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Smoketown Flight Center LLC
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Behind the Name

Smoketown Flight Center LLC was built on the foundation of providing more than a flight school that can be searched online. We are a facility of pilots, mechanics, and aviation enthusiasts. A small veteran-owned business that has been growing since its start in 2014. Being a small business, we have the benefit of getting to know the pilot as a name, not a number. Smoketown Center LLC cares about more than passing a pilot but assisting a pilot in becoming the best aviator they can be.

Providing students with the tools to meet their goals. One of the main tools required is a safe aircraft. By being a Robinson Service Center, we are able to ensure that aircraft are maintained in accordance with regulations. Another benefit of having in house maintenance is the limited amount of time an aircraft is down.

As time goes by, Smoketown Flight Center LLC will continue to further their education within the aviation field. We pride ourselves in maintaining relevance within the training and evolving with the aviation world.

Garrett Snyder - Owner - Chief Pilot: Helicopter CFII, Airplane CFI, MEI, IA

Garrett manages and oversees airplane and helicopter flight training at both our Smoketown. Working closely with the other instructors to ensure the highest quality of training is provided. Garrett conducts the stage checks with students to ensure they are on track with Smoketown Helicopter’s program, allowing him to incorporate his experience with students. Garrett started his career in the Air Force as a jet engine mechanic. After leaving active duty in 2011, he joined the Air Force Reserve, starting his career in flying on the civilian side. He has roughly 5000 hours of experience, mostly in Robinson helicopters. In conjunction with flying Garrett also oversees the Robinson Service Center Maintenance division and is a Robinson Helicopter Factory Trained IA mechanic. Extensive knowledge of flying and maintenance provides the ability to train and serve pilots and customers on a higher level. When he is not flying or working on aircraft he enjoys spending time with his wife Jen and their children Landon, Dustin and Marabelle.

Garrett’s Philosophy: Train to become a real-world pilot, not just a pilot that passes the test.

Jennifer Snyder - Manager

Jennifer grew up in beautiful Naples, FL, and joined the United States Air Force in 2008. She was stationed in California where she met her future husband, Garrett. Her Uncle and Grandfather were both pilots, introducing Jennifer to aviation at a young age. She graduated from American Military University with a Bachelor in Business Administration and now continues to expand her knowledge within aviation. Director of Operations here at Smoketown. When not at the airport, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Garrett, and their children, Landon, Dustin, and Marabelle.

Tim Kauffman - Assistant Chief Pilot, CFII

Tim is our assistant chief flight instructor here at Smoketown Flight Center. From Flight Reviews to stage checks, or multi engine training, he can do it all. Tim is a very experienced instructor, and a local resident of Lancaster County.

CFII Josiah Smucker

Hello all! I’m Josiah. I’m a CFII here at Smoketown, and teaching others to fly is my passion. From start to finish, I can help you achieve your goals of becoming and aviator.

CFII Joe Brown

Hello! My name is Joe Brown, I am a CFII from Oxford, Pa. My passion for flying is evident in my instructing approach. I enjoy working with students of all ages and experience levels. I am excited to help you reach your aviation goals!

CFII Kyle Weller

Hello! My name is Kyle Weller am a CFII from northern Virginia. I am excited every time I go flying and I hope to pass that joy along to everyone I fly with. I enjoy flying with all levels of pilots and helping people reach their goals!