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| 10/03/2023 9:09 am | With the final two of ten Piper aircraft delivered, Paragon Flight Training completes 2023 aircraft acquisition goal early | 2023 | Fort Myers, Fla.--- October 2, 2023---Award-winning Paragon Flight Training is pleased to announce it has completed its 2023 goal of purchasing 10 new Piper aircraft, taking possession of the final two aircraft in September. The announcement was made by Paragon Flight President Christopher Schoensee and comes following the company’s purchase of 10 Pipers in 2022 and in alignment with the company’s aggressive plan of expanding its fleet to 50 new aircraft by the end of 2026.
“Working in such a high growth industry as aviation training, we need to remain laser focused on our strategic plan – and that’s what we’ve done. We know that having a modern fleet is not only a competitive advantage but provides optimal training for our students,” Schoensee said.
Paragon Flight continues to experience record enrollment trends, fueled not only by national interest in careers in commercial aviation but also as a result of the two additional locations it opened this year. In July, Paragon Flight opened its first Georgia location at LaGrange-Callaway Airport following its new partnership with LaGrange College. The partnership gives students the opportunity to pursue a minor in aviation using Paragon Flight’s Professional Pilot Program curriculum, Paragon Flight aircraft at nearby LaGrange-Callaway and a Paragon Flight-owned flight simulator housed on the LaGrange College campus. In March 2023, the company opened a fully operational Paragon Flight Training facility at the Punta Gorda Airport in Punta Gorda, Florida.
The company also recently received its Frasca twin-engine flight training device, housed at Paragon Flight’s headquarters location in Fort Myers, to serve as a button for button complement to the Piper Seminole, an aircraft model essential for commercial pilot training that Paragon Flight purchased in 2022.
“With a growth-focused strategic plan, the best training equipment in private aviation, and a pilot training curriculum that puts a premium not only on skill development but character and leadership, Paragon Flight is extremely excited about the future and the contributions our students will make as pilots and aviation professionals,” Schoensee said.
About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company completed a 28,000-combined-square-foot learning center expansion in 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 06/01/2023 10:28 am | Paragon Flight Training to offer free introductory flights on June 10 for girls and young women aged 12-21 interested in learning about careers in aviation | 2023 | Fort Myers, Fla.---June 1, 2023---Award-winning Paragon Flight Training wants to introduce Southwest Florida girls and young women aged 12 to 21 to the world of aviation careers by offering a free introductory ‘discovery flight’ at a private event it is hosting on June 10 at its facility on Page Field in Fort Myers.
The June 10 event will gather multi-generation female aviation influencers as well as current and past Paragon Flight students and instructors to celebrate women in aviation and share information on the many career options – from pilot and beyond - available in the industry. Six aviation trailblazers will serve as panelists throughout the day to share their career stories and highlight accomplishments of women in the industry. The panelists are:
About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company completed a 28,000-combined-square-foot learning center expansion in 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 05/22/2023 1:10 pm | New Birds of Paragon team announced for all-female cross-country Air Race Classic (ARC); Paragon Flight continues sponsorship while Piedmont Airlines signs on as title sponsor | 2023 | 46th annual race kicks off June 20 in Grand Forks, North Dakota, covering 2,300 miles over four days of airspace challenges to the terminus of Homestead, FloridaFort Myers, Fla.---May 22, 2023---The Birds of Paragon, a three-person female flight team from award-winning Paragon Flight Training, will take to the skies to compete in the 46th annual Air Race Classic (ARC) June 20–23. The ARC is an all-female cross-country air race that tests pilots’ skills over four days through changing terrain, weather, winds and airspace. The Birds of Paragon, supported by new title sponsor Piedmont and Paragon Flight Training, will vie for the top spot against 44 teams as they traverse approximately 2,300 nautical miles from Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Homestead, Florida, with eight stops in between. Taking flight for the Birds of Paragon are Paragon Flight Certified Fight Instructor (CFI) Lauren Ramage (pilot/captain) and Paragon Flight students Jennifer Adams (co-pilot) and Gina Willaford (team member). All three are Fort Myers residents. “Our fellow pilots from Paragon Flight set the stage last year in forming the Birds of Paragon, and my team and I are excited to continue the legacy of female air racing through ARC – and now, Paragon Flight,” Ramage said. “This is a team effort, made possible by the generosity of Paragon Flight and Piedmont Airlines – and we are grateful for their support of female aviators.” This is the second year that Paragon Flight is sponsoring a team in the ARC. Last year’s first ever Birds of Paragon team, comprised of Connie Hite, Katie Truedson and Cassie Thompson-Pride, took second place overall - with no penalties - and the distinction of being the fastest Piper aircraft in the 2022 Air Race Classic. Sponsorships by Paragon Flight Training and Piedmont Air cover expenses including use of Paragon Flight’s new Piper P100i aircraft (registration N120MG) for the race, fuel, overnight lodging expenses, uniforms and other flight race essentials. Additional sponsors include Florida International Airshow, Flight Ninja, Lycoming, Flight Club 502, CapAir, Page Field Base Operations, STS Properties, Anytime Fitness, 5 Day Plantation Shutters, Power Stroke Performance, My Shower Door, Gulf Coast Smiles, Viruet Periodontics, Restore Medical Partners, PRMG Dream Home Lending Team, Sweet Dreams Anesthesia, First Service, Fort Rock and Goody. “We are thrilled to sponsor another Birds of Paragon team of exceptional women pilots,” Paragon Flight Training President and Owner Chris Schoensee said. “Their passion for flight and unrelenting efforts in preparing for the Air Race Classic serve as an example to other women on the career possibilities in the wonderful world of aviation.” Tyler Tenbrink, Director of Talent Acquisition for Piedmont Airlines, explained the company’s support for the Birds of Paragon +team. “Piedmont Airlines is proud to be a champion for female aviators through our title sponsorship for this year’s all-female Birds of Paragon team,” Tenbrink said. “As a regional airline growing our pilot talent pipeline, we are committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the aviation industry and we are excited to support these talented women as they break barriers and demonstrate their skill and determination in this cross-country competition.” The Air Race Classic follows a different route every year. This year’s defined course will present a variety of challenges and learning opportunities for flight teams—yet be within the endurance range of the slowest airplane. There are multiple predefined airports that the team must fly to. Each team must be on the ground prior to sunset at a designated race stop. Teams also determine how many days they want to take to finish the course – factoring in strategy, weather, and airplane endurance. During the race, individuals will be able to follow the progress of their favorite racers from the ARC website. Cash prizes are awarded to the top 10 – with the highest-scoring team receiving a total $6,000 cash, plus medallions and awards for each team member. For more information, visit the ARC 2023 race page.About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company completed a 28,000-combined-square-foot learning center expansion in 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 05/18/2023 3:53 pm | Paragon Flight Training partners with LaGrange College to launch the Georgia school’s first aviation program in fall 2023 | 2023 | Fort Myers, Fla.---May 18, 2023---Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, is pleased to announce it is partnering with Georgia-based LaGrange College to start the school’s first program in aviation. The announcement of the Professional Pilot Training Program was jointly made by Paragon Flight Training President Chris Schoensee and LaGrange College President Susanna Baxter.
