh.

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EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 banner

NewsJul 24, 2024Nayda Cattin

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024

Join us at Booth #2018 in Hangar B with the ALSIM team to explore the latest in flight training and pilot education.

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Alsim stand with people in a semi-circle in uniform at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024

NewsJul 24, 2024Nayda Cattin

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 – Day 1

Join Cirrus Aviation at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024!

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Student standing in front of a Cessna aircraft, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 24, 2024Nayda Cattin

Matthew’s First Solo Flight

At Cirrus Aviation in Sarasota, Florida, we’re thrilled to celebrate another milestone in our aviation family. Matthew, our dedicated student pilot, has achieved his sky high dreams with his first solo flight, thanks to the expert guidance of Instructor Nathan.

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Promotional image of Cirrus Aviation's team with EAA AirVenture OshKosh 2024 information

NewsJul 22, 2024Nayda Cattin

Joining Alsim at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024

We’re excited to share that our team will be supporting Alsim at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024! Join us at booth #2018 in Hangar B, where you’ll find our team collaborating with Alsim to showcase the impressive AL250 simulator equipped with the Engineering Pack.

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OSH 24 written in the sky with smoke

HighlightsJul 22, 2024Nayda Cattin

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

Good morning from EAA AirVenture Oshkosh! At Cirrus Aviation, we believe in the power of hands-on learning and real-world experiences. That’s why we encourage all our students to attend aviation events like EAA AirVenture. Not only is it a chance to see the latest in general aviation technology, but it’s also an opportunity to network with fellow aviators and aviation enthusiasts.

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Student and CFI standing in front of a Cessna aircraft, high angle, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 19, 2024Nayda Cattin

Eric’s First Solo

Congratulations on your first solo flight, Eric! We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with you and your outstanding instructor Raine. Here’s to many more achievements ahead!

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Student testimonial card with the background of an airplanes wing during flight and the sunset

HighlightsJul 19, 2024Nayda Cattin

Student Testimonial Spotlight

Our personalized approach and dedicated instructors ensure the best flight training experience. Ready to take flight?

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Tip from the tower card with airport command tower in the background

HighlightsJul 16, 2024Nayda Cattin

Tip From The Tower

Clear skies start with clear communication!

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Student and CFI standing in front of a Cessna aircraft, high angle, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 15, 2024Nayda Cattin

Bertrand’s First Solo Flight

Congratulations to Bertrand on his first solo flight! Moving from France and overcoming language barriers, Bertrand’s dedication and hard work alongside his superstar instructor Raine have paid off!

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Airplane cockpit during flight with the sunset in the background and Cirrus Aviation's logo at the top

HighlightsJul 12, 2024Nayda Cattin

Discovery Flights

Soar above Sarasota’s stunning sunsets with our Discovery Flights! Kickstart your flying adventure with our CFI of the quarter Stephen!

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Student holding certificate and smiling at the camera, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 12, 2024Nayda Cattin

Jason earns his CPL

Huge congratulations to Jason on earning his Commercial Pilot License! We can’t wait to see where your wings take you next!

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Cirrus Aviation's maintenance team in a semicircle

HighlightsJul 11, 2024Nayda Cattin

Aero Maintenance Services

Thanks to our maintenance guys for being the power behind the engines that keep our airplanes flying!

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Mind the maintenance message card with an engine in the background

HighlightsJul 11, 2024Nayda Cattin

Mind The Maintenance

Summer flying is here, and it’s a great time to enjoy the skies! Remember to adjust your fuel mixture for those hot days. Happy flying!

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Student standing in front of a Cessna aircraft, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 10, 2024Nayda Cattin

Kevin Earns his PPL

Congrats to our newest Private Pilot Kevin at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)!

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Student inside of a Cessna aircraft, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 9, 2024Nayda Cattin

Jake Earns His PPL

Great job earning your PPL Jake! Here’s to many more milestones ahead!

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Student and CFI standing in front of a Cessna aircraft, high angle, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 9, 2024Nayda Cattin

Vinzenz Earns His IFR

Well done Vinzenz on earning your IFR and a big thanks to our CFI Dylan for helping you reach this milestone! Cheers to future achievements!

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4th of july banner with the USA flag in the background

HighlightsJul 8, 2024Nayda Cattin

4th of July

Happy 4th of July from Cirrus Aviation! We’re proud to celebrate freedom and independence with you.

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Student and CFI standing in front of a Cessna aircraft, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom of the image

CongratsJul 8, 2024Nayda Cattin

Emma Earns Her CPL

Way to go, Emma, on earning your CPL! Special thanks to CFI Noah for helping you reach this milestone. Cheers to future achievements!

