Blue River Aviation

Blue River Aviation is a flight school and aviation business based in Palmer, Alaska. The company trains pilots with no prior flight experience through commercial multi engine and certified flight instructor levels. It also provides tailwheel, seaplane, and ski instruction for pilots seeking specialized skills in off airport operations.

The flight school offers primary flight training courses including private pilot, instrument rating, commercial pilot, and multi engine add on ratings. A discovery flight program gives newcomers one hour of ground instruction and one hour of flight time with an instructor. A sport pilot certificate program is available for students who want to begin flying with a driver’s license instead of an FAA medical certificate.

The school uses a Redbird flight simulator as part of its training program. This device allows students to practice instrument procedures and tactics before flying in the aircraft. The simulator supports training for instrument ratings and other advanced certifications.

The company operates a fleet of Cessna aircraft. It offers aircraft rental to qualified pilots who need to build flight time or explore Alaska from the air. An in house maintenance team provides aircraft upkeep and repair services to keep the fleet in working condition. The maintenance department includes a director of maintenance and several mechanics.

In addition to flight training, the business offers flightseeing, charter, and air taxi services. These services connect customers with Alaska’s backcountry and scenic areas. The company also maintains a merchandise shop and lists funding resources for students who need help paying for flight training. Alaska residents may be eligible for a STEP grant to fund certain ratings.

Blue River Aviation was founded by a pilot who began flight instructing in 2009 while working for a regional airline. After ten years of part time instruction, he moved to full time flight school operations and added additional instructors. The company now serves students from around the world who come to Alaska for aviation training and backcountry flying experience.

The business operates seven days a week. Its mission focuses on aviation training, aircraft access, and safety. The website includes a careers page, news updates, and a contact form. The company also maintains a presence on social media.

Services

• Flight Training
• Flightseeing
• Charter & Air Taxi
• Aircraft Rentals
• Flight Simulator
• Aircraft Maintenance
• Tailwheel Instruction
• Seaplane Instruction
• Ski Instruction
• Merch Shop