Beginning in the fall 2023 semester, LaGrange College students will be able to attend classes that ultimately lead to a minor in aviation using Paragon Flight’s acclaimed Professional Pilot Program (P3). The program is specifically designed to allow students to pursue other majors while simultaneously preparing for dynamic careers as commercial airline pilots, private charter pilots, cargo pilots or other engaging professional pilot pathways. Unlike other higher education aviation programs, LaGrange aviation students can fly aircraft during their freshman year.
P3 flight training includes the use of an advanced avionics flight simulator on campus and access to a modern fleet of Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA) at nearby LaGrange-Callaway Airport, allowing LaGrange student to maximize their training experience with digital avionics “glass cockpits” and other systems similar to those they will use in a professional pilot career. Upon completion of P3, students will be positioned to receive a commercial pilot license.
The introduction of the program gives LaGrange College students a new career option at a time when the commercial pilot shortage continues to be a pressing issue in the aviation industry. Recent reports note that over the next 15 years, more than half of current U.S. pilots will have reached the mandatory retirement age of 65.
“This aviation program prepares students for a fulfilling career that is in high demand, has a great work-life balance and some of the best benefits in the world, all while earning a six-figure income virtually straight out of college. It’s an incredible life path, and this program is going to be a game changer for interested students,” Schoensee said. “We’re ecstatic to partner with the amazing team at LaGrange College to train the next generation of pilots and aviation industry professionals.”
Dr. Baxter also expressed enthusiasm for this high-energy student opportunity.
“We look at this partnership with Paragon Flight as an important milestone in creating new educational and career opportunities for LaGrange College students,” Baxter said. “The option to pursue an aviation minor is going to open doors for students who may not have previously considered a career in flight.”
In addition to LaGrange College, Paragon Flight participates in flight training programs with Liberty University and Purdue University Global and has also operated a high school aviation program at Evangelical Christian School in Fort Myers since 2014.
About LaGrange CollegeGeorgia’s oldest private institution of higher learning, LaGrange College has been ranked as a top-10 school and “best value” among 99 Southern regional colleges by U.S. News & World Report. A four-year liberal arts and sciences college affiliated with the United Methodist Church, LaGrange offers more than 50 areas of study with an emphasis on global engagement and service. More at lagrange.edu.About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company completed a 28,000-combined-square-foot learning center expansion in 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contacts: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.comDean Hartman LaGrange College Tel: 706.880.8246 Email: dhartman@lagrange.edu |
| 03/15/2023 2:07 pm | Paragon Flight Training announces decorated career military pilot as new assistant chief flight instructor | 2023 | Fort Myers, Fla.---March 14, 2023---Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, is pleased to announce that Lt. Col. Dennis Zabka, a member of the United States Air Force, will serve as its assistant chief flight instructor. The announcement was jointly made by Paragon Flight President Chris Schoensee and Chief Flight Instructor Jeff Wolf.
Lt. Col. Zabka, a career military professional, joins Paragon Flight as part of the United States Department of Defense SkillBridge Program, which is designed to assist military veterans in transitioning to civilian careers. Slated to officially retire on August 1, 2023, Lt. Col. Zabka’s most recent position was Chief, Future Operations, Seventh Air Force, Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea.
With a stellar record throughout his career, Lt. Col. Zabka’s aviation achievements include twice being recognized as an exceptionally qualified B-52 pilot (top 5%), receiving an air medal for flying combat missions in Operation ENDURING FREEDOM (Afghanistan), obtaining an aerial achievement medal for leading a 36-hour global power formation mission, and garnering the 2nd Operations Group Instructor Pilot of the Year honors in 2010. A 2003 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy in Colorodo, Lt. Col. Zabka holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management as well as a Master of Aeronautical Science, with distinction, from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in 2009. He is also an advanced instrument school graduate of the Air Force Flight Standards Agency.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity for Paragon Flight to be able to access the talents of Lt. Col. Zabka through the SkillBridge Program as our assistant chief flight instructor,” Wolf said. “His addition to the team will allow us to expand training capabilities at our new satellite location at the Punta Gorda Airport. This is a milestone in Paragon Flight’s history and comes as we anticipate doubling the number of flight instructors from 30 to 60 in the next 24 months.”
Paragon Flight has a rich history of flight instruction. In February 2023, it received repeat recognition by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the world’s largest aviation association, as a Distinguished Flight School. In November 2022, Wolf was presented the 2021-2022 Excellence in Pilot Training award by the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) for his outstanding contributions in the field of pilot training—encompassing safety, professionalism, leadership, and excellence.
“Bringing Lt. Col. Zabka on board our leadership team is reflective of Paragon Flight’s commitment to industry-leading flight training,” Schoensee said. “The quality of our people is the foundation of this flight academy, and it is their collective skill, character, integrity and commitment that move us forward with confidence.”
