NLFT Crew

Everyone at NLFT has thousands of hours and years of experience in the world of aviation. You can be confident that you are getting the best instruction and personalized attention possible. If we don't know it, we won't offer it and may refer you to more qualified people. But in most situations from vintage tailwheel airplanes to executive twins and some personal jets, you can depend on us for high quality training.

Dennis and his Stearman

Dennis Simo

Credentials

CPL, MIFR, Float, Tailwheel, Instructor

Experience

Over 10,000 hours in 70+ types from J3 Cubs to Cessna 421 twins.

Bio

I've been involved in aviation for almost 40 years including building, fixing, flying and teaching. Working in maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and then engineering at a major aerospace company taught me about everything under the skin of an airplane. Then being an instructor for more than 25 years taught me about you. Teaching is a passion of mine, and still excites me after more than 8000 hours of doing it. I love the challenge and the diversity...and seeing people master the machine they own. Tell me what makes you worried or what makes you wonder and I'll make it my mission to help you see it through. 

Justin Tiplady

Credentials

ATPL

Experience

From the CT-114 Tutor to the ultimate business jet, the Global Express, Justin has dealt in speed, precision and performance.

Bio

I've accumulated over 7000 hours during my career which includes the Royal Canadian Airforce, Production and Engineering Test Flight at Bombardier Aerospace and various senior roles in flight operations at Porter Airlines including Captain of the Dash 8-400. I'm currently VP, Technical Operations- responsible for maintenance and engineering at Porter Airlines.

When not working, I love to fly my Piper SuperCub around the neighborhood or sail Lake Ontario with my friends. My experience is available to share about test flight, systems and automation, and to help aspiring pilots prepare for the world of commercial aviation.

Jim Stanbridge

Credentials

ATPL (CDN, UK, EASA, HK), CL 3 Instructor

Experience

20,000+ Light singles and twins to Turboprops (BE200, SW40) & Heavy Transports (A320, L1011, B747, B767, B777)

Bio

I learned to fly in my late teens through the Sault College Aviation Program. After graduation, I worked as a flight instructor, charter pilot and worked my way up to Turboprop Captain with a commuter airline. I joined Air Canada in 1987 and progressed through their fleet until retirement after 33 years. There, I was able to combine my love of flying and teaching by holding various roles including Simulator Instructor, Training Captain and Check Pilot. For the last five years, I was a Training Captain on the Boeing B777.

Since retiring, I have continued with my passion for flying by building and flying a Van's RV14 aircraft. I also partnered with a few friends and bought a Citabria and learned how to fly a Taidragger (lots of fun)! 

I'd like to share my experience and enthusiasm with pilots of all types to help you fly safer, farther and have more fun in the process. 

Vivian Octave

Credentials

ATPL, Cl. 2 instructor

Experience

3000+, Tailwheel, most light singles and twins including Cirrus, Bonanzas and Twin Commanches

Bio

I was introduced to airplanes at a very young age by my father, a pilot and aircraft mechanic. The fascination of how they fly and how they worked turned into a passion I have never lost. As soon as I could afford it and was legally old enough to go through to a commercial licence, I went at it with all my energy and focus. The IFR, multi and Instructor ratings followed and I was hired to teach by the person that taught me most of what I know (hint: he's at the top of this page :))

I quickly attained the hours and experience and was hired by Porter Airlines as one of their youngest First Officers on the Bombardier Dash 8-400. My Captain upgrade is just around the corner and I'm excited beyond words.

I want to share that kind of excitement with my clients and show them that with hard work and proper training, anything is possible. I look forward to flying with you.

Kevin Hedrei

Credentials

ATPL, Cl. 1 Flight Instructor

Experience

2300 TT, MIFR, Float rated, Experienced in single engine airplanes including higher performance types like Bonanzas and Mooneys.

Bio

I started flying in 2005 and really sank my teeth into it. Private, commercial, instrument and multi ratings, then all the instructor ratings, ATPL and now working on Pilot Examiner status.

I currently fly a Mooney M20K with a state-of-the-art IFR panel and use it regularly to fly IFR cross-countries.

I know the value of professional, focused and customized training. It's the best way to learn how to fly safely in a more complex environment. Let me help you master the machine and your confidence.