“I took the 21 Day Private Pilot course and was very impressed with the experience. The chief instructor, Samuel, was very friendly, professional, and patient throughout the course. His method of teaching is very personable and he adapted his teaching style to the way that best fit me. He is very passionate about flight instruction, and has an in-depth knowledge of aviation. The course was very structured, and both the ground and flight training went at just the right pace to ensure that the skills were retained. Overall, I am very satisfied with the course and would highly recommend it. I came out of this course with more than just my private pilot’s license, I now have a much better understanding of aviation as a whole. I’ll be looking forward to attending the future classes that the academy offers.” -Harrison H.
I want to write a personal review for Tailwinds Aviation. Mr. Sam helped me get me my PPL early in the year of 2025 I had been working on this for over three years going through multiple CFIs and different flight schools I went with Sam and in two weeks he helped me with great training and also more advanced flight training that helped me feel confident and safe. He went above and beyond to get me a checkride and made sure I was 100% ready to take that test. As we all know this is a nerve racking experience! Getting your PPL takes time and money. I felt like my money was very well spent for the level of training I got and also the personal one on one I got with Sam directly. I can’t thank him enough and in 2026 will be going back to him to get my instrument rating. Thank you again Sam for making this all possible.
-Brian R.
I completed both the accelerated Instrument and Commercial courses and had a fantastic experience with each. The structure, pace, and instruction were all top-notch, and it ended up being a way better alternative than paying per hour for traditional training. -Gray D.
“I vacationed in Grass Valley a couple of weeks ago with my wife’s family. When it became obvious that there was no getting that crowd moving before noon I decided to do some early morning adventures by myself. I’m a student pilot from Oregon getting close to check ride. On Friday evening I called Tailwinds and spoke with Samuel. Hoping for the off chance that there was a plane and CFI available to take me flying the next morning. Samuel said he’d gladly do it and we set a time. Having flown only 172’s Samuel took the time to show me some differences in the Piper Archer aircraft. We went for a couple of hours flight where he had me do maneuvers and landings. It is a beautiful area, the plane was in great shape and a lot of fun to fly. Samuel is very knowledgeable, patient and a good teacher. I’m sad I’m not closer by to consider working with Tailwinds more. Thanks for a fun break on my vacation.” -Greg F.
“Overall an amazing experience! Instructor is knowledgeable, experienced, and has a love for instructing. Highly recommend!” -Ben A.
“Top Aviators of all time:
- Maverick
- Denzel in that one movie
- Samuel Golding (owner of the the famous Tailwinds Aviation Academy)
- Howie Hughs
- Amelia
- Chuck
- Sully
#3 Aviator and flight instructor of all time? That’s pretty good. This guy isn’t just a good instructor, he’s legendary. He’ll get you certified quick and you’ll have a great time in the process. Prepare yourself for the greatest flight instruction and dad jokes this side of the Mississippi!” -Brian R.