In addition to overseeing flight training activities at Paragon Flight’s Punta Gorda Airport location, Lt. Col. Zabka will work under the direction of Wolf to attain the required regulatory approvals and uphold the critical standardization of flight instructors and training courses for Paragon Flight’s FAA-approved flight training programs.
About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company completed a 28,000-combined-square-foot learning center expansion in November 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 02/27/2023 6:55 pm | Paragon Flight Training continues student-focused momentum, announces repeat win of AOPA’s Distinguished Flight School award | 2023 | 2023 award follows numerous recent enhancements to Paragon Flight’s fleet, curriculum and technology
Fort Myers, Fla. ---February 27, 2023 ---Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, is pleased to announce it has been recognized by The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the world’s largest aviation association, as a Distinguished Flight School.
The AOPA award is based on flight training experience surveys completed in the fall of 2022 by students and pilots of all experience levels who collectively evaluated 608 different flight schools and 1,153 individual flight instructors. Paragon Flight Training President and owner Chris Schoensee was thrilled to receive news of the company’s latest award.
“This award, above all others, means the most to our team because it is direct feedback from our students on their training program,” Schoensee said. “At Paragon, the student experience is at the heart of every decision and investment we make. To receive the AOPA Distinguished Flight School honor multiple times over the years indicates that we are staying true to our commitment of offering an exceptional training experience, even through periods of tremendous growth as we saw in 2022.”
The AOPA student and pilot surveys were conducted in a year that saw Paragon Flight making impactful enhancements to its training capabilities, including:
About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company completed a 28,000-combined-square-foot learning center expansion in November 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 12/29/2022 12:01 pm | Paragon Flight Training achieves 2022 aircraft acquisition goals; takes delivery of additional 4 new Piper P100i, bringing total to ten for the year | 2022 | Announcement comes one month after Piper Seminole and Frasca purchases, in a year that also saw a 28,000 square foot facility expansion
Fort Myers, Fla. ---December 29, 2022 --- Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, is pleased to announce it has completed its goal of purchasing ten new Piper P100i aircraft in 2022, taking possession of the final four aircraft on December 29. The announcement was made by Paragon Flight President Christopher Schoensee and follows last month’s news that the company purchased a new Piper Seminole, an aircraft model essential for commercial pilot training.
“2022 has been an exceptional year for Paragon Flight Training, as we made significant investments in nearly every aspect of our academy, including new training aircraft and simulation technology, curriculum development and streamlining and, most importantly, adding world-class staff to help us teach the next generation of commercial pilots,” Schoensee said. “We are deeply committed to the flight training industry and our increased training capacity is already being put to excellent use as a record number of students discover the opportunities for a well-paid, fulfilling career in commercial aviation.”
The acquisition of Piper 100i aircraft is part of Paragon Flight’s longer-term fleet modernization strategy, first announced in February 2022, to purchase 40 additional Piper aircraft over the next five years. The company also recently purchased a Frasca flight training device, which will be delivered in early summer 2023, as a complement to the Piper Seminole. Featuring an exact button-for-button replica of the Seminole’s cockpit and characteristics, the Frasca device provides an immersive and positive training experience. Paragon Flight’s investments further support its Professional Pilot Program (P3), a FAA-accredited program for accelerated professional pilot training launched by Paragon Flight earlier this year.
In reflecting on 2022, which also included a major 28,000 square foot expansion of Paragon Flight’s facility, Schoensee gave a nod to the Fort Myers community and Paragon’s aviation partners for the company’s successful year despite the challenges wrought by Hurricane Ian.
“The aviation industry locally and nationally, along with the tireless efforts of the Fort Myers community at all levels, are to be commended for their commitment to keeping families safe and businesses viable throughout an extremely traumatic time, which continues to be felt by many today,” Schoensee said.
About Piper AircraftPiper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fla., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series – the M600SLS, M500, and M350 – offers businesses and individuals exceptional performance, outstanding value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class Seneca V, Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, Arrow, Seminole and Seneca V aircraft form the most complete technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. To learn more about Piper Aircraft, visit the company’s website at https://www.piper.com/.About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 25 aircraft, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company completed a 28,000-combined-square-foot expansion in November 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 11/30/2022 9:06 am | Paragon Flight Training bolsters commercial pilot training capacity with purchase of Piper Seminole and Frasca flight simulator as flight training industry booms | 2022 | Fort Myers, Fla. ---November 28, 2022 --- Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, continues to expand its flight training tools to meet ever growing industry demand for skilled commercial pilots. On November 17, the Paragon Flight leadership team traveled to Vero Beach to pick up a new Piper Seminole, an aircraft model essential for commercial pilot training.
“We are thrilled to take possession of our own Piper Seminole; it’s an exceptional twin engine aircraft for commercial pilot flight training,” Paragon Flight Training President Chris Schoensee said. “Purchasing this plane after years of leasing earlier versions is a pivotal moment for Paragon Flight as we bolster our capacity for commercial pilot training in a year that has seen explosive growth.”
The Seminole will be utilized as part of Paragon Flight’s Professional Pilot Program (P3), a FAA-accredited program for accelerated professional pilot training launched by Paragon Flight in February 2022. The company has already exceeded its 12-month recruiting goals for the rigorous P3 program, affirming the interest in professional pilot training as both demand and salaries rise.
For decades, the Florida-made Piper Seminole has set the benchmark and firmly established itself as the ultimate multi-engine training aircraft in the world. Its reliability, simplistic design, and predictable flying characteristics make for easy transitioning from single to multi-engine.
“Piper Aircraft is happy to have Paragon Flight as a member of the Piper Flight School Alliance. We are honored to serve as a fleet partner for Paragon Flight, a school with an outstanding training curriculum and a state-of-the-art, new-production fleet, providing increased value to their students,” Ron Gunnarson, vice president of sales & marketing at Piper, said.
To complement training on the Seminole, Paragon Flight has also purchased a Frasca flight training device, which will be delivered in early summer 2023.
