ABOUT US
Club History
The Cascade Flyers was established in 1958 and is the longest operating aviation club in the Pacific Northwest. The Flyers began as a group of pilots who shared a passion for the beautiful terrain of the Puget Sound region, and a love for flying small aircraft. Many of the initial members were current or retired service members hoping for an alternative to their Air Force and Naval aviation experience.
The Club Today
The Cascade Flyers consists of 30 members that have a common love for flying small aircraft. Their passion is fueled by the breathtaking landscape of the Pacific Northwest – every flight provides new insight on this captivating region. The pilots themselves range from 28 to 80 years in age, and share over a century of collective aviation knowledge. The members include military service members, business and technology professionals, commercial pilots to retired university professors.
Member Highlight
The Flyers are a great group of pilots who have interesting and diverse set of backgrounds. Each month we like to highlight a few of our members and share their views on flying in the Pacific Northwest.
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Rob D.
Member of Cascade Flyers: Since 2013
Flight Experience: “16 years. Currently [I’m] a US Navy EA-18G Growler pilot based at NAS Whidbey Island. I have flown the F/A-18 Hornet, T-45, T-34 and several different civilian single-engine piston aircraft. I always wanted to be a pilot from the time I was in elementary school.”
Why he thinks it’s great to be a member of Cascade Flyers: “The airplanes are well-maintained, the costs are very reasonable and the benefits of being a part-owner vice renting is worth it, i.e. having the ability to schedule a plane last minute or go on multiple-day trips.”
Favorite Route: “Up to Orcas Island to get lunch.”
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Tony I.
Member of Cascade Flyers: Since 2008
Flight Experience: “I started flying in 2004 as part of a college degree. After finishing my private and instrument ratings I was looking for an economic way to build time towards my commercial. I received a flyer in the mail in 2007 for the club and found not only an inexpensive way to fly, but an engaging group of pilots with a wide variety of backgrounds and experience. I finished my commercial certificate in 2009, and my degree not long after that.”
Why he thinks it’s great to be a member of Cascade Flyers: “Well maintained aircraft at reasonable rates. A great group of aviation enthusiasts.”
Favorite Route: “San Juan Islands are definitely the best. Instead of 3-4 hours dealing with the ferry, 30 minutes and you’re enjoying beautiful views and great food.”
Community Outreach
In the past, members have chosen to donate time to non-profits in the Puget Sound that mean a lot to them and the group. They support these charities by taking groups on private flights, showing them the beauty of the region and sharing the thrill of flying in small aircraft. Some of these groups have included Little Bit, United Way of Snohomish County, and Choir of the Sound.
