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We're a flight organization based in Everett, Washington
School Type:   Part 61.  



Category:    Airplane (Fixed Wing).  

Certificates:    Sport Pilot, Recreational, Private, Commercial, ATP, CFI and CFII.  

Ratings:    VFR, IFR, Commercial, CFI, CFII, Multiengine and Multiengine Instructor.  

Class:    Single Engine Land and Multi Engine Land.  

Engines:    Single and Twin.  

Endorsement:    Complex and Taildragger.  

Recurrent Training:    Flight Review, Instrument Proficiency Check, Aircraft Checkouts and Insurance Checkouts.  

Training Orientation:    Career (Carrier, Commercial, Military), Business (Private) and Recreation (all non-commercial flight).  

Career Focus:    Flight Instruction and Regional Airlines.  

Type of Curriculum:    Ground School, Accelerated (full days, intense), Career Oriented, structured and Acrobatic.  



Type of Rental:    Students only and Licensed Pilots.  

Type of Airplanes Available:   Piper J-3, Piper Cherokees, Piper Arrow, Evektor SportStar  

Aircraft Rental Rates:   See Website  



Instruction Materials:    ASA and Custom.  

Syllabus:   Custom.  



Training Facilities:    Dedicated Classroom, Lounge, Dedicated Study Area, Flight Planning Area, Lending Library (books, videos, software), Pilot Ready Room, Snack Room, Full Kitchen, dining area and Simulator.  

On-Site FAA Testing:   Written Tests (CATS, Laser Grade).  

Airport Facilities:    Control Tower, ILS, Pilot Shop and Weather computer terminal.  

Airport Locations (codes):   KPAE  



Professional Affiliations:    AOPA and EAA.  