“We chose Frasca as our partner for the Seminole device because when it comes to ultra-realistic, high-fidelity training devices, they are second to none - and this device is the absolute best in the world at what it does,” Schoensee said. “It features an exact button for button-for-button replica of the Seminole’s cockpit and characteristics, making it a deeply immersive and positive training experience. Students quickly acquire knowledge, skills and proficiency in the device, making the transition into multi-engine aircraft for the first time as fast and affordable as possible.”
Rounding out Paragon Flight’s year of investment in superior training aircraft and technology, the company remains on target to pick up the final four of the 10 previously announced new Piper P100i aircraft in December.
About Piper AircraftPiper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fla., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series – the M600SLS, M500, and M350 – offers businesses and individuals exceptional performance, outstanding value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class Seneca V, Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, Arrow, Seminole and Seneca V aircraft form the most complete technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. To learn more about Piper Aircraft, visit the company’s website at https://www.piper.com/.About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 25 aircraft, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company completed a 28,000-combined-square-foot expansion in November 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 09/19/2022 5:30 pm | Paragon Flight Training Executive responds to today’s FAA announcement denying Republic’s ATP hours exemption | 2022 | Fort Myers, Fla. ---September 19, 2022 --- Following the announcement this afternoon that the FAA was denying Republic Airlines request to be exempted from ATP hours requirements, Captain Lee Collins, Senior VP of Industry and Government Affairs for Florida-based Paragon Flight Training, offered the following comments:
“We are pleased with the FAA‘s announcement earlier today not to grant the exemption requested by Republic Airlines last spring to reduce pilot training qualifications in this country. As a flight training organization, we have been solidly behind a better, blended solution for the industry, one that takes into account the entire issue of pilot production and throughput and enhances it from start to finish. We believe it is time to abandon the 10-year-old debate on flight hours and turn our attention to systemic improvements that can have an immediate, measurable impact on our ability to produce the world’s best pilots efficiently and quickly - while simultaneously maintaining quality and technological improvements in support of those goals,” Collins said.
Collins was actively engaged in educating legislators, regulators and industry officials, including the FAA, in recent months about the dangers of reducing flight training hours. Paragon Flight Training President and owner Chris Schoensee also blogged on the topic in May 2022.
About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 20 aircraft, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 28,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 07/22/2022 7:34 pm | Chief flight instructor Jeffrey Wolf awarded Excellence in Pilot Training by NATA | 2022 | Fort Myers, Fla.---July 22, 2022---Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, is pleased to announce that Jeffrey Wolf, co-owner and chief flight instructor, is the 2021-2022 recipient of the Excellence in Pilot Training Award presented by the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). Since 1987, the association has awarded an individual or organization who has made outstanding contributions in the field of pilot training—encompassing safety, professionalism, leadership, and excellence.
In his role as chief instructor, Wolf directs all flight training conducted at Paragon Flight Training—attaining the required regulatory approvals—and upholds the critical standardization of flight instructors and training courses as head of Paragon’s exceptional programs in FM-approved flight training. Wolf joined Paragon as a certified flight instructor in 2009, was promoted to chief instructor later that year, and became a co-owner in 2010.
“We couldn’t be happier for Jeff on this well-deserved honor,” said Paragon Flight Training President and Co-Owner Christopher Schoensee. “He sets the bar high for flight training and lives up to Paragon Flight’s steadfast commitment to developing top-performing pilot leaders with strong moral character and work ethic. Jeff is a true role model for future pilots working to succeed in the aviation industry.”
With a lifelong passion for aviation, Wolf started his flight training at Page Field when he was 16 and received his private pilot certificate at age 18, prior to attending Jacksonville University—where he was very involved in the school’s aviation program, contracted through Delta Connection Academy. While a student, Wolf was hired by the Academy as a flight instructor to train both private and instrument students. He received his B.S. in Aviation Management and Flight Operations and was subsequently hired by Comair as a first officer flying a regional jet before joining Paragon Flight Training.
Wolf has also been active in the aviation community as a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Flight Training Board and Jacksonville University’s Aviation Advisory Board.
Wolf will be honored at a luncheon celebrating all of NATA’s Industry Excellence Award winners on November 3, concurrent with the association’s Aviation Business Conference in Miami, Florida.
“We are pleased to recognize Jeffrey Wolf’s accomplishments with our Excellence in Pilot Training Award this November in Miami,” said NATA COO Keith DeBerry. “NATA’s Industry Excellence Awards provide opportunities for the aviation business community to gather and celebrate individuals going above and beyond in empowering a bright future for the next generation of aviators and other key aviation professionals.”
