Hello, Randall. Yes, we are having a lot of fun with it and can’t believe that it’s been over a year that we’ve had it. My wife and I have said many times that we made a very good decision and we’ve told quite a few people how great of an experience that we had with you and your team.
We just got back recently from a week trip to Idaho and it was a blast. Getting ready later this week to join in on the 40th annual Navajo nation Christmas airlift of clothing, food, and other goods to Northern Arizona.
One last thing: a couple of friends and I built a hangar this summer and we now have the blue angel inside it.
Hoping that you, your family and the Van Bortel Family are doing well also!
Sincerely, Tom Sanders
Overgaard, AZ
Dear Mr. George Van Bortel,
Please excuse the informality and tardiness of this email. It has been over a month since we purchased N925RA, from Van Bortel Aircraft and it was a great decision! My name is Barry L. Feriend, and I am the proud pilot and polisher of the said T206H. Allow me to speak on behalf of the executive board at Joe R. Jones Construction Inc. (JRJ), when I say purchasing our aircraft from Van Bortel Aircraft, has been a most rewarding experience.
From our first "online" connection with your outstanding website and VBA's very own YouTube celebrity and spokesperson, Randall Funston (and I have had much fun teasing him about taking enough Sharpies to Oshkosh for all the autographs he'd sign!), to the incredible expertise and personable customer interactions with Gary and Paul in the High Wing Hangar, JRJ's aircraft has been treated like it was the only one in the hangar.
For any successful company or organization, the "first contact" is so important and Randall Funston is a great example. He answered every question, text, email with the utmost priority. He made sure we had what we needed to make the best decisions throughout the purchase and support after the sale. I teased him about his YouTube popularity but he is the genuine "pilot's pilot". Speaking of which, VBA's pilots, Barry#1 (I'm #2), Sterling and Mitch were so informative and wanted nothing more than for me to feel comfortable in my "new office"!
George, I had the privilege of meeting you when I was waiting for a ride back to Weatherford one afternoon. You stopped and introduced yourself in the middle of a busy day and I really appreciated getting to meet the VP! I knew immediately that all the wonderful interactions that I had had was a "top down" company approach to customer relations. It is no wonder that VBA is the best and largest Cessna dealership and service center on the planet!
Thank you very much for helping us complete our mission of reaching out to our 130 commercial project managers, superintendents and construction workers in over seven states!
Blue Skies,
Barry L, Feriend
Good morning Marsha,
I purchased N1955T last week and I have a question. As I recall from my previous purchase the federal registration will be sent in by you and after it is processed the feds send it to me. Is that still the process? I am handling our Wisconsin registration requirements.
I also want to thank you for taking care of us during the “fire drill” we put you through last Friday. Everything worked great and the airplane looks terrific.
Thank you,
Everyone,
I just wanted to say thank you for making today’s VBA aircraft delivery stellar. I’ve had constant communication from Sterling Mason and Randall since yesterday morning and before sun rise today. He’s a fine young man and loves what he does! He knew more about my airplane than the POH did. A fine VBA representative.
We went over the punch list together and EVERYTHING was completed perfectly in Arlington…kudos to everybody that touched this airplane during the last 4 1/2 weeks.
I’ve been enjoying scrubbing and shining for the last few hours. Problem is, even with the hangar doors closed and my car hidden from sight, numerous folks are stopping by to see the new plane. Probably should sell admission tickets!
Oh well, all from Collegedale TN. Thank you again and back to shining!
Very best,
Mike Brown
From: Glenn Schuch
Date: Monday, September 11, 2023 at 11:39 AM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N904GS
Randall,
Once again, thank you for your help with the sale of my TTx! Consistent with my purchase experience in 2015, everything was handled fairly, professionally, and without drama. It is very easy to see why you have such a loyal customer base. I look forward to dealing with you and Howard in the future, and will continue to recommend you at every opportunity.
Best Regards
Glenn Schuch
Dear George:
When I was looking for a good used Cessna recently, I was attracted to your company initially because of your return policy which Ibelieve is unique. Idid not feel I had the flexibility to travel around the country to look at used airplanes becausem y wife has some health issues, so this method of purchasing a used airplane with minimal risk was very attractive.
Cessna Skylane 182F N1344U looked good and James Towle was easy towork with, and I purchased 44U.
This airplane was out of annual so Jamestook care of getting a newinspection at your expense. You not only paid for several routine items such as new tires, but replaced one cylinder assembly at your expense when the compression check showed it was required. I'm certain many dealers would have tried to get the annual signed of without making this expensive repair, letting me find this problem later and pay for ti myself. The honorable way in which you operate is refreshing and maybe somewhat unusual.
Then your pilot had an electrical problem on the delivery flight to Indiana and had to put the airplane down in Missouri for repairs which took several days. James saw to it that the repair was not only made, but in the process, it seemed wise to install a new Plane Power alternator system (the airplane is 60 years old so repairs were not simple) wnich actually improved the airplane.
I want to thank you and compliment you for the honorable way you do business Feel free to contact me if you need a reference.
Robert D. Morris
Evansville, Indiana
From: Jack Ivester
Sent: Thursday, July 27, 2023 4:43 PM
To: Marsha Spence
Subject: Thank you!
Hi Marsha
Just wanted to drop you a note and let you know how much I appreciate your help in acquiring the aircraft. It was a pleasure working with you.
Have a great day!
Thank you
Jack Ivester
From: Craig Simmons
Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2023 5:14 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: RE: Van Bortel Aircraft: 377s needed reference N304CG
Thank you Laura!
You are truly the epidemy of customer service!
It will always be remembered!!
Have a great evening!
Craig Simmons
From: Matt Kiburz
Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2023 8:25 AM
To: George Van Bortel; Rusty Hoffman; Blake Childs
Subject: N375MT
Gentlemen,
I wanted to take a moment to thank you all for all the work and effort you put in to helping me get my aircraft repaired and back to me in New Jersey. I know I was frustrated quite often when we spoke. I apologize for being a jerk at times if I was. The aircraft is flying awesome. I have had several trips with it the last week and everything has worked flawlessly. Rusty you have been phenomenal and I cannot thank you enough for all of the conversation and advice. George sincerely thank you for getting home to me and for all the help. And Blake, you know I know that you are the man I think very highly of you, and you will always have my business. I hope you guys have a great week and weekend and I look forward to speaking to you soon.
Sincerely,
Matt Kiburz
President
Sentinel Systems LLC.
Cell: 201.705.2614
From: Brent Neely
Sent: Friday, April 07, 2023 10:43 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: RE: Elevator Tips
Thank you, Blake! I really appreciate you making that happen so quickly and finalizing the agreed upon details. It has been a great experience working with you.
I am going down the Ken’s shop this afternoon and see if he can get you the final bill.
Have a great day!
Brent
From: John Fletcher
Sent: Friday, March 24, 2023 11:32 AM
To: James Towle
Subject: Re: N616MC - Escrow is closed!
Hey James,
Awesome news! We can't thank you guys enough. We were beyond impressed with you, along with everyone else at Van Bortel. We will definitely be recommending and/or using you guys to purchase aircraft in the future. We appreciate you making this process enjoyable.
Thanks again,
John Fletcher
Fletcher Oil Company
Russellville, Arkansas
From: Gerald Gaige
Sent: Thursday, November 10, 2022 3:55 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Cc: Blake Childs
Subject: N2014S delivery today
Greetings George...
Blake kept all the cats herded in the same direction, and managed to get the transaction closed today - before the FAA office closed. He also organized pilots to bring the airplane - fly a familiarization flight with me - and take each other back to your base in another airplane passing through this region.
I have not yet written the "Raving Fan" comments, but I will. I notice you are averaging one every other month this year (5 total in 10 months) - so you are due one to end the year. Totally unsolicited, of course.
I enjoyed meeting your pilots - previously Carley, and today Daniel - who completed the delivery and final flight with me. You are providing magnificent opportunity for outstanding young people as they launch the long aviation careers in front of them. As opposed to me - who is winding down from a mountain of experience and enjoyment, and not wanting to let go.
Thank you for the classic key chain - and important pitot cover gifts that came with the paperwork bag - AND for the full tank of gas. None of those extra touches go unnoticed - and I am sure I am not the first who appreciates your class way of completing a transaction. I have a few questions I will write to Blake about - but this may be my last opportunity to update you - so let me send along my very best wishes for the remainder of your business year.
And special wishes for you and your family to have a peaceful and rewarding holiday period through year end.
Gere Gaige (& Larisa)
From: Pat Ringler
Sent: Monday, October 17, 2022 3:31:09 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Thank you, Laura!
Laura -- A quick note to let you know that N22DC made it to its new home in Tennessee on Saturday. The trip went well, the plane performed flawlessly, and the weather was good. Thank you again for everything you did for us, greatly appreciated.
As a first-time airplane purchaser, I was really wary of making a very costly mistake, so I spent months researching the recommended approach, and lessons-learned of purchasing an airplane. What I read online made me realize how naive I was and wonder if I should back away from aviation entirely – until I read the reviews of Van Bortel Aircraft. It’s rare to find over ninety percent positive reviews of any company or product, so I was convinced that I was missing something. Ultimately, based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, and the recommendation of a local aviation company owner, I contacted you about purchasing an airplane. You professionally and patiently helped me efficiently maneuver through the process.
The one mistake that I made was not financing the purchase through Van Bortel. I was lured by what appeared to be a lower interest rate thru an aviation finance company, but the process took nearly two months (three financing companies were involved in the financing process), and I was a victim of the ‘fine print’ which resulted in an interest rate higher than that available thru Van Bortel.
Thanks again for everything you did to make my first airplane purchase an enjoyable and exciting experience. If I decide to trade up in the future, you will be the first person I call!
Many thanks and have a great weekend!
Pat Ringler
From: Rob Mlinarich
Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2022 4:41 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: RE: Van Bortel Aircraft: reference sales tax
Hello Laura,
Thank you for the wonderful experience in the purchase of our Cardinal 177B.
The past couple weeks has been a pleasure working with you, your daughter, George and Barry.
The way Van Bortel does business is an exemplary model others should follow.
Thank you,
Rob & Beja
From: Bill Pearson
Sent: Thursday, July 28, 2022 8:58 PM
To: James Towle
Subject: Re: N1112L - Escrow is closed!
James
Thank you. I agree. It’s a beautiful airplane. Thanks for your guidance throughout the buying process. My compliments to everyone at Van Bortel. Everyone was so accommodating. Thanks for your help with the seat cushions.
After working with you, I can understand why Van Bortel is “The World’s Largest Cessna Dealer”. Thanks for everything
Regards
Bill Pearson
From: Heather N
Sent: Friday, April 15, 2022 11:08 AM
To: James Towle
Subject: C172 in Bermuda!
Hi James!!
I just wanted to let you know, since you were so kind and patient through this whole saga with me, that yesterday about 5pm local, our 172 diesel finally landed in Bermuda 😃
I found out that a pilot who used to fly 737s for my company was doing ferry flying, so he was the pilot this time. No snags along the way, it was shockingly smooth sailing the whole route from CYXU to Cape May, and then 6 hours over the ocean.
I just want to thank you so much for everything you've done along the way, in helping me above and beyond, and please let me know if you ever find yourself heading to Bermuda as I would love to take you up for a tour.
Hope all's well with you!!
Heather
From: Kevin Anderson
Sent: Monday, February 7, 2022 2:07 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Checking In
Hi Randall,
Love the airplane! I’ve got my final checkride scheduled next Wednesday, and then I’ll have my PPL! Beyond ready to take some fun trips with my daughter!!
I’ll be going straight into IFR training, so that’s my 2022 goal.
Couldn’t be happier with the purchase! I know her quite well, I’m right at 76hrs flight time thus far
Thanks for checking in! I’ll let you know how the summer goes, as far as AC, but so far, so good.
Kevin
Dr. Kevin J. Anderson
From: J. Anderson
Sent: Thursday, January 20, 2022 3:42 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Aircraft Purchase
I just purchased my first aircraft from Van Bortel and the experience from beginning to end has been nothing short of perfect. The communication was timely, as well as accurate and it was clear to me that Van Bortel hires and trains professionals within their industry. Laura and the sales team, as well as the finance and insurance professionals at Van Bortel were very successful in making my transactions, simple, seamless and very enjoyable. They stood behind everything related to the aircraft that I purchased and quite simply I can’t imagine purchasing an aircraft anywhere else. Thank you, Laura and the rest of the team, at Van Bortel.
J. Anderson
From: Phil Oppenheimer
Sent: Sunday, September 05, 2021 5:23 PM
To: Britni Loyd; Joy Forrest; Danielle Harless
Subject: N292ED
To all three of you,
I wanted to take a minute and send an e-mail to thank all three of you for the absolutely outstanding effort and coordination you did on getting the sale of N292ED closed in such a short timeframe. You certainly "Wowed" me.
Danielle, nothing new for you as we've been down this road before and you continue to impress me. I'm honored to do business with you and Red River State Bank.
For Britni and Joy, just like Danielle, can't thank you enough for the tremendous support and diligence in getting this done - yes, impressed would be a good word and I plan on using and recommending both of you and your companies (and Danielle/Red River State Bank) for future endeavors.
Thanks to all three of you once again. You Rock!
Best Regards,
Phil Oppenheimer
OP Aviation & Consulting LLC
From: Steven T. De Paul
Sent: Monday, August 09, 2021 10:37 AM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: 2008 Columbia 400
George,
I recently purchased a plane from your company. My sales manager was Scott Poliseno. This was my first purchase of a plane. I thought my experience was going to be grueling.
In fact it was the complete opposite. Every squawk or issue that came up was handled immediately and professionally.
I want personally thank your company and Scott for the pleasurable experience.
7/15/2021
Hi Joy:
When I decided to sell my aircraft, Van Bortel came to mind. Your reputation is well deserved.
I have never sold an aircraft before on my own. Dealing with you made me feel confident about the process.
Thank you kindly for making this an easy and smooth transaction.
Best regards,
Miguel
From: Kelly Hicks
Sent: Wednesday, June 9, 2021 8:58 AM
To: Lechelle Dippenaar
Cc: Randall Funston
Subject: RE: Follow up on N352ME
My experience has been 5 Star plus. I can honestly say Van Bortel customer service is likely the best in the aviation world. I trade every couple years, and I 100% will buy from Van Bortel aircraft again.
Thanks for reaching out. I’m usually available on my cell phone 815-558-7617. I have plans to visit someday soon and test fly a 182. –Kelly Hicks
PS. I added an Ipad 4 Mini and MID-CONTINENT DIGITAL CLOCK USB CHARGER MD93 2.1 AMPS FAA TSO to the RH dash.
From: Jeff Billman
Sent: Wednesday, May 26, 2021 3:46 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Following Up
Hey Randall,
Things are going great up here in Montana (if it would ever quit snowing!) My family and I are absolutely loving the new airplane. I didn't realize how much more we had been flying it than the old one until I noticed I'm about due for an oil change. I did a lot more mountain sightseeing over the Winter than I ever would have in Warrior. And we've done a couple decent cross countries. We flew down to Rapid City a few weeks ago to check out Mount Rushmore. And I'm flying over to Coeur d'Alene on Friday to pick up a friend for the long weekend. I'm also planning to start on my IFR training.
I attached a few of the better Montana flying pictures I've taken from the new plane. High wing definitely improved my photos. ha ha..
Jeff Billman
From: Erryn Barkett
Sent: Monday, May 10, 2021 10:22 AM
To: Lechelle Dippenaar
Cc: Randall Funston
Subject: N625TA
Lechelle,
Good Morning to you and the fine crew at Van Bortel. Thank you for reaching out to me, post purchase, to check on how the airplane and I were getting along. I have put about 130 hours on N625TA since our purchase in December of 2020. We have flown, Coast to Coast, down to the tip of Florida and have made multiple trips to visit our son at Ole Miss. We are planning a trip to Maine in June and a Bahamas trip in August. Needless to say, I love this airplane.
I am rarely moved to write about a buying experience, but in this particular case I feel that I need to.
As you know, purchasing an airplane is an arduous task. From sourcing the right plane, to obtaining financing, to pre buys and everything in between, it takes time. Time is what most of us who buy airplanes are trying to create more of!
N625TA will be the third airplane my Family and I have owned. We started with a Cessna 172, 20 years ago. We upgraded to a Mooney 20J in 2017 and upgraded again to N625TA in 2020. I have been flying for 31 years and maintain my CFI plus multi instrument commercial licenses, so flying is a part of my business life and my Family life.
The buying process through Randall at Van Bortel was a pleasurable experience. Randall, was patient with me as we discussed cessna 350's 400's TTX's, and fnally the T206H. The financing process with Brian was straight forward and efficient. The day that we flew to pick up N625TA at Van Bortel was exciting. We met George Van Bortel, were treated to coffee and amenities and quite frankly felt like we were dealing with long time friends. The reception staff, mechanics and literally everybody that we crossed paths with were a delight to deal with.
Lastly, our delivery pilot Mark, was professional and helpful as he helped me transition to the G1000. Flying from Texas to Virginia with multiple stops truly helped me get checked out in the plane.
Thank you all for such a good experience. I will be recommending Van Bortel to all of my flying friends. If any of you find yourselves in or near KROA, please reach out, as I would like to return the wonderful hospitality that all of you showed to me.
Have a great Week
Erryn M. Barkett
N625TA
From: ROY, DAVID
Sent: Wednesday, May 5, 2021 3:23 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Hello!
Good afternoon Randall,
Hope all is well!
I wanted to send a quick note regarding N524TM (now known as C-GTDR). I’ve had a great first few months with the aircraft, have put over 50 hours on it and am really enjoying it so far. Thank-you for your help and customer service a few months back. Please keep in touch.
Looking forward to the next one in a few years!
David
From: Thomas Hansen
Date: March 16, 2021 at 5:37:03 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: N66HE
Randall,
Thanks for the e-mail. They were finally were able to fix the gremlins with the oil pressure and the vacuum. Still have some intermittent problems with the oil temp but it has worked the last couple of flights. The plane is great and your team has been awesome to work with. I really appreciate you all standing behind your product and working with me to fix the plane. I have been so busy the last couple of months as the boat business has been crazy busy, I have not has as much time to fly as I would like. Looking forward to some quality flying time in the next few months. Thanks again for the great support....you all have a first class operation.
Thanks
Tom Hansen
From: Jeff Billman
Sent: Thursday, February 18, 2021 11:22 PM
To: Randall Funston; Brian Bourett
Subject: Finally got to fly her.
Randall,
First off, I hope you guys are weathering the storm ok down in Texas. Montana weather isn’t for everyone (especially when things aren’t built for it!)
But I just wanted to reach out and let you know I FINALLY was able to fly 125JA home today. I was blown away by the performance and quality. My whole family was equally impressed. So I wanted to thank you both.
If not for my dealings with Van Bortel, I probably would have ended up with a 70’s era Dakota or 182. But instead, I ended up with my dream plane. So thank you both (and your entire team)!!
Stay warm, and safe!
Jeff Billman.
From: Amy Chubbs
Sent: Friday, January 08, 2021 9:05 AM
To: Joy Forrest
Subject: Shaun
Good morning Joy. I wanted to let you know that meeting and working with Shaun was just wonderful! What an amazing young man! He was very personable and a great listener. He wanted to know all about how Tim and I took so many adventures and as a result turned “saying goodbye” to the plane more into a celebration of all we got to do. Such a gift!
If there’s anyway he could be the pilot you send to ferry the plane back to Texas, I’d love to have him do it and get to see him again. Maybe treat him to lunch or dinner.
I got the keys to Gus at Chino Aviation. I gave him my phone number and email to let me know how it went and when he was done. He spoke very highly of Van Bortel. Said he had even gotten to come to your place at one point.
Shaun helped me go through the plane and determine what needed to stay with it, which was also very helpful. I hope you guys know you have a keeper with him!
Thank you again for all your help Joy. Shaun talked about how amazing you were too. I feel like I have been guided into the most caring, wonderful hands.
Hopefully it’s smooth sailing with Gus on Monday. I’ll look forward to hearing from you. Have a nice weekend!
Amy
From: Dick Matheny
Sent: Wednesday, December 30, 2020 7:29 PM
To: Howard G. Van Bortel
Cc: James Towle; Craig Matheny
Subject: Recent aircraft purchase
Good afternoon Mr. Van Bortel.
I just completed the purchase of a Cessna Stationair , N930CT, from your company. The sale was a rush job that needed to completed this year and unfortunately put a considerable amount of pressure on your staff to meet our schedule. I apologize for what happened.
The reputation of Van Bortel Aircraft for being the best Cessna dealer in the country was proven again by the outstanding performance of your entire staff involved in our purchase of N930CT.
The aircraft had not been at Van Bortel long enough to be prepared for sale but James Towle said he would everything he could do to make it happen for us. Let me tell you as the manager of a high tech manufacturing company I have rarely seen such impressive performance for a first time customer.
On very short notice the aircraft was delivered to Hammonds Aircraft Maintenance in Homa La. By your pilot Brandon Melendez. Brandon’s professnalism during the check flight with my son Craig , a pilot for Petroleum Helicopters Inc., was outstanding. He represents your company very well.
Hammonds Aircraft Service did an excellent job of the pre buy inspection and will be doing the annual next week. They operate an excellent service facility per Craig’s report to me and he is qualified to make that statement as he is the Manager of the PHI heliport at Homa.
Thank you for being the best Cessna dealer in the entire country and supporting my family in our first purchase an aircraft.
We wish you and all your company a Happy New Year
Richard K. Matheny
CEO
Westnet Inc.
Huntington Beach Ca.
From: Dennis Petrie
Sent: Tuesday, December 22, 2020 3:27 PM
To: Joy Forrest
Subject: Plane Sale Finalized
Hi Joy,
I have one question for you. Can you tell me where to send my glowing testimonial of you and all of your professional colleagues. I wasn’t sure if it was on the website, your boss, or the president. I went into the process not knowing what to expect, but everyone, and especially you, made this pretty easy. Closing went off without a hitch. I interact with a lot of GA pilots. If anyone shows any interest in buying or selling a plane I will give him/her your name and number.
I hope you have a Merry Christmas and New Year with your family and friends.
Best regards,
Dennis
From: Rick Cordary
Sent: Friday, December 04, 2020 2:12 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Experience
Hello George,
I just finished the transaction on N2438A and I cannot say I have ever had a more enjoyable experience with a company than I have had with yours. From my first contact with Blake, he has been wonderful. Brian and Matt Carlson were great as well. I know, that kind of a customer service attitude starts at the top and works its way down. Congratulations you have a first class operation which is what about a half dozen people (mechanics, people on the 182 Facebook group) told me I should expect.
Blake also just offered the $3,000.00 which I would be embarrassed to take so he is notating that as a credit on your books that probably won’t be used or seen again until I come back for a newer plane.
You have a great webpage (I credit ours with our growth) and fantastic customer first attitude. All you are missing is a mess of 5 star Google reviews! We have 1241 ;-)
Have a wonderful weekend and thanks again!
From: Stephen Rumbley
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2020 7:14 PM
To: Joy Forrest
Subject: Re: N3YU is Closed!
Joy - it has been so pleasant to work with such a professional organization! Thanks again for all the help and support - Enjoy the holidays.
Steve
From: Sloan Manning
Subject: N302WD
Date: November 10, 2020 at 6:21:46 PM EST
To: Laura
Laura,
I just wanted to say how thoroughly pleased I am with your attentiveness and effectiveness in making my purchase a complete success. This is my second purchase from Van Bortel in the last 10 years.
