By GARETT VALCOURT
GARETT VALCOURT | The Advertiser
Ponce de Leon (PDL) High School student Luke Jackson recently earned his private pilot’s license, a
milestone that reflects both his personal discipline and the culmination of months of focused
training.
Jackson, a member of the PDLHS FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of
America), completed his first solo flight on January 14 under the instruction of certified aviation
trainer John Rohrbeck. His achievement marks the continuation of a family legacy in aviation, as
he follows in the footsteps of his father, who also holds pilot credentials.
Jackson received flight instruction through Double Bridges Aviation, a regional aviation training
organization that provides instruction for aspiring pilots. His training involved rigorous
coursework, flight simulations, and practical in-air experience to meet the Federal Aviation
Administration’s (FAA) standards for private licensure.
A quote from Leonardo da Vinci, “When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the
earth with your eyes turned skyward,” has often been cited in connection with Jackson’s journey
through aviation training.
According to school officials at PDL High School, Jackson remains a dedicated
student and continues to balance his academic responsibilities alongside his aviation goals.
His newly earned licensure represents a foundational step toward potential future opportunities in
aviation, either recreationally or professionally.
Staff Report 