Smoketown Flight Center LLC was founded to be more than just a flight school you can find online. We are a dedicated team of pilots, mechanics, and aviation enthusiasts, operating as a small veteran-owned business that has been growing since 2014. As a small business, we have the unique advantage of getting to know each pilot as a person — not just a number. At Smoketown Flight Center, our mission goes beyond helping students pass their checkrides; we are committed to helping every pilot become the best aviator they can be.
One of the key tools we provide students is access to safe, well-maintained aircraft. Our in-house maintenance team also minimizes downtime, keeping planes available and ready for flight so students can focus on learning without unnecessary delays.
Looking ahead, Smoketown Flight Center remains committed to staying at the forefront of aviation training. We continuously update our knowledge, maintain relevance within the industry, and evolve alongside the ever-changing world of aviation to provide the highest-quality training experience.
Garrett manages and oversees both airplane and helicopter flight training at Smoketown Flight Center, working closely with instructors to ensure the highest quality of instruction. He conducts stage checks with students, helping them stay on track with Smoketown’s programs while incorporating his extensive real-world experience.
Garrett began his aviation career in the Air Force as a jet engine mechanic. After leaving active duty in 2011, he continued in the Air Force Reserve while pursuing civilian flying. He has accumulated roughly 8,500 hours of flight experience, primarily in Robinson helicopters. In addition to flying, Garrett oversees the Robinson Service Center Maintenance division and is a Robinson Helicopter Factory-Trained IA mechanic. His combined expertise in both flying and aircraft maintenance allows him to train and support pilots at a higher level.
When he is not flying or working on aircraft, Garrett 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 who passes the test.
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 serves as the Chief Airplane Flight Instructor at Smoketown Flight Center, bringing extensive experience and expertise to every aspect of flight training. From flight reviews and stage checks to multi-engine training, Tim can guide students through all phases of their aviation journey.
A Lancaster County local, Tim also works as a Global flight instructor at FlightSafety in Wilmington, DE, bringing a wealth of professional knowledge and real-world experience to his students at Smoketown.
Douglas Beach is a proud native of Bel Air, Maryland, but has been living in the Lancaster area for the last 6 years. A musician by trade, he has served as a church music director and collaborative pianist for over 10 years. Douglas began his flight training right here at Smoketown Airport, and is thrilled to be a part of the team!
Hello, I’m David Thompson, a CFII for fixed-wing aircraft. My journey began with an internship at Lancaster Avionics during high school. I went on to join Air National Guard as an avionics maintainer, gaining hands-on experience with aircraft systems, and developing a strong interest in aviation. I then decided to pursue my dream of becoming a professional pilot and my passion for flying really “took off”. Now, I’m committed to helping students grow into safe, confident, and knowledgeable pilots!
Hello! My name is Jake, and I am a CFI from Manheim, PA. As a child, my love for aviation began when my grandfather took me to the Lancaster Airshow. After graduating Manheim Central High, I attended Saint Francis University where my aviation journey began. While not in the air, you can find me in a sand trap at a local golf course, watching football, and spending time with my wife, Tori, and my dog, Brooks.
Log in