We discussed my preferences and you found the perfect airplane, handling all of the avionics upgrades I wanted, and delivered an amazing product. Cody is a great CFII and the training day and demo trip back to NC from TX was a pleasure. The two squawks noted on the return trip were fixed and paid for promptly with no questions asked.
I now have exactly what I was looking for and you to thank for it.
I will recommend you and Van Bortel first and foremost to anyone who I know looking for a great airplane.
Amazing, just amazing. I remain a raving fan.
Sloan Manning
From: Steve Walton
Sent: Monday, October 26, 2020 7:45 AM
To: George Van Bortel
Cc: Randall Funston; Felicia Hale
Subject: Kudos to the sales and delivery team of N749RS
Mr. Van Bortel,
We met recently when I took delivery of a T182T, N749RS. I flew the aircraft home to KPHF in Newport News, Virginia. I’m very happy with the plane.
I wanted to take a moment to thank your staff for their efforts to make this a painless sale. Randall Funston made the process straightforward; the acceptance of the aircraft was a painless process, and the questions I had were resolved quickly.
Please pass on my personal thanks to Miss Felicia Hale for her attentive support during our visit. Her work on my rental car return save me several hours of effort; and she made us feel right at home. Finally, unfortunately I do not recall our pilot’s name, but he did a great job in introducing us to the aircraft in flight.
I look forward to working with your team again.
Thanks so much!
Steve Walton
General Manager
Aery Aviation
From: michael macfarlane
Sent: Thursday, October 22, 2020 2:32 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: N65514: Thanks
Laura I know you have a web site that post testimonials. Feel free to post this. Hopefully my issues are behind us but if not i'm not worried you and Van Bortel will do whatever is right.
I would like to say thank you to everyone at Van Bortel for the service and attention they gave me before, during and after I purchased a 182T. I started looking for a clean 182 about 2 years before I purchased one from Van Bortel. I told my sales person, Laura, what I was looking for and what I had hoped to pay. I told her it had been several years since I had flown and that I wanted to get started again because my son had recently received his privet license and we were going to work on our instrument ticket together. She took the time to discuss traditional round gages and some of the new features available with glass. Finally I decided on something with a G1000 which narrowed the search list considerably. Every time they would purchase or trade another 182 for inventory she would either call or text followed with an equipment list and usually a phone call. After a few of the aircraft, it became evident planes were selling faster than they could replace them and I better make up my mind quickly and it just so happened the next 182 she told me about sounded perfect. I told her I would take it and she ask for refundable deposit, no problem. Since they had just received the unit even though it was presold they took the time necessary to make sure the aircraft was in tip top shape with things like fresh oil, updates that were recommended on the G1000, altimeter check and any other maintenance items.
Finally I took delivery. The Van Bortel delivery pilot knowing I was unfamiliar with the G1000 and knowing I had been away from flying for some time took all the time we needed to show us many of the G1000 features and help familiarize us with the plane. The day after delivery we took to the sky for a quick trip to Fredericksburg Texas and a $100 hamburger (which was great). Upon return we filled up with fuel and put the plane away with intentions of another flight the next day which was Sunday. After preflight we hopped in ready to go, however when we flipped the avionic circuit bus on the radios went dead. Distraught I called Laura (on Sunday) and she answered. After I explained the situation she had 2 other people in touch with me in within minutes. They determined there was indeed an issue and quickly decided the plane needed to return to Arlington for repair. When they picked up the aircraft, unfortunately everything operated correctly. I had a dreaded intermittent electrical problem. The folks in the radio shop took the time to check and recheck until they too had an issue. They fixed what they hoped was the problem and offered to return the aircraft to me. I talked with my son and we decided he needed a cross country so they delivered the plane and we flew back with them. Everything worked beautifully, however the next day the gremlins came back. I called Laura, without hesitation she scheduled a pickup the following Monday. When they arrived this time com 2 was not functioning at all. Laura had told the folks in the avionics shop what was going on so when the aircraft arrived they had a game plan. She said they had discussed the situation and at no additional cost to me they were going to replace the unit. Within a week they returned the aircraft and apologized for my inconvenience.
I am so thankful I decided to buy from Van Bortel. I cannot imagine what a nightmare this could or would have been if I had purchased from an individual or another dealer who might a different viewpoint when it comes to customer satisfaction. Thank you, Laura and Mr. Van Bortel you have made what could have been a disaster into a minor inconvenience. I see why Van Bortel is the number 1 selling Cessna dealer in the country, it’s simply, well...... you.
Michael
From: Greg
Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2020 1:31 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Van BorteL: Pickup Pilot
This morning I received the check for the return of N352ME as George Van Bortel had promised. I am satisfied with the outcome of this transaction and will call in the future about other aircraft. Please thank the pilots for ferrying the aircraft and your maintenance staff for the thorough and meticulous repairs of the damaged plastic as we had discussed.
While the deficiencies in the H.S.I. and Freeway Airport's findings were minor, my busy schedule does not afford me the luxury of time for the appropriate remediation of such defects.
Again, thank you and Van Bortel Aircraft for the flexibility in resolving the concerns I had with returning the aircraft.
Greg.
From: Michael Lambert
Sent: Monday, July 20, 2020 8:03 AM
To: Gary Conover
Subject: Thank You for your Help!
N6383C:
Good Morning Gary and George!
I would like to thank you both for your support on this upgrade. It was successful. Not often do I get such cooperation from service centers as your's. Mr Ford was pleased with his system.I couldn't wave done it without you!
ManyThanks Again!
Mike lambert
Avionics Consultant
From: Mark Robidoux
Sent: Wednesday, June 24, 2020 7:07 AM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: My Experience
Feel free to use this testimonial...
Randall,
Thanks for making the purchase of my Cessna so enjoyable. Van Bortel really makes it easy! No sales pressure, convenient delivery, and I knew the airplane was going to be in showroom condition when it got here based on your reputation and warranty...and I wasn't disappointed. You guys weren't happy until I was, which I think says it all. I'd recommend your company to anyone looking to buy a late model Cessna.
--
Mark Robidoux
From: JAMES PAZSINT
Sent: Tuesday, June 23, 2020 8:26 PM
To: ACSales
Subject: Aircraft Purchase Report.
Dear George Van Bortel. I want to congratulate you on your first class business operation and your choice of certain employees of excellence. I was an Infantry Captain in the US Army and I flew over 1000 helicopter hours in combat in Vietnam. Then I came to Alaska in 1969 and was in command of over 700 soldiers of all makes, models, and creeds. When I left the Army in 1975 my wife and I started our first Texaco full service business and dealt with some 400 customers per day. Then I started Alaska Tire and Rubber Company in 1985 when I invented and manufactured the world's only authentic aircraft Tundra Tires the Alaskan Bushwheels, some 300 models. We are now retired and through all of this we have employed and/or supervised hundreds. I tell you this to assure you that I can give businesses an accurate critique/report on the job performance of their employees that are up front doing the job for their 'boss.' I have found that when I was blessed to have found and employed 'good people' it paid dividends for me to endeavor to keep them. When I wasn't fast enough to recognize what I had in a specific individual, occasionally some other employer reaped the rewards of my tardiness by 'stealing' one of my best upcoming workers. I learned to prioritize my observations and critique of incoming personnel in order to maximize my retention of the best. I have been dealing with one of your sales staff members for a few days now and my report to you is that I didn't hesitate to make my purchase of Cessna N60134 because James Towle made it happen in a most professional manner. He comprehensively did his job and I much appreciated his talented approach to caring for my every need during discovery, paperwork, payment, and aircraft prep through departure. From an employer's perspective I also noted and appreciated his thoroughness in caring and guarding his obligations to you and your business interests and requirements. So I confidently report and/or reinforce what you may likely already know about James, that he is 'good people' and that he should be provided incentive wise, whatever is necessary to retain him in your employ. My thanks to you George for having the right aircraft for me at this time and the right sales person who gave me the confidence and satisfaction I needed to much enjoy doing business with you. I gladly give my consent for you to use my highly positive comments pertaining to your business and employees in your promotions and advertising. And I also want to thank you George for your very personal touch in finishing our deal by seeing off my ferry pilot Ben Child and Cessna U206F N60134 which is now half way back to its new home in Wolf Lake Alaska. Thanks again George. Sincerely, Jim Pazsint.
From: Andrew Jones
Sent: Tuesday, June 2, 2020 5:07 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: GlassesRandall,
Yes, I’m totally enjoying my new plane! Very, very happy with the plane and the whole process of the purchase dealing with Van Bortel and thank you for the gift bag with the Yeti mug, hats and other items!!
Andy
From: Jason Heller
Sent: Thursday, May 14, 2020 2:16 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Thanks
Randall,
I’ve had a good experience with Van Bortel. You let us shop like we were looking at cars, and honestly that’s not the experience I was expecting. When I trade, upgrade, or get another one I’ll give you guys a call first. Easy and convenient....
From: Leo J. Swift
Sent: Wednesday, January 29, 2020
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Thank You
Laura,
I just wanted to say thank you for all your help. You and your company have been awesome to work with. You all exceeded my expectations and I will always be your biggest fan. If you ever need a reference for a potential buyer please let me know. As for me, I will always buy from you.
Have a great day,
Leo
Hello Cynthia and George,
As 2019 closes out, I like to think of all the people that have made me smile, over the year. You and George are two such people. Thank you both again for enabling me to purchase N2474C, which was a dream come true for me. From financing, to trading my 172, and delivering, all of your people are "first class". I appreciate how pleasant, patient, and down to earth you both were. I would look forward to dealing with you again, if thew need arises, but for now, I am extremely happy with my 182T. Thank you!
Have a wonderful New Year!!!
Kind Regards,
Neal McCarty
From: Roy James
Sent: Monday, December 30, 2019
To: Laura Howell and George Van Bortel
Subject: Outstanding Service
From: Kent Jeffries
Sent Wednesday, December 24, 2019
To: Laura Howell
Subject: N9495F
Hey Laura,
Flew for a few hours today in the 206H Turbo. The Plane is super nice. Thanks Again. It was a pleasure working with you. Merry Christmas.
Kent Jeffries
From: Otto Muller
Sent Wednesday, December 23, 2019
To: Joy Forrest
Subject: Re: N206ZB
Thanks Joy
You guys are one of the nicest and most professional companies I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with!!
Kind regards
Otto Muller
From: Mike and Kate Titus
Sent: Wednesday, December 18, 2019
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Delivery Update
Randall – thank you so much for your support and also a big thank-you to you, George and Cynthia for the awesome swag bag of good stuff! Across the board we’ve been impressed by the customer service. It was awesome to visit your place down there. All of your team, with no exceptions, were terrific to work with.
I’ll be touch once we get settled in.
Mike and Kate Titus
From: Landon Barnes
Sent December 9th, 2019
To: Tempist Evenson
Subject: Future Pilot
From: James Tilmon
Sent: Monday, September 30, 2019 6:33 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N422KB
Hey Randall, Just a note to thank you for everything on the airplane. It’s the airplane I’ve always wanted , and you helped make a dream come true. And even a swag bag! Now that’s special customer service. I brag about you all the time , cause you deserve it. Have a great night and take care.
All the best, Jim
Date: August 05, 2019
Subject: N1108P
Joy,
I flew N1108P to Cody, Wyoming, on Friday. Nice long flight – gave me plenty of time to punch buttons on the G1000 avionics suite. Took my wife for a flight on Sunday, and she approved of the plane. Minor issue with the dash – but I will address it. The plane was delivered in excellent condition – THANKS!
-Ray
Date: August 01, 2019
Subject: Raving Fan from the Columbia Owners Forum
So I see a lot of love here for Van Bortel, this is my story.
I promised my self a nicer, faster plane when the last of 5 hit college; this is that year. The Cherokee 6 had been great for the family, but Daddy needed a new car smell.
I was honestly looking at the Lancair IV, but between the horror stories and the fact that I couldn't do Angel Flights with an experimental, I had to start looking at a certified plane.
The thought of selling ours and then trying to co-ordinate buying a new one honestly made me tired.
Although my plane needed very little it was a nearly 50-year old plane and no one wanted it as a trade, at least for fair numbers.
I was looking on Controller and finally found Van Bortel. I started with the 400 but fell in love with a TTx.
From beginning to end, it took one week to agree on numbers, and they were super fair with my trade. Although I could buy the plane, they offered me a great finance deal. As a business owner financing, anything usually is a real PITA, but they got it done in just a few days with very little input from me.
The transport pilot was a great guy, and the demo was like getting a ride on an alien spacecraft. The next day he took the old Cherokee to Texas without an issue.
Today, two days later Van Bortel sent out an instructor, and we closed on the plane, and they got me a very fair deal on insurance. Every detail was done exactly how they said it would be — all of it inside of 2 weeks.
Like you guys and girls I've bought a lot of really expensive stuff, never have I had an experience like this, ever.
If you are reading this looking, hoping for the right plane. Call Van Bortel. Pray they have the one you want.
I dealt specifically with Blake Childs, Daryl Taylor, Rich Grue, Barry, Marsha, and a few others.
They all have my heartfelt thanks.
I can't thank everyone at Van Bortel for getting me the plane of my dreams; I'm sure there are many more that helped.
Two thumbs up Van Bortel, let me get my feet wet with the TTx, the Citation is next.
T. Russell
Date: July 24, 2019
Subject: I LOVE MY NEW SKYLANE!
Date: July 22, 2019
Subject: N637RM
Joy,
You have been a HUGE HELP and I really appreciate it. Thank you for making the process so easy. I hope to get back into a plane one day and start flying. When that time comes Van Bortel will be my 1st call.
Thank you,
T. Oliver
Date May 9, 2019
Subject: Raving fan from Floyd Ellmore
Blake,
Just want to say thank you for all your patience and support during this process. I know these sales can be difficult at times but you never displayed anything but a positive attitude towards every inquiry I had. Furthermore, please pass along to George my appreciation for his support and generous offer towards the cylinders on my plane. He is a stand- up guy that provides outstanding customer service. He sets a great example for his company to follow. Van Bortel is a class act when it comes to taking care of clients. I will spread the word about you guys. Again, thank you!
-Floyd Ellmore
Date May 7th, 2019
Subject: Touching Base
To: Tempist
Laura:
Once again, I wanted to say how great you guys were to work with, and how much I really did appreciate all of your hard work and efforts. I was a newbie to the entire process, and was always pretty uptight. After going through it, I really appreciated and respected the efforts by Van Bortel and yourself !
-Robert Anderson
From: Matthew Endrizzi
Sent: December 31, 2018
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N1141Y
Randall,
Just wanted to reach out to you with a few kind words. My wife and I appreciate the sincere amount of time you spent at the Carbondale fly in coaching, instructing, and teaching us what it is we needed in a new plane. I am positive that you get a tremendous amount of tire kickers so it must be exhausting talking about the same thing over and over again
If my memory serves me correct, I believe we even interrupted you while you were trying to have lunch. You promptly set your sandwich down and begin the next two and a half hours with us. For the next couple months we were back and forth and your patience was the next thing we appreciated. And then when I called you and told you it was time to get serious you did just that and gave us a good deal even though you had already done that a couple of times in the previous few months. All in all it was an excellent experience all the way down to the quick timing to the perfect instruction from Barry. My wife and I wish you the happiest New Year and if you ever need anything up in Illinois when you're there give us a call.
Thanks,
Matt
From: Stan
Date: December 18, 2018
To: Blake Childs
I spent several months looking around various sources for aircraft and did find some good information on aircraft and making your first purchase. I finally reached out to a few organizations selling gently used aircraft and asked a lot of questions of each of them. I have never had a more pleasurable experience than my interaction with Blake Childs of Van Bortel Aircraft. Blake took the time to talk me through the myriad of things I ought to be considering, discussing my experience, my flying desires, anticipated home base of my aircraft, financial aspects and more. I also spoke with Mr. Van Bortel who reached out to extend his interest in not just helping to sell me an aircraft but truly made me feel I was part of the Van Bortel family of customers and that I could always reach out to them for help in any way with my aircraft. Even after my purchase, a few items that would not likely have been found on my pre-buy inspection popped up, Van Bortal Aircraft stepped up and made sure things were taken care of fairly and reasonably with the aim to show they were partners not just for the sale but for the long term relationship. I would highly recommend at least giving the Van Bortal Aircraft team a chance to earn your business with a selection of incredibly well maintained aircraft – nothing but the best on the market. I am now a proud owner of a 2007 Cessna T182T and could not be more pleased.
Stan
Randall. I must say Van Bortel lives up to it’s reputation. The aircraft was delivered in pristine condition with everything up tp date. Also the delivery pilot, Santiago Escobar, was very polite, professional and very helpful on the delivery. A credit to your company. I’m sure I will have many questions for you in the next few weeks. For now, who do I subscribe to for updates on the nav data cards on the G1000’s. Thanks for all your help. It was a pleasure doing business with you. Regards. Ken Bishop
Impressive, impressive, impressive ... everything ... EVERYTHING was IMPRESSIVE!!!
My expectations are usually very high and I truly appreciate impressive products and service -- at resorts, cruises, restaurants, automobile dealerships, etc. I feel like I started at the top yesterday with Van Bortel Aircraft Inc.
Thank you for taking the time to come out and meet me. Thank you for your obvious pursuit of excellence with personnel, products, facilities, and service. You have created an excellent business -- it is no surprise that YOU are the #1 Cessna dealer in the world.
Ms. Forrest was outstanding in every way. She was friendly, perceptive, knowledgable, experienced, helpful, positive, and professional in every way. She really did inspire me to continue to pursue getting an airplane and reassured me that a TTX is what I really want. She wisely cautioned me that it is going to be like learning to drive a car in a Lamborghini and that I need to be extra careful with that much performance as a new pilot. It is very comforting to know that you and your team are there to offer the best in products, service, and encouragement ... and that if I break it, you can put it back together for me!
THANK YOU!
George B. Burriss II, PhD
FCI
Mickea —-thank you very much —- the purchase transaction was handled very professionally and with personal consideration —- I will contact Van Bortel when I am ready to buy my next airplane----best regards —- Jim Zerkle
From: Mike Skaggs
Recieved: August 10, 2018
Unmatched reputation in the aviation industry. You can’t go wrong with Van Bortel.
From: Chris Freeman
Sent: Friday July 27, 2018 9:20 am
To: Van Bortel Aircraft Inc./Facebook Recommendation
When in the market for a used Cessna dont even waste your time looking anywhere else these guys are top notch !!
Ive been buying cars trucks and planes for a long time and I have to say when buying my new Skylane these people have been amazing !! A +++++++++ and the sales guy, Randall Funston is the man ! Made sure everything was 100% upfront and professional thru out the whole deal even 3 months after the sale. Unbelievable customer service.
Chris Freeman
Google Review July 26th, 2018
Excellent place to do business with, great staff!
Tom Walker
July 23, 2018
Joy,
The funds have been received. Thank you for the work you have done with respect to selling my airplane. The entire experience was professional and forthright. You can be sure that in the event I'm back in the market I will reach out to you and Van Bortel.
Thanks,
Travis Peatross
From: Ken Friedkin
Sent: Friday, July 20, 2018 2:44 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Re:
Blake,
Now the fuel level keeps getting low. You think it’s because I’m flying it? Just kidding want you to know I’m really enjoying my new plane. She’s a pleasure to fly. Thank you for all your efforts. You made the purchase as easy and unstressed as possible. Great job to you and everyone involved at Van Bortel Aviation.
Cheers,
Ken Friedkin
From: Robert Young
Date: July 14, 2018 at 5:56:53 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N807VR
Hi Randall
Just wanted to send a note how happy I am to have purchased N807VR from Van Bortel
This was my second aircraft from Van Bortel and I cannot let you know how easy it is to deal with you. You make it all user friendly and easy for first time buyers (and 2nd)
without the worry of being taken advantage of. You guys are the best. I will not think about looking elsewhere in the future
Bob Young
From: David Long
Sent: Saturday, June 30, 2018 2:57 PM
To: Darryl Taylor
Subject: Thank you
Darryl,
Wanted to send a quick thank you for your help the other day. The mechanic had a tube in Houma and came over and fixed the tire in just a few hours. I really do appreciate your availability and affability. You are a valuable resource at Van Bortel and I cannot thank you enough.
David
From: Frank
Sent: Wednesday, June 27, 2018 7:01 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: RE: Magneto tracking number
Thanks Blake! I have to tell you - Van Bortel is a fantastic company to do business with. Maybe it's my NY mindset but I had my doubts that George would come through for me. Wow was I wrong! If I ever do sell this plane and move up I wouldn't think of going anywhere else.
From: van den Akker
Sent: Monday, June 25, 2018 8:23 AM
To: Edward Biggio; Darryl Taylor
Cc: Justus Schiedek-Jacht
Subject: Thanks for the great service (TTx)
Dear Darryl and Edward,
Just like to thank you for the great way you handled my 'cowling-crack’ issue. I just found out that Van Bortel covered for all the repair costs.
Of course it was a scary sight when the plane arrived at my home-base with this big crack. I have to admit that only after the repair I could fully enjoy flying it :-)
Justus and his team did a great job in repairing it and Darryl’s promise that Van Bortel will keep supporting the TTx even if the plane is flying in Europe was not just a pre-sale story.
Thanks again and I will not hesitate to share my positive experiences.
Chris (N259JA / PH-CHR)
C(hris).J.A.J. van den Akker
The Netherlands
Google Review
June 2018
This family operated business treats their customers like family. They are also an active supporter of Angel Flight South Central.
Wayne Maynard
From: Mark Finkelstein
Sent: Friday June 22, 2018 1:50pm
To: Van Bortel Aircraft Inc./Facebook
Over the last two months, I bought a Columbia 350 from Van Bortel, traded it back to them and bought a Columbia 400 from Van Bortel!
The first plane, a Columbia 350, was excellent, but I decided that the 400 offered some very attractive features.
It was a pleasure to deal with Van Bortel on both transactions. My salesperson was Randall Funston, and I also dealt with George Van Bortel, Darryl Taylor, Marsha Spence and Mark Merrell. They were all outstanding!
They were good to their word in every respect, resolved any issues that arose quickly and fairly, and delivered the plane to me in North Carolina on time and in beautiful condition. Thanks to DocuSign, the paperwork was a breeze. I also appreciated the fact that the deal was the deal. There were no last-minute add-on charges of any sort.
Some years ago, I bought a Columbia from another dealer and had it serviced by Van Bortel. Getting to know the Van Bortel folks, and the very high professional and ethical standards they maintain, I wrote them to say "wish I had bought a Van Bortel plane!"
This time I did, and am very glad to have done so. If you're in the market for a Columbia 350, 400 or Cessna TTx, I strongly encourage you to look first at Van Bortel. VB also has an interesting inventory of other planes worth exploring.
Do yourself a favor and get a Van Bortel plane!
-Mark Finkelstein
From: Neil Visse
Sent: Friday June 20, 2018
To: Van Bortel Aircraft Inc./Facebook
Thank you George and Cynthia for your help in finding the perfect C172 to add to our fleet of training aircraft! Flawless Transaction!
-Neil
From: Jared Levin
Sent: Wednesday, June 20, 2018 10:54 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Van Bortel Aircraft: N600PK Auth to Close
Hi Laura,
Thank you very much, it’s been a pleasure working with you!
Kind regards,
Jared
From: Lawton Floor Covering
Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2018 2:33 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: N248AP
Randall,
Many thanks for your interceding for me on this. You and George have certainly earned my business.