Total Instructors:   9  

Awards of Merit:   Owner is Master CFI as appointed by NAFI  

School Description
Aviation training is considered an art form in the flight community. The aim of such instruction has always been to "produce" safe and proficient pilots. The reality of this assumption has been recently called into question by the National Transportation Safety Board. Regardless of the number of aircraft accidents or incidents recorded annually, over 90% of the time pilot error is identified as the principal "cause". That's a tactful way of referring to "pilot ignorance" of those principles and procedures necessary to insure the safety and well being of both people and machines. While technology continues to assure the dependability of flight machinery, the problem appears to lie in the method used in instructional training. Northwest Aviation Center (NWAC) was established to promote flight safety. Its philosophy of teaching differs significantly from other training environments. NWAC considers the "human factor" the key to quality pilot education. In this regard, we place primary emphasis upon the knowledge and thinking skills of the pilot. Because human beings are the unique factor in the flight safety equation, a thorough understanding, correlation, and application of fundamental knowledge (and principles) is upper most in our approach to flight training. Our teaching philosophy challenges currently "accepted" methods of instruction. Because people are thinking entities, we feel that unless pilots are capable of "engaging their brain" in the educational process, there is little chance they will develop the skills and flexibility necessary to function safely in an ever changing environment. The following principles are the basic assumptions which comprise our educational philosophy. Principle 1 -- Learning To Fly Is A Cognitive Exercise! Accident statistics and psychological profiles suggest that in anxiety provoking situations the thinking process usually slows down rather than accelerates. When the element of perceived threat enters a given flight situation the need for faster thinking and appropriate action increases significantly. Thinking, on the other hand, requires some degree of reflection, a time frame for response, as well as something to think about! Pilots who earned their certificates primarily through imitating their instructor's actions not only require more time for reflection, but also have less information to reflect upon in terms of appropriate response. The key to effective flight training lies in the development of a number of visualization skills. These skills enable to pilot to picture not only aircraft attitudes but also the invisible "forces" and other factors directly affecting aircraft control and safe operation. While "integrated" instructional methods have been with us since the publication of the Aviation Instructor's Handbook in 1977, we have yet to see a generation of pilots (or instructors) who actually employ this technique in flight operations. A mechanical approach to instruction tends to play down the importance of visualization skills. This omission has not augured well for pilot performance, especially when flight conditions change unexpectedly. We feel that pilots who have a thorough understanding of aeronautical principles are capable of thinking and acting appropriately in all flight situations. These individuals demonstrate a greater flexibility in the cockpit; reflect a greater awareness of the actions called for as the flight environment changes; and manifest the requisite attitudes and behaviors consistent with flight safety. Educational research demonstrates that when individuals can "see" (i.e., visualize) a maneuver or flight situation in its various dimensions, the learning process is accelerated and the application of learned principles transfer more quickly to appropriate forms of action. By stressing aeronautical fundamentals and assisting students to visualize the sights, sounds, and sensations of the flight environment, training efforts are reflected in faster and more effective learning. From a practical standpoint, the quality and effectiveness of such training is marked by dramatic savings in both time and money. Principle 2 -- Knowledge Defines & Specifies Procedure! Although practical test standards, "approved" training syllabi, and instructor refresher courses abound, flight training techniques remain a hodgepodge of individual preferences and idiosyncrasies on the part of most training personnel. At NWAC we employ a uniform (cognitive) approach to flight instruction. This approach is based upon a thorough and complete understanding of both aeronautical knowledge and flight principles. Understanding these fundamentals enable students to define for themselves the performance specifics of a given maneuver. In the 45 degree level turn, for example, the student knows what to expect during all phases of the maneuver as well as the appropriate actions required to bring performance well within the criteria established by the Practical Test Standards. In addition to performing to standards more quickly, our approach permits the student several options to accomplish the same outcome. This means that instead of imitating their instructors and learning only a single, isolated "technique," their basic understandings supply the flexibility of response characteristic of a professional pilot. Principle 3 -- Practice Takes Place On The Ground! The cognitive approach suggests that the word practice requires a new definition. Instructors usually think of practice as performing a maneuver over and over until the student "gets it right". Without