History of SML Aviation
SML Aviation has a long and diverse lineage, dating back to the early days in aviation with over 40 years of experience.
Employed at SML Aviation are highly trained flight instructors that pride themselves on being professional and committed to providing some of the best training available in general aviation. Our training center provides instruction for private pilot ratings through commercial as well as some advanced endorsements. Our top of the line training is focused on a combination of stick and rudder skills, aeronautical decision making, and structured academics. Our unique location provides a level of training that most airports cannot give. All of our aircraft are maintained to an exceptional standard and our unparalleled maintenance program assures a clean, safe, and reliable aircraft for our students.
Providing Excellence In The Art Of Flight is more than just a slogan, it's our way of doing business with each and every student.
Meet the Owner
Captain Jason Grieff purchased SML Aviation on November 1, 2017. His flying career began in June of 1976 at the National Aviation Academy in St. Petersburg, Florida. On his second solo takeoff in a Grumman American AA1B, with only 12.8 hours logged, the #2 piston separated from the wrist pin and promptly went through the cowling. With the calm voice of the Tower's controller for guidance and his instructors voice in the background he made a successful landing. Since then he has logged over 38,000 hours and holds an ATP Airplane Single and Multiengine Land & Sea and is also a CFI, CFII and MEI. He has endorsements for Complex, High Performance, Tailwheel, and High Altitude aircraft and recently added ICON Certified Flight Instructor to his list of accolades.
Jason recently retired as a Senior Check Airman for Southwest Airlines and held a FAA APD (Aircrew Program Designation). In October of 1998, he started Seaplanes R Fun inc. in Florida. In 2000, he moved it to Vermont adding the SML Aviation location in 2017.
Jason loves flying and working with people. When asked about SML Aviation and Seaplanes R Fun inc. he said "The folks that work with us are as honest as the day is long, competent and share a fun loving attitude."
Meet the Team
Chief Instructor
Airline Transport Pilot (AMEL), Commercial Pilot (ASEL, ASES), Certified Flight Instructor (CFII)
Parker Middleton
Assistant Chief Instructor
Commercial Pilot (ASEL), Certified Flight Instructor, High Performance
Courtney Cooper
Flight Instructor
Commercial Pilot (ASEL, AMEL) Certified Flight Instructor (CFII), Complex, Tailwheel
Jake Barber
Flight Instructor
Commercial Pilot (ASEL, AMEL), Certified Flight Instructor (CFII), Complex
Jacob Huschke
Flight Instructor
Airline Transport Pilot
(AMEL), Commercial Pilot (ASEL), Certified Flight Instructor (CFII), Complex
Russel Page
Flight Instructor
Commercial Pilot (ASEL, ASES), Certified Flight Instructor (CFII), Complex, High Performance, Tailwheel
Jack Phillips
Flight Instructor
Airline Transport Pilot (ASEL, AMEL, ASES), Certified Flight Instructor, Complex, Tailwheel
Tom Reeder
Sightseeing Pilot
Commercial Pilot (ASEL) David is a fantastic pilot and has been flying around Smith Mountain Lake for many years!
David Alphin
Maintenance
Private Pilot, Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic, Inspector Authorization
CP Elliott
Office Manager
Not a pilot but an all around sweetheart!