Please tell George that I do appreciate his model of business. We have tried to do the same here with our business, however I am painfully aware that this type of generosity is getting harder to extend in the modern service environment.
I did not have an expectation of George extending this kindness to me, only that I felt like it would be a fair and right thing to do. Even if he would have met me in the middle I would have been more than happy. I am most grateful.
I will look forward to seeing you soon at the CAART.
Talk soon ......
Will
From: Paul J Towell
To: Blake Childs
Sent: May 9, 2018
At the end of the day I care about 1. Working with VB again (my purchase of N 4169D last year was the finest transaction I have ever experienced. Specifically the professionalism, courtesy, time allocated to me by staff, and respect given to this first time buyer) , 2. The net trade difference which I would like to keep at $60,000 including the item listed next and 3. Having ADSB out installed – possibly a Garmin 345 with Bluetooth? I am hopeful that a transaction can be put together.
Google Review:
I was able to attend Lancaster GIFT week because Van Bortel Aircraft INC awarded me with a scholarship! Thank you so much!! The tour of their facility was amazing!!!
Juanita Attaway
Mr. Van Bortel:
I just want you to know what a great job Laura Howell did in the transaction of N2662B. This is the second Aircraft I have purchased from you.
I can say everything was well taken care of Thanks again for a job well done.
Sincerely
Ted McGuire
From: Rick Marriner
Sent: Monday, March 12, 2018 11:09 AM
To: Kalieh Newell
Cc: Brian Bourett; Randall Funston; Marsha Spence
Subject: Re: N1074C - Documents
Kalieh, Marsha, Brian and Randall,
Thank you all for the help on the documents!! It's always five-stars worth of support and help from the team at Van Bortel. Whenever someone compliments us on how great N1074C looks on the line (especially for being a 2005), I point them in the direction of Van Bortel for the work you do in making these planes turn key for new owners and like new! Besides an ADS-B in/out solution (GTX-345R with internal WAAS), I've not had to make any modifications to the plane all the way through a busy year getting trained and certified as an IFR pilot.
If y'all ever get sharp tail-dragger across your inventory, please let us know. Keira, my wife and fellow pilot, is interested in picking up a SuperCub or something overpowered with big tires to add to the fleet for fun flying and landing on random strips of dirt and grass.
With gratitude,
Rick
From: Janeen Kochan
Sent: Friday, February 16, 2018 10:53 AM
To: Laura Howell; Dennis Kochan
Subject: Re: N164ED
Good Morning, Laura:
I, too, am so grateful to you for your professionalism and contributions to making aviation (particularly aircraft purchasing) a pleasant experience. We will make sure to share the story of our journey with VanBortel with all of our friends and colleagues. You and your company set an excellent example for all businesses, not just those in aviation. Thank you for your care in helping us give N164ED (“Mr. Ed”) his new home!
Best Regards,
Janeen
1/19/2018 Yelp Review
Buying my Cessna 182S from Van Bortel was the right decision for me!
Buying a plane is such a huge investment and there are so many costly ways to get burned. That's why I found buying my plane from Van Bortel with their purchase protection plan was absolutely the way to go for me. I purchased a plane that gets compliments pretty much every place I land, paid a fair price and most importantly I found they really stood behind their purchase protection plan with integrity. That's probably why every single person that I've mentioned buying my plane from Van Bortel has also spoken very highly of them including other pilots, instructors, my insurance company and even the DPE for my instrument rating.
I also can't speak highly enough of Blake Childs from Van Bortel who helped me buy my plane and followed through on every single item during and after the sale. I highly recommend Blake and the Van Bortel team if you want to buy a plane with confidence at a fair price. I know I'll be calling Blake when it's time to upgrade.
Sincerely,
Hank Yost
From: Jim Segrave
Sent: Wednesday, January 17, 2018 4:46 PM
To: Joy Forrest
Subject: Re: N282JS is Closed!
Thanks Joy! Great working with you and your company as well. From the original purchase to the resale now - first class!
Jim Segrave
From: Jon-Michael Johnson
Sent: Friday, December 15, 2017 2:25 PM
To: James Towle
Subject: RE: N368ME Repairs
James,
Thank you. I need to tell you that you have won a customer for life. As long as I stay with Cessna models, I will buy my next plane from Van Bortel. This entire experience with you and everyone at Van Bortel has been fantastic. Even my mechanic at Pacific States Aviation told me that I didn’t need a prepurchase inspection if I was buying from Van Bortel. He bought a 172S from Van Bortel and was very pleased. Ironically, his plane was 138ME. They affectionately call my plane the big brother of 138ME.
If you guys need a customer testimonial for your website just let me know.
Jon-Michael
From: Rene Otero
Sent: Tuesday, December 12, 2017 10:26 AM
To: George Van Bortel; Randall Funston; Darryl Taylor; Mickea Smith; Edward Biggio; Luis C Nino
Subject: N3103B
Dear Sirs,
My friend Luis Nino tell me that VanBortel was the company to go to if I want to sell my beloved Caravan, and the first time that I knew all you people I was sure that he was not wrong. But now I am more than satisfied and impressed. What a great company! What a group of aviation professionals! Has been a pleasure to make bussiness with you. I hope I will have the opportunity to meet you again soon.
Only left to wish you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
Thanks for all!
Rene
From: John Anderson
Sent: Wednesday, November 22, 2017 1:47 PM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: Re: Closed!
Cynthia, thanks for the terrific experience. I am beyond impressed with the entire VB experience. I wish every industry had a market leader that followed the VB philosophy. Have a Great Thanksgiving.
From: John Boogaert
Sent: Tuesday, November 21, 2017 11:34 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Your Biggest Fan
Many thanks for the "care package." Not only one but TWO bottles of touch up paint and even a brush to apply it.
You and the entire Van Bortel team are the very best and you can count me as one of your biggest fans.
The T182 is getting the best care possible so when I'm done with it (in about 25 years - I'll be 98) you'll want me to bring it back to Van Bortel to sell to another raving fan. :-)
Thanks Laura,
John Boogaert
N1329D
From: Camp Clifford
Sent: Thursday, November 16, 2017 6:42 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Love our new Skylane
Blake,
Thanks so much for all your help throughout this whole process. We love everything about the airplane and can’t wait to start flying it. It is everything we wanted, and the mechanic was very impressed at how immaculate the plane is inside and out. Kurt also made us feel comfortable with the plane and was very patient while we were getting stuff squared away.
Best regards,
Camp Clifford & Gene Camp
New owners of 2006 182T N6013V
From: John Boogaert
Sent: Tuesday, November 14, 2017 2:10 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Question
Greetings Laura,
There is no way I can communicate how much we continue to enjoy our T182. 100+ hours, no problems whatever, very low oil consumption, trips all over California and a trip to visit family all the way from Fresno, CA. to Sheboygan, Wisconsin. You have a very happy customer who has referred you to more than 10 people who were considering looking for planes. Thanks to all at Van Bortel for the best customer service ever.
A quick question. Do you have (for me to buy for sure) or know where I can purchase some touch up paint to cover a very minor scratch on the nose wheel pant caused by a careless person moving my plane into a hanger? It's actually much smaller than the one that happened on the plane's trip out here but it is annoying to see it every time I move the plane. It's the white that I'd like to use but the red would be valuable as well for future purposes.
The plane has only been out of a hanger 3 nights since you brought it to California for me. Hangered wherever we go when one is available. Bugs never sit on the plane more than 15 minutes after a flight and the plane looks as good today as the day you delivered it (which is darn close to new). In short we can't be more pleased with the entire Van Bortel experience and our amazing T182.
John Boogaert
N1329D
From: Robert Young
Date: November 10, 2017 at 5:38:50 PM CST
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N163AW
Hi Randall
Just a quick note to let you know I am more than happy with N163AW. I will recommend Van Bortel and Randell Funston any time!
Thank you!
Bob Young
Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2017 10:02 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Van Bortel Aircraft: follow up on recent flight
Thanks you Laura. I knew I could count on you and Van Bortel resolve these issues. That's why I bought from you guys.
Regards from San Francisco, Dana
Google Review
Van Bortel is the best when it comes to Cessna service and sales. I dealt with both sides and they treated me like was there only customer. I highly recommend VB!!!
T Y
I met Darryl briefly when I took delivery of my TTx in Independence in December of 2016. And following that, Darryl would chime in, responding to various posts I made on this CAAC forum with questions and issues. I always appreciated him lending his expertise to these discussions. And if I made an inquiry of him privately via email, he always responded promptly and thoroughly.
The icing on the cake, however, was Darryl's response to issues I was having with my plane during a recent trip to Alaska in the TTx, where the engine failed me on three occasions. Many on this forum should also be thanked for lending their ideas and support.
However, Darryl went above and beyond as the plane sat AOG while Cessna and TCM twiddled their collective thumbs. Darryl sought to fly out to my plane to see if he could help and received permission from his boss, Howard VanBortel.
I flew up to Oregon to meet Darryl at the shop. We shared a couple of meals together (one was in-n-out burger , the other more upscale, but let me get back on track.
While there, Darryl did a complete inspection of the plane and offered a lot of advice. The shop followed all of his recommendations. And let me tell you that after the flight home, I popped out the data card and uploaded it to Savvy. The engine was cool, smooth and showed straighter temperature and trend lines than any other recorded flight. I am one happy guy.
Darryl nor Van Bortel ever charged me for his trip or services. That's why I write this. Just a shout out to say Thank you so very much for the kindness. You represent the best in aviation.
Mark Spiegelman
From: Greg Ohanessian
Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 8:20 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: 179VB
Good Morning Blake
I just want to give you an update on 179VB. All the minor issues that arose with the plane after delivery have been addressed and the plane is running well.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you and George for all the coordination and support you have given me in taking care of these issues after delivery.
You have made me feel as a valued customer and I appreciate that and will remember that for my next purchase.
Best Regards
Greg Ohanessian
From: Daniel Moulton
Sent: Thursday, October 05, 2017 11:33 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: N65805
Blake:
I wanted to apologize for my mini blowup yesterday, it was a very frustrating day, and thank you for your efforts, you are the best. As I’ve gone through my life I’ve learned that little episodes like that are usually useless, because as you know, we ended up not being able to fly anyway. And probably can’t fly until next week sometime. It’s ok in the long run it’s just a few days. Also, you could have stuck me with the prop seals, so I’m glad I picked the right company to deal with; you definitely have a very loyal customer. Again, thank you for all you have done, it won’t be forgotten.
Thanks
DANIEL D. MOULTON
From: Robert Young
Sent: Friday, September 29, 2017 4:51 PM
To: hvb@vanbortel.com
Subject: N163AW
Mr. Van Bortel
My name is Robert Young. I worked with Randell to purchase a new plane (to me). It is my first! I just got my PP license at 57 and love it. I contacted your company and Randell was very helpful. I will never hesitate to engage your company in my aviation needs in the future. This whole process was painless.We closed today and I'm not sure but I believe it was a total of 11 days from contact to sale?
Thank you
Bob Young
From: Luis C Nino
Sent: Saturday, September 16, 2017 12:50 PM
To: Cynthia Meza
Cc: George Van Bortel
Subject: Re: Cessna N427AP
Cynthia,
Hello! Good afternoon!! I want to thank you one more time for all the help and support during this transaction!!
Once more, everything as expected was 100% with the aircraft and the transaction, always keeping the highest standards!!
To me is a pleasure to always do business with you! With George! And with the Van Bortel Family!!
The airplane is in KTMB and it's been delivered.
Thank you!!!
Luis Nino
From: Nicholas Martin
Date: August 23, 2017 at 6:37:48 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Nick and Kerry Martin
Hello,
Working with Van Bortal has to be the smoothest easiest way to spend money. Super professional. I am hooked. Thank you.
I want to make sure that we will be able to do the ADSB in and out, flap gap seals and other little bits and pieces I may wish for!!
Thank you.
Nick
From: Bill Pearson
Sent: Monday, August 21, 2017 2:13 PM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: Re: Closed!
THANK YOU CYNTHIA. YOU made this buying experience a pleasure. It was great doing business with you and George and both pilots. Without hesitation I would recommend Van Bortlel for purchasing from a company that does business in an honest and First Class way.
Bill and Carol Pearson
N410KC
SAN Antonio
From: Gerard Myers
Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2017 3:08 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Purchase of my Cessnas
Blake:
I just want to say how pleased I was with the whole process of buying two airplanes from Van Bortel. Very smooth. I can tell that Van Bortel hand picks the planes sold. Van Bortel make sure that the planes are ready-to-go. Van Bortel delivers the plane right to the buyer's airport of choice. Van Bortel handles any squawks. Plus, if something is not right, Van Bortel will make it right AFTER the sell.
I will buy my next aircraft from Van Bortel.
Hands down Van Bortel Aircraft is the BEST!!!!!
Dr. Gerard A Myers
From: Dave's Homes
Sent: Monday, August 14, 2017 9:37 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Thanks
Laura,
I wanted to thank you for your hard work and excellent service on my airplane purchase and trade. I had heard good things about Van Bortel and you exceeded my expectations. Emailing late on a Friday afternoon usually gets a response on Monday, so hearing from you that evening was impressive. Our continued talks on Saturday firmed up the pricing. Being 4 states away didn't seem to concern you a bit, I was very surprised when you brought the aircraft I was looking at to my hangar within a couple days for inspection. I was always kept informed and knew exactly where and when the next step was taking place. Having this large of a trasaction happen, with so many miles between us and being completed in a week says quite a bit about a company.
Thanks again, I'm very satisfied.
Dave
From: Reed Covelli
Sent: Friday, August 11, 2017 5:27 PM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: TR182RG
Cynthia
I wanted to tell you thank you for everything you did during the purchase of our 182. I could not of had a better experience. I would highly recommend you and your Company to everyone I know. For a large Company to provide such a professional but yet one on one experience if fantastic.
The Aircraft you represented was also exceptional.
Thanks Again
Reed Covelli
From: Christopher Martin
Sent: Tuesday, August 08, 2017 7:31 PM
To: Marsha Spence
Subject: Re: Please DocuSign: N65980 Martin (RF).pdf, N65980 AC Registration Application.pdf
Marsha,
You are absolutely wonderful and I sincerely appreciate the fantastic service you have performed for me.
I am deeply impressed with your organization and attention to quality service.
Very Sincerely,
Chris
Christopher Martin
From: Jonathan Velez
Date: June 1, 2017 at 7:28:27 PM EDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Follow up - N89KC
Randall,
Hope all is well in Arlington. Wanted to drop you a quick line to tell you that after 10 months in this plane I love it even more than I did when I first purchased it. Fantastic machine!
Be well,
Jon
From: Ron Amini
Date: May 17, 2017 at 5:06:49 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Sunvisor
I have bought and sold probably a dozen aircraft. If I were to rank the transactions from best to worst my VanBortel transaction is first and best. Number two cannot be seen. Thank you.
Ron Amini
From: Laurence Brenner
Date: May 8, 2017 at 5:48:28 PM CDT
To: Darryl Taylor
Subject: Thanks and misc things
Hi Darryl,
A few good things.
1. The article in the May 2017 AOPA Turbine Edition agreed with you and your assessment of the engine and the cylinders. I was delighted to see that what you had told me is considered state of the art. I experience the same thing in the field of medicine. Things that professionals tell their patients are sometimes very dated. I don't know if they scoped the cylinders as I have only gotten a bill, but no report. Working on it. Good call.
2. The "freon" was low at 0.8 and they recharged it. I will be flying it tomorrow, as long as the weather cooperates. Will let you know. It did work, kinda, so I expect everything to be OK. I got that information when I ran into the technician who did the test, at my flight school, across the field. Coincidence.
3. I will register tonight for the June 2 weekend. I will try to get there by Thursday night. Looking forward to meeting you and having dinner together. Should I bring my wife? She will likely be staying with our cousins in Charlotte and may have no interest, but you never know.
It is truly difficult to know who to trust and who to believe. It is difficult enough when making this type of investment, but it also makes it clear how difficult it is for people to make informed medical decisions, as well. In this case, I had to assess the situation as I was being advised by people I have known and trust for over 10 years.
Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that.
Thanks again.
See you soon,
Larry Brenner
From: Charlie Waddell
Sent: Saturday, April 15, 2017 9:31 AM
To: Randall Funston; Brian Bourett; Kalieh Newell; Darryl Taylor
Subject: New Purchase
I wanted to thank you all for your great support through the purchase of my plane. I'm excited to get my transition training on Monday and start flying on my own! I'm like a kid at Christmas that got the remote controlled car and I don't have the batteries to use it!
I hope you all have a Happy Easter!
Regards,
Charlie
From: Charles Pope
Sent: Friday, March 31, 2017 4:23 PM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: N2258Z
Ms Cynthia,
Just wanted to say thanks for the bulb.
I was not sure what to expect buying a plane from such a large company like Van Bortel.
The service I received was TOP NOTCH in my book, I am very satisfied and grateful for the support and service I received.
With that being said when I am ready to go faster and higher you will be the only call I make.
Thanks
Charlie Pope
From: Sharon Andrews
Date: March 15, 2017 at 9:50:10 AM PDT
To: Cynthia Meza
Cc: Aisha
Subject: Re: Closed!
Hi Cynthia,
We are super excited and greatly appreciate all of your efforts to assist "newbies like us" along this process.
We could not have worked with a better sales rep and are so thankful we had your guidance, support and patience along the way.
Van Bortel is fortunate to have you on their team - thanks again!
Sharon and Aisha
From: Forrest R.
Date: March 9, 2017
To: Van Bortel Aircraft
Howard Van Bortal and the entire company stepped up when I bought a used 58 Baron..Had a number of issues when delivered. This was a trade in which they sent off premise for an annual which was poorly done..They stepped up and covered all repairs without any questions once we got them an invoice. Howard called me and we had a good conversation..Every business sometimes trips but you usually only get excuses...Not with this company.
Forrest R.
From: Evan Lindeman
Sent: Tuesday, January 31, 2017 2:49 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Raving Fans Yet Again!
Laura,
Please use this review on your website as a show of our appreciation for your hard work and dedication on another great deal.
We are long time customers with Van Bortel and it is easy to see why we keep coming back. My father and I are not your typical Van Bortel customers. We own a fleet of 172's that we lease out to a flight school. Our very first aircraft was purchased from Laura at Van Bortel four years ago. Since that time, we have increased our fleet to five 172's and have purchased from other sellers. Let me just say, it was an easy choice to come back to Laura and the Van Bortel team to purchase a beautiful aircraft to add to our growing training fleet.
They care about their customers, and it was shown in this deal. When I called Laura about wanting to trade in one of our aircraft for one they had for sale, I wouldn't have been able to imagine the deal going any easier. Having worked with Laura and the rest of the Van Bortel sales and financing team before, they valued our previous business and gave us a great deal on both our trade and the price of the aircraft. Every penny spent at Van Bortel on these aircraft has been well worth it. You would be very hard pressed to find Cessna aircraft elsewhere in as good of condition.
Lastly, our thanks to Brian and his team in financing. We have ALL of our financing through them and let me say what a breeze it is to work with him and his team. No loan process is "easy" but working with Brian sure makes it a whole lot easier.
We thank you all at Van Bortel. From George to Laura and Brian, and all those behind the scene working hard to deliver such a phenomenal product to us. We look forward to our many dealings will you in the future.
Kindest Regards,
Evan and Jeff Lindeman
Bonneville Investments LLC
From: Rick Marriner
Date: December 21, 2016 at 7:29:29 PM MST
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N1074C
Randall,
Checking in after my first 2.2 hours in the air with N1074C. It flew like a dream and the transition to the G1000, high performance and complex is going well. Things happen much quicker with that performance. The engine is so smooth too, purrs like a lion at idle, and climbs like the proverbial homesick angel! I am looking at another block of time on this Friday to finish up with my CFI from American Flyers and then do some coastal sight seeing with my wife this Saturday, weather permitting. The plane not only performed really well, it drew attention from the gallery of "old timers" that kick their feet up at the Main Concourse at KIWS (West Houston). A pair of them sauntered out to "have a look inside" while I topped up fuel. Lots of thumbs up and whistles from that crew. It was a pretty nice feeling to have one of the planes that turns heads around here after years of having "plane envy" of my own.
I can't thank you and the crew and Van Bortel and the Finance team enough for making this a painless experience. For all the things that might have gone sideways, nothing and I mean nothing, went askew. Even the mechanic who did my pre-purchase inspection was impressed at just how clean and ready-to-go this plane is. Top top notch operation from start to finish!
Regards,
Rick Marriner
From: Gregory Humphrey
Sent: Friday, December 09, 2016 10:44 AM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N259JA
Hello Randall,
I wanted to take the time to let you know how very satisfied I am with my new Cessna TTX and the entire experience dealing with Van Bortel.
From the start of this endeavor it was a choice for me between the Cessna TTX and Cirrus and what a fantastic decision I made.
I have to let you know how extremely happy I have been with your communication, ie. emails, phone calls and your vast knowledge of my new aircraft.
I would highly recommend any new prospective customer to buy from Van Bortel because of what I have experienced from start to finish. You have been more than professional, knowledgeable and most of all honest.
Good luck to you and the entire team at Van Bortel. If and when I decide to purchase another aircraft, Van Bortel will be my first phone call. Thanks for everything.
Gregory Humphrey
From: Rajendra Bhati
Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2016 7:35 AM
To: Howard G Van Bortel
Cc: Darryl Taylor; Randall Funston
Subject: Thank you
Mr. Van Bortel,
I just wanted to drop you a note to say thank you. I am a customer of your company and have purchased two airplanes from Randall Funston. Both a 182 as well as recently a TTX. I wanted to say that your company is a class act.
Despite purchasing airplanes that no longer were within the warranty window provided by Cessna. Your company on both occasions with both planes footed the bill for repairs without any hesitation. Your customer service is first rate and you make the process of buying an airplane seamless from a financing perspective, insurance perspective as well as an ownership perspective. I think that this is a reflection of leadership and culture that you have established within your organization. My hats off to you in the team, if I can be any assistance to you or your team members as a reference for future plane owners please do not hesitate to contact me. I am definitely a fan!
Tach Bhati
From: Steve Schoolman
Sent: Monday, September 26, 2016 1:42 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Checking in with you
Hi Randall,
This is Steve Schoolman getting back later than typical.
Sorry for the delay. Yes, the plane has been doing well. I love flying it. It is a workhorse and has some pretty good pep for a single prop piston engine. I am already getting excited to move up to something bigger once I get a couple hundred hours in this one. So I will definitely keep you guys on my short list of folks to call when the time comes.
Thanks again for making the purchase a pretty painless process. I was intimidated being the first aircraft purchase but you helped to ease those concerns as we got into the process.
Sincerely,
Steve Schoolman
From: Jimmy Kent
Sent: Wednesday, September 21, 2016 9:57 AM
To: Blake Childs
Cc: George Van Bortel
Subject: Re: One last question
As a salesman myself I must give you credit for service after the sale. So often after a deal is done it's hard to find a salesman within 20 miles to help out on the bull shit. You have truly done well. We have had a few hiccups and I could easily be frustrated but you alls continued work has left me with nothing but good things to say. Good job Blake
Jimmy Kent
From: Paul Tiseo
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2016 3:50 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Checking in with you
Hey Randall,
Thank you for the note. At the present time we are still happy with our T182T and took it on vacation with us this August. We toured the Northeast with several stops in VT, Maine and NH. She still runs like a champ and I have been very pleased with her.
