David Colangelo sent in these three photos, which include images of planes lined up at Hortman Aviation Services at Northeast Philadelphia Airport (KPNE) — “sadly only a few days before it closed its doors after many years,” he said.
The third is on final approach to runway 24 with the sun setting on the right and Philadelphia off in the distance on the left. “Does not get much better than that view!” he concluded.
I am truly sad about Mr Hortman. We enrolled my son into their program and we paid $9,000.
He went for instruction for about 6 times. His instructor called him and said the school closed.
We never received a notice and they never gave us our money back!!! We are out about $6-7,000.
There is no one to call, nothing. I think that is unfair!! How do people get away with that!!! We talked to a lawyer, but by the time he gets paid 40% plus expenses, is it really worth it??
Shame on Hortman!!!!!
Maria – So unfortunate. Your son should not give up flying; we need young pilots! Search “Philadelphia flight schools” and you will find options. See if any have pay-as-you-go, rather than in full up front, or request to pay per lesson, noting your Hortman experience. A good school might sympathize and, to get the business, allow that.
Regarding 40% plus expenses, contract type claims, where you can prove a rather precise actual loss, are not the typical type where the attorney fee is a %. If you want legal advice, with competition for legal work you might find someone who will charge a flat fee, or even a free first hour consultation, to let you know what your chances are. You can contact County Bar Association lawyer referral services, or the Pennsylvania Bar Association Aviation and Aerospace Section.
Good luck, and don’t let that young man stop flying!
Maria,
Did you get the money back yet? i am in the same situation as you, but just for $1000. If you want, you can email me at [email protected] to discuss any possible actions we can take to get our money back.
No, we did get a lawyer because of the amt we are out. I hope his wife does the right thing, but I have my doubts.
David, thank you for sharing. Sad indeed. Herb Hortman and Hortman Aviation showed the spirit of GA and will be missed; unfortunate that no one took over to carry on. (This Philadelphia gal will save your pictures.)
Quite sad indeed and its very unfortunate that no one took it over. It was a really great aviation center for the Philly area. Big selection of planes and no shortage of people to hang out with on a rainy day.