proper knowledge and understanding of the aeronautical principles involved, however, accomplishment on one occasion is often followed by failure on the next. In other words, the mechanical (imitative) methodology is both time consuming, expensive, and frequently yields inconsistent results. This approach limits one's opportunity to develop the flexibility necessary to function safely in differing flight situations. Effective learning rarely takes place in an environment of anxiety or perceived threat. Perhaps the poorest classroom from the standpoint of maintaining attention and achieving effective learning is the cockpit of a training aircraft. Being able to think and use one's available knowledge requires focused attention and an atmosphere of comfort and security. As a student reflects upon their understanding of the aeronautical basics involved in flight training, they are, in effect, practicing their flight skills in a non threatening environment! Such an exercise enables them to extend their theoretical knowledge to the more mechanical aspects of aircraft management. As their knowledge and insight continue to grow, they develop the ability to correlate these understandings with the mechanical procedures associated with specific flight maneuvers. The effectiveness of such practice is observed in the training experience. By knowing the principles involved in a given maneuver, the mechanical features of the aircraft that incorporate these principles, and previewing in advance the sights, sounds, and sensations of the training experience, the learning process is positively accelerated. Gone is the imitative mentality, the anxiety which accompanies "not knowing", and the trial and error elements of expensive "practice". These are replaced by a confident assurance of desired outcomes. The result is a successful flight experience which acts to further motivate the student and, at the same time, reduce the frustration and expense involved in accomplishing a desired goal. Principle 4 -- Flight Principles Are Consistent Through All Ratings! We feel that a thorough and fundamental grounding in basic aeronautical knowledge is the key to obtaining any flight rating. We further believe that these principles do not change with respect to the pursuit of additional goals. As a consequence, our goal is to "produce" thoroughly knowledgeable pilots who are capable of effectively employing these principles as they transition from one rating to another. Such an orientation not only minimizes the time and expense factors associated with flight training but also makes possible the simultaneous pursuit of multiple ratings. Principle 5 -- Educated Pilots Are Superior To Trained Pilots! An educated pilot is one who is capable of using their flight knowledge in a safe and proficient manner. Educated pilots exhibit the kind of thinking and flexibility skills which make them safety conscious and capable of exercising command in all flight situations. At NWAC our goal is to teach the student to think like a pilot rather than simply fly an airplane. Research has found, for instance, that total flight time is a poor indicator of either aeronautical knowledge or the consistent employment of safety procedures. At NWAC we regard safety as an attitude rather than merely a set of specific behaviors. In our philosophy, knowledge precedes doing! In promoting aviation safety we feel that "what to do" and "how to do it" emerge from a fourfold process of learning, understanding, correlating, and applying one's basic knowledge in a balanced, rational manner. We consider the imitative model as both simplistic and ineffectual in imparting the knowledge and skills necessary to become a safe and proficient pilot. Principle 6 -- Initial (Correct) Learning Is Less Costly Than Relearning! Instructors have long noted the positive correlation between motivation and success on the part of flight students. The longer and more costly a training regimen, the more difficult it is to maintain and strengthen student motivation. In other words, time, expense, and lack of success can prove costly both to the student and the instructor. At NWAC our goal is to minimize time and cost while maximizing student achievement. The key to our success lies in the proper establishment of an attitude toward learning. We feel that student expectations for success must be linked with a specific educational philosophy. Paramount in our philosophy is the understanding that learning a task correctly (the first time) is more productive of progress than having to "unlearn" or "relearn" that task later on. The lack of consistency in philosophy and methodology observed in today's flight training has meant that many students (and instructors) have failed to develop an appreciation for a consistent learning paradigm. At NWAC our goal is to provide the student with a consistent approach to successful learning. As a consequence of our efforts, students move quickly through a flight regimen characterized by reductions in time, cost, and frustration. Principle 7 -- Flight Success Strengthens The Development of your Self Image! No activity has a more positive influence on an individual's self concept than learning to fly. Your sense of who you are and what you are capable of will increase in direct proportion to your flight achievements. All educational activities at NWAC are, therefore, designed specifically to insure student success. Our one-on-one approach to training underscores our commitment to you and your specific goals. In this fashion, we endeavor to design programs of study oriented toward strengthening your self understanding and maximizing your individual potential.