When the time comes for an upgrade, I promise that you will be my first call. I was very pleased with my dealings with Van Bortel.
I hope that all is well in the great state of Texas.
Best -
Paul
From: David
Sent: Thursday, September 08, 2016 10:28 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: 6076T / 182JD
Laura
The plane is great. The turbo is fantastic and giving me 150 knots plus TAS at 9000-11000 feet. Also loving the G1000. Can’t believe I waited as long as I did to upgrade. Thanks again for all you help and I hope your able to put 182JD in a new home soon.
Regards,
David
Via Text 09/08/2016 to Laura Howell:
Hey girl. Sorry I'm so late. It's a little crazy around here.
Mark did a great job and James is a happy man. The vents and flow are perfect.
You've done a great job of being our advocate and making sure James got what he expected.
Please thank George for us as well. Karen and I are so proud you for the leader in the aviation community that you've become.
You exemplify the word professional. Stay in touch.
Bob
From: David Fauntleroy
Sent: Wednesday, August 31, 2016 2:29 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Van Bortel Aircraft: N6076T Auth to Close
Laura
Thanks for all you help. I enjoyed working with you and your entire organization.
Regards,
David Fauntleroy
President
From: Dr. Paul Riegleman
Sent: Thursday, August 25, 2016 4:06 PM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: Re: Closed!
Thank you Cynthia,
I couldn't have done it without you!! Truly the most pleasant purchasing experience I have ever witnessed, and it was me!
Thank you and Mr. Van Bortel for the professional treatment and wonderful experience.
You watch out, when I come down to Texas for my promised lunch. You were a true treat to work with.
Thanks again,
Dr. Paul
PS, stay in touch.
From: Andrew Colace
Sent: Monday, August 22, 2016 4:57 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: N1997
Good afternoon George,
I just was calling earlier to thank you for your companies great service. It has been a bummer that the plane has been down but shit happens. I do appreciate the commitment you make to your customers and I have recommend VB to multiple pilots in the southern California area.
--
Andrew Colace
AMC FARMS
From: M.M.
Sent: Thursday, August 18, 2016 10:37 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Van Bortel Aircraft N896AM
Laura,
Thank you very much. I definitely enjoyed the purchase process with your group.
M.M.
From: Richard Bircher
Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 1:28 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: RE: Oshkosh Specials!!
Thanks for the heads up! It’s nice to hear from you. I’ve been flying an SR22 for about a year now and really like it BUT it’s the third one off the line and I wouldn’t mind upgrading a little I just really like the sr22.
And I must say I have never had a better experience buying anything like the one I had with you and George.
Richard
From: Enrique
Sent: Friday, July 08, 2016 3:57 PM
To: Laura Howell; Brian Bourett; Marsha Spence
Subject: Re: Van Bortel Aircraft: Closing Confirmation
Laura & George,
Thank you very much to all your team, you were awesome, fast and very precise, excellent customer services !!! It was a pleasure do business with you guys.
Enrique
From: Terry Couto
Sent: Friday, June 17, 2016 12:32 PM
To: Randall Funston; Gary Conover; Paul Ferroni; George Van Bortel
Subject: Thank you for the great experience!
I’m sending this email to the Van Bortel team that assisted me with my recent purchase of N555NV. Everyone I worked with was outstanding!
Randall Funston, my primary contact, was a great salesman. He had just the right combination of being persistent but not overly aggressive. He answered the phone every time I called and provided immediate assistance. He was a pleasure to work with and explained the overall process to me, which was helpful since this was my first airplane purchase.
Gary Conover did an outstanding job on the avionics. He installed the new active traffic system within the estimated time frame. The day I took delivery, he sat down with me for hours to help me evaluate the multitude of avionic subscriptions. Then he sat with me as I logged on to Jeppesen and XM and purchased subscriptions. When I ran into a time crunch, he finished the entire process for me. When I got in the plane later that day, everything worked flawlessly and he made sure I had all the account numbers and other details I would need.
Paul Ferroni was the ferry pilot assigned to deliver my plane to Florida. I joined him on the flight. He was very patient with me and basically gave me hours of lessons and pointers on the airplane and avionics. I realize he is used to making solo delivery flights and sitting in the left seat. I appreciated him putting up with me in the cockpit for 7 hours and allowing me to get some PIC time in my plane. He was funny and very accommodating, and he was a great ambassador for Van Bortel.
Lastly, George Van Bortel talked to me the day I bought the plane to make sure I received everything I needed. On the day I took delivery, he took the time to walk out onto the tarmac to say hello and wish me good luck. It was really nice of George to take the time to make sure I was satisfied with everything.
I know Van Bortel touts itself as providing the best customer service. A lot of companies say that but fail to live up to expectations. In my experience, every single person at Van Bortel went above and beyond and greatly exceeded my expectations! Thank you for making my first airplane purchase such a great experience!!
Terry Couto
From: Mike Adams
Sent: Friday, June 10, 2016 6:20 PM
To: Mickea Smith
Subject: Re: N7221S Consignment Invoice and Wiring Instructions
Thank you, Mickea, for your assistance on N7221S. Your professionalism and assistance is truly stellar!
Amazing how quickly it all happened! :-)
- Mike
From: Adam Gold
Date: June 3, 2016 at 17:45:05 CDT
To: Darryl Taylor
Subject: N2539Z
6/3/2016
Dear Mr. George Van Bortel:
I recently bought an amazing plane from you and wanted to take a moment to tell you about my personal experience. This includes why I chose a Columbia 400/Cessna Corvalis as well as why I ended up doing business with Van Bortel.
I decided it was time to upgrade my Cessna 182 and it came down to a turbo Cirrus Sr22 or the Cessna 400. I, like so many others, had to fight through this decision. I will say, the Cirrus guys have a wonderful sales pitch and a pretty flashy product. The Cirrus sales man even said, don’t try and look for the best plane as they are both wonderful products, but they have a different niche. My wife and I were initially sold on the Chute. Bad reason to buy a plane! After flying both planes, the decision became obvious. I could not in good conscious buy an inferior product because it has a chute (one guys opinion...not bashing cirrus). The Cessna is a pilot’s plane hands down. It is very responsive and handles beautifully. The cirrus is responsive but you don’t get the real feel of the control surfaces in the stick. Can’t really explain it well, just go stall it.
I have always heard great things about Van Bortel. Always the same thing. You will pay a premium but you will always get a great product that they will stand behind. Truthfully, when I started my search I refused to even look at you guys, as I thought you were overpriced. I finally called and worked with Liz Massey who basically said I will find the right plane for you. She did and it was quite a simple and painless process. Now here is where I got more impressed.
The deal was made and the plane was flown to the mechanic of my choice. Enter Darryl Taylor. His fund of knowledge and shear experience with the Columbia is quite impressive. He flew the plane to Bentonville and stayed with it during the pre buy in order to answer any questions and be of any service. He brought the plane to Fort Smith to have my friend fly it who has 17K hours and probably 900 hours in a Cessna 400. He was highly impressed by Darryl and learned a couple things. The pre buy showed a bad compressor and there was an issue with the TIT probe. After flying with Phil, Darryl flew the plane back to Arlington and had it fixed immediately and gets back in the plane to fly back to Fort Smith so I could have the plane over the weekend. Had to dodge some weather also! That is what I am talking about. Pure service! Both Liz and Darryl gave me personal cell phones if I had any questions. Darryl told me to call him at any time if I had questions or concerns and gave me information for further training.
The experience was great. I know I made the right decision as to which plane to buy as well as where to have it serviced. I wont take it anywhere else other than for an oil change! Thanks a bunch. Its not about the sale. Its what happens after the sale, that tells me everything I need to know.
Sincerely,
Adam Gold, M.D.
From: Jason D. Harper
Sent: Tuesday, April 26, 2016 11:40 AM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: Saying Hello
Hi Cynthia!
I hope you’re well! I just wanted to check-in and tell you how much I love N22NW - such a great plane and thank you again for everything you did to help! Just started my instrument rating training and it’s so nice doing it with the G1000!
What ever became of N4RQ? I hope someone liked it!!
Have a great day!!
Jason
From: Perry Max Webb
Sent: Friday, March 25, 2016 9:39 AM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: RE: N52715
Awesome thank you Randall. I laid in bed dreaming all night of flying the new plane. I am very excited to have such a beautiful plane. The mechanics started to open it up last night for the inspection and kept telling us how clean it is. I know we are not the easiest customers to deal with as we are very detail oriented. The entire process and attention to detail back from you and the team at Van Bortel has made this an awesome experience.
Perry Max Webb II
Vice President
Webb Automotive Group, Inc
From: Jennifer Korona
Sent: Tuesday, January 19, 2016 6:28 AM
To: Phil Thye; Randall Funston
Cc: Jennifer Korona; Bill Prince; Paul Park
Subject: Re: N974PC
Good morning Randall and Phil,
I wanted to thank both of you for taking care of the few issues we had found with the Cessna 182 we purchased. I understand you were under no obligation to handle the request as you did (taking care of both the brake and fuel problems at no cost and in very quick order).
Our overall experience in dealing with Van Bortel and you individuals specifically has far surpassed my expectations.
I thank you again and I will not hesitate to deal with Van Bortel in the future or provide very positive views on our experience.
Best Regards,
Ed Korona
From: Richard Scott
Sent: Saturday, January 09, 2016 4:29 PM
To: George Van Bortel; Laura Howell
Subject: Aircraft Return
George,
Laura,
I remember asking you in our face to face meeting "how many people take advantage of your return policy?", thinking it was a measure of customer satisfaction. Little did I know, 10 days after I accepted my new plane, my company would be bought out and all the senior people let go.
I dreaded telling Laura that I wanted to return the plane, but I knew I would have trouble making the payments after the first few months. It was mid December and she was so very professional. She didn't try to talk me out of it, she didn't hassle me ...she had the same polite, professional tone that she had the day I bought the plane.
It's easy to put a return policy on paper, but it's a totally different thing to live up to it! Van Bortel didn't try to charge me for wear, or closing costs or fees of any kind. In other words, you lived up to your guarantee PLUS some. You even paid the FedEx fees for my paperwork back to the escrow company. I suspect you don't get many planes back, but please feel free to use me as a reference.
Rick Scott
From: Kimber Bascom
Date: December 16, 2015 at 7:30:54 PM CST
To: Laura Howell
Cc: George Van Bortel
Subject: Re: N965BB Auth to Close
Hi Laura,
I want to express my sincere appreciation for the absolutely outstanding experience you and the entire Van Bortel team provided to me in my purchase of N965BB. As a first-time aircraft owner, I had a great deal of anxiety about the process and complexity of purchasing an airplane. I was intrigued by the glowing comments Van Bortel's customers have provided over the years and decided that if a plane like I was looking for were to become available from Van Bortel I should seriously consider purchasing it from you. At the same time, I found it hard to believe that all those great reviews could really be accurate. All I can say is this: they simply cannot adequately convey the fantastic experience that you and and the Van Bortel team provided to me in purchasing my plane. From meeting with me to show me the plane on a Saturday morning while I was traveling on business, to working with me on moving the annual inspection earlier to coincide with the closing, you have consistently been a first class organization. You made the purchase process incredibly straightforward and demonstrated through your actions that Van Bortel truly understands the value of high quality relationships with your customers. You don't just talk about it - you deliver. Ultimately that shows in the airplane, which really puts a huge grin on my face. As a customer I could not possibly be more satisfied and I would be delighted for you to use me as a reference for potential future customers. This much is certain - when the time comes for me to purchase another plane I will be back, and I will be sure to send anyone I know that is thinking about purchasing a plane your way.
By the way, your delivery pilot Paige is delightful. She cheerfully kept me informed of her progress on the trip from Texas to Long Island, and was very careful to give me a refresher about how to use the many great features of the G1000 and GFC700 before she left to return.
Thank you once again - I hope you have a very Merry Christmas!
Best regards,
Kimber Bascom
From: Ken McPhail
Sent: Saturday, October 31, 2015 2:00 AM
To: Laura Howell
Laura
Just had a high time pilot instructor say that was the best 182 he's ever flown. I certainly think so too. you can always use me as a reference believe me.
Ken McPhail
From: Bob Brewer
Sent: Thursday, October 08, 2015 1:28 PM
To: Mickea Smith
Cc: Joy Haugh
Subject: RE: Escrow Shipping Instructions
Mickea and Joy
My bank received your wire this morning-I have enjoyed working with you and Joy- you are the absolute best-a real class act.
When I buy my next plane, you WILL be call #1
You are welcome to use me as a reference any time. If I can ever be of any assistance here in the Thermal / Palm Springs area you know my number.
THANK YOU,
Bob
September 4, 2015
Hi Laura,
It was a pleasure meeting you and your team on Friday. Thank you for showing Teresa and me N8144W. We were pleased with the demonstration flight and believe the airplane is well suited to meet our needs.
We were also very impressed with your world class facility and the professionalism and hospitality you and your team demonstrated. We look forward to working with Van Bortel Aircraft going forward.
Thank You,
Randy Crook
From: Julie Pomeroy
Sent: Tuesday, August 11, 2015 11:42
Subject: RE: re N643PF cessna 182T
To: Randall Funston, Daphne Parsons
Cc: Dan Van Amelsvoort
Randall,
Yes. We did receive the POH. I would just like to add that it has been a pleasure working with Van Bortel. The airplane looks great and you have made all aspects of the purchase very easy, exceeding expectations.
We look forward to doing business with you in future.
Thank you very much!
Regards,
Julie Pomeroy
General Manager
Brampton Flying Club
From: Pfau, Cory
Sent: Friday, August 07, 2015 10:17 AM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: N5225Y
George, I wanted to thank you for taking the time to help me get my dream airplane. Brian called last week and asked how I liked the plane and I told him I had to pinch myself on the way back because I thought I was dreaming. Your staff was very helpful and caring, you certainly have a great team of dedicated people. Please thank Randall again for getting the sale done so quickly. I think you will agree that not having to ferry the plane worked out well for both parties. I have already been talking to a lot of my friends about how well the transaction went and hopefully can send some business your way. I guess you can tell I am not going to be returning this plane any time soon.
Sincerely,
Cory Dav Pfau (Ret.)
From: Cory Pfau
Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2015 10:27 AM
To: Kalieh Newell
Subject: Re: Account Statements
Kalieh, Here is what I have from the web. I signed the document so let me know if this is OK. Let everyone know I love the plane. Everything worked great on the way home and I feel as though I am still dreaming because I waited a long time to get the plane I always wanted. Of course the wife calls it my mistress but she is understanding....
Have a great day.
Thanks,
Cory
From: James S Clack
Sent: Monday, July 13, 2015 7:40 AM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: 9535H
Cynthia: I want to thank you for all your help with my recent purchase of a "vintage" Cessna 172 from your inventory of customer trades in Hanger C. I know that this deal was very small when compared to the purchase of a newer and much more expensive aircraft, but I felt like you treated me just like a customer who was purchasing a half-million dollar airplane. I was also very impressed with everyone at Van Bortel throughout the purchasing and delivery process. Your delivery pilot, Paul Ferroni, was very professional and represented your company well. Rest assured that I will be giving you a call when it comes time to upgrade! Thanks again.
Jim Clack
Ankeny Iowa
From: Rouaud, Laurent
Sent: Monday, July 06, 2015 11:12 AM
To: cmeza@vanbortel.com; hvb@vanbortel.com
Subject: Re: N915CR - Annual
Howard, Cynthia
I received your check on Friday. I cannot thank you enough for your support and your quick and caring response. My wife and I are greatly appreciative of your support and staying beyond your product. You have made the acquisition of our airplane very easy for first timers like us. You provided the piece of mind of knowing we bought the right aircraft for us and with the highest standard of quality, which is priceless. Our next aircraft will be a van Bortel! If you need my help in sharing my experience with one of your prospective customer, I will be happy to do so.
Thank you.
Laurent
From: Mark Finkelstein
Sent: Tuesday, June 09, 2015 12:35 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: testimonial
Wish I Had Bought a Van Bortel Plane
Three years ago, I decided to sell my Diamond DA40 and purchase a used Columbia 400. The Columbia's speed, range, ceiling, air conditioning and ice protection appealed to me.
Living in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, I was aware of Van Bortel's excellent reputation as a Columbia dealer. However, it seemed that their planes sold for a bit more than elsewhere, and I was determined to find a "bargain." I eventually bought a plane from a dealer in another state, and thought I had gotten a good deal.
I had a perfunctory pre-buy done, but when I got the plane home and brought it to Van Bortel for servicing, we discovered that there were numerous problems that had gone undiscovered. But I was stuck, having bought the plane "as-is." Van Bortel performed all the annuals and other service on the plane, and over the next couple of years we got the plane into tip-top shape. But the plane turned out to be the worst "bargain" I had ever bought.
I would have been so much better off spending a bit more up front and buying a Van Bortel plane. Not only does VB deliver its used planes in excellent condition, but under its Purchase Protection Plan, any plane not to the customer's satisfaction for any reason can be returned for a 100% refund within the first 60 days/60 hours.
So, yes, wish I had bought a Van Bortel plane. My advice to others in the market for a Columbia or other fine plane: don't go chasing illusory "bargains." Van Bortel represents quality, peace of mind, and, ultimately, excellent value.
Sincerely,
Mark Finkelstein
Pecan Plantation, TX
From: Brian Ball, President
Sent: Tuesday, June 09, 2015 1:32 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Van Bortel Aircraft: Confirmation of closing
Laura,
Thank you very much. You did a wonderful job and were very pleasant and professional to deal with.
I hope we get to work together again in the future. If you have a good buy on g1000, make and model let me know.
Thanks again.
Brian
From: Andrew
Sent: Thursday, June 04, 2015 6:16 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Van Bortel Aircraft: Cessna TTX
Laura, after giving it careful thought, I am going to pass on purchasing the TTx at this time. I want to log more hours in the 182T before moving up to the TTx. When I'm ready, I'll come back to Van Bortel for the order. You guys are terrific and will get my business when that time comes.
Best regards,
Andy
From: Charles Gaouette
Sent: Friday, May 01, 2015 7:00 PM
To: Darryl Taylor
Subject: Feedback for Cessna
Darryl,
My business suddenly took off in April. I guess it's the improvement in weather. Whatever the reason, I'm flying a lot of passengers with our Columbia 350. And they're singing the praises of this airplane.
I think I may be one of a very few 135 operators nationwide using the Columbia, so I thought feedback on using the aircraft for a large number of customers might be appreciated.
I flew a lady today (first time customer) who fell in love with the airplane. She loved the interior. People notice little things and she kept commenting on little details all around the cabin. I think the term is "fit and finish". The way the leather is apportioned, the attention to detail, are singular.
My best client, who has bought a block of time, said (pointing to the interior) "this is the magic." He usually sits in the back, listening to XM radio, doing work. His words after his first flight was "I love this airplane."
Anyway, in the way of feedback, Cessna seems to have hit a high watermark in terms of interior appointments with this airplane.
All the best,
Chuck
From: Mike Daiy
Sent: Friday, May 01, 2015 9:51 AM
To: Darryl Taylor
Subject: My recent visit for service of N96713
Darryl,
Just wanted to send you a note to let you know how much I appreciate the preferential treatment I was shown by you allowing me to come in unscheduled for my recent visit to have the engine cooling issues addressed. Thank you! I also want to say that everyone at VanBortel was very nice to me and I really enjoyed meeting Zack, Greg, Josh and Randall. I have never had a better service experience since I have been involved in aviation. Zack was very knowledgeable and I left VanBortel with great peace of mind for the upcoming trip out west with my son. I was especially pleased when leaving KGKY on climb out and saw lower CHT's. Chris has been raving about you guys since he started there and now I know why. Please convey my thanks to Zack for his efforts and let him know I appreciate what he did.
Sincerely,
Mike Daiy
From: Ken McPhail
Sent: Wednesday, March 25, 2015 9:31 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Van Bortel: Paperwork for the N7348S
George Van Bortel & Laura Howell,
Can't tell you how pleased I am with the aircraft and the service you provided.
The whole transaction done without writing until the very end. That really makes a statement to me. I can assure you I will always be your greatest reference for customer satisfaction.
Ken
Aromas, Nevada
From: Lisa
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2015 10:03 AM
To: Laura Howell
Cc: Darryl Taylor; David
Subject: N89KC
Hi Laura,
I just wanted to thank you for making the purchase and subsequent return of N89KC effortless. This was our first time owning an airplane and what a pleasure it was! I had no idea what to expect from a dealership and I was pleasantly surprised at every turn. From the first time we spoke on the phone to the delivery of the airplane, everything was just perfect!! You are such an enjoyable person to work with!!
I would also like to thank Darryl Taylor for always making himself available and his knowledge of the plane is priceless. Such a nice guy and always just a phone call away.
George should be proud of the first class team he's put together and I assure you if we revisit airplane ownership again, and I think we will, I wouldn't even consider going any place else. Van Bortel is the #1 dealership in our opinion.
Thank you all again for everything!
Warm regards,
Lisa & David
From: Bradford Worthen
Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2015 3:33 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Checking in
Hey hello Randall
Thanks for checking in. Aside from too much cold and snow things are great. Mooney 127MA has been running like a top and I have enjoyed flying her immensely. When people ask where I bought my plane from, I recite the exceptional Van Bortel experience with "the worlds largest Cessna dealer"!!
Best to you
Brad
From: Greg Schorr
Sent: Thursday, January 15, 2015 6:59 PM
To: Howard G. Van Bortel; George Van Bortel; Blake Childs
Subject: N2135D
Folks,
Nick delivered the plane to my mechanic today and I just wanted to send you a note.
First and most importantly, Blake has done a wonderful job working with me to find the right plane. This is it. Blake has been very patient during these last two years. He is a great at his job.Your ferry pilot Nick; you have a great employee here. He is very polished, professional and sincere. He represents your company very, very well.The plane appeared to be in outstanding condition. Tomorrow we start the pre buy, but I was more than happy with the way it flew and the overall appearance.
I truly am proud to say I purchased a Van Bortel plane.
Thank you so much. I'm sure tomorrow will go well.
Also, George and Howard, Matt Hagans says hello.
Best regards,
Greg
From: Stephen Imboden
Sent: Friday, December 19, 2014 2:47 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Thank you!
Randall,
Thank you once again for going above and beyond on my behalf! I received my logbook bag and I'm thrilled! Thank you so much. I really expect to buy it from you, so please don't be shy about sending me an invoice.
Thanks for being such a good friend this past year. I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a fantastic 2015. Enjoy your time off with your family.
Best Regards,
Steve
Stephen G. Imboden, CPA
From: Ruskin, Keith
Sent: Friday, December 19, 2014 12:44 PM
To: Blake Childs
Cc: George Van Bortel
Subject: N2209H...
I'm writing to let you know how happy I am with N2209H, my new Turbo Skylane! It's absolutely the nicest airplane that I've ever flow, and I still can't believe that it's all mine. Folks have walked up to me on the ramp and said, "Nice airplane!" (I've never had that happen before.) I've put about six hours on N2209H over the past couple of weeks, and I'm looking forward to taking some long trips if the weather ever improves.
This was my first airplane purchase, and it was a fantastic experience. Everyone at Van Bortel was knowledgable, professional, experienced, and pleasant, and I really appreciate all of the time that you spent answering my questions. I enjoyed speaking with both of you, and I also enjoyed spending time in the airplane with Matt Walker. He is an outstanding pilot and a great teacher.
