In the previous article, we explored how to become a private pilot. Earning a Private Pilot License (PPL) is an exciting and significant milestone in a pilot’s aviation journey. However, stopping at this level can limit opportunities for personal growth as a pilot. Continuing education and obtaining additional qualifications not only broaden horizons but also make a pilot more skilled, confident, and versatile.

Celebrating the Graduates of 2025: Advancing Their Aviation Careers

Here, let’s ask graduates of instrument rating, commercial, and instructor courses why and how they continue their journey in aviation.

Congratulations to our new pilots obtaining their

Instrument Rating!

Pursuing an Instrument Rating (IR) not only expands a pilot’s skill set but also enables them to fly in a wider range of weather conditions. This training provides experience in navigating and operating an aircraft solely by reference to instruments, which is important for making informed decisions during challenging situations. Ultimately, ongoing education and advanced ratings contribute to a pilot’s confidence, competency, and overall safety, ensuring a more enjoyable and secure flying experience.

Vicente Romero passed 141 IR

“I have always loved airplanes, but I never really had the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a pilot. A few years ago, I finally got the chance to start this journey. After researching several academies in South Florida, SkyEagle stood out to me as the perfect choice. The people who work here and the welcoming environment of the airport made it feel like the right place to begin my training.

Starting with my private pilot training was both exciting and challenging. From the very beginning, I knew this was something I wanted to dedicate my life to. It took me nearly six months to earn my private pilot certificate, and I was fortunate to have incredible instructors by my side. They were always approachable and ready to help, answering all my questions and addressing my doubts. SkyEagle truly offers an excellent learning environment.

Preparing for my instrument rating was even more demanding. I studied intensely – sometimes for 12 hours a day – and it felt like I was dreaming about it at night! When the time came for my checkride, I felt confident because I knew I was well-prepared. I’m proud to say I nailed the oral exam, and the flight portion went smoothly too.

I’m excited to keep working on the remaining certificates and ratings I need. Being able to do all of this at SkyEagle makes the journey even more special. It’s not easy, but the challenge is what makes it so rewarding.”

Vicente Romero, completed IFR course

Mark SU 141 IR

“It’s always a big life changing moment when people get on a plane.most people who are in the plane making life changes decisions, so am I. People who are moving, seeing a loved one, going to start a brand new life in a new country.

I quit my desired job and come here, I used to be a Banker, I could make more money than others, I could have stable ,successful life till end. But I would liked to believe that I will be the pilot giving the responsibility to safely transport these people to their new beginnings. That’s why I choose Skyeagle, we got the same destiny.

I always remember the time I passed the Check-ride. It wasn’t just me, it was the whole Skyeagle team.  It was the perfect day, every staff and students were cheered for me ,feels like family. That made up for a lot of the more difficult ones because we were rewarded with the highest of highs.

Finally, I am excited for the future because I feel like I have dealt with the highs and lows from my school time here and come out of it. On a personal level, it has not been ‘all good, all ways’, it has tested my resilience, but I have gotten through it, and now I’m excited to see how I take on challenges moving forwards. All of the tests that I have encountered here and everything that I’ve learned will only help me.

The tough day was yesterday, no regrets, only memories.”

Mark Su, completed IFR course

Egor Merunko 141 IR graduated

“Watching airplanes from the airport window as a child always sparked my dream of flying a big jet. What truly motivated me to pursue a career as a pilot, however, was the desire to achieve something remarkable without following the traditional university path.

The journey through flight school has been more challenging than I ever imagined, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Entering the aviation world has opened doors to new opportunities, great people, and invaluable lessons. SkyEagle is my second flight school—and it will be my last—because I finally feel like I’ve found where I belong. The instructors, students, and management have created an environment that feels like a second home.

I’m truly grateful to the instructors who have guided me toward finding my path and shown me what it takes to achieve my goals properly. Passing my checkride on the first attempt was an amazing feeling. While it’s just one milestone in the larger journey, it’s a huge confidence booster as a pilot.

Checkrides can be nerve-wracking, with so much that can go wrong, but success ultimately comes down to your training. If you’ve prepared well, it will go well.

I’m excited for what’s to come, and I’m proud to continue this journey, equipped with the lessons and support I’ve gained from SkyEagle.”

Egor Merunko, completed IFR course

Congratulations to our new pilots achieving

Commercial Pilot License!

Earning a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is a step for pilots aiming to build a professional aviation career. It unlocks opportunities to fly professionally in roles such as aerial tours, charter flights, and airline operations, enabling pilots to be compensated for their skills. CPL training hones advanced proficiency through complex maneuvers, multi-engine operations, and an in-depth understanding of aviation regulations, ensuring pilots are prepared for the challenges of commercial flying. Moreover, the CPL serves as a foundation for getting an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification, a requirement for those aiming to join the ranks of airline captains, opening doors to the highest levels of aviation.