About National Air Transportation Association (NATA)The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has been the voice of aviation business for more than 80 years. Representing nearly 3,700 aviation businesses, NATA’s member companies provide a broad range of services to general aviation, the airlines and the military and NATA serves as the public policy group representing the interests of aviation businesses before Congress and the federal agencies.About Paragon Flight TrainingParagon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA 141 and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft, and advanced simulator technology, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 28,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 06/08/2022 3:05 pm | Birds of Paragon to compete in all-female cross-country Air Race Classic | 2022 | 45th annual race kicks off June 21 in Lakeland, Florida, covering 2,500+ miles over four days of airspace challenges to the terminus of Terra Haute, Indiana Fort Myers, Fla.---June 8, 2022---Birds of Paragon, a three-person female flight team from the award-winning Paragon Flight Training, will take to the skies to compete in the 45th annual Air Race Classic (ARC) June 21–24. ARC is an all-female cross-country air race that tests pilots’ skills over four days through changing terrain, weather, winds and airspace. Birds of Paragon will vie for the top spot against almost 50 teams as they traverse a total 2,549 miles from Lakeland, Florida, to Terra Haute, Indiana. Making the journey as part of the Birds of Paragon rookie team are Florida-based certified flight instructors from Paragon Flight Training—Katie Truedson (pilot) of Babcock Ranch, and Connie Hite (flight instruments navigator) of Cape Coral—as well as 19-year-old co-pilot and avionics lead Cassie Thompson-Pride of Fort Myers, who is a member of Paragon Flight’s student ambassador team. “Birds of Paragon is excited to continue the legacy of female air racing through ARC,” Paragon Certified Flight Instructor Connie Hite said. “This is truly a team effort, and we are especially grateful to Paragon Flight for both their financial and moral support of this team—and in their promotion of women in aviation and aerospace.” Paragon Flight Training is sponsoring the team, supplying them with one of its brand-new Piper P100 (registration N305UM) aircraft for the race, overnight lodging expenses, uniforms and other flight race essentials. “We are very proud of this exceptional team of women pilots,” Paragon Flight Training President and Owner Chris Schoensee said. “These ladies exemplify the spirit of Paragon Flight and our collective passion for flying and achieving – we are thrilled to be supporting them. I’ve seen the time and dedication they’ve put into preparing for this event and I certainly would not want to be competing against them; they are going to be amazing.” The Air Race Classic follows a different route every year. This year’s defined course will present a variety of challenges and learning opportunities for flight teams—yet be within the endurance range of the slowest airplane. There are multiple predefined airports that the team must fly to, but landing at each airport is optional depending on what the team decides. Each team must be on the ground prior to sunset at a designated race stop, and those teams determine how many days they want to take to finish the course – factoring in strategy, weather, and airplane endurance. During the race, individuals will be able to follow the progress of their favorite racers from the ARC website. Cash prizes are awarded to the top 10 – with the highest-scoring team receiving a total $6,000 cash, plus medallions and awards for each team member. For more information, visit the ARC 2022 race page. About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA 141 and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft, and advanced simulator technology, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 28,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 05/19/2022 12:58 pm | Paragon Flight Training signs education alliance agreement with Purdue University Global as flight school partner | 2022 | Integrating Paragon’s newly redesigned Professional Pilot Program (P3) curriculum will boost timely entrance to commercial pilot careers for students in Purdue Global’s aviation program Fort Myers, Fla. ---May 18, 2022--- Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, in conjunction with Purdue University Global, West Lafayette, Indiana, announced a new flight training partnership that will reduce the overall time and expense it takes for students in Purdue Global’s acclaimed aviation program to earn their Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight. The announcement was made by Paragon Flight Training President and owner, Christopher Schoensee. Beginning immediately, students accepted into the Purdue Global professional flight degree program can complete their Bachelor of Science degree courses online through Purdue Global, while completing professional flight training at Paragon Flight or one of several other Purdue Global affiliates across the country. Purdue Global’s professional flight degree program is a collaboration, announced in 2019, between Purdue Global and Purdue University’s School of Aviation and Transportation Technology. Paragon Flight’s Professional Pilot Program (P3) was recently redesigned with a streamlined curriculum that improves students’ learning experience for becoming pilots. FAA-approved, the safety- and quality-focused program is unique to Paragon Flight and prepares highly qualified individuals for a well-paying career as a professional pilot at an accelerated pace. “We are privileged to enter into this partnership with Purdue Global’s aviation program,” Schoensee said. “Purdue University has a deep and unrivaled history in aviation—producing some of the brightest pilots in the country—and we look forward to working with Purdue Global’s up-and-coming future pilots. Like Purdue, Paragon is laser-focused on excellence. Our Professional Pilot Program is designed to attract candidates that have the mental aptitude and foundational skills to become safe, confident and high-performing pilot leaders—in addition to displaying unwavering moral character and a strong work ethic. We believe this relationship will augment the development of top flight students while addressing a critical need for pilots.” Students conducting flight training at Paragon who complete all five flight FAA certificates/ratings – Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, Flight Instructor Certificate and Multiengine rating – will receive 45 college credits from Purdue Global toward their bachelor’s degree in professional flight, equivalent to one year of college credits. Students who have college credits from previous schools may also receive additional transfer credits. In addition, through this education alliance agreement, Paragon Flight students, employees and immediate family members—including spouses, domestic partners, children, siblings and parents—will receive a 20% tuition reduction for undergraduate degrees and certificates, and a 14% reduction for graduate degrees and certificates. Students qualifying for Title IV Federal Financial Aid can apply the funding to the Purdue Global Professional Flight degree. “As U.S. airline pilots approach the federally mandated retirement age of 65, the industry faces a drastic shortage of pilots,” Andrew Rachmell, Professional Flight Business Development Specialist at Purdue University Global, pointed out. “Reports forecast a need for more than 800,000 pilots over the next 20 years, so this partnership is designed to get students flying immediately, shortening the timeline to professional pilot in order to meet this demand—and save students money while allowing them to graduate faster. In every respect, this alliance is a win-win – combining the quality of Purdue’s legendary aviation program with Purdue Global’s flexibility and affordability and Paragon Flight’s award-winning, nationally-recognized flight training program to benefit flight students.” In addition to Purdue University Global, Paragon Flight participates in a flight training affiliate program with Liberty University, where students can earn their Bachelor of Science in Aviation online from its School of Aeronautics while completing flight training through Paragon Flight. For more information about the Purdue Global – Paragon Flight partnership, please contact Andrew Rachmell, Professional Flight