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Become a pilot from the skies over Manhattan. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction with Isaac at Republic Airport, Farmingdale, NY.
★★★★★5.0 Rating on GoogleRepublic Airport, FRG
Visit Republic Airport
Find us at FRG in Farmingdale, NY.
We are Flight Training
Merlin Flight Training is a newly founded independent instruction school specialized in training pilots. The unique aspect of our instruction is that we train inside of our aircraft or your aircraft, making our instruction available to aircraft owners and those who prefer to rent.
Fixed Hourly Cost
Based on realistic flight times that exceed FAA Part 61 minimums, providing an expected cost of training with no surprises.
Flexible Payment
Accepts credit or debit offering multiple ways to pay for flight training at Merlin Flight Training.
Fast Track or Flexible
Fast Track Training or Normal Training enables you to meet time frame requirements or continue training around a job or obligation.
WELCOME!
Isaac Prestwich
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Owner, Merlin Flight Training
Republic Airport (FRG) · Farmingdale, NY
CFI
Certified
FAA
Approved
1-on-1
Only
My name is Isaac Prestwich and I'm the creator of Merlin Flight Training. I started my training in October 2022 and was taught by an instructor who now flies for the airlines. That mentorship shaped my safety-first philosophy, which I bring to every single lesson.
I train in your aircraft or mine—making personalized instruction accessible whether you own a plane or prefer to rent. My teaching method challenges every student to be not just a licensed pilot, but a safer one.
✈Personalized 1-on-1 instruction — no group classes
🛡Safety-first philosophy: IMSAFE, weather briefing, FAR/AIM
🔄Train in your aircraft or Merlin's — total flexibility
📍Based at Republic Airport (FRG), Farmingdale, NY
⚡Fast-track or flexible pacing — you set the timeline
🎯From Discovery Flight to Commercial — all levels
What Makes a Safe Pilot
Throughout my years of flying, I have learned many aspects of what determines a safe pilot. When I first started my training in October of 2022, my instructor at the time—who now flies for the airlines—taught me the fundamentals of what it means to be a safe pilot.
Those early lessons laid the foundation for how I approach aviation today. As I continue to learn and grow in experience, I've come to realize that safety isn't just determined by the rules, but instead it is defined by mindset, discipline, and ability to manage risk. Through my own experiences and shared wisdom of other fellow aviators, I have identified a few key traits of what makes a safe pilot.
These principles have guided me throughout my training and career as a pro-pilot, and I will continue to rely on these concepts every time I step into the cockpit.
Weather Briefer
Not all pilots are meteorologists. A weather briefer is a professional who gives a synopsis on forecast weather conditions. Safe pilots understand they are most likely not professional meteorologists, so they will call ahead of their flight and get a weather briefing.
It's free and takes 10-15 minutes! This helps determine whether it is safe to fly, weather permitting.
📞 Dial 1-800-WXBRIEF
Enter your state code to connect with a professional
Pilots Are Human Beings Too
Have you ever tried to do something strenuous while sick? It can be difficult—simple tasks become burdensome. Now imagine being in an aircraft trying to do a plethora of tasks while sick. That's why pilots use the IMSAFE acronym before flights:
Illness
Medications
Stress
Alcohol
Fatigue
Emotion (and Eating!)
Paying attention to our body will pay back in the future, especially when flying.
Know the Regulations
The FAR/AIM (Federal Aviation Regulations and Aeronautical Information Manual) is lengthy—over 1200+ pages. Great pilots sit down, memorize the regulations, and then apply them to their everyday flying.
Some great starting points:
14 CFR 91.205
ATOMATOFLAMES
14 CFR 91.103
NWKRAFT
14 CFR 91.3
Pilot in Command Authority
Remember: All regulations have a reason—they may have possibly been written in blood.
Overall, what makes a safe pilot is the preparation they take before the flight to be as prepared as possible. Besides the actual flying aspect, that's one way I have found that works for others in making a safe choice. I hope you all enjoyed this read and were able to get something from it.
As always, Fly Safe!
Why Choose Merlin
Professional instruction, modern aircraft, and unforgettable experiences
Safety First
Meticulously maintained aircraft and strict safety protocols ensure every flight meets the highest standards.
Expert Instructors
Learn from FAA-certified flight instructors with thousands of hours of experience and a passion for teaching.
Every Merlin student trains with an instructor who was once in your seat. The best candidates earn a spot on our team. Learn about the career path →
Stunning Views
Witness the Statue of Liberty, Manhattan skyline, and iconic landmarks from a unique aerial perspective.
Flight Training Programs
Whether you're pursuing your private pilot license or looking for an introductory discovery flight, our comprehensive training programs are designed to help you achieve your aviation goals.
- Introductory Discovery Flights
- Private Pilot License Training
- Instrument Rating Courses
Focused Flight Training
We focus on one-on-one flight instruction and practical training that helps you progress confidently toward your pilot goals.
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Discovery flights for new students✈
Private, Instrument, and Commercial training✈
Structured progression with FAA-certified instructors