Entrepreneurs in Aviation: Turning Passion into Purpose (and Profit)
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent webinar Entrepreneurs in Aviation! We had the incredible opportunity to hear from five inspiring pilots who have successfully blended their passion for flying with entrepreneurial pursuits. Whether it’s launching flight training resources, offering floatplane adventures, or building e-commerce brands, each of these pilots has carved out a unique niche—proving that the entrepreneurial spirit soars high in the aviation community.
For many pilots, having a side business isn’t just about earning extra income. It’s about finding purpose and stimulation beyond the flight deck. The aviation lifestyle often comes with irregular schedules and stretches of downtime, which can provide the perfect window to build something meaningful. A side hustle can challenge the mind, foster creativity, and build valuable skills that extend far beyond aviation. Plus, diversifying income is just plain smart in an industry known for its highs and lows.
Our mentorship community is all about connection and growth, so we’re proud to shine a spotlight on these pilot-led businesses. Not only are they innovative and inspiring, but they also present opportunities for collaboration across our network—whether you’re looking for resources, business services, or just a dose of inspiration.
If you missed the webinar, don’t worry! The recording is available online. In the meantime, get to know the presenters and their ventures below:
✈️ LevelFlight
Ground School & Pilot Exam Prep Tools
LevelFlight is a Canadian-based aviation education company built by pilots, for pilots. Founded by Tyler Haughey, the platform offers online ground school and pilot exam preparation tailored to the Canadian aviation training system. With user-friendly tools, clear explanations, and a commitment to helping students succeed, LevelFlight is raising the bar for pilot education in Canada. Whether you’re preparing for your PPL, CPL, or INRAT, this is a resource worth bookmarking.
📧 Contact: [email protected]
🌐 www.levelflight.ca
📘 SharpeAero
Simple, Focused & Concise Flight Training Resources
Jesse Sharpe created SharpeAero to simplify flight training. His mission? Strip away the fluff and give student pilots clear, concise learning materials that actually make sense. SharpeAero focuses on easy-to-understand study guides and resources for aviation students—especially those who feel overwhelmed by complex manuals and disjointed learning tools. If you’re looking for a refreshingly straightforward approach to aviation study, SharpeAero is a breath of fresh air.
📧 Contact: [email protected]
🌐 www.sharpeaero.com
🪒 Stone Field Shaving Company
Experience the Perfect Wet Shave
Proof that aviation skills translate into just about any business, Jonathan Steinfeld founded Stone Field Shaving Co. to bring luxury back to the shaving experience. Inspired by classic barbershop traditions, Stone Field offers premium shaving products—from safety razors to handmade soaps and aftershaves—all packaged with a refined, nostalgic touch. It’s the kind of business that reminds us: attention to detail and high standards go a long way, whether you’re in a cockpit or running an e-commerce shop.
📧 Contact: [email protected]
🌐 www.stonefieldshave.com
📈 Flight Plan Marketing
Creative Strategies to Help Your Business Soar
Founded by airline pilot and entrepreneur Travis Whyte, Flight Plan Marketing is a boutique digital marketing agency that helps small businesses reach new heights. From website design to Google Ads and content strategy, the team brings creativity, precision, and data-driven thinking to every project. With deep roots in aviation and entrepreneurship, Flight Plan Marketing understands what it takes to grow a business—because they’ve done it themselves.
📧 Contact: [email protected]
🌐 www.flightplanmarketing.com
🌊 Fort Langley Air
BC’s Premier Floatplane Training & Tours
Floatplane enthusiast and commercial pilot Samantha Porter launched Fort Langley Air to share the magic of British Columbia from the air. Offering floatplane training, scenic tours, and private charters, this company gives students and passengers alike a taste of Canada’s breathtaking west coast—right from the cockpit. For pilots looking to get their float rating or aviation lovers eager for an unforgettable flight experience, Fort Langley Air delivers.
📧 Contact: [email protected]
🌐 www.fortlangleyair.com
At 49th Degree, we believe that great things happen when pilots support pilots. These ventures are more than businesses—they’re reflections of creativity, courage, and the entrepreneurial mindset that makes aviation so special. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow something new, we hope this inspires you to explore your own passions.
💡 Have a business idea or a side hustle you’d like to share? Reach out—we’d love to feature you next!
