Over the course of the 2 years (I moved for work a lot) it took me to complete my pilot certificate, I was fortunate enough to be exposed to a variety of flight schools and flight instructors. The majority of my flight training coming from a part 61 flight program in TN. My landings were inconsistent, my flight knowledge limited, in fact I was afraid at times to land the plane because I was unsure how to do so. I met Dimitri by what I know to be an act of God. I am confident that had I not met Dimitri I am not sure I would have ever finished my flight training for fear of crashing the airplane. After a few (6) flights with Dimitri, I learned how to trust, control and fly the airplane with confidence and skill that I didn't know possible. So much so, that when going to my next instructor, and during the check ride, I was told that I was over proficiency standards, in landing and handling the airplane. I received praise from an examiner who is strict and known to be one of the most meticulous, for being so proficient in my SOP's and Landings. He wanted to know where I learned my skills and I told him Stratos Aviation. Dimitri focused on the fundamentals, giving me tools (readings, experiences, books) and class room training that prepared me to be in the air and to fully think about what was actually going on at the controls of the airplane. Dimitri, is a highly competent, professional flight instructor who has experience and knowledge important to developing the best of pilots. Learn to fly and Fly Stratos! read more

I started my private pilot license with another local Greenville flight school years back. I had two lessons with the other school. In that short period time I had multiple, very young instructors who knew how to fly but did not know how to teach. The second lesson was so bad that I quit the school and went away from flying for 3 years. Three years later I decided to come back to flying but this time I did my homework. I asked local pilots which was the best school. I asked a professional jet pilot and a private pilot who has been flying for 40 years. They both said Stratos Aviation. I started to do my research and learned that Stratos I learned that only 9 flight schools in the country (and only one in South Carolina) earned the AOPA recognition of Outstanding Flight School and Flight Training Experience award. I've found the staff professional, accommodating, and very friendly. More importantly the instructors are focused on SAFETY and learning to fly in the proper manner. Stratos Aviation is simply the best flight school in Greenville. read more

12 months ago I began the journey of my Private Pilot's license with Dimitri Partafyllas and Stratos Aviation at Greenville Downtown Airport. Today, I passed my check ride. The most gratifying feeling I have as I reflect tonight on the past 12 month's accomplishments, culminating in today's licensure, is knowing that no short cuts were taken in my training, nothing was rushed, my safety never compromised. I have the confidence to drive to the airport tomorrow morning and fly myself around because of the excellent training received. Stratos Aviation's motto is "When You're Serious About Flying". I now understand why. Flying is, after all, serious business. So if you're serious about learning to fly, the only time you should look to save is in looking for an instructor other than Dimitri Partafyllas and Stratos. Thanks, "D". You're the best. I'll see you in January to continue my training. JW Greenville, SC read more

My son and I had an introductory flight lesson this past weekend. The instruction could not have been more understandable and thorough. Dimitri, the owner and primary instructor at Stratos Aviation was extremely knowledgeable and a great teacher. (We all know that knowledge and expertise alone does not make a good teacher.) If we follow up taking the full course for private pilot instruction, we have no need to consider any other flight school. Dimitri is very personable and obviously enjoys immensely his role as an instructor. His instruction is geared to progress his students at THEIR rate of acquiring new navigation skills. read more

I've always wanted to fly as a kid. Stratos Aviation made that dream come true! I never knew how affordable flying lessons could be, not to mention how much fun it is! I'am hooked for life now and I will be pursuing a career in aviation. Stratos is a very nice school, they have the best prices, and a great fleet for any level of pilot. They have well maintained aircraft and a very friendly staff. Learning is FUN at Stratos. I will always refer every one I know to fly Stratos Aviation. Thanks Stratos Aviation for show me a whole new way of life. Merry Christmas and happy new year. Best school ever. read more

Can't say enough good things about Stratos Aviation and their professional team of flight instructors! I've obtained both my PPL and instrument rating with them and will begin my commercial training this week. Dimitri, Sarah, Alex, and Mark are all top notch instructors who have taught me to be a safe and professional pilot. Also, the planes are always clean and kept in tip top condition ready to go. Natasha does a fantastic job with all the plane bookings and runs the office super efficiently. Thanks Stratos Aviation for an awesome experience and helping me reach my aviation goals!!! read more

I shopped around for the right instructor and found Dimitri. He is patient, but makes sure you learn the task at hand while making the instruction enjoyable. I have flown with a couple of other instructors at Stratos and have been impressed with the experience and knowledge base. I am almost through with my Private and plan to get instrument certified with Stratos also. For me it was the best choice and one I will not regret. Cheers to the Stratos crew and all of their hard work and dedication to the industry. Thank you for being the best at what you teach! read more

Going to Stratos Aviation has been the experience of a lifetime! So far I have taken three introductory flight lessons, and I plan on continuing private pilot training with them. The flight instructor, Dimitri, is an experienced pilot who shows not only an aptitude for and considerable knowledge of flying, but also a genuine passion for teaching and a eagerness to pass on what he knows to the next generation of pilots. Even if you do not plan on pursuing a pilots license, the experience is definitely well worth it! read more

I had always wanted to fly on a small plane so my brother bought me an introductory flight gift certificate from Stratos Aviation for my birthday. Before the flight, the instructor explained everything in detail, and I felt comfortable throughout the day. The most exciting part of the flight was when I was controlling the plane for a while by myself! Overall it was an amazing experience and I would recommend Stratos Aviation to anyone looking to become a pilot or just feeling adventurous one day! read more

Took a flight today and it was awesome! I was given a brief understanding of each instrument and off we went. Got to take off and fly for 30 to 40 minutes over Greenville County. We traveled towards Table Rock, over to Furman University and back to the downtown airport. I was given a gift certificate for my "First Flight" and I couldn't be more excited! Stratos Aviation was awesome and I recommend this business to anyone who thought about trying something unique. Like Flying! DO IT! read more

I am a new student of Dimitri's. I have had 4 lessons with him so far and I am very impressed with him. He has an unbelievable ability to teach and is very patient with me. He teaches at my pace and safety is always on his mind. He is very calm and this has made me feel relaxed while flying. If you are considering getting your pilot's license, you need to contact Dimitri of Stratos Aviation first. You will not find a better, more professional, instructor. - Tal R. read more

I had an excellent experience at Stratos Aviation and its the friendliest flight school ever!! If you're in the area and have a dream of learning to fly an airplane this is the place to try out. Dimitri, is a very experienced, awesome and personable instructor. Your flight lesson will change your life forever. It's also affordable for those of you who have a dream of getting your pilot's license!!! Thank you for the great experience! read more

Memorial Day Weekend 2014 is now a date that I will always remember! Was able to experience the beautiful Upstate South Carolina in a way that so few people ever experience thanks to Dimitri! Was slightly nervous at first about flying, but Dimitri made it so easy to learn the concepts, and made it so much fun from the take off point to the landing! Can't wait to go again! Highly recommend flying lessons with Dimitri! read more