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Pilot inside an aircraft cockpit, high angle

HighlightsJul 2, 2024Nayda Cattin

Summer 2024 Flight Operations Internship with Cirrus Aviation

Thank you so much to Baptiste from Dijon, France, for being an outstanding dispatch intern this summer! Your dedication to flight operations has been truly remarkable. Best of luck on your Aviation journey! Stay in touch, we’ll miss you!

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Diamond DA42 seen from the front, Cirrus Aviation watermark at the bottom

HighlightsJul 2, 2024Nayda Cattin

Diamond DA42 Arrives to Cirrus Aviation in Sarasota, Florida

We’re proud to announce the arrival of N342ND, our twin-engine Diamond Aircraft Industries DA42! With its state-of-the-art technology and ergonomic design, this aircraft will help our students master the skies and achieve their MEL and MEI ratings.

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Cirrus Aviation's ground school calendar for July, 2024

HighlightsJul 2, 2024Nayda Cattin

July Ground School Calendar is Here!

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your skills, come join the fun and learn about a topic your passionate about. Classes are confirmed on attendance, so be sure to sign up at least 24 hours in advance.

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Student in front of a Cessna aircraft

CongratsMay 17, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Jasmine for passing her PPL!

Big congrats to Jasmine on her Private Pilot License pass.

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Student holding certificate and smiling at the camera

CongratsMay 15, 2024Nayda Cattin

Nick N. Earns His PPL

Big congrats to Nick N. on his PPL pass! ⁠We can’t wait to see all you accomplish!⁠

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Man holding certificate and smiling at the camera

CongratsMay 3, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congrats to Spiral Horn!

Big Congrats to Spiral Horn on receiving his Top Gun achievement award for program completion of IFR through CFII in 6 months and 21 days.

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Student holding certificate and smiling at the camera

CongratsMay 2, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congrats to Jason S. on his CPL pass!

Congratulations to Jason S. on his first CPL pass!

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Student standing in front of a Piper Warrior aircraft

CongratsApr 30, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congrats to Hazem on his first solo flight!

Big congratulations to Hazem on his first solo!

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Man holding certificate and smiling at the camera inside an airplane

CongratsApr 26, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Spiral H. on his CFII pass!

Big congrats to Spiral H. on his CFII pass!!! ⁠

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Student holding a certificate in front of a Cessna aircraft

CongratsApr 26, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Ryan M. on his IFR pass!

Big congrats to Ryan M. on his Instrument Rating pass.

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Student with open arms balancing on a Cessna aircraft's left wing

CongratsApr 16, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Spiral H. on passing his CFI checkride!

Big congrats to Spiral H. for passing his Certified Flight Instructor checkride.

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Student with his thumbs up smiling to the camera

CongratsApr 5, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Dylan F. on passing his CFII!

Big congrats to Dylan F. on his Certified Flight Instructor Instrument pass.

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Student in front of a Piper Warrior aircraft

CongratsApr 2, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Thomas K. on his first solo flight!

Big congrats to Thomas on his first solo.

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Student in front of a Cessna aircraft

CongratsApr 1, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Steven L. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Steven on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student and CFI holding certificate in front of a Piper Warrior aircraft

CongratsMar 27, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Hunter W. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Hunter on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student and CFI holding certificate and smiling to the camera

CongratsMar 25, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Ryan C. for passing his IFR!

Big congrats to Ryan on his Instrument Rating pass.

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Student and CFI smiling at the camera in front of a Cessna aircraft

CongratsMar 25, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Alexander A. for his first solo flight!

Big congrats to Alexander on his first solo.

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Student smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsMar 20, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Garrett C. for passing his CFII!

Big congrats to Garret on his Certified Flight Instructor Instrument pass.

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Student smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsMar 15, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Chris S. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Chris on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsMar 14, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Laura S. for passing her IFR!

Big congrats to Laura on her Instrument Rating pass.

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Student and man holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsFeb 20, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Brecken J. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Brecken on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsFeb 15, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Brandon C. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Brandon on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsFeb 10, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Tim Z. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Tim on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsFeb 9, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Dylan F. for passing his CFI!

Big congrats to Dylan on his Certified Flight Instructor pass.

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Student holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsJan 26, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Evan E. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Evan on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsJan 18, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Peter M. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Peter on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsJan 12, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Tyler M. for passing his IFR!

Big congrats to Tyler on his Instrument Rating pass.

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Student holding a certificate and smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsJan 11, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Angus R. for passing his PPL!

Big congrats to Angus on his Private Pilot License pass.

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Student holding a certificate while smiling at the camera inside Cirrus Aviation's office

CongratsJan 4, 2024Nayda Cattin

Congratulations to Megan B. for passing her PPL!

Big congrats to Megan on her Private Pilot License pass.

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