Business Development Specialist, Purdue University Global at arachmell@purdueglobal.edu or 561-703-0480; or Christopher Schoensee, President and Owner at 239-747-0056. About Purdue University Global Purdue University Global delivers personalized online education tailored to the unique needs of adults who have work or life experience beyond the classroom, enabling them to develop essential academic and professional skills with the support and flexibility they need to achieve their career goals. It offers personalized paths for students to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree, based on their work experience, desired pace, military service, previous college credits and other considerations – no matter where they are in their life journey. Purdue Global is a nonprofit, public university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It is affiliated with Purdue University’s flagship institution, a highly ranked public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. Purdue University also operates regional campuses in Fort Wayne and Northwest Indiana, as well as serving science, engineering and technology students at the Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) campus. For more information, visit purdueglobal.edu. About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA 141 and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 30 aircraft, and advanced simulator technology, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 28,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in 2022. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com Tom Schott Senior Director of Strategic Communications Purdue Global tschott@purdue.edu |
| 03/25/2022 9:58 am | Paragon Flight’s Redesigned, FAA-Approved Professional Pilot Program Accelerates Commercial Pilot’s License Process | 2022 | Reduced training time, new financing options will help address global pilot shortage Fort Myers, Fla. ---March 25, 2022--- Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, is pleased to announce the redesign of its Professional Pilot Program, a fast-track training program for individuals seeking to obtain their commercial pilot’s license and pursue a career in the commercial aviation industry. The announcement was made by Christopher Schoensee, Paragon Flight Training President and owner. Paragon Flight’s Professional Pilot Program (P3), designed for full-time students, can now be completed in as few as seven months, with fewer required hours and at a very competitive price. Following completion, graduates receive their commercial and certified flight instructor licenses and are given preferential consideration for employment at Paragon as flight instructors. “In the past 36 months, we evaluated every aspect of our legacy career pilot program, from the curriculum and aircraft to the student’s cost and financing options. Our goal was to significantly improve the student’s learning experience – and what we were able to accomplish is second to none in the industry,” Schoensee said. “P3 is a streamlined, safety- and quality-focused program unique to Paragon Flight that prepares highly qualified individuals for a well-paying career as a professional pilot at an accelerated pace. It is an important response to the industry’s desperate need for professionally prepared pilots in commercial airlines that also addresses the practical considerations and costs of professional pilot training.” To be eligible for the Paragon Professional Pilot Program, candidates must pass an aptitude test and a skills assessment to ensure they possess the foundational skills necessary to endure the rigors of P3 and become an exceptional pilot. “Before we invest in training a pilot – and before they invest in us – it’s imperative that we select only top caliber students that have the ability and foundation to be successful in this field,” Schoensee said. The redesigned curriculum has received special FAA approval, which Schoensee noted is an acknowledgement of Paragon Flight’s consistently high safety and performance history. In addition to a faster training time, those admitted to the program can benefit from new student loan financing options with reasonable interest rates that ease the financial burden of becoming a professional pilot. The announcement of P3 comes on the heels of Paragon Flight taking possession of its first of 10 Piper aircraft, the Piper P100i, slated for delivery in 2022. The acquisitions are part of the five-year fleet modernization component of the company’s long-term strategic plan, which includes the purchase of an additional 40 Piper aircraft over the next five years. Paragon Flight is also in the process of expanding its learning center, adding 9,000 square feet of training space within a 28,000 combined square-foot expansion. About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 20 aircraft, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 28,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in 2022. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 02/16/2022 8:12 am | Fleet modernization begins as Paragon Flight takes delivery of first of anticipated 50 Piper training aircraft | 2022 | Piper partnership, expanding fleet come on the heels of groundbreaking for 9,000 square foot learning center as company’s strategic vision moves forward. Fort Myers, Fla. --- February 16, 2022 --- Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, is pleased to announce it has taken possession of the first of 10 Piper aircraft slated for delivery in 2022. The acquisition is part of the five-year fleet modernization component of the company’s long-term strategic plan, which includes the purchase of an additional 40 Piper aircraft over the next five years. This effort comes as the company ramps up efforts to train more pilots in response to the global pilot shortage while simultaneously becoming the dominant player in the U.S. domestic flight training market. The announcement was made by Paragon Flight President and owner, Christopher Schoensee. “It’s exciting to see our growth plans further unfold with the addition of this beautiful Piper aircraft – which we are confident is the training aircraft of the next generation,” Schoensee said. “It follows our groundbreaking in January for an expanded 9,000 square foot learning center on Page Field and brings us one aircraft closer to our goal of tripling our current fleet with the additional purchase of up to 50 Piper aircraft by the end of 2027. Our partnership with Piper, beginning with this first aircraft purchase, represents a milestone in the history of Paragon Flight.” The new training platform is the Piper P100i, a modernized version of Piper’s time-tested Archer training aircraft, a staple of the industry for more than 30 years. Paragon Flight Chief Flight Instructor Jeff Wolf and Paragon Flight Administrative Director Sarah Schoensee took delivery of the aircraft from Vero Beach, Florida-based Piper on January 31. John Calcagno, Piper Aircraft President & CEO, said it was a momentous occasion for both organizations. “Piper Aircraft is proud to work with Paragon Flight as they expand their pilot training program," Calcagno said. "The addition of the Pilot 100i to the Paragon training curriculum will help enable them to provide a cost-effective training solution while working to cultivate a well-trained pilot pipeline for the airline industry.” A national thought leader in private aviation, Paragon Flight was founded in 2006 and offers commercial, military and recreational pilot training using both aircraft and advanced simulator technology in one of the industry’s leading learning environments. The company is active in the aviation industry, and Christopher Schoensee is a member of the board of directors of the Flight School Association of North America (FSANA). Paragon Flight has been the recipient of numerous industry awards and most recently received recognition from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)’s Flight Training Experience Awards as a Distinguished Flight School, a title given to the highest rated flight schools from the 2021-22 Flight Training Experience Survey. A total of 749 flight schools and 1,740 flight instructors were evaluated in the 2021 survey, and Paragon Flight landed in the top five percent of flight schools. Committed to growing in Florida, Paragon Flight Training was inducted into the 2021 class of GrowFL 50 Companies to Watch. Honorees in this prestigious group are second-stage growth companies that have between six and 150 employees, $750,000–$100 million in revenue in 2020, and demonstrate a strong commitment to grow beyond the second-stage. About Piper Aircraft Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fla., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series – the M600SLS, M500, and M350 – offers businesses and individual’s exceptional performance, outstanding value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class Seneca V, Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, Arrow, Seminole and Seneca V aircraft form the most complete technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. To learn more about Piper Aircraft, visit the company’s website at www.piper.com. About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of 20 aircraft, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 28,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in June 2022. