AIRLINE PILOT - FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR - PHOTOGRAPHER
My Journey
Ever since I was a kid, I always had a fascination for aviation. My father grew up loving airplanes, the early days of flight simulator, and traveling. When I was in high school, I went on a discovery flight in Beverly, MA and knew I wanted to pursue getting my pilots license.
In 2016, I started school, at Jacksonville University - pursing a degree in Aviation Management and Flight Operations. Through my four years of college, I received my private pilots license through my Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument, while taking classes taught by professors with diverse experience within the aviation industry.
In 2020, I gained experience working as a Ramp Agent for UPS at Jacksonville International Airport. Shortly after, I was offered a job Flight Instructing in Saint Augustine, Florida - where I was able to teach students of all ages, and be a mentor through their journey of becoming professional aviators.
In 2021, I was offered a position flying Aerial Survey for Vexcel Imaging. Although I loved instructing, I felt limited in where my flying was taking me. I was ready to gain experiences outside of Florida. Through my adventures flying Aerial Survey, I travelled all over the East Coast and Central United States - bringing challenges with new airspace and geography.
In 2022, all the work paid off! I was offered a First Officer position for Piedmont Airlines, wholly owned by American Airlines. My experience so far has been fantastic, working with many captains that mentor and care about their crew. Being in a dynamic and fast paced work environment makes every day of work different.
Aviation Photography
I always loved taking photos, whether it was travel or of family and friends - capturing memories through a camera was something I was passionate about. When I saved up for my first camera, I wanted to find a niche where I could share my work and network - while also learning about how to be a better photographer.
Shortly after, I started my instagram page, flynniethepilot, where I could have a platform to share my work. As my account grew, I became friends with other pilots and enthusiasts from all over the world - taking me on adventures that I never knew aviation photography would bring me.