The new year is bringing some updates to our staff. The High Flight team has hired a new Chief Flight Instructor, Chuck Carnahan. Chuck joins the High Flight team with over 35 years of aviation and 19,000+ hours of experience in both training and as an Airline pilot. We are all excited to welcome Chuck to the High Flight family!
Fredrick Charles Carnahan
Summary of qualifications:
*Current CFIAMI with gold seal.
*Airline transport pilot license with multiple type ratings.
*Former IOE Check Airman A320/321, ERJ 170, ERJ 190 and CL65.
*Former Simulator Instructor E170.
*Former Simulator Instructor CL65.
How long have you been in the industry?
I have been in the industry since 1973. About 46 years.
What got you into aviation?
As a child I used to watch the sea planes land on the Ohio River. That started a lifelong fascination.
Where did you do your training?
I did all of my flight training at a local flying club at the Allegheny Co. Airport in Pittsburgh.
What is the best thing you’ve ever flown?
I’ve got a big selection to choose from. I would say the SD-330, it is really fun to fly. You can call it a “Flying Winnebago”.
How many flight hours do you have? In a single engine?
I have over 19,000 hours of flight time total and 1,800 hours in a single engine airplane.
What is your most memorable aviation experience?
Without a doubt, it would be passing my Private Pilot Checkride. It lit the spark to keep moving and to continue going further in my career.
Why High Flight?
This gives me chance to give back to my community after serving so much time in the airlines. Plus, High Flight is local to me. I have been commuting my whole career. This was a huge perk.
How do you think you can help HFA?
Fulfilling the Chief Flight Instructor roll for long term. I think this will help with the school’s commitment of being a premier flight school with someone they can count on being there and knowing the ins and outs about our specific programs and aircraft. I look forward to helping in every way I can!