More About Us
Here at NWAC, we have all Piper airplanes, and even though typically we think of Pipers as a low wing airplane we do have the J3 Cub which is a high wing, and you get to add the tail wheel endorsement too. To me, and this is only my opinion, the high wing airplane feels "goofy" when you fly in it. By this I mean that since you are under the wing, and make a turn you are moved to the outside of the turn as if you are a pendulum. With the low wing, since you are on top of the wing you are on the inside of the turn, and the plane feels more solid. People also like to compare the visibility differences in high and low winged airplanes. It is true that in a high wing airplane you can see the ground directly below you. Sometimes for the passengers this is nice, but for the most part you need to see 1) the runway when you turn toward it, and 2) what you are turning into while making turns. In both of these cases the high wing blocks the view. Insurance: Differences in insurance coverage is huge between flight schools. Most schools have business liability insurance, that is to say, if someone sues the school, they have coverage. We do too, but we go way beyond that and think of you. We have liability insurance for you the pilot, and all the passengers in the plane. Also, the airplanes are insured against damage, similar to collision coverage for your car. If the airplane is damaged, you are only liable for the deductible portion of the policy. The deductible varies, but the highest is $2,500.00. This only comes into play if the airplane is moving and you are at the controls as "pilot in command." There is insurance available to cover the deductible if you wish. In addition, and not many schools have this, if you are injured, you have medical coverage of $3,000.00. No hidden costs: We will do our best to get you the real cost of a course, so at first glance we may seem higher, but in the end you know what it is really going to cost. For example, our Private Pilot Ground School is $495.00. Might seem high, but it includes all the books, all materials, all hand outs, a navigation chart, an Airport Facility Directory, an E6B computer, a plotter, current regulation book and aeronautical information manual, the test preparation book, and the FAA Knowledge Exam. The exam its self is a $90.00 value. We even allow you the use of our headsets for free. Earn while you learn: We have realized that it is too expensive to learn to fly, especially if you are wanting a career in flying. Airline captains have spent into the hundred thousand dollar area getting their certificates and ratings. We have a calendar on the main menu and there you will find a schedule for seminars to teach this concept. Or, please call (425) 438-0596 or email Janis to sign up. Instructors: We have a full compliment of Certified Flight Instructors (CFI) to meet your every need. From the Cub to the airliner, we can match you with the perfect CFI for your desires and goals in your aviation career. Our full time CFIs don't have their eye on an airline career, so they will be here for you and will complete your training. Lots of schools are but a stepping stone for the instructor to get to the airlines and when called will be gone. Your training will usually suffer because of this. Not to say that the airline bound CFI is not good, but sometimes their driving force is hours in their logbook rather than quality of instruction given. Our Chief instructor (and the owner of NWAC) has over 30 years as a CFI, holds all the airplane ratings, and is a Master Instructor as recognized by the National Association of Flight Instructors. Rebate plan: A lot of schools have a club rate, or a different rental rate for people that keep a positive balance at the school. We did that for a while, but soon realized that it is not fair to the person that is on a tighter budget and just can't afford to plunk down a thousand dollars at a time. Our plan rewards every one at the end of the year for the flying you have done with us. Here is how it works: There are four levels, each with a higher rebate percentage. All the levels are based on airplane rental only, and do not include the instructor's hours. Level 1 = 15 annual hours = 3% Level 2 = 40 annual hours = 5% Level 3 = 65 annual hours = 7% Level 4 = 100 annual hours = 10% During the year, (Jan - Dec) when you reach each level 1 (15 hours) and this includes training hours, you may apply for the rebate based on the total dollars you have spent you will receive a rebate in the form of credit, or money. When you reach level 2, we do the same thing, naturally for the extra 25 hours. The same for levels 3 and 4. The only thing is, you must track the hours and submit highlighted invoices showing each level. We send the invoices monthly, so it should be pretty easy for you to track. Bonus Plan: We don't have block rates, or club rates, but we still try to help cut the cost. You may elect to pre-pay in $1,000.00 chunks. For your $1,000.00 we will add a 10% bonus to your account making your $1,000.00 payment worth $1,100.00. The catch is, you may do either the Rebate, or the Bonus, not both. Dry rates: Have you noticed that fuel prices have been changing lately? Me too. So that we may offer the plane rental at the same rate all year, we rent the airplanes to you at a "dry rate." This means that when you get the airplane it has a certain (measurable) quantity of fuel onboard. When you return it to us make sure it has the same amount of fuel in it. This opens up some options to you as well. If you are going on a trip, you may want to plan your fuel stops based on price, and there is a website that is good at this. (airnav.com) And, in your training we will teach you how to save fuel in a couple of ways. And, maybe best of all, it is good for the planet. You control how much fuel you use, and thereby can actually help the planet be a cleaner place. Medical examiner: Dr. Gary Henriksen is our on staff Airman Medical Examiner (AME) that can issue Second and Third class medicals and student pilot certificates. His hours are from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM Tuesdays and Thursdays. And he always has a great story to tell. Back to top Testing facility: NWAC has contracted with Computer Assisted Testing System (CATS) for all Airmen knowledge tests. In addition CATS is authorized to give many other types of tests. Click the logo above for examples. Hangar: So far, and until the fleet out grows it, all of our airplanes are kept inside our heated hangar. When airplanes are kept outside they get rained on (yes it rains, even in Everett :) ) and all airplanes leak. Ours stay dry, and they are warm in winter. No more waiting for the sun to come up to melt the frost. And we all know that you NEVER take off with frost on the wings. Oh and you can preflight in the warmth of the hangar too. Variety of courses: Most schools offer Private pilot courses, but we offer a course for every airplane certificate offered by the Federal Aviation Administration. The list is: Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, and Airline Transport Pilot. In addition, we offer the Instrument rating, Complex airplane endorsement, and the highly sought after Tail Wheel endorsement. Additionally, we have the Multi-Engine Rating allowing you to fly airplanes with more than one engine. At NWAC we also offer a course designed for non-flying partner. It is called "Pinch Hitter" It will prepare the non-flyer in the event that the pilot becomes incapacitated to be able to take over flying, find an airport, communicate with someone on the ground, and safely land the airplane. And we have just added Aerobatic instruction from very basic upset training to full blown aerobatics. Pilot Supplies: As we grow, we will be adding more items to our pilot supplies store, but for now we carry a full compliment of the items that you will need for your training. We are a stocking dealer for sunglasses manufactured by "AirplaneThings.com." The sunglasses are unique in that they have a graduated darkness, with darker at the top so you can see the chart on your lap better, and, they have a bifocal in reading glasses for those of us that need a little help seeing the chart. Strengths are 125 - 250. Additional books that are not included in your ground school kit, Charts, and a bunch of free stuff. Stop in and ask for some. Sales - New airplanes: We are the Northwest Regional (WA, OR, ID, MT, WY) Distributor for the new StingSport, Sport Plane. We are expanding the sales areas, and looking for satellite dealers in the outlying areas. Call or email today for a demo flight in this exciting new airplane. And, new in 2007 is the optional "glass cockpit." COME IN AND SEE IT TODAY! Sales - pre-owned airplanes We have in stock a variety of planes. Check our website for a complete list. We are adding new airplanes all the time so check back to see airplanes that are newly available. And, consignments are always welcome.


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