Pilot in cockpit operating small aircraft with visible flight instruments and controls.

Who are we?

We are aviation enthusiasts wanting to help others learn the joy of flying.

At Cloud 9 Aviation, we pride ourselves on expert level training with a friendly personal touch. You will walk away from our hanger with more knowledge and a smile!

Whether you have ambitions to fly commercial airliners, or want to explore a new hobby, we are here to help you achieve your goals!

  • Two people smiling near a small airplane, one sitting in the cockpit.

    Tim Hillgartner (CFI, CFII, Gold Seal Flight Instructor)

    FOUNDER & FAA Certified Flight Instructor

    Over 1000 hours of dual given, a full time instructor, with a flexible schedule to help from obtaining your certificate to a flight review, and everything in between.

  • Silhouette of a person in front of a bright circular light source, creating a halo effect in a dark background.

    Larry Long (CFI, CFII)

    FAA Certified Flight Instructor-Aerobatics

    Several years of Aerobatic instruction as well as Private through Instrument rating knowledge and capabilities.

  • Person standing next to a lime green single-engine airplane on a tarmac under a cloudy sky.

    Dante Bartolotta (CFI)

    FAA Certified Flight Instructor

    I got my private pilot in 2012. After a few years in the Marines I decided to peruse flying as a career. I am a CFI with a high performance, high altitude and tailwheel rating and experience flying cirrus aircraft. I will be getting my CFII and MEI soon and am a future first officer at Skyward aviation.

  • Person standing in front of a small aircraft on a runway under a blue sky with clouds.

    Levi Thorpe (CFI, CFII)

    Certified Flight Instructor

    As a dedicated Certified Flight Instructor at Cloud 9 Aviation, I am passionate about providing high-quality flight training with a strong emphasis on safety, precision, and student confidence. Holding a high-performance endorsement, I specialize in guiding aspiring pilots through every stage of their training, from their first flight to advanced certifications.

    With a commitment to fostering a supportive and professional learning environment, I tailor each lesson to the individual needs of my students, ensuring they develop the skills and knowledge necessary for success in aviation. My ultimate goal is to help students achieve their aviation dreams while continuing to advance my own career toward the airlines. Whether you’re beginning your journey or refining your expertise, I am here to help you navigate the skies with confidence.

  • Silhouette of a person against a bright circular light in the background, creating a halo effect.

    Nathan Jones (CFI, CFII)

    I am a full-time Certified Flight Instructor here at Cloud 9 Aviation. My flight training and degree were completed through Kent State University’s College of Aeronautics and Engineering. As an ambitious and adaptable aviator with a strong work ethic, I focus on developing good aeronautical decision-making, dependability, and clear communication skills.

    I utilize these skills to effectively train aspiring pilots, helping them become safe and proficient in all aspects of aviation. My approach involves creating tailored learning experiences to meet each student’s needs, ensuring they develop the necessary knowledge, judgment, and skill for both flight and ground tasks. This training helps improve pilot performance in risk management, planning, and the execution of general aviation flight operations.

    Whether you are a brand-new aspiring pilot working toward your certificates or simply need a flight review, I am here to help you reach your aviation goals.