Kingwood Aviators, Cleveland

What makes your business stand out?
While you might think a Flying Club is all about airplanes, it's really about people . . . who share a common interest. It's the people who make any Flying Club stand out, and ours surely do. One of our founders not only co-owns several of the planes but donates his time and skills to maintain them. Many of our instructors don't have to teach; they want to. They're there to share their experiences and enjoy the aviation related experiences of others.

What inspired the owner to start or run this business?
The founders of the Club started it to help making flying more accessible to those wanting to fly. By combining resources, costs come down. It doesn't hurt, either, that you get to make new friends with similar interests.

What is your most popular offering?
The student pilot/new pilot training program is probably the most popular offering of the Club, due to the greatly discounted cost over commercial schools. The rental fleet comes in a very close second, however, since there are simple planes for basic VFR pilots, a tailwheel aircraft and even a complex aircraft great for travel, all at excellent rates.

Anything else you want to add that we didn't cover?
The social aspect of a Flying Club is often greatly overlooked. You might be surprised to learn how often the elderly gentleman sitting next to you turns out to have been a P-51 pilot during WWII or the little old lady a few tables over helped build bombers; or that the fellow pulling a small Cessna across the tarmac with a golf cart flies 737 jumbo jets for his day job.

What is the best reaction you’ve ever gotten from a customer?
Recently an elderly lady went up for her first ever flight. Since she said her dream was to "touch the clouds" our pilot removed the door from the Citabria so provide a more open experience. She was elated!

What’s your favorite part about your job?
Helping those who have dreamed of being involved in aviation realize that it can be a part of their lives.

Business Basics

Established: 2009
Handicap Accessible: No
Staff Size: 2–10 people
Parking: Parking lot
Reservations/Appointments: Required
Most popular offering: Discount Flight Training and Rentals
Pro Tip: Bring shades and a cap with a brim when flying—and dress cool (no a/c!). Wear sunscreen when watching!