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 01/05/2022 9:23 pm | Paragon Flight Training receives Cirrus certification to become a Limited Authorized Service Center (ASC) | 2022 | Fort Myers, Fla. --- January 5, 2022 --- Paragon Flight Training, the award-winning flight school based at Page Field, has become an authorized Cirrus Aircraft warranty center to maintain its fleet of Cirrus Aircraft at the highest industry standards. Its certification as a Limited Authorized Service Center (ASC) signifies that Paragon Flight’s technicians are trained in the latest Cirrus support and service procedures with access to only genuine Cirrus Aircraft parts. According to Paragon Flight president and owner Christopher Schoensee, this latest designation solidifies its ongoing association with Cirrus Aircraft’s global network in the highly-fragmented flight training industry. “We have been a certified Cirrus Training Center (CTC) for the past three years and expect to have three new Cirrus Aircraft on our line over the next few months,” Schoensee announced. “Adding the Limited Authorized Service Center certification has helped Paragon Flight grow into the premier Cirrus training center in southwest Florida.” About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of nearly 20 planes, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots and as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 22,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in fourth quarter 2021. Learn more at ParagonFlight.com. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 10/25/2021 4:15 pm | Paragon Flight Training Wins Distinguished Flight School Award through AOPA Survey | 2021 | Fort Myers, Fla. --- October 25, 2021 --- Paragon Flight Training is excited to announce its recognition by The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)’s 2021-22 Flight Training Experience Awards as a Distinguished Flight School, a title given to the highest rated flight schools from the 2021-22 Flight Training Experience Survey. A total of 749 flight schools and 1,740 flight instructors were evaluated in this year’s survey, and Paragon Flight came in the top five percent of flight schools. Chris Schoensee, CEO of Paragon Flight, is happy to be recognized with su |
| 10/05/2021 4:00 pm | Paragon Flight Training named among this year’s GrowFL 50 Companies to Watch | 2021 | "11th annual awards program recognizes second-stage business standouts headquartered in Florida" Fort Myers, Fla. ---October 5, 2021 --- Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, is pleased to announce its induction into this year’s class of GrowFL 50 Companies to Watch. Honorees in this prestigious group are second-stage growth companies that have between six and 150 employees, $750,000–$100 million in revenue in 2020, and demonstrate a strong commitment to grow beyond second-stage. In August, GrowFL announced 82 Companies to Watch finalists from more than 600 nominations. The group was narrowed to 50 in a final round of judging by a panel comprised of past honorees, economic development leaders and corporate partners of GrowFL. Companies were judged on a number of criteria including growth in number of employees; impact of the business in the job market; increase in sales and/or unit volume; current and past financial reports; innovativeness of the product or service; response to adversity; and contributions to aid community-oriented projects. “We are honored to be inducted as one of GrowFL’s Companies to Watch,” Christopher Schoensee, owner and president of Paragon Flight Training, said. “Since our founding in 2006, Paragon Flight Training has had a growth mindset—capitalizing on opportunities that help us apply the same best practices of our larger counterparts in order to lead the way in commercial, military and recreational pilot training. As we celebrate our 15th anniversary, Florida provides the perfect setting for us to thrive - with a major expansion currently underway that will fill a critical need to train more pilots, and in turn, support our community.” This year’s Companies to Watch honorees projected continued growth in 2021, with a 62% revenue increase and 49% growth in employees compared to 2020. If their projections hold, these companies will have generated $1.7 billion in revenue and added more than 1,500 employees over the last five years — a 263% increase in revenue and a 206% increase in jobs since 2017. Paragon Flight Training is definitely in growth mode, with a groundbreaking slated for October for an expanded 14,000 square-foot hangar on Page Field in Lee County as well as plans to purchase an additional 45–50 planes, tripling its current fleet. Companies named to the list will be officially recognized at the 11th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Celebration on February 17, 2022, at the Hard Rock Live in Universal CityWalk, Orlando, Fla. Tickets are on sale now. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://growfl.com/flctw21/about-flctw/. About GrowFL Companies to Watch GrowFL Companies to Watch recognizes growing second-stage companies headquartered in Florida. Developed by the Edward Lowe Foundation, Companies to Watch is a unique way to honor the companies who demonstrate high performance in the marketplace with innovative strategies and processes, making them “worth watching.” For more information, visit GrowFL. About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of nearly 20 planes, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 22,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in fourth quarter 2021. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 09/22/2021 2:00 pm | Consolidation in flight training industry heats up, with international players entering the U.S. | 2021 | "Activity stems from urgency to address global pilot shortage" Fort Myers, Fla. --- September 22, 2021 --- Amid a summer of delayed and cancelled flights due to staffing shortages and myriad pandemic woes impacting travel, the once sleepy flight training industry is gaining the attention of national and international aviation giants. Christopher Schoensee, president and owner of Fort Myers-based Paragon Flight Training and a keen observer of movement in the industry, says such activity stems from the urgency of addressing the global pilot shortage. “Major players like CAE, United Airlines and Skyborne in London are taking aggressive steps to buy up smaller flight training schools in the U.S. for the specific purpose of training more commercial pilots,” Schoensee said. “I believe we’re seeing the tip of the iceberg; for the first time in decades, big players are shifting some of their attention away from government and military pilot training toward privately-owned flight schools that make up a significant percentage of the commercial aviation/specialty training produced here in the USA.” Paragon Flight Training was founded in 2006; 15 years later, Schoensee, who is a member of the board of directors of the Flight School Association of North America (FSANA), said he’s seen more buy and sell activity in recent years than in the company’s entire history. “The flight training industry is highly-fragmented, with many schools producing pilots at different rates and with varying degrees of proficiency. That unpredictable pilot production, combined with a years-in-the-making pilot shortage and a pandemic, created interest from companies recognizing the opportunity to consolidate market share,” Schoensee said. “Some schools couldn’t handle the temporary slowdown forced by the pandemic and either closed or sold, while other flight schools grew along with the increased awareness of the crippling pilot shortage. It really comes down to grow and