What’s the best thing to come out of New Zealand? I know you’re all thinking Sauvignon Blanc (and who could blame you?), but it’s actually Blair McLeod, GBA’s newest Private Pilot! This guy’s been soaring through challenges like a Kiwi that just realized it could fly. Blair’s journey has been more epic than a rugby match with the All Blacks—battling weather delays, making the trek from the lake (probably dodging sheep and hobbits along the way), all while running his own business with the focus of a true Kiwi legend. Now he’s ready to celebrate this incredible achievement! And what better way than heading back to the land of the long white cloud to see his whānau? Blair, your hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and we can’t wait to see where the skies take you next. A massive shoutout to his CFI, Andrew Spanier, for guiding him through this journey.

​Today, we're beyond thrilled to announce that Couper Ross has officially earned his private pilot license! Couper has been absolutely soaring through his training over the last few months, showing an incredible amount of dedication, perseverance, and passion. He put in the hard work, and it’s paid off—now he's ready to take to the skies with his well-deserved wings! But the journey doesn't stop here. Couper is setting his sights even higher as he prepares to head to the Air Force Academy. With dreams of becoming a fighter pilot, there's no doubt he’s ready to take on this new challenge with the same determination that got him this far. The sky isn’t just the limit for Couper—it’s his next playground! We also want to give a huge shoutout to his fantastic CFI, Eric Harned. Eric’s guidance and expertise have been instrumental in helping Couper reach this incredible milestone. Couper, we're all eagerly awaiting the amazing things you'll achieve next. Here’s to clear skies, smooth landings, and an amazing future ahead!

​Geez, this guy again? Just kidding 😁. Whether you’ve seen him on social media sporting GBA merch or if you’ve had to kick him out of a conference room while he performed rituals with the FAR/ AIM tabbers, you know that Ian has quite the reputation around here. As much as we like to poke fun at Ian, we’re super excited to announce that Ian Barry is officially a private pilot! Ian, to no one’s surprise, showed up calm and ready this morning while sporting his tried-and-true golf attire… naturally to celebrate with a game after his ride (unreal). While in the air, his CFI and president of the FAR/AIM tabbers, Eric Harned, cheered Ian on while he executed his maneuvers with grace and buttered his landings with ease. Ian, you’ve been hitting the books and putting your flight training before your golfing career—a hard ask I know— and we’re incredibly proud of you. Let’s give a huge round of applause to Ian Barry and Eric Harned on this incredible accomplishment! You’ll be seeing Ian again soon as he approaches his instrument training head on… but in the meantime, breathe, you did it!