The Review Management Doesn’t Want You to Read…
The Review Management Doesn’t Want You to Read!
Most of the 5-star reviews you see on Google are because they basically corner you into writing one right after your discovery flight. I’ve literally watched instructors get chewed out for forgetting to ask for one. Plus, most active students are (rightfully) terrified to say anything negative because management isn't above making your life difficult if they don't like you.
I’m a former student who finished my PPL here before jumping ship to another school. I’ve seen enough to know where the bodies are buried. Buckle up.
The Good (Why they get 2 stars and not 1);
• The Instructors: Honestly, the CFIs are fantastic. They are the only reason this place is still standing. Aside from maybe one or two "meh" ones, they really know their stuff.
• The Planes: The Sling is a blast to fly and a great trainer. Just keep in mind they’re basically the only Slings on the East Coast, so you’ll eventually have to relearn a different plane anyway. Also, pro tip, stay far away from the RV-12. It’s a total headache and breaks constantly. They only have one so it's tough luck when it's down or already scheduled.
The Bad (The "Stay Away" List):
1. Dao (Chief Pilot): This guy is all smiles when he’s selling you the school, but once you’re in, it’s a nightmare. You’re forced to do stage checks and EOCs with him, and he will make you want to quit aviation entirely. He’s known for yelling, nitpicking the tiniest things, and refusing to admit when he’s wrong. Even the instructors warn you about him because his questions are ridiculous. He’s a massive reason to avoid this place.
2. Richard (Owner): You won’t see him much, which is a blessing. He’s the one pulling the strings behind the scenes and enabling Dao’s behavior. They’re a pretty toxic duo. If you don't have admin issues, you might avoid him, but good luck with that.
3. Maintenance: Alex is actually a solid mechanic, but he’s one guy trying to maintain 15 planes. It’s impossible. He has "helpers" but they have nowhere near his experience. Things that used to get fixed instantly are now getting the "it’s fine" treatment because they’re overwhelmed. The older Slings are starting to look rough, and I’m worried about what they’ll look like in a year or two.
Also, they fly above the FAA max weight limit of 1,320lbs daily, because some of the planes can only hold 15lbs of fuel or less. It's outright dangerous.
4. Checkrides: It’s a total mess. Their one good DPE is rarely around and retiring soon. They don’t have the connections to get students scheduled quickly, so expect to wait 1–3 months for a checkride with a mediocre examiner.
5. The Facilities: The "classrooms" are basically a sketchy, 1970s hangar. It’s loud, it’s old, and the hangar next door blasts music during class. It’s the opposite of a professional environment.
Bottom Line: I could go on for hours about Dynasty, but I’ll stop there. If you’re dead set on coming here, stay as far away from management as you can (though you can’t really avoid Dao since he handles most of the stage checks and EOC - EOC is always Dao).
Can you switch schools if you make the mistake of coming to Dynasty? Yes and No. Dynasty is the only place anywhere near Miami that has Sling aircraft. While it's a great plane, that means you'll be stuck spending thousands to learn a new plane if you switch.