Again, thanks so much. I have already recommended Van Bortel to several people and look forward to doing business with you again!
Happy holidays.
- keith
From: Lansing Gilmore
Sent: Monday, December 08, 2014 7:47 AM
To: George Van Bortel
Cc: Blake Childs; Matt Walker; Darryl Taylor
Subject: N9086Z
Dear George,
I'm trying to remember when, if ever, I've written a note like this one before and am struggling. That should be, I suppose, proof of how delighted I am with my recent experience of buying an airplane from you.
Every member of the Van Bortel team I dealt with was knowledgeable, helpful, pleasant and patient. Crucially, when I asked a question that someone did not know the answer to, the perfect response was given every time: 'I don't know the answer to that, but do know someone who does. Let's speak with that person now'. Brilliant!
As a first time airplane buyer, and as I was looking for a second hand plane, my expectation was that I'd get the stereotypical 'used car' treatment. I was completely wrong. Van Bortel massively exceeded my expectations in every way.
Special thanks to Blake Childs for his patience, and Darryl Taylor for his knowledge and honesty. Blake is an absolute pleasure to deal with.
The Van Bortel person I spent the most time with is Matt Walker. In my opinion, Matt is an absolute superstar, and is a pleasure to be around. Not only is he a fabulous pilot, but also has the rare talent of being able to explain clearly and simply while smiling. He's outstanding and you are lucky to have him on your team.
I'd like to sincerely thank you and your team, and I look forward to doing business with you again in the future.
Best regards,
Lans Gilmore
From: Richard P Abramowitz
Sent: Sunday, December 07, 2014 6:04 PM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: Re: N58488 WAAS Upgrdae- Invoice
Thanks. I will send the check straight away. Flew today in full IFR. Plane flies beautifully.
Thanks for everything. Please thank George as well for his generosity. I am very appreciative.
Regards,
Rich
From: Steve Manley
Sent: Monday, November 03, 2014 8:16 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Re: Escrow Payment
Blake,
I just wanted thank you for making the transaction on N71124 so smooth. I have about 5 hours in the airplane now, and it is performing beautifully. I couldn't be happier with the airplane. Thank you for making the transaction so simple and straightforward.
All the best,
Steve Manley
From: Richard P Abramowitz
Sent: Thursday, October 16, 2014 12:31
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: C58488
Hi Cynthia. Hope you are having a great vacation. Got my aircraft today. It is fabulous. Flew it for an hour. It flies like a dream. Thanks so much for all your hard work and professionalism. Talk to you when you get back.
Regards
Rich
From: Gary Gustafson
Date: October 13, 2014 at 8:22:15 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N2098C
Hi Randall,
I flew 98C for about 4 hours today. I am really happy with the airplane, the performance is great and the plane is very comfortable. We are looking forward to many great traveling hours with this airplane.
I couldn't be happier - thanks again for all of your help in making the process so easy!!
Take care,
Gary Gustafson
From: Aviation College
Sent: Monday, September 15, 2014 9:15 AM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: Cynthia!
Hello,
I just wanted to briefly update you on the aircrafts arrival!
The first container with first two aircrafts arrived weeks ago, and the assembly/test flights are also checked off of the list! They're in the process of getting their airworthiness tested.
The second container will arrive tomorrow!
So everyone is excited to see the aircrafts!
On behalf of the Aviation College, I want to thank you and George for every moment in this business. We appreciate you for providing us with the greatest used Cessnas ever!
We are on the verge of deciding the next four aircrafts to purchase, and we hope to get the agency agreement reviewed and signed as soon as possible so that we can plan for the next business!
Please let me know any progress in the reviewing of the document!
Thank you!
Looking Forward,
Department of Operations
From: John Fechner
Sent: Friday, September 12, 2014 3:33 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: RE: Checking in
Randall,
Good to hear from you. I can't tell you how much I enjoy 2279V. I have logged over 160 hours since purchase and most time is cross country. We have a place in Westcliffe, CO so much of our flight time is between Cushing and Westcliffe. The avionics are so user friendly and the XM radio makes the ride even smoother. Don't know how it could get any better.
Thanks for checking in and have a great day.
John
From: Steve Imboden
Date: September 3, 2014 at 7:20:54 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N6033S
Randall, I can't thank you enough for all you've done for me in my quest to buy the perfect plane for me. You have been beyond patient with me as I inquired about numerous airplanes over the last several years. You are a true gentleman and a great representative of the Van Bortel brand. Our transaction is not quite done yet, but thanks for everything you've done for me so far. I'll never forget how pleasant it has been to work with you. My wife (Leslie) and I are looking forward to many happy flights in N6033S.
Please forward this email to George. I want him to know how valuable you are to his company. Seriously.
Best Personal Regards,
Steve
From: Tom Maness
Sent: Friday, July 25, 2014 3:44 PM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: 172
Phil, Thanks for making the sale painless. Trip back was a delight. She loves her job and is a fine pilot. You guys are truly professional and are a delight to work with. Tell Randall I'll probably be back in touch. Thanks again. Tom
From: Sally
Sent: Wednesday, July 23, 2014 3:18 PM
To: Laura Howell
Cc: Ivo
Subject: Re: Closed on N917CF
Laura,
Thank you so much. Never thought when I blew in on that rainy day I would own the plane I was looking for.
You have a great company and you and VanBortel are a class act. Hope to be doing business for many years.
Sally
From: Joe Ballenger
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 7:41 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Thanks for the airplane
As you can see I have been having some fun with my 182! Thanks Blake
From: Joe Chandler
Sent: Friday, June 13, 2014 6:26 AM
To: Howard G. Van Bortel; George Van Bortel
Subject: Thank You
Hi Howard and George.
I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to both of you for helping make my trade for N7278W possible. I know both of you were involved in this deal and "went the extra mile". I am extremely appreciative and am delighted with my new airplane. As soon as I flew N7278W on Wednesday morning, I loved it. It felt "right" and, I believe, is a perfect fit. Bill Turley told me that he could see it in my eyes. Bill, of course, had told me all along that I should get a 182 when I was ready to trade in my Twin Comanche. He also told me that I would be most satisfied with a "Van Bortel Cessna". Sadly, I initially did not heed his advice and decided to trade my Comanche in on a Cirrus SR20. N298AM is a great plane which has had outstanding care and maintenance, but it never felt "right" for me. It is difficult to say why, but it never "fit" me like N7278W did from the moment I met her. I instantly felt "at home" like I did in my Twin Comanche. I will have to continue a long distance relationship with N7278W for now, since I left her at Aircraft Engineering in Florida with Bill Turley for the prop and prop governor overhaul.
I would also like you to know how wonderful Randall Funston has been to me. He is knowledgable, kind and patient. He pays attention to detail, which is important to me. This was not an easy decision for me since I am taking a considerable financial "hit" by trading. Randall was sensitive to this fact and was not pushy. He was supportive, encouraging and eternally optimistic. You are fortunate to have someone like him on your team. I would also like to commend the other members of your team with whom I worked, including Phil, Darryl, and Tom Woodward, who delivered 78W.
I now fully understand why you enjoy the reputation you do, and I will forever be a Van Bortel fan. Thank you again.
Sincerely,
Joe
Joseph B. Chandler, MD
Director of Medical Services, Emeritus
Atlanta Braves
From: Charles Gaouette
Sent: Sunday, June 01, 2014 9:42 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: N345HB
Laura
Just a quick note to pass align to you, George and Darryl my complete satisfaction with our Columbia 350. If you check flight aware, you can see we've been pretty active.
Wherever we go, people come up and look at the plane and invariably comment on it. Two days ago, we stopped in Deming NM. It was about 100 degrees and 4,000 feet elevation. The gentleman running the FBO said "nobody flies this time of day...except Columbia's."
The next day we were in Tucson and one of the guys working the ramp said "it's been a long time since we've seen a plane that nice." This was a ramp with Lears and Kin Airs sitting on it.
Last week I did an owner assisted oil change at about the 35-hour mark. What came out of the oil sump was the color of champagne. My A&P said it was about as immaculate as he'd ever seen.
I look forward to bringing this great airplane back to Van Bortel for its annual this month. We've really fallen in love with the plane. Thanks so much for a great airplane.
Chuck Gaouette
From: Jane Rosevelt
Date: May 20, 2014 at 7:16:01 PM CDT
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: Nice working with you
Thanks so much for all the advice, ride to Hicks, lunch and great patience.
We are in SAF for the night.
I really like the plane!
Take care
Jane
From: Eric Stroud
Sent: Friday, April 25, 2014 10:14 AM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Cessna 206 - Van Bortel
George –
Yesterday, we brought our Cessna 206 to Van Bortel for service. We were in a slight rush. So, Bill Prince made sure the work went quickly. Shawn noticed a problem with the oxygen system and he immediately diagnosed and repaired the issue.
Whenever we come to Van Bortel, Bill & Shawn are always friendly, courteous and professional. Previously, Gary, Sam and Paul have been great too.
We love coming to the Van Bortel shop and we especially appreciate Bill's friendly and helpful management style.
Thank you –
Eric
From: RJ Avila
Sent: Friday, April 11, 2014 2:56 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Re:
The folks at Van Bortel are simply the best, their 60day or 60hour policy was completely honored in my last plane purchase, I plan on using them in all my future plane purchases. Their professionalism is second to none!!!!
Sent from my iPhone
From: Charles Gaouette
Sent: Wednesday, April 09, 2014 9:28 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: N345HB
Laura,
After a smooth ride home and a good night's sleep, N345HB looks as good to me as it did yesterday. I'm ready to move ahead with the paperwork.
Thank you again for the outreach and for matching us with such a fine airplane. It was a pleasure getting to know you, George and Darryl. I look forward to seeing you again and doing further business in the future.
Best wishes,
Chuck
From: Greg Ohanessian
Sent: Monday, April 07, 2014 7:17 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: RE: FAA Form
Blake
I would like to thank you and everyone at Van Bortel for an excellent purchase and delivery experience.
Brian was great, very knowledgeable and a gentleman! Wish I could have kept him for a few more days but he has a wife and a job to go home to.
Please forward my e mail to George and tell him he can use me as a reference anytime if needed.
The only issue I have is the AC control panel display is very dim. I am thinking that it may be in Night mode and I could not find an instruction manual. Perhaps you can get me one from the company and find out why the display is so dim in daytime.
Also what is the recommended oil change interval hours?
Thanks to everyone
Greg Ohanessian
From: Robert Fisher
Sent: Friday, April 04, 2014 7:34 AM
To: George Van Bortel; Randall Funston; tom woodward
Subject: Thanks
George
Just wanted to let you know how pleased I am with my purchase of N306PP. I'm a first-time airplane buyer with only about 500 hours and you, Randall, Phil, Marsha and others were patient with me and all my questions. It was actually nine months ago when I first came to your facility. It look me that long to make the purchase because of trouble finding a hangar to keep the plane and my own uncertainty. But everyone on your team was always responsive and never made feel like a nuisance or treated my like just a tire-kicker. The process was so easy. I also wanted to give special props to Tom Woodward who flew a grueling 17 hours with me to get the plane to New Jersey. He is so knowledgeable about the G1000, very patient with instruction and flexible when weather didn't cooperate. His training made all the difference in my feeling comfortable in the airplane.
Thanks again for a terrific experience.
Rob Fisher
From: John Barber
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2014 3:18 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Re: FW: N555NV fully executed docs - copy for your customer...
Thanks Blake and thank you for finding me this airplane and helping me through the process!
Best Regards,
John Barber
From: Hugo Segura
Sent: Tuesday, February 04, 2014 6:41 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Wiring Instructions-VBA.
Thank you Laura for all you have done and made it a very pleasant experience buying from VBA. You have been very helpful and professional! Thanks again!!!
Hugo Segura
From: John Lankenau
Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 9:02 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Check list for N1456D
You folks are great! I am sure we will cross paths again and I have nothing but positive things to say about Van Bortel. Would recommend you to anyone looking to buy or sell. In fact I may know another physician who is looking to learn to fly and thinking about buying a 172.
Thanks
John
From: Danny Ellis
Date: January 2, 2014 at 7:17:07 PM CST
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: N6GQ
Hello Randall,
We are closing on the Diamond DA40 tomorrow. Thanks for all of your help. In fact I am referring a customer to you who wants a 182. His name is Gary Palmer and he will be contacting you soon. In reference to the tires on the DA40, how do you want to handle that issue? I have an appointment at Central Aviation in Little Rock Tuesday (if the weather holds) to get them replaced.
Again thanks for your help and the great impression that you have made representing Van Bortel. It was top notch!
Thanks Again!
Danny Ellis
From: Sam Jasper
Sent: Tuesday, November 19, 2013 7:01 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: RE:
Blake, This is the reason if I am in the market for another plane you will be the first person I call.
Thanks to you and Vanbortel,
Sam Jasper
From: Blake Childs
To: Sam Jasper
Subject:
Date: Mon, 18 Nov 2013 20:31:26 +0000
Sam,
Please let me know when you get the funds we discussed. Thanks again Sam.
Blake
From: Gerald Wirth
Sent: Saturday, October 26, 2013 9:19 AM
To: Randall Funston; Marsha Spence
Subject: N2748F
Marsha and Randall:
I am very pleased with my new 182S. Dealing with you two has been very easy, you have been most accomdating. I would not hesitate to recommend a purchase through Van Bortel to anyone interested in a Cessan purchase.
Thanks for your great service.
Gerald J. Wirth
From: Andrew Richardson
Sent: Wednesday, October 09, 2013 10:18 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: RE: Message
Laura, that was an excellent delivery!!!! I'm going back over to the hangar at lunch to spend more time with the plane, but it's beautiful!!!
Best, Andy
From: Joe Ballenger,Jr.
Sent: Tuesday, October 08, 2013 2:07 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Aircraft purchase
Hi Blake,
It's been a couple months since I purchased my aircraft, N5225Y. We got all the squawks taken care of and I have been flying regularly now. The plane is awesome.
I wanted to tell you and everyone at Van Bortel the process for a first time buyer was very easy and as painlessly as could be expected. My mechanic said that it was the smoothest transaction he has seen in his 20 years of doing prebuy inspections. I wanted to say thank you for your patience and help with the processs. Also, thank you for helping me get the plane of my dreams.
Best regards,
Joe Ballenger
From: Pete
Sent: Saturday, September 14, 2013 10:05 AM
To: Joy Haugh
Subject: Transaction of 116ZX
Joy,
I wanted to send you a short note on how happy I am with your work. Most of the dealers I have dealt with on this aircraft and many others, have been most troubling at best. I can't express my extreme satisfaction enough! You have been very professional and kind, throughout this whole process. From the initial call to closing, you have done everything you said you were going to do and did it in a very timely matter.
Van Bortel is known for the excellence in aircraft. I now know that they expect the same from their staff. I am so satisfied with your performance. I will always speak highly of your dedication and Van Bortel's commitment to being the best.
Thank you so much,
Pete Freier
From: Eric
Sent: Thursday, September 05, 2013 1:09 PM
To: Blake Childs
Blake, just wanted to let you know that I have received the wire. It was a real pleasure dealing with you and Van Bortel Aircraft. I am sure that we will be doing business again in the future. Thanks Eric
From: Karen and Dennis Pattie
Sent: Thursday, August 22, 2013 11:32 PM
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Checking in with you
Hi Randall, Having lots of fun with 654SP. Used it as a training platform for my commercial certificate. It has proven to be a very nice and reliable aircraft. I have recommended Van Bortel to several people. Don't know if I have another aircraft in my future but if I do I'll shop you folks first. Thanks again, Dennis Pattie
From: John D. Hanselman
Date: August 21, 2013, 6:09:38 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: RE: Checking in with you
Hey Randall,
Thanks for checking up with me and the airplane. The plane is great and the flying has been a joy. I've already logged about 200 hours doing Angel Flight missions in the state of Florida. Keep in touch as I may need an upgrade in a year or two!
John
From: Dirk
Sent: Sunday, August 18, 2013 10:55 AM
To: Cynthia Meza
Subject: Piper Aztec
Hi Cynthia,
Thanks for your quick response.
I prefer Cessna's too, just have to talk to my financer's to see if it can be done.
Below I attached a picture of the 1974 C172M I bought around September 1989 from Van Bortel. I have ferried over many planes that were bought by people in the USA, but never received a better service or had a better aircraft than this 172 I bought from your company. I always said that when I would buy another aircraft for myself it would be from Van Bortel.
Hopefully we can do business again.
Best regards,
Dirk van Zuidam
From: Mark Williams
Sent: Wednesday, August 07, 2013 10:59 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Note from Mark Williams N7257E
Hi Blake!
Can you give me the contact info for the ferry pilot Patrick who flew my plane down to Houston? I have a couple of questions for him on the Century 2000 autopilot.
I am enjoying my new plane more than ever! An absolute dream to fly and the modern avionics, although somewhat overwhelming at first, are getting to be more and more familiar to me now.
I made a cross-country flight to Fredericksburg last week-end and stayed for two nights. That was too cool to actually have my own plane and not have to worry about bringing a rental plane back after so many hours, etc. The only way to fly!
Regards,
Mark Williams
From: Dana
Date: August 5, 2013, 4:34:00 PM HST
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: Delivery
Randall,
Thanks for everything, 6021M is beautiful and just what I was looking for. The plane in NJ wasn't even close. Mr Van Bortel has agreed to repair the few items uncovered in the pre purchase inspection and the annual will be done next week. The delivery pilot was 1st class all the way and Brian in finance was great.
All in all, a great and smooth buying experience, I'll be back for my next one!
Thanks again,
Dana
From: Bill Quigg
Sent: Monday, July 22, 2013 10:07 AM
To: Howard G. Van Bortel; George Van Bortel
Cc: Cynthia Meza; Darryl Taylor
Subject: Cessna 400 Purchase
Dear Sirs,
I am writing to you as an extremely happy customer. I recently purchased N600TX from your company, with the able assistance of Ms. Cynthia Mesa and Mr. Darryl Taylor. I found both to be very professional, knowledgeable and friendly to work with. They both represent your company very well.
Cynthia was very responsive to my questions and inquiries regarding a variety of aircraft in your inventory, and if by chance she did not know an answer to a question, she quickly pulled resources to obtain the information. Her follow-up was exemplary and I could always count on her to get in contact with me, even at unusual hours.
I am also extremely impressed with Mr. Darryl Taylor. During the purchase process, he was very helpful in sharing his knowledge of the 400 series of aircraft and seemed to be aware of many facets of the plane. He guided me through the process of obtaining additional equipment (Thermawing) as well as finding an instructor for my initial training. His real ability really shone through, however, once he was able to come to Indiana to deliver the aircraft. As we were conducting the pre-buy inspection, it was clear he had much more knowledge of the aircraft than my local shop, yet was very helpful to the mechanics on site to guide them through how to properly inspect for issues. As an aside, it was a great deal of fun to spend "hanger time" with Darryl just peppering him with questions regarding his experiences with this line of aircraft, and having him share points to pay attention to going forward. Having Darryl there for the delivery and pre-purchase definitely added significant value to the entire experience for me.
In all, I am extremely pleased with my purchase experience with VanBortel. Cynthia and Darryl are outstanding representatives of your company, and I look forward to doing business with the VanBortel team going forward.
Warm Regards,
Bill Quigg
From: Mark Williams
Date: July 22, 2013, 4:48:26 PM CDT
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Re:
Thanks so much, Blake! You guys were great to work with. And yes I am anxious to climb into that beautiful bird this weekend!
Mark Williams
From: Evan Lindeman
Sent: Monday, July 08, 2013 12:40 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: What a great buying experience!
Laura,
I am so sorry that I have taken so long to get back to you about our purchase experience of our beautiful 172! I can not tell you how many complements that we get on how great of a plane it is. The entire process from start to finish was so easy with you guys, even the financing was a breeze! (Thanks Brian!) Even when there was a hiccup in the process you all were very helpful and guided us through our every step.
We purchased another aircraft after we purchased the one from you guys, and it was like night and day! The owner was a pain to work with, and it was very difficult to get information from them. What a headache!
We will be purchasing more aircraft in the future from you, mainly based on the quality of product that you sell and the professionalism that you all show.
Thanks again and sorry it has taken so long for me to send this,
Evan and Jeff Lindeman
Bonneville Aviation LLC.
From: Don Richards
Sent: Friday, June 28, 2013 3:14 PM
To: Howard G. Van Bortel
Cc: Joy Haugh
Subject: Thanks
I wanted to just take a moment to say "Thanks" for working with us and purchasing our client's 182. As you are aware, we do not do many piston aircraft any more, but, I must say this transaction was as smooth as any I have ever done.
Your aircraft buyer, Joy Haugh, was one of the most pleasant and qualified representatives I have ever met in my over 40 years in this business. In fact, the whole VanBortel organization, including yourself, can only be described as "First Class". I can certainly see why your firm has been so successful in your Cessna niche .
Best of luck in the future and we certainly would enjoy working with you again. Now, as your clients "graduate" to turbines -- we certainly hope you will contact us.
Thanks again.
Don Richards
From: Craig McDonald
Sent: Saturday, June 15, 2013 1:19 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Cc: Laura Howell; Brian Bourett
Subject: Sale of Skycatcher to Craig McDonald
George:
I want to provide you with my feedback on the experience associated with my purchase of the Cessna 162 Skycatcher – N3029F.
As I mentioned when we met at Van Bortel Aircraft in Texas last Monday, everyone that was involved in the sale (Laura and Brian), as well as those involved in the delivery (Dan and Rachel), were professional, courteous, and truly concerned about customer satisfaction. At all times, the focus was on exceeding my expectations.
The delivery pilot (Rachel) and I departed Arlington on Tuesday morning and traversed Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee in the first day. We were temporarily delayed on day 2 due to marginal weather conditions, but were able to depart later in the morning. Unfortunately, we encountered some avionics difficulties which caused us to re-route to another airport to check on the maintenance issue. We were eventually able to make it to our pre-buy inspection destination in Virginia. We were able to have the avionics issue looked at, as well as the pre-buy inspection completed. While the inspection went flawlessly, the avionics issue continued to throw curve balls at us. As I write this from my home in Maryland, the plane remains in Virginia waiting for a part from Garmin.
Weather delays and equipment malfunctions are part of the "aviation experience". It is how those challenges are dealt with that counts. The folks from Van Bortel Aircraft did an amazing job. The delivery pilot, Rachel, has tremendous skill as a pilot and exercised excellent judgment when we encountered weather and equipment issues. The team in Texas fully supported her decisions and were sincerely concerned about my well being and continued satisfaction. On many occasions, Rachel would ask me how I was doing, and conveyed the message from Texas that the Van Bortel team wanted to make me happy.
You deserve high praise for putting together the team that you have at Van Bortel – sales, financing, and operations. You mentioned to me that Van Bortel Aircraft is all about people. You proved that statement with me by the professional and sincere approach to every aspect of the aircraft purchasing experience.
The game plan at this point in time is for Rachel to fly a plane from Maryland to Texas on Sunday as part of a Van Bortel purchase. Because I am very comfortable and confident in her abilities, and her "care" for the Skycatcher, I am requesting that you use her as the pilot that returns to Virginia when the Skycatcher is ready. I am hoping that the transfer of the Skycatcher can occur on Wednesday or Thursday of this coming week as those are the two days that I can get away from work. Rachel could fly commercially from DFW to Virginia, then fly the Skycatcher to Maryland where I would meet her. I could then take her to BWI where she could return to Texas. That way, she is only on travel for one day.
