Al has been obsessed with aviation for as long as he can remember. From saving up his lawn-mowing money to earn his pilot’s license in high school to spending over 20 years teaching pilots around the world, his passion has always been about more than just flying—it’s about transformation.
Al believes aviation has the power to change lives, and he cherishes every moment in the cockpit with his students, guiding them to unlock that potential for themselves. His mission is to build a leading, forward-thinking aviation organization that constantly pushes the boundaries of innovation and modernization in flight training—not just teaching people to fly, but helping them develop the confidence and skills to thrive in aviation.
For Al, it’s not about hours or checkrides—it’s about the journey, the breakthroughs, and the moment a student realizes they are in control of something bigger than themselves. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your skills, Al is committed to delivering a training experience that’s modern, empowering, and built for your success.
Amy is the Director of Customer Experience here at FlyWaterloo, bringing over a decade of expertise in customer service. She is a seasoned professional in operational efficiency, always prioritizing client needs. Amy has worked in both the commercial and educational sectors of the aviation industry. As a former Flight Attendant with American Airlines, she honed her expertise in delivering exceptional service in high-pressure, fast-paced environments, while maintaining safety and comfort at the forefront. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina and is passionate about helping individuals achieve their goals.
Madison Hughes is the Lead Flight Instructor at Fly Waterloo Aviation, and is also a certified CFII. She started her aviation career at ATP, Chicago Executive Airport, where she honed her skills and developed a deep commitment to mentoring aspiring pilots. Prior to discovering her passion for aviation, Madison earned an MBA from the University of Dayton. During her time at college, she worked in the Dean of Students Office, where she gained invaluable experience in providing students with personalized, supportive education tailored to their individual needs. Madison’s diverse background in both business and education uniquely positions her to offer exceptional guidance and leadership to the next generation of aviators.
We inspire our pilots to set high goals and achieve them with determination.
We foster relationships among aviation enthusiasts to create a supportive network.
We stay teachable and embrace every opportunity to grow and improve.
We approach challenges with a can-do attitude and a positive outlook.
We prioritize safety in every aspect of training and operations, ensuring confidence in the skies.
Fly Waterloo is proud to call Chicago Executive Airport (PWK) home—a friendly and welcoming environment perfect for learning to fly. Located in Hangar 5 at 1115 S. Wolf Road, Wheeling, IL, our home base offers a dynamic airspace that prepares you to handle any flying scenario with confidence. With its proximity to O’Hare International Airport and a thriving pilot community, PWK provides the ideal setting for both new and seasoned pilots to grow their skills.
