
Click to viewOctober 30, 2024
Skyfarer Academy primarily supports:
Skyfarer Academy was founded with a clear mission: to make high-quality aviation instruction accessible to anyone, from anywhere and at any time. The platform addresses the challenges many students face when searching online for knowledgeable flight instructors. By vetting instructors for specific expertise and creating a user-friendly online experience, Skyfarer Academy redefines what it means to learn to fly in the modern era.
Years ago, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) reported a staggering dropout rate among student pilots of approximately 70 to 80 percent. This high attrition rate is caused by a variety of factors, including challenges in accessing specialized instruction and maintaining consistent progress. Skyfarer Academy sees an opportunity to address these issues by offering convenient, targeted training options that complement students’ in-person experiences. This approach ensures that pilots stay engaged and build the confidence needed to continue their journey to certification. By providing access to a variety of instructors, Skyfarer Academy increases students’ chances of success.
“While not everyone who starts flight training will go on to become a certificated pilot, we’re seeing way too many students leaving the pipeline because of issues that are entirely solvable,” said Nick Tsang, co-founder and CEO of Skyfarer Academy. “Proper flight school training and online ground school options remain essential, but there is a growing demand for accessible online instruction from qualified flight instructors. Skyfarer Academy is here to meet that need, offering personalized training designed to supplement traditional instruction and help students stay on track.”
Supporting Quotes
Skyfarer Academy instructors include aviation professionals like Tom Lunsford, a retired Navy flight instructor known for his patient approach and expertise in helping students overcome instrument rating challenges; Hailey Zirkle, a commercial airline pilot and Gold Seal CFI whose experience adds incredible value to advanced students; and David Kollins, a versatile CFI with corporate piloting experience, recognized for his passion for teaching and diverse aviation background.
Students who have participated in the platform’s beta phase have shared positive experiences, praising the quality of instruction and the accessibility of online sessions. “I felt more prepared for my check ride after just a session on Skyfarer,” said one beta student. “The instructor is focused on making sure you understand every detail, and that’s not something I always got in my in-person lessons.”
About Skyfarer Academy Skyfarer Academy was founded in 2024 to transform aviation training by providing live online instruction that supplements traditional in-person flight schools and ground school programs. With 1-on-1 live video sessions, students can connect with instructors from any location and receive personalized instruction tailored to their needs. The platform also offers tools such as calendar integration for on-demand learning. As Skyfarer Academy grows, it will continue to add services, including small group sessions.
Skyfarer Academy’s vetting process ensures that instructors are both qualified and passionate about teaching, meeting the needs of a broad range of students, from newcomers to seasoned pilots pursuing specialized skills.
“The journey from being an aspiring aviator to becoming a professional pilot is filled with obstacles, whether it’s finding the right instructor, accessing high-quality training materials, or getting the individual attention that is crucial for mastering complex aviation skills,” said Rod Machado, expert instructor and author of a library of pilot training materials. “Skyfarer Academy addresses these challenges and provides a platform that connects student pilots with certificated and qualified flight instructors. It is a lifeline for those just beginning their journey and offers advanced pilots a new opportunity to refine their skills and gain specialized knowledge through live sessions. One of the critical areas where the Skyfarer Academy will make an impact is knowledge transference within the aviation community. They see that this is a big problem—there is a wealth of knowledge, ideas, and experience that needs to be transferred from those who have something valuable to offer to those who need quality instruction and support.”
Source: Skyfarer Academy Photo Credit: Skyfarer Academy
You may also check our Terms and Conditions for our Content Policy. Searching for specific information - kindly contact us to see if we can assist you.
Loading Ad...
Please fill out the form below and the AFM platform will send this post via email to your preferred recipient