Justin Quinn 61 CPL

“Aviation has interested me from a young age, influenced by family ties to both private aviation and the Armed Forces. Like any kid, I was always fascinated by it. The process requires discipline, but it is always rewarding in the end. My CFI, the staff, and the environment were and continue to be fantastic. It has been a great pleasure to work alongside them.”

Justin Quinn, Completed Part 61 CPL course

Steven Chilluffo part 61 CPL

“When I was very young, I developed a fascination with planes. Every time my family and I took a trip to visit relatives up north, flying there and back was always one of my favorite parts of the journey. My dad, who has been an airline pilot for years, would often come home in his uniform, and it left a lasting impression on me. He would talk about his work and eventually suggested that we do a discovery flight to see if I might like flying myself. After that discovery flight, I was hooked, and the idea of becoming a pilot never left me.

I began my flight training at another school and earned my private pilot certificate there. However, my experience taught me just how important it is to find the right school for training. That’s when I discovered SkyEagle. I decided to continue my journey there and earned my Instrument Rating and Commercial Pilot Certificate. The difference between my previous experience and SkyEagle was like night and day.

At SkyEagle, the instructors, mechanics, and office staff have always been supportive, professional, and ready to help whenever needed. Aviation requires hard discipline to succeed, and the instructors, with their wealth of experience, offer invaluable advice. Their dedication to seeing me succeed has been a constant source of motivation.

Knowing that they genuinely want to see me advance – whether it’s earning future certifications or flying for a career – has inspired me to keep pushing forward. SkyEagle has not only provided me with top-notch training but also reaffirmed my passion for aviation.

Steven Chilluffo, completed Part 61 CPL course

Congratulations to our new pilot holding

Certificated Flight Instructor license!

Obtaining a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating is a step for pilots looking to advance their careers while making a meaningful contribution to aviation. It provides an opportunity to share expertise and inspire the next generation of pilots, all while refining one’s own skills through the art of teaching. Serving as a CFI allows pilots to build valuable flight experience and log significant hours, reinforcing their knowledge of critical aviation principles. This role also cultivates skills in communication, leadership, and decision-making – key attributes for professional growth. Moreover, becoming a flight instructor is an efficient and cost-effective way to accumulate the flight time required for advanced roles in the airline or corporate aviation sectors, making it an indispensable milestone for career-minded pilots.

Dylan Gordon graduated CFII

“My aviation journey, like many others, started with a discovery flight. With no family members in the aviation world, I had absolutely no idea what to expect. All I knew was that flying a plane sounded more fun than your typical job. Turns out I was correct! Right then and there I signed up to begin my path to pilot.

SkyEagle was the obvious choice with their fleet of planes, in house maintenance, and most importantly, their knowledgeable instructors. I was never the most studious of students in grade school, so having my own one-on-one instructor there to guide me step-by-step and answer all of my questions played a huge part in my success. When the time came to take the checkrides, I’m happy to say that so far I passed them all on the first try! That says a lot about how well my instructors prepared me. Now, as an instructor for SkyEagle, I strive to uphold that standard so that my students achieve the same level of success that I did.”

Dylan Gordon, completed CFI course

Conclusion

The journey of becoming a pilot doesn’t end with earning a Private Pilot License. It’s the beginning of an exciting adventure filled with growth, challenges, and rewards. From advanced ratings like an Instrument Rating to Commercial Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor certifications, every step opens new doors to personal and professional opportunities in aviation. At SkyEagle, we celebrate the determination and passion of our graduates, who continue achieving their own goals. Fly higher, aim further, and let the sky be your only limit!

We love hearing from our pilots and students about their experiences at SkyEagle and after graduation! Your story can inspire others to take flight and achieve their dreams in aviation.

Send us an email at contact@skyeagle.aero and share:

  • Highlights of your training experience,
  • Challenges you’ve overcome,
  • Milestones you’re proud of.
airplane

Author

Andrey Borisevich

Andrey Borisevich is the CEO, Training and Development Manager of SkyEagle Aviation Academy in Florida, responsible for new training programs, marketing, and business strategy. An aerobatic pilot, entrepreneur, and owner of the academy, Andrey has over 20 years of experience in aviation. He has flown more than 65 aircraft types and holds both fixed-wing and helicopter licenses. His YouTube channel, “Andrey Borisevich About Aviation”, offers aircraft reviews, flight training insights, and advice for aspiring pilots​.

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