George, thank you so much for the great experience. Please pass on my appreciation to all those involved. While I am probably on the smaller end of the type of sales that you make, your team made me feel that I was the most important customer that Van Bortel Aircraft has.
Thank you again. As I stated to you last week, I want to buy ALL of my planes in the future from Van Bortel. That decision is cast in concrete after this experience!
Craig McDonald
From: Andrew Richardson
Date: June 13, 2013, 3:36:20 PM EDT
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Escrow Closing on N509AR
Laura, can't wait to meet you. You and the team made this the smoothest transaction I've ever been a part of!!! Thank you!!!
Andy
From: Bradford Worthen
Sent: Friday, June 07, 2013 1:17 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Cc: Blake Childs
Subject: Re: N127MA
Hello George
7MA is a beautiful aircraft! Everyone admires her from afar and up close. Just delighted I found such a great Mooney and experienced working with the very best Cessna Dealer in the world to boot! If you want to add Mooney to your line up when they get back up with manufacturing again, I could become a customer for life!
The professional Van Bortel team made the purchase, financing and delivery very easy and the 60 day 60 hour peace of mind was a bonus too. I can't thank Blake, Brian, Randall, Marsha and Jim (the delivery pilot?) for a great experience purchasing my first aircraft in over 30 years.
George, we have one nagging issue that we have been unable to rectify. ILS approaches using the S Tec Fifty Five AP have been acting up since we took delivery of the aircraft. The glide slope integrity is sporadic using the AP, and seems ok when flying manual approaches. GPS approaches for both manual and AP seems to be ok. We exchanged the AP with a same model stand by unit Infinity Aviation had on hand and the problem was not corrected, so we believe the AP to be of sound operation. I have the aircraft scheduled for further diagnosis next Friday, June 14 at Infinity. Hopefully it is only a minor issue. We think is maybe an RF bleed. I'll keep you posted.
Best regards and thanks again for a great Mooney from an even greater Cessna dealer!
Brad
Bradford J Worthen
From: ALDO WATERS
Date: May 28, 2013, 2:58:49 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Thank you
Randall,
I just want to thank you for your professionalism and patient in helping me find the right plane for me. You have exceeded my expectations in every manner throughout this process.
It's easy to see why Van Bortel is the number one Cessna dealer. You and the Van Bortel staff bring back what it's all about and that is the customer.
Next week I am bring all my mangers in to discuss the outstanding service received. It is my goal to reach those levels within my organization.
Please pass this on to George but I expect he already knows the standard of service you provide.
Again, Thank you
Aldo Waters
From: Jessica Malone
Date: March 9, 2013, 5:37 PM CST
To: Dan Mercurio
Subject: N232JM
Hi Dan
I wanted to say Thank you so much for the safe flight to Kansas and all your help with us getting N232JM.
Warren and I flew home that day with breaks/fuel stops along the way. Perfect weather and perfect airplane. Jim met us at the airport and for him it was "love at first sight"!!
Thanks so much for everything! Keep up your great career as a pilot!
If you are ever in California look us up!
Sincerely-
Jessica Malone
N232JM
From: Alejandro Vizcaino
Date: February 9, 2013, 12:25:13 PM CST
To: Randall Funston
Cc: George Van Bortel
Subject: N604CH
Randall,
I just wanted to thank you guys for all your help! We made it to Guatemala last Saturday. The aircraft is flying great and the owner is very satisfied with your service and the aircraft. Hope that in the future we can make business again!.
Thanks
Alejandro Vizcaino
AERONAVES, S.A
From: Blake Childs
Sent: Monday, February 04, 2013 4:04 PM
To: Blake Childs
To Blake and George .Thankyou for sourcing and shipping my G1000 182T to Australia.As of now we have done about 100 hours of hassle free flying and this aircraft ticks all the boxes . It has been a pleasure dealing with you and we will be back when it's time to update .
Regards Ian and Kathy Brunt Australia
From: Richard Whidby
Sent: Tuesday, January 22, 2013 6:00 PM
To: ACSales
Subject: 182 purchase
Just wanted to say thank you for the purchase of my 182S. I looked at many aircraft of the last year from many dealers with lots of issues. I have to say that dealing with Phil was the best aircraft buying experience that I have had over the years. The delivery pilot was a class act as well. Last the finance guy Brian was perhaps the best banking guy I have had the opportunity to deal with. What a great staff you have there. I look forward to an upgrade in the future.
Thanks
Richard Whidby
From: Larry Boyd
Sent: Tuesday, December 18, 2012 12:34 PM
To: Brian Bourett; Laura Howell
Subject: Dec 18 2012 Larry Boyd
Laura and Brian
Thank You again for your help in purchasing N2478D. I enjoyed dealing with Van Bortel, you both were great communicators, quick to follow up and knowledgeable about the aircraft you were selling. Just wanted to go on record I am very pleased with the airplane and Van Bortel.
Larry Boyd
From: Will Gilbert
Date: December 13, 2012, 9:56:27 PM CST
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: N1074C
Randall,
Wanted to thank you for such a great experience. As my first airplane purchase, the process was extremely simple with every detail handled for me. Brian in finance was meticulous and made the paperwork a breeze. I really couldn't imagine an easier transaction.
The airplane was even better than in pictures, and was also the first Cessna I've ever seen actually burn fuel equally left and right! Speaking of the flight, your delivery pilot Brian was fantastic, a great resource and made the 8 hour trip very enjoyable.
Looking forward to dealing with Van Bortel in the future.
Thanks again,
Will
From: Paul Marcotte
Sent: Thursday, December 06, 2012 1:47 PM
To: Joy Haugh
Subject: Re: N26613 is Closed!
Hi Joy,
Thanks for everything! The funds are in my account. I will cancel my insurance effective today. You have been great to work with. Considering the economy, I pleased overall with you and Van Bortel Aircraft.
Another Raving Fan,
Paul
From: John D. Hanselman
Sent: Thursday, November 29, 2012 5:48 PM
To: Marsha Spence
Cc: Randall Funston
Subject: RE: N2462G Invoice
Thanks Marsha. Please let George know that he owes me one when I buy my Cessna Caravan from VanBortel!! ; )
John D. Hanselman
From: David
Date: November 20, 2012 5:41:59 PM CST
To: Joy Haugh
Subject: Re: N182WM
Hi Joy,
Just checking to see if everything was closing today.
I do thank you and George for everything and will always recommend Van Bortel to everyone. You all have been great!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Dave
From: Karen and Dennis Pattie
Date: November 3, 2012, 3:52:19 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N654SP
Dear Randall,
I would like to thank you and the staff at Van Bortel Aviation for the fantastic deal I got on Cessna 172SP N654SP, back in June! You folks are great and the delivery pilot Chris Ailey was a pleasure to meet.
This is my first aircraft purchase and I could not be more pleased. I am already thinking I need bigger, more powerful, and faster. If I decide to step up, Van Bortel will be top of my list.
Please forgive the late regards...I was busy... FLYING!
Thanks, again, Dennis Pattie
From: Bob Wood
Sent: Monday, October 29, 2012 4:56 PM
To: George E Van Bortel
Subject: RE: Save up to $2.4M in taxes
Thanks, as I just bought a new Cessna 182T s/n 18282329 this week. N464Juliet.
Got over a $58,000.00 tax credit not to mention a 2008 Cessna 182T s/n 18282144 I bought from Van Bortel this past Sept. I can tell you they are by far the most professional & greatest aircraft dealer I have ever seen. I will by my next 2013
Cessna 182T only from them. George Van Bortel & Randal Funston made my last 2 aircraft sales a real pleasure.
I was a Cessna HYPSE dealer in Opa Locka Florida from 1978 thru 1981.
Cessna has come a long way since then.
Bob Wood
From: Steve
Sent: Monday, June 25, 2012 9:52 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Re: Cessna
Thanks Blake,
You guys were great too. It was a pleasure doing business. We think you & George are awesome & will spread the word. We both got signed off yesterday for our insurance & we love the 182. I am very comfortable flying it & can work all the stuff in the panel now easily. I detailed it bigtime, even waxing the belly so it really looks awesome now. I hope the 172 sells easy for yall & gives the new owner trouble free service like it did for us. That is truly a great 172 that you can sell with confidence. If your guys find any issues, let me know so I can tell my A&P. You shouldn't have to do anything to it at all.
We plan on having an annual done on the 182 before the 60 days to make sure it is perfect too. So far it has been just wonderful & K & I are very happy with it!
Steve
From: Mark Sanderson
Sent: Thursday, June 07, 2012 1:18 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Sale of N1189Y
Good Morning George,
Well, almost three years ago I purchased N1189Y, a Cessna T82T, from Van Bortel Aircraft. When the bittersweet day arrived that I decided to sell "Dorothy", there was no other organization I even considered to take on that sales task for me.
And once again, Van Bortel Aircraft did a stellar job in the recent sale of N1189Y. Joy Haugh was a "joy" to work with and meeting with Dan Mercurial on the pick-up was as pleasant as on the delivery three years before. Two consummate professionals!
Van Bortel Aircraft again lived up to its fine reputation and will always be recommended by me to others.
All the best and thanks again,
Mark Sanderson
From: David Rosenfeld
Date: May 14, 2012 2:51:43 PM CDT
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Cessna N60356
Hi Laura,
First and foremost, I would like to thank you, Brian, George, and everyone who helped make this possible. The flight back was incredible. The aircraft flew beautifully and we really enjoyed bringing it back to Miami. It is currently in it's hangar and looks great! We have received many compliments on it and I want to thank you.
There were, however, a couple of minor things that we noticed on the flight back. The Nav 1 was not working. Nav 2 was working perfectly, but VOR 1 displayed "No Data." I attached a picture so you can see. We even tuned both Nav 1 and Nav 2 to the same VOR frequency. Nav 2 would work fine, but Nav 1 would display "No Data." In the atatched picture, you can see that both Nav 1 and Nav 2 are tuned to 116.30 (ELD).
Another minor problem we discovered was that the TIT was very erratic and would work intermittently. It would be indicated -50 and all of a sudden drop to -170 then back to -50. We didn't worry much because the cylinders were fine and all temperatures were perfect. It was just the TIT that kept going back and forth.
We were going to have the Cessna Repair Station on the field here at KTMB take a look at it maybe next week or the week after to see what they say.
As I mentioned, aside from those 2 minor things, the aircraft is an absolute joy to fly and I couldn't be happier doing business with Van Bortel. We will definitely recommend Van Bortel to others and use you in the future if we decide to make a change or upgrade.
Thank you again,
David Rosenfeld
From: Carlos H Montenegro E
Sent: Friday, April 20, 2012 2:16 PM
To: Laura Howell
Dear Laura,
Thanks you for your patience and support in this adventure for me.
I am happy and confindent with Van Bortel as I am sure I will have a great aircraft.
Regards,
Carlos
From: JP Hayes
Sent: Monday, April 02, 2012 8:18 PM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: 865JP
Phil,
I wanted to again thank you for a great experience. Everyone at Van Bortel was great and James, the pilot, was very professional. I enjoyed the factory very much and was very impressed with the people at Cessna and how very proud they all are of their products. I feel lucky to have had that experience as there is no feeling quite like getting handed the keys to a brand new airplane and waving goodbye to the factory. I will miss my old airplane and had some great times with it but I really look forward to new fun. I will let you know when it is time for the TTX.
Thanks again, JP
From: John B. Brown
Sent: Thursday, March 15, 2012 5:43 PM
To: Marsha Spence
Cc: Janet Brown
Subject: Re: N3034Y
Hi Ms. Spence...not a problem at all.
I very much enjoy doing business w/the Van Bortel team; you are all professional and courteous. I wish everyone had your work ethic.
Sincerely,
John Brown
From: Don Shapansky
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2012 8:06 PM
To: Rusty Hoffman
Subject: Compliments to you avionics techs and the all the staff
Hi Rusty:
I just want to thank everyone at Van Bortel for their quality of service and the courteous way they serve us aircraft owners. I have dealt with you since 2002 and have spent well over $30,000 upgrading, repairing various aircraft and every experience has been a great experience!
I wish you well in 2012 and I have referred others with equally good results. I hope to buy a different single sometime this year and you will get a shot at it if my plan works out.
Best Regards:
Don Shapansky
From: Mark Rubin
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2012 7:19 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: N23556
Hi George,
Just wanted to send a note to tell you how happy I am with my 172 G-1000 equipped aircraft. Fortunately I accepted your invitation to fly the airplane here with your ferry pilot and as a result got 12 great hours of instruction on the glass panel and had a blast flying the plane some 1200 miles to my home airport. Matt, the ferry pilot, was a great person and superb instructor to fly with. I have had my plane for three months now, it is performing beautifully and is a dream to fly. Being a previously non-glass panel pilot, I was very hesitant to have to learn how to use the G-1000 system. But after several hours with my instructor, I am thrilled with the system and would never want to go back to the old steam gauges. It works great.
I also want to thank you for your speedy and efficient repair of my autopilot system. The KAP-140 developed a serious problem after a few weeks and with just a phone call to explain the problem to your staff, you had a replacement part quickly sent here for installation and it fully corrected the problem. Thank you for repairing the system at your cost and doing it so quickly. Things unexpectedly do break sometimes and your company did not hesitate to swiftly fix the problem and at no cost to me.
Thanks again to you and Barry for your incredible patience and guidance with my very long decision making process on this aircraft and for making it so easy to purchase and transfer to my home airport.
Sincerely,
Mark Rubin
From: Ray Landry
Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 2:58 PM
To: Gloria Hannon; Marsha Spence; Brian Bourett
Subject: Exceptional Service
Gloria, Marsha & Brian,
It looks like I have everything I need to send. I thank you a million times over for the exceptional service you have provided. Every aspect of Van Bortel has proven to be top notch and I am very happy that I bought my plane there. Today's problem showed that you are willing to tackle a problem and bring it to closure without ever complaining that it has caused you extra work, and it was resolved so expeditiously.
Thank you, thank you. I am a happy customer.
Ray Landry
From: Lic. Cesar A. Martinez
Sent: Thursday, December 29, 2011 12:22 PM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: Re: N2059U
Hello Phil!
Yes, the plane got here yesturday and I went over to recieve it. It looks great, just as expected.
Thank you very much for all your kind attentions! I have a flight programmed for today at 1600! Will be the first official flight!
I am very happy in how things turned out, it was a real pleasure to deal with you. You and George are real class acts, I wish you guys the best for 2012!
Best Regards,
Lic. César A. Martínez
From: Robert S. King
Sent: Thursday, December 08, 2011 5:49 PM
To: Joy Haugh
Subject: Re: American Express Receipt
Thank you, Joy for the good job on getting the aircraft sold.
Best, Rob
From: Juan Manuel Vargas A.
Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 4:38 PM
To: Phil Thye
Cc: Juan Manuel Vargas A.
Subject: RE: N43KS Congratulations
Hi Phil:
Yes I am very happy although I still do not believe it. I am not used to buy airplanes. I will believe it when I land here in Bogota.
I am also glad everything went well, but I have to admit this is a very stressful process.
I also want you to know that I am totally satisfied with the professionalism and the way everything happened with Van Bortel from day one. Please tell George you will have my highest recommendation in case anyone here wants to buy a Cessna in the U.S.
I will send a few pictures to you in a few months, flying over Colombia.
If everything goes well I should bring the plane in 2 weeks.
I will keep you posted!!
Thanks Phil.
You made the difference man!
Juan
From: Mike Osborn
Sent: Sunday, October 23, 2011 12:36 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: N384MC
George & Laura,
I just completed a tour around Southern California in N384MC and I have to say that as much as I hated the idea of spending an extra $50,000 I'm glad you guys convinced me it was a good deal.
I do have to correct you on one thing, it wasn't a good deal, it was a GREAT DEAL.
The plane a dream to fly, tight, stable and fun!
Also the Van Bortel after sale service was the best. Your commitment to customer satisfaction is second to none. I will happily recommend Van Bortel Aircraft to all my flying friends.
Thanks again,
Mike
From: Guinn Max A
Sent: Wednesday, October 12, 2011 1:06 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Thanks!
George, Wanted to send you a note to say thanks for making our transaction go perfectly just as you promised. We are very happy with the 182. Blake offered great support through the process. We are pleased with everything about the plane and the transaction. If we ever trade you will hear from us.
Max Guinn
Bettendorf, IA
From: ALDO WATERS
Date: May 28, 2013, 2:58:49 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Thank you
Randall,
I just want to thank you for your professionalism and patient in helping me find the right plane for me. You have exceeded my expectations in every manner throughout this process.
It's easy to see why Van Bortel is the number one Cessna dealer. You and the Van Bortel staff bring back what it's all about and that is the customer.
Next week I am bring all my mangers in to discuss the outstanding service received. It is my goal to reach those levels within my organization.
Please pass this on to George but I expect he already knows the standard of service you provide.
Again, Thank you
Aldo Waters
From: Jessica Malone
Date: March 9, 2013, 5:37 PM CST
To: Dan Mercurio
Subject: N232JM
Hi Dan
I wanted to say Thank you so much for the safe flight to Kansas and all your help with us getting N232JM.
Warren and I flew home that day with breaks/fuel stops along the way. Perfect weather and perfect airplane. Jim met us at the airport and for him it was "love at first sight"!!
Thanks so much for everything! Keep up your great career as a pilot!
If you are ever in California look us up!
Sincerely-
Jessica Malone
N232JM
From: Alejandro Vizcaino
Date: February 9, 2013, 12:25:13 PM CST
To: Randall Funston
Cc: George Van Bortel
Subject: N604CH
Randall,
I just wanted to thank you guys for all your help! We made it to Guatemala last Saturday. The aircraft is flying great and the owner is very satisfied with your service and the aircraft. Hope that in the future we can make business again!.
Thanks
Alejandro Vizcaino
AERONAVES, S.A
From: Blake Childs
Sent: Monday, February 04, 2013 4:04 PM
To: Blake Childs
To Blake and George .Thankyou for sourcing and shipping my G1000 182T to Australia.As of now we have done about 100 hours of hassle free flying and this aircraft ticks all the boxes . It has been a pleasure dealing with you and we will be back when it's time to update .
Regards Ian and Kathy Brunt Australia
From: Richard Whidby
Sent: Tuesday, January 22, 2013 6:00 PM
To: ACSales
Subject: 182 purchase
Just wanted to say thank you for the purchase of my 182S. I looked at many aircraft of the last year from many dealers with lots of issues. I have to say that dealing with Phil was the best aircraft buying experience that I have had over the years. The delivery pilot was a class act as well. Last the finance guy Brian was perhaps the best banking guy I have had the opportunity to deal with. What a great staff you have there. I look forward to an upgrade in the future.
Thanks
Richard Whidby
From: Larry Boyd
Sent: Tuesday, December 18, 2012 12:34 PM
To: Brian Bourett; Laura Howell
Subject: Dec 18 2012 Larry Boyd
Laura and Brian
Thank You again for your help in purchasing N2478D. I enjoyed dealing with Van Bortel, you both were great communicators, quick to follow up and knowledgeable about the aircraft you were selling. Just wanted to go on record I am very pleased with the airplane and Van Bortel.
Larry Boyd
From: Will Gilbert
Date: December 13, 2012, 9:56:27 PM CST
To: Randall Funston
Subject: Re: N1074C
Randall,
Wanted to thank you for such a great experience. As my first airplane purchase, the process was extremely simple with every detail handled for me. Brian in finance was meticulous and made the paperwork a breeze. I really couldn't imagine an easier transaction.
The airplane was even better than in pictures, and was also the first Cessna I've ever seen actually burn fuel equally left and right! Speaking of the flight, your delivery pilot Brian was fantastic, a great resource and made the 8 hour trip very enjoyable.
Looking forward to dealing with Van Bortel in the future.
Thanks again,
Will
From: Paul Marcotte
Sent: Thursday, December 06, 2012 1:47 PM
To: Joy Haugh
Subject: Re: N26613 is Closed!
Hi Joy,
Thanks for everything! The funds are in my account. I will cancel my insurance effective today. You have been great to work with. Considering the economy, I pleased overall with you and Van Bortel Aircraft.
Another Raving Fan,
Paul
From: John D. Hanselman
Sent: Thursday, November 29, 2012 5:48 PM
To: Marsha Spence
Cc: Randall Funston
Subject: RE: N2462G Invoice
Thanks Marsha. Please let George know that he owes me one when I buy my Cessna Caravan from VanBortel!! ; )
John D. Hanselman
From: David
Date: November 20, 2012 5:41:59 PM CST
To: Joy Haugh
Subject: Re: N182WM
Hi Joy,
Just checking to see if everything was closing today.
I do thank you and George for everything and will always recommend Van Bortel to everyone. You all have been great!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Dave
From: Karen and Dennis Pattie
Date: November 3, 2012, 3:52:19 PM CDT
To: Randall Funston
Subject: N654SP
Dear Randall,
I would like to thank you and the staff at Van Bortel Aviation for the fantastic deal I got on Cessna 172SP N654SP, back in June! You folks are great and the delivery pilot Chris Ailey was a pleasure to meet.
This is my first aircraft purchase and I could not be more pleased. I am already thinking I need bigger, more powerful, and faster. If I decide to step up, Van Bortel will be top of my list.
Please forgive the late regards...I was busy... FLYING! Thanks, again, Dennis Pattie
From: Bob Wood
Sent: Monday, October 29, 2012 4:56 PM
To: George E Van Bortel
Subject: RE: Save up to $2.4M in taxes
Thanks, as I just bought a new Cessna 182T s/n 18282329 this week. N464Juliet.
Got over a $58,000.00 tax credit not to mention a 2008 Cessna 182T s/n 18282144
I bought from Van Bortel this past Sept. I can tell you they are by far the most
professional & greatest aircraft dealer I have ever seen. I will by my next 2013
Cessna 182T only from them. George Van Bortel & Randal Funston made my last 2
aircraft sales a real pleasure.
I was a Cessna HYPSE dealer in Opa Locka Florida from 1978 thru 1981.
Cessna has come a long way since then.
Bob Wood
From: Steve
Sent: Monday, June 25, 2012 9:52 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Re: Cessna
Thanks Blake,
You guys were great too. It was a pleasure doing business. We think you & George are awesome & will spread the word. We both got signed off yesterday for our insurance & we love the 182. I am very comfortable flying it & can work all the stuff in the panel now easily. I detailed it bigtime, even waxing the belly so it really looks awesome now. I hope the 172 sells easy for yall & gives the new owner trouble free service like it did for us. That is truly a great 172 that you can sell with confidence. If your guys find any issues, let me know so I can tell my A&P. You shouldn't have to do anything to it at all.
We plan on having an annual done on the 182 before the 60 days to make sure it is perfect too. So far it has been just wonderful & K & I are very happy with it!
Steve
From: Mark Sanderson
Sent: Thursday, June 07, 2012 1:18 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Sale of N1189Y
Good Morning George,
Well, almost three years ago I purchased N1189Y, a Cessna T82T, from Van Bortel Aircraft. When the bittersweet day arrived that I decided to sell "Dorothy", there was no other organization I even considered to take on that sales task for me.
And once again, Van Bortel Aircraft did a stellar job in the recent sale of N1189Y. Joy Haugh was a "joy" to work with and meeting with Dan Mercurial on the pick-up was as pleasant as on the delivery three years before. Two consummate professionals!
Van Bortel Aircraft again lived up to its fine reputation and will always be recommended by me to others.
