Student Reviews

Bertus Pretorius - Businessman

To: ATS

Re: Helicopter PPL Training - Jaco Pretorius

Estelle and me would like to thank ATS for the splendid training they provided to our son Jaco who earned his helicopter PPL just after his 17th birthday. It was a journey with people of severe integrity who taught our son not only to fly, but to love flying. We could see how he matured and gained confidence and discipline as the course progressed. The mountain flying course was the cherry on the cake; a reality check and a confidence builder. We participated as passengers and were highly impressed how the instructors and new pilots were put through the paces of mountain flying. A joy for us to see the enjoyment and love of flying. The mountains seemed to sharpen the skills and senses.

Well done. We can recommend ATS to every aspirant helicopter pilot. We also recommend the mountain course for all other pilots.

Regards

Bertus Pretorius

Marc Erlenmaier - Germany

Why do I like ATS?

ATS provides a complete and professional service. They offer excellent training facilities, experienced instructors and a wide range of helicopters for the training or for specific ratings. As an international student I also appreciate the student guest house a lot. Last but not least the close proximity to the SA CAA is sure a priceless advantage.

Shaun Barendsen - Businessman

Towards the beginning of 2008, I spent some time investigating options available in the Gauteng area for helicopter night rating instructions as well as the availability of a Robinson R44 for Hire and Fly. From the initial contact, I found that everybody at ATS exuded an attitude of professionalism, friendliness and a desire to help. Whether speaking to the hangar staff, front desk, finance team, instructors or the owner, the same approach towards exceptional customer service was displayed.

Under the leadership and guidance of Wessel van den Bergh, with his many hours of experience and expertise, the ATS instructors have provided encouragement and displayed patience, were prepared, knowledgeable and calm through all aspects of my flying training. The impeccable safety record of ATS bears testament to the fact that safety aspects were continuously emphasised and never compromised.
Since the first dual checkride with ATS, I have gone on to make use of the various helicopters available for Hire and Fly, completed a Night Rating, Alouette II conversion, Jet Ranger conversion, attended two Mountain flying courses and recently received a Helicopter Commercial Pilot Licence. Throughout this time, without exception, I have been treated in a professional, helpful and friendly manner.

With everybody at ATS being so passionate about aviation, especially helicopter flying and training, the sharing of knowledge, experience and expertise is the practice of the day at ATS. As I continue to pursue my passion of flying helicopters, I am sure the learning and experience that I gain at ATS will continue to be exceptionally rewarding, safe and fun.

Louis Smit - PPL as well as CPL student at ATS

I would recommend ATS to anyone who wants to learn to fly helicopters. From the first moment I walked through the door they made me feel like a part of the family. Their professional and friendly approach to training instills integrity and confidence in their students.

I do not think I could have learned to be a better airman or pilot anywhere else.

Philipp Birkner - PPL as well as CPL and Instructors licences at ATS

When one finally decides to commit to the idea of becoming a helicopter pilot and realises that one has no idea of how the aviation industry works, it is quite a daunting task to then decide at which flying school one will invest one’s time and money.

Before I started flying I got some advice from other people who were also training to become pilots and also some who already are qualified pilots. The most common advice was that I should visit the various training schools to see how they operate. Then I should decide on the training school which makes me feel the most comfortable. So that is exactly what I did. I visited a few schools. Needless to say when it came down to choosing which school I wanted to invest my new venture in, I asked myself which school made me feel the most comfortable?

My answer was ATS (Aviation Towards Success). ATS did however not only make me feel comfortable but they also made me feel very welcome and they showed an interest in who I am and my specific needs to becoming a world class helicopter pilot.

At the end of the day it is very important to feel at home at your training school as you will be spending many hours there during your training. ATS provided this important need to me.
I am extremely happy that I made my choice with ATS.

Jason Martinaglia - CPL Student

I have been at 2 other helicopter training schools and now that I am with ATS I wish I have started with them. I am extremely happy to finish my CPL licence with ATS. I am staying at the Heli Inn accommodation and it is very close to the school and very convenient.