Airborne Entrepreneur: Dave Myers brings unique flying experience to Seattle
Airborne Entrepreneur: Dave Myers brings unique flying experience to Seattle
Dave Myers is the owner, operator and pilot for Amphibian Air his passion and his lifestyle as he travels around the nation with his special light sport amphibious aircraft.
Photo by Patrick Robinson
Fri, 08/16/2024
Dave Myers, a 63-year-old former carpenter turned pilot, has touched down in Seattle as part of a remarkable 10,000-mile road trip, offering locals and tourists alike a chance to experience flight in his unique aircraft. Myers operates Amphibian Air, a business that combines his passion for flying with a nomadic lifestyle. His vehicle of choice is a weight shift control aircraft, often referred to as a "trike" due to its three-wheeled configuration.
This special light sport aircraft, which Myers affectionately calls "Mellow Bird," can reach altitudes of up to 10,000 feet, though he prefers to cruise between 1 to 1,000 feet above the water.
With 14 years of flying experience and over 2,600 flight hours under his belt, Myers has introduced more than 2,500 people to the joys of flight. His passengers range from 5 to 93 years old, each receiving a certificate of instruction after their flight. "I can't give a ride or tour," Myers explained. "But I can teach for 8 hours a day, so everyone gets the same experience - checklist usage and learning how the aircraft flies."
Myers' journey into aviation began at age 49 with an introductory flight in Hawaii that "changed his life." His story has even been featured in a PBS special called "Startup Amphibian Air." The aircraft, which cruises at 47 mph and has a top speed of 55 mph, allows Myers to offer a unique perspective on the landscapes he visits.
Safety is a priority, with Myers regularly practicing emergency procedures such as engine-off glides with his students. As he travels across the country, Myers uses his flying business to supplement his income and fuel his adventures. "It puts gas in your tank and you keep going," he said, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between his passion and his lifestyle.
For those interested in experiencing flight with Dave Myers, he can often be found at local waterfront areas, ready to share his love of flying with new students. Just look for the bright yellow aircraft - a fitting color for the man who named his aircraft after his favorite soft drink, Mello Yello.
He's only here through Saturday but you can call him at 912-572-8055 for a reservation. The cost is $100 for a 15 minute flight.