Join us on the Old Fly Guy Network as we take flight with Jonathan Kotwicki—airline pilot turned aviation entrepreneur—who left the skies of commercial aviation to carve out a one-of-a-kind flying haven in the heart of Alaska. From bush flying to building an aviation community around DC-6 and DC-9 Airbnb cabins, Jonathan shares how he created a pilot’s paradise at Big Lake, Alaska.

We explore the beauty and challenges of Alaskan flying—from glacier landings to weather unpredictability—and how Kotwicki’s training focuses on real-world, off-airport experiences. More than just stick-and-rudder skills, this episode dives into the value of pilot community, the importance of learning from each other, and the mindset it takes to thrive in aviation’s most rugged environment.

If you're an aviator, aspiring pilot, or someone who dreams of flying into the wild, you won’t want to miss this inspiring journey through Alaska’s skies.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Building a Pilot’s Retreat in Alaska

Discover how Jonathan transformed his passion for flying into a full-blown aviation destination, complete with private runways and retired jetliners turned into Airbnb's.

The Realities of Alaskan Bush Flying

From glacier landings to off-airport strips, learn what it takes to safely and skillfully fly in one of the most challenging—and rewarding—aviation environments in the world.

Training Beyond the Textbook

Explore Jonathan’s unique approach to flight training that goes beyond checklists and simulators, focusing on real-world scenarios like float flying, ski landings, and weather adaptation.

In this inspiring episode of the Old Fly Guy Network, we feature Josh Campbell, military aviator and host of the "Free Pilot Training" YouTube channel and podcast. Josh opens up about his powerful aviation journey—from believing flying was out of reach due to financial constraints, to becoming a military pilot and content creator committed to making aviation training accessible to everyone.
Josh shares how his first flight during Air Force basic training in 2009 sparked a passion that never left, even through years of financial hardship. His story is one of resilience, creative problem-solving, and an unwavering belief in the possible. Today, he leads a growing platform that offers completely free, high-quality aviation training, helping aspiring pilots across the world take off.
We dive into:
• His setbacks and how they shaped his flying journey
• The mission behind Free Pilot Training and removing financial barriers
• The power of learning from mistakes and sharing real-world experiences
• How mentorship and community are key to inspiring future aviators
• His plans to expand free training resources including instrument rating content
• And his now-famous Bigfoot metaphor: if you believe, it becomes possible
Whether you're a student pilot, a military hopeful, or someone who just loves aviation stories with heart, this conversation with Josh will leave you motivated, informed, and ready to fly.

Come along for the ride with Greg Campbell, the Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV), while he tells us of his aviation journey in the Commonwealth of Virginia. His roots are deep in Virginia and started with a passion to fly and a drive to do whatever it would take to make that happen. Greg will tell us about his desire to fly and his family’s support that allowed that dream to come true, with a unique twist. With Greg’s background in aviation and his experience in all aspects of flight operations, he was a natural choice as the aviation director in Virginia. We will hear about his commitment to the aviation community and how he and his team provide an environment of safety and long-term growth of aviation in Virginia. You will feel at home with Greg and learn that his aviation experience is a lifelong journey. Come spend some time with us!