compete or get out of the way.” Paragon Flight Training is definitely in growth mode, with a groundbreaking slated for October for an expanded 14,000 square foot hangar on Page Field in Fort Myers and plans to purchase an additional 45-50 planes, tripling its current fleet. “We’ve had a growth mindset for several years, but it has definitely crystallized as we continue to see tremendous opportunity for premier flight training schools like ours to up our game and lead the way in commercial, military and recreational pilot training,” Schoensee said. “We apply the best practices of our larger counterparts but can be nimble in decision making due to our size.” Paragon Flight Training also intends to retain its leverage by continuing to cater to domestic students – currently 90% of its student population. With a modern fleet, advanced simulator technology, and a reputation for high quality training, domestic students will pay premium rates to gain their pilot certification. Schools with older fleets and technology tend to attract international students via brokers, who also take a slice of the earnings. “We are not afraid of the changes sweeping through our industry – we’re investing in the future of flight training and we’re excited about it,” Schoensee said. About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of nearly 20 planes, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 22,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in fourth quarter 2021. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 06/24/2021 10:00 am | Growing flight training academy is ready to fill industry demand for pilots as carrier strategies for hiring evolve | 2021 | “We are more than ready to provide solutions to the challenge the industry is presenting with the pilot shortage.” Fort Myers, Fla. --- June 24, 2021 --- Earlier this week, American Airlines began delaying or canceling hundreds of flights due to a shortage of airline personnel, including pilots, a problem they anticipate continuing through July. Delta Airlines then promptly followed with the announcement that it would hire more than 1,000 pilots by summer 2022. Christopher Schoensee, owner and president of Paragon Flight Training, headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, said his flight training academy, which is already looking at a record year for 2021, has been strategically gearing up for the increased pilot demand for some time and is ready to help fill the pipeline. “The airlines’ model of hiring and training pilots has been evolving. We are seeing interest by the major carriers to consider the benefits of working with technically advanced, professional, private flight training academies that can pivot with the industry to safely, quickly and expertly train the commercial airline pilots of the future,” Schoensee said. It was the anticipation of the pilot shortage and the need to accommodate increased demand for the company’s services that served as the impetus for Paragon Flight Training’s ambitious growth plan, which began in 2018 with the investment of additional advanced flight simulators, followed by a two-phased strategic growth plan in 2020 that is now seeing significant results. In March 2021, the company entered into a 10-year agreement with Lee County Port Authority, an effort that will triple Paragon Flight’s aircraft fleet operations at Page Field while expanding their training and technology services. The project includes the construction of a 14,000-square-foot maintenance and MRO facility that broke ground in March, as well as an 8,000-square-foot pilot development learning center, slated for completion in 2022. The company also hired aviation industry insider and former commercial airline pilot, Captain Lee Collins, for additional strategy heft. “We have acted aggressively in recent years to build up our flight training might and capabilities and are more than ready to provide solutions to the challenge the industry is presenting with the pilot shortage,” Schoensee said. Schoensee noted that email leads coming into Paragon Flight for information on flight training services have steadily increased from strong pre-pandemic levels of 140 - 150 per month to nearly 200 in April and May. Moreover, of those recent queries, nearly 50% are inquiring about training as career pilots, a jump from 35% pre-pandemic, when the majority of queries were for recreational flight training as well as the specialized training Paragon offers for domestic and military personnel. “The aviation industry is having a moment, both for negative and positive reasons, but there is no doubt that we are in a pivotal era that will guide pilot training and talent acquisition for at least the next decade. For those who are prepared to be leaders, it’s a great time to be in the industry,” Schoensee said. About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of nearly 20 planes, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots and as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 22,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in fourth quarter 2021. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
| 06/03/2021 2:10 pm | Parts shortage is impacting the private aviation industry | 2021 | “We are temporarily rethinking our just-in-time inventory approach…” Fort Myers, Fla. --- June 3, 2021 --- The slowdown of the supply chain in industries around the globe is now impacting the private aviation industry. Christopher Schoensee, owner and president of Paragon Flight Training, said he’s stocking up on aircraft on ground (AOG) and mission critical parts such as spark plugs and oil filters now after seeing the beginning of a shortage and significant price increases in these and other key supplies over the past several months. “The shortage of raw materials and supply chain issues in automotive and consumer technologies, especially with the microchip shortage, are well known, but I hadn’t noticed an impact on private aviation until we ordered spark plugs in early May and were told there was an 8-week backlog,” Schoensee said. “Then, when we went to order filters, the price had increased about 7% in three months’ time, which is not typical at all.” Previously, Schoensee had a just-in-time approach to inventory, but that’s just not practical now, so he’s planning ahead. “We are temporarily rethinking our just-in-time inventory approach, not only because of obtaining the parts, but also due to dramatic increases in costs and delays in delivery,” Schoensee said. “Pre-pandemic, I could order parts today and they would be shipped tomorrow. Now, I have an eight-month supply of all AOG and flight critical parts. I simply can’t risk not having access to the parts I need to run a flight school.” While Schoensee says Paragon Flight can handle the current situation in the interim, it is especially tough for smaller flight schools that were severely hit by the pandemic shutdowns and can’t afford to spend more on parts or to stockpile them. He added that his company has had to purchase a higher price point spark plug – 25% to 30% more than the spark plugs they typically buy - because the standard plugs are on 60-day back order. Further, the parts shortage is requiring additional time by fight school owners to manage the business, given the extra effort needed to regularly check tracking numbers for parts arrivals and keep a closer eye on inventory in general. Waiting anxiously for aviation insurance renewals In the meantime, Schoensee says he and his colleagues in the flight school industry are anxiously awaiting their aviation insurance renewals in July. “2019 renewal rates were relatively modest at 5% to 10%, but 2020 premium increases were an alarming 20% to 25%,” Schoensee said. “It seems that increases would be more measured this year because in 2020 many flight schools across the country merged or went out of business and flight time was down, presumably meaning fewer claims. We’re in a wait and see position now.” About Paragon Flight Training Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. With FAA and SEVIS accreditations, a fleet of nearly 20 planes, and advanced simulator technology onsite, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots and as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. The company is in the process of a 22,000-combined-square-foot expansion slated for completion in fourth quarter 2021. --- Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero EAFocus Communications Tel: 248.260.8466 Email: barbara@eafocus.com |
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