Nice to meet you! Let’s Fly.
Hi, I’m Cole Melby!
As a Reno, NV-based flight instructor, it’s only natural I love the mountains and all activities associated with them. Cycling, skiing, hiking, Lake Tahoe, and most importantly, mountain flying. I previously owned a Van’s RV-6A and know building a Bearhawk 5 is in my future. I’m a proud girl dad who loves sharing the joy of flying with my wife and kids.
A Legacy of Aviation
I can’t imagine any version of my life where I’m not involved in aviation. Thanks to my dad and grandpa, both U.S. Air Force veterans, I’ve been obsessed with airplanes for as long as I can remember. My dad, an A-10 and T-38 mechanic, showed me how cool airplanes are while my grandpa, a C-141 flight engineer, ignited my desire to see the world from above.
My Flying Philosophy
First and foremost, flying should be fun and enjoyed by the whole family. But, the only way flying can truly be fun for everyone is if it’s safe. Flying commercially is extremely safe due in large part to being operated by professional pilots. They train regularly and to a higher standard. I bring this professional mindset to recreational flying and believe you don’t have to be a professional pilot to fly like one.
How We’ll Train in Your Aircraft
I focus on the basics first to create a solid foundation in both knowledge and skill. From there, I help you master these skills and turn you into a pilot who thinks and flies like the pros do. My flight instruction is designed to make you a true Pilot In Command. We’ll fly into grass runways, operate from short, narrow airstrips, and execute cross countries in weather that forces you to make a decision to deviate, divert, or continue. We’ll fly in actual IMC and deal with potential icing conditions. These are the challenges you’ll face in the real world and I want you to be prepared to handle them with absolute confidence.
What I Love Flying Right Now
Tailwheel anything!
I got my tailwheel endorsement in 2024 and immediately fell in love with it. I need constant challenge and tailwheel flying certainly provides that.
What Keeps Me Up At Night
I obsess over providing the best training experience possible for my clients. I understand flight training isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach and I’m constantly working to provide instruction that fits your needs and learning style.