All the best and thanks again,
Mark Sanderson
From: David Rosenfeld
Date: May 14, 2012 2:51:43 PM CDT
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Cessna N60356
Hi Laura,
First and foremost, I would like to thank you, Brian, George, and everyone who helped make this possible. The flight back was incredible. The aircraft flew beautifully and we really enjoyed bringing it back to Miami. It is currently in it's hangar and looks great! We have received many compliments on it and I want to thank you.
There were, however, a couple of minor things that we noticed on the flight back. The Nav 1 was not working. Nav 2 was working perfectly, but VOR 1 displayed "No Data." I attached a picture so you can see. We even tuned both Nav 1 and Nav 2 to the same VOR frequency. Nav 2 would work fine, but Nav 1 would display "No Data." In the atatched picture, you can see that both Nav 1 and Nav 2 are tuned to 116.30 (ELD).
Another minor problem we discovered was that the TIT was very erratic and would work intermittently. It would be indicated -50 and all of a sudden drop to -170 then back to -50. We didn't worry much because the cylinders were fine and all temperatures were perfect. It was just the TIT that kept going back and forth.
We were going to have the Cessna Repair Station on the field here at KTMB take a look at it maybe next week or the week after to see what they say.
As I mentioned, aside from those 2 minor things, the aircraft is an absolute joy to fly and I couldn't be happier doing business with Van Bortel. We will definitely recommend Van Bortel to others and use you in the future if we decide to make a change or upgrade.
Thank you again,
David Rosenfeld
From: Carlos H Montenegro E
Sent: Friday, April 20, 2012 2:16 PM
To: Laura Howell
Dear Laura,
Thanks you for your patience and support in this adventure for me.
I am happy and confindent with Van Bortel as I am sure I will have a great aircraft.
Regards,
Carlos
From: Murphy J. Foster Jr.
Sent: Friday, April 13, 2012 4:46 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: UPDATE DISK
THANKS, I KNEW I MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE WHEN I DID BUSINESS WITH VAN BORTEL--THANKS FOR YOUR HELP--MJF
April 4, 2012
To everyone
This is an open letter to all the people at Van Bortel, and to anyone interested in buying an airplane.
I am new to aviation. To date, I have 76 hours, and 252 landings
Now, to get to the meat of this letter. I have been renting a flight school plane, and thought if I bought my very own plane, I could have more access to the plane when I needed/wanted it. The problem was, I didn't know anything about buying a plane. I talked to many people. At first, I thought I could get one for $35,000. Then I jumped to $45,000. Then as I kept looking, I decided these planes were not what I had in mind. My price went to $65...$85...$105, up, up. I soon learned, with planes, you get what you pay for.
I spent hours looking on the internet at websites such as Trade-a-Plane, etc. This was a great way to get started. I learned to ask a lot of questions. However when I called on many of these planes, the plane was either sold many months ago, or was not exactly what I had understood it to be. Some of the sales reps were fine to talk to. Others, I had some questionable feelings about. Some reps wanted hefty deposits just to take the plane off the market so my mechanic could have the option of checking it out. One rep didn't want my mechanic to check it out. They wanted to use their own...hmmmm, wonder why?
Buying a plane is something we all take very seriously, so I decided, I only wanted to deal with extremely reputable people. I finally found what I thought I had been looking for. I called and spoke to Blake Childs at Van Bortel Aviations. After our conversation, I knew I had found the right group to deal with. He was fabulous. I felt,and it was only my intuition, but I felt he was a man of great integrity, and would stand behind the Van Bortel warranty. The amazing thing, they were willing to fly the plane all the way from Arlington, TX to Florida at no cost, and no obligation to me. If I didn't like it, all I had to do was say, sorry, I don't want it.
I was serious about wanting a plane, and I thought I had nothing to lose, and this one sounded right.
Then came the next step. Their pilot, Tom Woodward flew the plane to my airport, KGIF. I tracked the entire flight via FlightAware. I felt like I was giving birth to a new child. Anyway, Tom was absolutely delightful. We talked a while. We looked at the plane, poked, and peered everywhere I could see. Finally, he took me up on a discovery flight that was fabulous beyond what I could have imagined. He was so knowledgeable and thorough about going over everything. I told him, I wished he came with the plane.
I decided, I definitely wanted this plane. A wire transfer was made, and the plane was mine.
Blake again called me, to see if it was everything was, just as I had expected. I said yes, and it was even more than I thought. It was just grand.
Then the next step... Marsha Spence, and administrative assistant at Van Bortel got all the information she needs to register the plane for me. Whew! That was a load off my shoulders. She is so competent.
Then to top things off, out of the clear blue sky, I get a phone call from George Van Bortel, the owner himself. He actually took time from his schedule to call me and thank me for buying the plane, and to tell me, if there is any sort of a problem, to let him know. We talked quite a while because he was so much fun to talk to.
Next, I went to Sun n Fun in Lakeland, to buy a tug. While I was there, I met Phil from Van Bortel. He told me his desk is directly next to Blake. He was so much fun to talk with. He had an associate with him who was also great fun, but I'm embarrassed to say I don't remember his name. But they were both as professional as I would have expected after my dealings with Blake, Tom, Marsha, and George.
I feel like I've known these people for a very long time. I have a great amount of confidence in their knowledge and integrity. So if you are in the market for a plane in excellent condition, I would say to you: Don't waste your time as I did. Go directly to Van Bortel Aviations. I couldn't be happier.
I am now the proud owner of a 2001, C-172SP SkyHawk. It is beautiful.
Thanks to all of you at Van Bortel Aviations. I think you all are terrific.
Maija Baynes
From: JP Hayes
Sent: Monday, April 02, 2012 8:18 PM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: 865JP
Phil,
I wanted to again thank you for a great experience. Everyone at Van Bortel was great and James, the pilot, was very professional. I enjoyed the factory very much and was very impressed with the people at Cessna and how very proud they all are of their products. I feel lucky to have had that experience as there is no feeling quite like getting handed the keys to a brand new airplane and waving goodbye to the factory. I will miss my old airplane and had some great times with it but I really look forward to new fun. I will let you know when it is time for the TTX.
Thanks again, JP
From: John B. Brown
Sent: Thursday, March 15, 2012 5:43 PM
To: Marsha Spence
Cc: Janet Brown
Subject: Re: N3034Y
Hi Ms. Spence...not a problem at all.
I very much enjoy doing business w/the Van Bortel team; you are all professional and courteous. I wish everyone had your work ethic.
Sincerely,
John Brown
From: Don Shapansky
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2012 8:06 PM
To: Rusty Hoffman
Subject: Compliments to you avionics techs and the all the staff
Hi Rusty:
I just want to thank everyone at Van Bortel for their quality of service and the courteous way they serve us aircraft owners. I have dealt with you since 2002 and have spent well over $30,000 upgrading, repairing various aircraft and every experience has been a great experience!
I wish you well in 2012 and I have referred others with equally good results. I hope to buy a different single sometime this year and you will get a shot at it if my plan works out.
Best Regards:
Don Shapansky
From: Mark Rubin
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2012 7:19 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: N23556
Hi George,
Just wanted to send a note to tell you how happy I am with my 172 G-1000 equipped aircraft. Fortunately I accepted your invitation to fly the airplane here with your ferry pilot and as a result got 12 great hours of instruction on the glass panel and had a blast flying the plane some 1200 miles to my home airport. Matt, the ferry pilot, was a great person and superb instructor to fly with. I have had my plane for three months now, it is performing beautifully and is a dream to fly. Being a previously non-glass panel pilot, I was very hesitant to have to learn how to use the G-1000 system. But after several hours with my instructor, I am thrilled with the system and would never want to go back to the old steam gauges. It works great.
I also want to thank you for your speedy and efficient repair of my autopilot system. The KAP-140 developed a serious problem after a few weeks and with just a phone call to explain the problem to your staff, you had a replacement part quickly sent here for installation and it fully corrected the problem. Thank you for repairing the system at your cost and doing it so quickly. Things unexpectedly do break sometimes and your company did not hesitate to swiftly fix the problem and at no cost to me.
Thanks again to you and Barry for your incredible patience and guidance with my very long decision making process on this aircraft and for making it so easy to purchase and transfer to my home airport.
Sincerely,
Mark Rubin
From: Ray Landry
Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 2:58 PM
To: Gloria Hannon; Marsha Spence; Brian Bourett
Subject: Exceptional Service
Gloria, Marsha & Brian,
It looks like I have everything I need to send. I thank you a million times over for the exceptional service you have provided. Every aspect of Van Bortel has proven to be top notch and I am very happy that I bought my plane there. Today's problem showed that you are willing to tackle a problem and bring it to closure without ever complaining that it has caused you extra work, and it was resolved so expeditiously.
Thank you, thank you. I am a happy customer.
Ray Landry
From: Lic. Cesar A. Martinez
Sent: Thursday, December 29, 2011 12:22 PM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: Re: N2059U
Hello Phil!
Yes, the plane got here yesturday and I went over to recieve it. It looks great, just as expected.
Thank you very much for all your kind attentions! I have a flight programmed for today at 1600! Will be the first official flight!
I am very happy in how things turned out, it was a real pleasure to deal with you. You and George are real class acts, I wish you guys the best for 2012!
Best Regards,
Lic. César A. Martínez
From: Robert S. King
Sent: Thursday, December 08, 2011 5:49 PM
To: Joy Haugh
Subject: Re: American Express Receipt
Thank you, Joy for the good job on getting the aircraft sold.
Best, Rob
Hi Phil:
Yes I am very happy although I still do not believe it. I am not used to buy airplanes. I will believe it when I land here in Bogota.
I am also glad everything went well, but I have to admit this is a very stressful process.
I also want you to know that I am totally satisfied with the professionalism and the way everything happened with Van Bortel from day one. Please tell George you will have my highest recommendation in case anyone here wants to buy a Cessna in the U.S.
I will send a few pictures to you in a few months, flying over Colombia.
If everything goes well I should bring the plane in 2 weeks.
I will keep you posted!!
Thanks Phil.
You made the difference man!
Juan
From: Mike Osborn
Sent: Sunday, October 23, 2011 12:36 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: N384MC
George & Laura,
I just completed a tour around Southern California in N384MC and I have to say that as much as I hated the idea of spending an extra $50,000 I'm glad you guys convinced me it was a good deal.
I do have to correct you on one thing, it wasn't a good deal, it was a GREAT DEAL.
The plane a dream to fly, tight, stable and fun!
Also the Van Bortel after sale service was the best. Your commitment to customer satisfaction is second to none. I will happily recommend Van Bortel Aircraft to all my flying friends.
Thanks again,
Mike
From: Guinn Max A
Sent: Wednesday, October 12, 2011 1:06 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Thanks!
George, Wanted to send you a note to say thanks for making our transaction go perfectly just as you promised. We are very happy with the 182. Blake offered great support through the process. We are pleased with everything about the plane and the transaction. If we ever trade you will hear from us.
Max Guinn
Bettendorf, IA
From: Larry Fulton
Sent: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 4:29 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: RE: Emailing: g1000_database_subscription_guide
You really do rock, Laura.
Thanks a bunch.
From: TDorondo
Sent: Saturday, October 01, 2011 9:56 PM
To: brutheiser
Cc: George Van Bortel
Subject: Thanks N721DL
Barry,
Thank you for your efforts in making the purchase of N721DL happen.
Your follow thru on all aspects of this sale were commendable, highly professional and made me a very happy customer. This is the fifth airplane I have owned. The purchase of N721DL was one of the best transactions yet! From the delivery to the final documentation the Van Bortel team was AAA+.
Thanks again
Terry Dorondo
From: Matt Meredith
Date: Thu, 15 Sep 2011 10:00:21 -0400
To: Phil Thye
Subject: Gratitude
Phil:
It has been a few days since we last spoke, but I wanted to drop you a message to let you know how impressed we have been with you and your company. In these day and times it is not normal to receive the level of customer service that Van Bortel Aircraft has provided. Mr. Van Bortel and yourself have gone beyond the proverbial "Call of Duty" to make sure that our purchase experience was beyond our expectations and we thank you sincerely for that. George has called to speak with Glen the other day, but he was not available. Mr. Graber's wife has had a knee procedure and has been out for the last week or so. Please let George know that Glen has been dually impressed as I am your company's service and plans to call George soon.
Again, thank you for all Van Bortel has done and I look forward to a long lasting relationship between our companys. After we get the plane back from Mr. Fortener expect a note to be included in your "Raving Fans!" section. Thanks again Phil!
Regards,
Matt Meredith
Information Systems Manager
From: Bob Seemann
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 11:19 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Bob and Kitty Seemann
Hi George,
Just a quick note to thank you for your incredible business ethics and honesty. You are truly the best in the business.
Sincerely,
Bob Seemann
Kitty Banner Seemann
From: Bob Seemann
Sent: Thursday, September 08, 2011 3:18 PM
To: Marsha Spence
Subject: Re: Catherine and Robert Seemann
Hi Marsha,
I called my bank and the wire went through, thank you. Please thank George for me and let him know that when we start to look for another plane we will be in touch. Van Bortel is the best for sure. Also, please thank him for being such a gentleman through every part of our experience.
Thank you for your help also.
Please thank Phil for me also.
You are all tops.
Sincerely,
Bob and Kitty Seemann
From: Arturo Guerra Perez
Sent: Thursday, September 08, 2011 1:19 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: N1715L
Hello George,
We are finally flying our Cessna 206 - N1715L. I just wanted to send you this email to thank you and your staff for all of your kind help with the purchase process.
I was VERY impressed with Van Vortel's service on all areas involved. Laura Howell was always on top of things with a smile ready to help.
I have talked to my partners and we hope Van Bortel could provide maintenance service to our aircraft (Anual Inspections) in the future.
Again we wish to thank you and now we understand why Van Bortel is the Largest Cessna Dealer.
Cheers!
Arturo Guerra
From: Rubin, Mark
Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2011 4:51 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Re: N#23556
George,
Thank you for your note regarding the discussed repairs and adjustments on N23556. I have called in the wire transfer to my bank and it is set to go out tomorrow morning (Wednesday September 7, 2011). My wife and I will sign the papers and Fedex them to you tomorrow. If there are any problems,let me know.
It is very challenging and awkward to make such a large purchase as an aircraft but your entire staff has made it very comfortable and easy. Thank you again for your very professional way of doing business. It has been a pleasure to work with you.
Sincerely,
Mark Rubin
From: Herrington, Craig
Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2011 7:57 AM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: FW: Herrington Pre-Buy
Phil,
I appreciate your help. Van Bortel has a great operation and reputation. The reasons I felt secure for my first time plane purchase. My expectations were exceeded. I was not disappointed in any step along the process.
Craig A. Herrington
Managing Director - Investment Officer
From: Frank DeDionisio, Stefanelli's Candies
Sent: Saturday, July 23, 2011 8:23 AM
To: Laura Howell
Cc: DAN DAHLKEMPER
Subject: Re: Invoice from Chauqauqua Aircraft Sales Inc.
Laura,
Just to restate, I believe that even with the problems that N3502J had, Van Bortel stood behind what they sold and I would like to congratulate you, George and the Van Bortel Company. Unfortunately, you do [not] see this kind of service often enough. If we did, the US economy would not be in the trouble it is.
Thanks again.
Frank
DeltaFox Air, LLC
From: The Flight Academy
Sent: Tuesday, June 21, 2011 7:33 AM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: RE: 182T information manuals
Good morning Phil:
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your help. In a world now days of selling the product and forgetting about the servicing the customer after, it is sure nice to see that you have not forgot about the later of the statement above. I will surely recommend you personally the next time I have someone looking to purchase an aircraft in the US.
Thanks Again for AAAALLLL your help!!!!
Mark
From: Bob Seemann
Sent: Monday, July 18, 2011 11:17 PM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: Re: Compass Bank [Texas Bank Incoming] N7155N
Hi Phil,
Thanks for the info and look forward to meeting you. I captured our CFI today and flew the plane 2 1/2 hrs and did 10 touch and goes. Definitely rusty but was pleased with the plane and my re acquaintance with flying. The plane is great, love it, please tell George.
Thanks for the help.
Best,
Bob Seemann
From: Frank D.
Sent: Thursday, June 16, 2011 5:00 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: Dell Laser MFP 1815_20110616150454.pdf - Adobe Reader
Laura,
Thank you Laura.
Please let me know if there is anything else.
You and Phil have made this a GREAT experience. Please tell George Van Bortel to maintain the outstanding experience and service, it means everything!!!!!!!!!!
Frank
DeltaFox Air, LLC
From: jossipe
Sent: Friday, May 27, 2011 5:54 PM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: 471SP
Phil,
When this is all over if you need a poster child, count me in. You folks are awesome.
From: Jim Trounson
Sent: Thursday, May 19, 2011 10:01 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Cc: Dan Mercurio
Subject: appreciation of Dan
Hi George -
I want you to know how much a appreciate my experience with Dan. I wrote the below endorsement of him on LinkedIn.
Wanting to buy a plane, a friend put me in touch with Dan. This was fortunate for me as Dan served more as a counselor and thoughtful coach instead of as a salesman. By educating me, he steered me in a different direction than I was initially headed. I ended up with an ideal airplane that will serve me well. Dan made the purchase process painless and stress-free. I spent a day with Dan in Arlington being oriented to the plane before Dan flew with me to Idaho, providing instruction the entire day. The next day in Idaho he worked with my pre-purchase mechanic to insure minor squawks were resolved before returning to Texas. Dan went above and beyond for me. He followed through on every commitment he made. I now consider him a friend.
Jim Trounson
President
From: Susan H
Sent: Monday, May 16, 2011 7:14 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Re: N7155N
George,
Thank you very much for your understanding. It is very appreciated.
I also appreciate your invitation to do business with you in the future.
You can count on me to recommend you highly to any pilot in the market for an airplane. You are an honest businessman and a very good person. I feel that way about Laura, as well.
Thank you, again.
Sincerely,
Susan
From: J.P. Hayes
Sent: Friday, May 06, 2011 12:45 PM
To: Phil Thye
Subject: Many Thanks
Phil,
I just wanted to convey a note of thank you for walking me through what I thought was going to be a difficult process. Actually with your patience it turned out to be pretty fun. The hardest part, as you know, was deciding which airplane to purchase.
I must also add that Chris the delivery pilot was professional in every way and very helpful with all my questions. I anticipated a mountain of paperwork and as it turns out buying an airplane is easier than buying a car.
Please thank everyone else involved for me including Mr. Van Bortel who followed up the next day with a nice call. I look forward to upgrading the 172 but not until I enjoy flying it.
Thanks again, JP Hayes.
From: Chris and Dee J.
Sent: Wednesday, April 27, 2011 7:52 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Cessna
Hello Blake:
Now that I have had a chance to fly the plane a good deal, I have come to really appreciate it, as well as the exceptional service from Van Bortel.
You personally handled the sale and delivery professionally and went above and beyond to make it happen, including picking me up at the airport and getting me to and from the hotel.
You and your whole organization deserve thanks and praise.
Please pass this on to George.
All the best,
Chris
From: Brian Russell
Sent: Wednesday, April 13, 2011 10:58 PM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: a note of thanks
Blake,
Just wanted to send a note of thanks to you and Chris, Herb and George Van Bortel for all your help with purchasing n531jh the 172. It is a very beautiful aircraft and flies great too. This purchase was 100% easier than purchasing my truck, everyone being so friendly and helpful. I am looking forward to many years of great flying in it and when I am ready to purchase the next plane, there is only one dealer i will consider dealing with and that is Van Bortel Aircraft. I have already recommended you to a friend of mine who is considering purchasing his first aircraft. I am looking forward to flying down by you soon to say hello and have a nice flight in my new baby!
Thanks again for all the awesome service and attention to details.
Brian Russell
From: Colin
Sent: Tuesday, March 1, 2011 9:16 AM
Hi George,
I would like to take you up on your offer to have someone fly up here and get me today. I need to depart Vernon (F05) at 3:30 pm today back to Fort Worth. Like I said, I am happy to arrange and pay for a cab for your pilot from Meacham back to Arlington. Let me know if that helps and I'll ensure someone is waiting when we land at 4:30 in FTW.
Thanks SOOOOO much. You have a great business, and your customer service is over the top. It's no wonder you're so successful.
Colin
From: Dr. V. Ravi Chandran
Sent: Saturday, February 12, 2011 8:23 AM
To: Van Bortel Aircraft Sales
Subject: Purchase experience
Dear Mr. Van Bortel:
I purchased a Cessna Skyhawk in December 2010 from Van Bortel, and I really enjoyed the purchasing experience. Your sales team, especially Laura Howell is a consummate professional who provided all the information and details that made the purchase easy and problem free. She helped me with insurance and bank financing.
After purchasing and using the plane for few days, I realized that it is not the right one for me, and I decided to return it back. Van Bortel buy back agreement was excellent, and they immediately honored their commitment and took it back. No problem. I am really convinced to continue my business with them. I am planning to buy my next plane from Van Bortel.
Great job, and keep up the good work. Thank you.
Dr. V. Ravi Chandran
From: Jerry Drilling
Sent: Saturday, January 15, 2011 9:20 AM
To: ACSales
Subject: Piper Archer purchase
Mr. Van Bortel,
From my first call, Barry Rutheiser guided the sales process. Barry kept me informed every step of the way, including a call to make certain I was satisfied after Mr. Bill Sterling delivered the plane. Mr. Bill was very engaging and patient through the pre buy.
I've had special treatment, you have an amazing business ethic.
Thank you very much,
Jerry Drilling
From: Ian B.
Sent: Thursday, October 14, 2010 1:27 AM
To: Blake Childs
Subject: Cessna
Morning Blake,
Just checking Dad's emails and thought I could reply for us. Thanks so much for the experience at Van Bortel. Dad and I agree it was one of the highlights of our tour and really a pleasure spending time with George, Dan and yourself. The cropping season is going well and the farms look good. Fingers crossed for the next 6 weeks. When we buy a plane you can be assured it will come from Arlington, TX. Hopefully soon.
Thanks once again mate
Pete
From: Edward M. (@bellhelicopter.textron.com)
Sent: Friday, October 1, 2010 7:59 AM
To: Gary Conover, Sam Wall
I just wanted to thank you all for first, making me aware of the Garmin warranty on my displays and second for the timely service and technical expertise you provided me.
When I purchased 2099N, I was apprehensive about the avionics complexity and wondered if maintaining the G1000 would be painful. Your avionics facility has calmed my fears and has demonstrated that the G1000 is as reliable as it is effective.
Thanks again for your help.
Sincerely
Ed Micheal
From: Bruce R. Goldberg
Sent: Monday, August 30, 2010 8:03 AM
To: George Van Bortel, Laura Howell
George, I wanted to thank you for helping resolve my issue with the G1000 system. Stevens Aviation told me that Garmin will cover the AHRS unit and most of the labor. Stevens said any cost that are not covered, they would send an invoice to your attention. I did ask for expedited shipping to have the A/C available for the past weekend for some plans that I had. I will cover this cost.
It is a pleasure to do business with Van Bortel Aircraft.
Thank you again,
Bruce R. Goldberg
From: David T.
Sent: Thursday, May 6, 2010 2:22 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Thanks George I appreciate receiving your commitment in writing. Van Bortel has been everything I expected it to be throughout the entire process and you have completely lived up to your reputation. Laura has been absolutely great to work with. With me being quite new to the industry, and as a first time plane buyer, the experience lent itself to plenty of opportunities to be overwhelmed with anxieties. I can honestly say Laura and Keith provided me with the confidence and assurance that minimized any such anxieties. My emotions are now filled with excitement and gratitude feeling that I purchased a very special plane.
Best Regards,
David
From: Jay Brown
Sent: Monday, March 22, 2010 3:12 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Thanks for the plane!
Dear George,
A quick note to thank you for the services provided in conjunction with my new airplane. Having now purchased a second aircraft from you in the past 3 years, I can say with some authority that you and your staff were most helpful. A special thanks to Barry for his insights and all the attention to working out the details in the matter.
Thanks again,
Jay Brown, MD
From: Robert W.
Sent: Monday, March 1, 2010 12:51 PM
To: George Van Bortel, Laura Howell
Subject: C-182 N26648
Dear Mr Van Bortel,
N26648 arrived last night and I couldn't be more pleased.
Your pilot Dan is a fine young man, an absolute pleasure to work with and clearly a skilled and careful pilot.
Laura too has been warm, professional and just a delight.
The real credit however goes to you and those who have created a culture that is Van Bortel. I have rarely had the pleasure of doing business with people who are absolutely good to their word, who care about their customers as you do and who use an expression which has been the hallmark of my own business "don't worry, we will take care of it."
I just got off the phone with my mechanic who said there are a few squawks but he thought the plane is excellent and more importantly he felt that your company was standing behind everything 100% (and Dave is not an easy man to impress). He explained to me the various small issues but was emphatic that I had purchased a great plane and would truly enjoy flying it. (I will fly at least twice this coming weekend).
I thank you for the great service and for the ease of the transaction. Please feel free to use all or any part of this communication in your future endeavors.
My warmest regards,
Robert
From: Dillard P.
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2010 3:12 PM
To: Phil Thye
Phil,
Thank you for prompt delivery. I have taken Dan to hotel at RDU, for his return flight to Dallas. Very pleased with airplane. Hope to fly it in next few days. Thank you for working with me on this purchase.
Dillard
From: Richard T.
Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:30 PM
To: George E. Van Bortel
George-
I want you to add me to your "raving fans" list. As you are aware, I worked through Phil Thye and purchase a fully loaded and beautiful T182T last month. Everything about the transaction went very smoothly and I appreciated everyone's efforts. Phil and Marsha were great to work with. Dan Mercurio delivered the plane to Easton, PA without a scratch. Thanks again for the great service. Now I know why you guys are the world's largest Cessna dealer. Regards.
Rich
From: Wesley E Freise
Sent: Sunday, January 31, 2010 7:57 AM
To: Phil Thye
Phil,
Sorry for not getting back sooner. Have been flying when weather permits and everything is working as required. Have now gone solo and the plane performs great. My CFI with over 28000 hours in 85 planes from big to small also really likes the plane as much as I do.
So again thank you and all of your staff for making this transaction a real pleasure.
Thanks,
Wesley E Freise
From: Bill Q.
Sent: December 2, 2009
To: Laura Howell
Laura,
You are a breath of fresh air.
You are obviously very good at what you do.
Thanks,
Bill Q.
Hawaii
From: Bob Gauthier
Sent: Thursday, October 28, 2009 10:27 AM
To: George Van Bortel, Marsha Spence
Subject: N6065D
Marsha,
When I decided to look for a plane " over the internet " I eventually went with Vanbortel because I just had a good feeling of the phone dealings with you and George. I don't usually commit 155 K over the internet and fly across the country to buy something. I am very glad that I did MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION !!!!!
Dan, is not only an awesome pilot but a very nice person. Having been with him for 4 days has made me a friend that I hope to visit in TX again some day and hear about his success's he deserves.
Pete, I wish would move here to Canada and work for me, but I don't think I could afford such a hard worker who really cares about what he does. - Don't lose him!
You and George, Very professional, sorry I couldn't meet you.
Again, Thanks for making my 1st aircraft purchase so easy and enjoyable. I'm confident that you haven't heard the last of me ;o)
Bob Gauthier
From: Mark Sanderson
Sent: Sunday, October 4, 2009 4:35 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Sanderson Purchase, N1189Y
Good Morning George,
Just wanted to take a moment and congratulate you on your having such a professional and personable aircraft sales team.
From yourself to Brooke Thye to Dan Mercurio the delivery pilot, I was certainly impressed with the "can-do" and professional attitude. I'm sure there are others on your team working behind the scenes that are as talented and hard working, but with whom I didn't have the opportunity to interface.
Van Bortel Aircraft certainly lived up to its stellar reputation in this transaction and will be recommended by me to others.
All the best and thanks again,
Mark Sanderson
From: Max K.
Sent: Wednesday, July 01, 2009 8:20 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Hello from Max - thanks George!
Hello George,
Well, after 3 months of ownership of the Cessna 172SP that you delivered to me back in March, I wanted to drop you a quick note to express my sincere thanks and extend you my compliments on the excellent service and support I received from Van Bortel Aircraft.
While the process of buying my first airplane was not an easy one, all of your staff made the experience as painless as possible. The entire team - Dusty, Rusty, Michelle, Mark and the Ferry Pilot (not to mention you too) were all very professional, caring, and cheerful to boot through every step pre-and-post purchase.
You have certainly earned my repeat business George, and I look forward to working with you long into the future. I also make a point of telling my friends who are thinking of buying their first airplane to check with Van Bortel before they go anywhere else!
Thanks again for a happy ending to this experience. The plane runs smooth as silk now and is the envy of everyone I fly with! And the Garmin 696 was an excellent addition that has already saved my bacon a couple of times! I really appreciate the opportunity to do business with all of you and wish you the very best of luck and a Happy July
4th Holiday!
All the best -
Regards,
Max
From: Brent Perry
Sent: Thursday, April 09, 2009 12:09 PM
To: Marsha Spence, George Van Bortel
Subject: N6203S
Thanks Marsha,
You know you and George have been a real pleasure to deal with, I talked to several brokers who were on par with a cheap used car salesman, unfortunately they seem to be abundant out there. I guess anyone can call themselves an aircraft broker....
I was fortunate to discover Van Bortel through a conversation with another pilot, you guys have made it a very smooth and easy process with no surprises, that is a valuable service in itself.
You can bet I brag on Van Bortel to everyone who asks where 03S came from, and I know you will certainly be selling me my next plane. (but don't tell George, it will weaken my negotiating position) J
Thanks,
Brent
From: Dean Phillips
Sent: Monday, March 09, 2009 7:23 PM
To: ACSales; George Van Bortel
Subject: Recent Purchase of Cessna 182T N1409C
Dear George,
I wanted to thank you for delivering a pristine 2005 Cessna 182T-N1409C to Palm Beach, FL (F45) for my inspection. It was in great shape and I'm a very proud new owner. Chris, the ferry pilot did a great job on the delivery and test-flight before it went to my mechanic on the field for inspection. It passed my mechanic's pre-buy with flying colors. While I had not previously viewed the aircraft before you brought it down to Florida (almost 1000 nautical miles) I knew it would be in terrific condition. It looked like a new aircraft, but I wasn't surprised. I knew what to expect from a Van Bortel Aircraft.
You see, a year and a half back, I was in the Arlington, TX area on business and I stopped by your shop to view your aircraft inventory on a hot, summer Texas day. That afternoon, Dusty Wallace met me without an appointment and walked me around the hanger where Cessna and Columbia aircraft awaited their new owners. Dusty was polite and generous with his time, despite knowing upfront that I wasn't currently "in the market." In fact, I was just starting flight school for my Private. Well, a few weeks ago I finally was in the market and I remembered Dusty at Van Bortel and asked for his assistance in buying N1409C with the NAV III system. I was familiar with the G1000 in my flight school's Cessna Skyhawk 172SP. I thought it was the best aircraft for my needs and one I could enjoy for many years and not grow out of.
We recently closed on N1409C and I expect that this will be the aircraft that I will finish my Private and Instrument Ratings in. The move up to the Skylane from my rental Skyhawk SP has been very intuitive. My flight instructor, a Skylane owner himself loves training me in it.
My wife has always been a firm believer in buying quality and when Chris showed us around the aircraft in front of my FBO, she said "it's the one." She likes that I'm flying in a proven, modern aircraft with the best avionics. She thinks it looks beautiful, too.
I'm looking forward to having many great adventures in N1409C-my first airplane. I'm planning on using it for both leisure and business travel. George, it was a pleasure doing business with Van Bortel and I will recommend you and your employees to others in the years ahead.
All the Best,
Dean Phillips
From: Joshua B.
Sent: Sunday, March 1, 2009 10:15 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Hello from Arizona
George and Marsha,
I so hope you are both well.
Well, its the beginning of March, and as always, on an almost every other weekly basis I check out my favorite website-YOURS. These planes just seem to get better and better.
As you know, N2447E was delivered to me in great shape and has been a wonderful plane. (Late 2007 T182T GFC700.) It now has 82 hours and by mid summer will likely have 100. The warranty is good through July 2009.
I am looking to trade in August for a low time 2009 or late 2008 with SVT. I really don't care if its Turbo charged. Whatever makes the trade work.
I just wanted to let you know of my near future thoughts.
As you know- you are the ONLY individuals that I would ever consider purchasing from.
Many thanks--Josh
From: Lee Allwein
Sent: Wednesday, January 14, 2009 12:05 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: t182
George,
I wanted to thank the VanBortel team for the excellent experience of purchasing an airplane from your company. Even though the T-182 is a 2005, it looks like it was just delivered new from the factory. It's obvious the airplane was meticulously maintained. The staff was very professional and made sure that I was completely satisfied. Every detail was covered, even picking me up at the hotel so I could leave early in the morning. I was attending a convention in Dallas so I actually got to visit your facility. It is immaculate! I know your policy about delivering airplanes to the customer's airport is convenient; however, seeing your facility, meeting your staff and flying the airplane prior to departing for home is worthwhile. I would strongly recommend the trip to Arlington.
I would be remiss if I did tell you how much I enjoyed working with Barry Rutheiser, my sales advisor. I did not say salesman because he truly advised me during the entire procedure. From the time I decided to sell my 206 until I finally made the commitment to buy the t182, Barry was great. At no time did I feel pressured or feel I was being "sold". He constantly kept me advised and went out of he way to insure that I would be a delighted customer. We've had so many conversations, I put him in my speed dial. I would hire Barry in an instant to work in my business.
I am in the retail flooring business and realize the importance of a knowledgeable sales staff. I believe a business must be sincere, honest, have integrity and be devoted 100% to customer satisfaction. This is the forth airplane I have purchased and between Barry and the rest of your staff, it was a great experience. I will gladly recommend your company to any pilot. Thanks for setting your standards so high and your commitment to the customer.
Lee Allwein
From: Adrian Lineberger
Sent: Wednesday, October 08, 2008 7:50 PM
To: Jeff
Subject: Thank You
Hi Jeff,
I just wanted to thank you for all your help with the trade of my 172 and purchase of N882JV. I have flown the T182 to South Carolina and Michigan in the past two weeks, and it has performed beautifully.
There are not many businesses anymore that exhibit the level of professionalism and care that Van Bortel's does, and I was amazed at how quickly and fairly the repairs were reimbursed. When I look for next airplane, you will be the first one I call.
Best Regards,
Adrian Lineberger
August 12, 2008
Dusty Wallace
Van Bortel Aircraft, Inc.
Arlington Municipal Airport
4912 South Collins
Arlington, Texas 76018
Dusty:
I want to thank you and Van Bortel Aircraft for making my first aircraft purchase experience a much smoother one than I was expecting. Everything related to the purchase process was completely new to me and having the knowledge of both you and Van Bortel Aircraft to fall back on eliminated a great deal of the apprehension. As a result, I am now the proud owner of a 2004 G1000 Skylane.
I also would like to thank Walter Lacey who flew the plane to New York for the pre-buy inspection. The logistics due to my requested pre-buy location being in a different state than where I was requesting to take delivery made for an unusual situation. Further, what was to be a one day process turned into two when severe thunderstorms moved into the area and we were forced to wait for the following day to fly to Connecticut to complete the delivery. However, through the entire process, Walter was accommodating, helpful, and a pleasure to work with.
Whenever anyone at my airport asks where the plane came from, I never have anything but positive things to say about Van Bortel. I can't say how long N63296 and I will be together. Other pilots at the airport insist that I will be itching to move into another plane in less than 3 years. I'm not sure if I agree. However, I am sure that if I do decide to explore that possibility, I will call you first.
Sincerely,
Brian A. Schiel
N63296 @ KBDR
From: Doug Pearson
Sent: Friday, August 01, 2008 8:56 PM
Subject: Thanks!
Laura,
George,
I can't thank you enough for getting me into 61A. I am proud to accept it. The flight was just great. I know I will enjoy the aircraft for many years. I am looking forward to a lasting relationship with Cessna and Van Bortel.
Doug Cranfill was outstanding and a great coach. He knew just what I needed.
A great day all around! Thanks again.
Warm regards,
Doug Pearson
Vice President
F-35 Integrated Test Force
From: Michael C.
Sent: Thursday, July 24, 2008 5:02 PM
Subject: Turbo 182T vs non Turbo 182T Operating Cost
Oh, and I forgot to say : VanBortel is FIRST CLASS in every department.
Hands down, the best purchase experience I've ever had in aviation, period.
From: LESLIE MULLINS
Sent: Thursday, May 22, 2008 10:18 AM
To: Laura Howell
Cc: Germain Gardea
Subject: Thank you
Hi Laura,
We would like to thank you for participating in our fly-in on Saturday and the generous contributions made on behalf of Van Bortel Aircraft. We recognize how important Van Bortel is to our industry and we are very appreciative to have you sponsor our event. Everyone was very pleased with the turn out as it stirred up much interest in flying and was an excellent opportunity for us to promote the G1000's.
Please express our gratitude to George for always being willing to help us promote our Cessna Pilot Center. We look forward to growing our relationship with you as we continue to expand our flight school operation.
Best regards,
Leslie Mullins
Germain Gardea
Aviator Air Centers, Inc.
3122 S. Great Southwest Pkwy.
Grand Prairie, TX 75052
From: Mark Zurawski
Sent: Tuesday, April 29, 2008 6:10 PM
To: Laura Howell
Hi Laura:
Wanted to also let you know how wonderful you've been to work with through this whole process and that we look forward to working with you again.
I should have told you that I flew 1608S with Jeff and not at any other time (yet).
Yes, you may use me as reference.
Thanks again for helping us realize our dream,
Mark Zurawski
N1608S
From: Ed S.
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2008 4:51 PM
To: Marsha Spence; George Van Bortel
Subject: N214CE
From the initial purchase to the sale and all the intervening service my experience with Van Bortel has been great. Now that I own a Piper I especially appreciate Cessna and Van Bortel service/support. If ya'll handle any plane I move to next I will definitely be back.
Ed
From: Sam D.
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2008 9:44 AM
To: Dusty Wallace
Subject: N7187R
Thanks Dusty. We were all really impressed with the professionalism of both you and your company. You have done everything you said you'd do. Unfortunately that's rare these days. SPD
From: Dr Gerhard M.
Sent: Monday, January 07, 2008 6:06 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: N5288D
Laura, let me just say that all the accolades you get in customer testimonials is WELL DESERVED.
I've been shopping for a plane for 2 years and frankly, dreading the potential complications of buying a used bird. Van Bortel's reputation, 30 day guarantee, and YOUR helpful, courteous, and knowledgeable hand-holding have made my first aircraft purchase a pleasure. It was heartfelt. Mr. Van Bortel knows how to sell aircraft.
THANKS!
Jerry
From: Joshua Bloomstone
Sent: Thursday, November 29, 2007 6:07 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: 459AJ
Dear George and Marsha:
Working with you both has been fantastic! 459AJ is a great airplane and I am so pleased. Thank you both very much and have a Happy and a Healthy New Year, Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!
Dr. Joshua Bloomstone, M.D (Josh)
Sierra Delta Aviation
From: Dan Wyson
Sent: Friday, November 2, 2007 4:38 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Re: User Replay: Aircraft Inventory November 2, 2007
You people don't know how happy I am to see Cessna bidding on Columbia.
That means in two years I can come back to my favorite seller – your –
and trade in my 2004 T182T on my favorite aircraft – the new Cessna
Columbia 400 J
Dan Wyson
From: Sandy G.
Sent: June 27, 2007
Subject: Testimonial
Dear Barry,
It goes without saying that it has been a pleasure to work with Van Bortel Aircraft. I only hope that I can acquire another airplane so that we can do business again. I feel very comfortable as you have delivered on each item we discussed as the transaction progressed. Thank you.
Sandy
From: Norman
Sent: September 5, 2007
Subject: Testimonial
Barry,
It was a "piece of heaven" working with Van Bortel Aircraft.
All my questions and concerns were handled in an expeditors manner. Your follow up was terrific.
Thank you for all of your help and consideration.
Kindest Regards,
Norman
From: Barry Rutheiser
Sent: Monday, April 16, 2007 3:09 PM
To: Scott Randall
Subject: Cessna T 206. N 248RC
Barry. I have been very much pleased with the entire Van Bortel process. Thank-you. Van Bortel made the entire process so easy. It was a pleasure working with your company and I hope to have the opportunity to avail myself of your services again.
Sincerely, Scott Randall
From: Donnie Lane
Sent: Thursday, February 22, 2007 5:51 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Note
Laura Howell and The Van Bortel Team,
I really appreciate the way our recent purchase of a T182T was handled. Laura, you made the transaction easy for me; when I picked up the airplane in Independence everything was just like it was supposed to be. The level of customer service and support you provide is the reason I purchased this aircraft from Van Bortel.
Thanks for your help.
Sincerely,
Donnie L. Lane
Enersolv Corporation
(256) 350-0846 Ext. 127
From: David K.
Sent: Tuesday, January 16, 2007 5:49 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Re: Testimonial
On December 28th I closed on a 2004 172SP. George and Marsha made what is typically a frightening experience an absolutely painless one that took less than a week. It's one that I will repeat.
Based on Van Bortel's reputation, I purchased a plane over the phone, never seeing anything but a few pictures of it. They ferried it to my destination of choice where the resident AP mechanic informed me that the plane was absolutely immaculate: From the impeccable logs to the perfect interior and engine, the plane was flawless. The mechanic further told me that in all of his years as an AP mechanic he had never seen an aircraft look in every way so new without actually being new. If it weren't for the tach showing 580 hrs, there would be no distinguishable way to discern this plane from one fresh off the assembly line.
I don't know how Van Bortel does it: Either they are über choosy in the planes they take as trade, or they have a team of obsessive/compulsive mechanics who go through each plane with tweezers and a toothbrush.
Pathospychological disorders aside, if you read the other testimonials, I am not the first to note the unparalleled service provided by the staff and the quality of a Van Bortel plane.
If you're reading this and are seriously considering purchasing a plane, then go to the inventory page, pick a plane and let Van Bortel bring it to you. They're serious: they will bring the plane to you to test out. Then, ask yourself: Who else but someone who is sure of their product would bring a piece of equipment costing as much as a house across the country for someone to play with for a month and let you give it back to them, no questions asked? Try doing that with a private individual from an ad in Trade-A-Plane.
D.K.
Princeton, NJ
From: Craig Wieland
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2008 3:37 PM
Subject: Testimonial
Good Morning Barry,
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for the good experience I had in dealing with Van Bortel Aircraft on the sale of my airplane.
I believe you represented Van Bortel very well and I would definitely recommend your services to others who are considering buying or selling an airplane.
I was especially impressed with your follow through and promptness when I called for information or had a question. I look forward to working with you again in the future.
Thanks, Craig Wieland
From: Jim Fusco
Sent: Tuesday, January 31, 2006 6:09 AM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: (no subject)
Hello Ms. Laura,
I received the manuals yesterday. Thank you very much for your prompt reply. It has been a pleasure working with you. I will definitely contact you when I decide to move up to a 182 or 206. Thanks again.
Warmest regards,
Jim Fusco
From: Stanley
Sent: Monday, November 14, 2005 10:06 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Re: N225FA
Thanks, I will call them tomorrow at Dorr. If I trade I would only want to trade with you.
Stanley
From: John Faxon
Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2005 3:52 PM
To: Laura Howell
Subject: Re: follow up N6022Q
Laura
The mechanic had the plane ready at 3:15. I asked him how it was and he said it was immaculate. The mechanic owns two planes and his comment was "If I had the money, I'd buy it". Good enough for me.
Thanks for everything.
John Faxon
From: Roger Simmons
Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2005 11:03 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Cc: Watson Felts
Subject: Thank you
George,
Thanks for our phone conversation today about the elusive weather module for the Cessna Skyhawk N335SP. I understand from Watson Felts that you have offered to reimburse me $1400.00 as compensation for the confusion about this module. I would be happy to accept that amount and am grateful for your offer. You may either send to check to the address below or to Watson at Air Wilmington.
I have been following through conversations with Watson his negotiations with Laura Howell and you about the purchase of this aircraft. It all worked extremely well and I understand why Van Bortel Aircraft is held in such high regard in the industry. As you may know the Skyhawk will be used initially as a training airplane for me and my son as we work towards a private pilot certificate and hopefully an instrument rating down the line. We have now both flown N335SP and are delighted with its condition and performance. Eventually we will be looking for something a bit faster as we extend our range. When that time comes I will ask Watson to start his search at Van Bortel Aircraft.
I would like to compliment your delivery pilot, Brian Pemberton. He was prompt, knowledgeable, courteous and professional. He is a credit to your organization. Please relay my wishes for continued success to him.
Sincerely,
Roger L. Simmons
From: Clyde Triplett
Sent: Friday, May 20, 2005 6:28 PM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: N64058
George,
Just a short note to state how much I liked doing business with Van Bortel and all thefolks I met, from Pete in the hanger- the ladies in reception - and of course pilot Mike. However, the AP& IA at my field complained (in a nice way) that he did not want to see a bunch more Van Bortel aircraft staying at the airport or he would have to close up shop.
Sincerely,
Clyde Triplett
From: P. Michael Brown
Sent: Monday, May 16, 2005 11:55 AM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Letter to George Van Bortel from Mike Brown
Dear George,
Just a short note to express my sincere appreciation for making my recent aircraft purchase a pleasurable experience. As you may remember, the plane suffered several unexpected and expensive issues during the ferry flight from Arlington to Chattanooga. You, Marsha Spence and the entire staff at Van Bortel Aircraft worked very hard with Honeywell, Cessna and my local mechanic in getting the airplane repaired in record time. I'll never forget what you told me the day I called with the punch list of problems... "Mike, I want the plane repaired. I want you happy and the cost will be at Van Bortel's expense." Such an attitude is the reason Van Bortel's reputation in the aviation industry is impeccable. My family and I love the plane. Thank you again for your timely attention to my needs. You are an honorable business man!
P Michael Brown
From: Ronnie S.
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2005 8:34 AM
To: George Van Bortel
Subject: Inquiry
Hi George
Thank you for the reply. I'm open to a newer 182. Depends on cost. I don't have a need for a Turbo model. I live Va Beach and do most of my travels within 300 nm from there. I'm 55 years young and when I sold my 182 I was ready to get out of ownership, however, I really miss it and thus I'm back in the market. I'm in no real hurry, so maybe when you get a 1997 - 2000 you could keep me on your list and keep communicating and let me see how it goes. I had such a great experience with the purchase of my last airplane, and as a result, I will only buy this next one from you.
Thank You
Ron
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