Owner | Chief Flight Instructor | MS, CFI-I, AGI, ASEL, CSIP
Greg Larson
Greg is an Instrument Rated, Commercial Pilot having earned his Private Pilot license in Pensacola, Fl. He is currently Instructing as a Certified Flight Instructor Pilot out of Asheville Regional Airport (KAVL) focusing on individuals pursuing their Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate or seeking to gain Mountain Flying experience. He administers Instrument Proficiency Checks and Flight Reviews.
Greg volunteers with the Asheville Civil Air Patrol as an instructor pilot, teaching mountain flying techniques, search and rescue patterns and procedures, and mentoring cadets in the Civil Air Patrol Flight Academy. He has also provided initial flight instruction to active-duty Air Force personnel through the Rated Preparatory Program, which helps prepare service members who want to pursue aviation and pilot careers in the Air Force. Greg has served on the board of the Western North Carolina Pilots Association and Educational Foundation, awarding annual grants to aspiring pilots, and he is an active member of the Mountain Flyers Flying Club, where he also instructs club members.
Greg is a U.S. Navy veteran and continues to serve in several volunteer roles.
Over the course of his professional career, Greg has held leadership and management positions in the technology sector with major global organizations, most recently as Chief Information Security Officer in the government and public sector.
He holds a Master of Science degree in Technology Studies and Cyber Security from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science in Technology Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, with postgraduate studies in technology leadership at Cambridge University in the United Kingdom and Paderborn University in Germany.
Outside the cockpit, Greg enjoys fly fishing, spending time with his family, and, of course, flying whenever possible.
“One of the most impactful statements shared with me by a good friend was: ‘If you have a goal and a dream, share it with someone. There are many people in the aviation industry who want to see you succeed and help you get there.’ This has had a profound impact on my life and on how I approach opportunities to help others.” – Greg Larson
Operations Director | MS, CCEP, NBC-HWC
Marla Larson
Marla’s love of aviation started early and never really let go. While serving in the U.S. Navy, that spark grew into something more on a first date flight with her then-boyfriend, now husband, Greg. At his encouragement, she began flight lessons at Glenview Naval Air Station, deepening a connection to aviation that also traces back to her grandfather, LTJG Paul G. Schroeder, MD, who flew from the same airfield.
Professionally, Marla brings more than three decades of experience in exercise and healthcare, having worked in leading teaching hospitals and wellness centers. She is deeply committed to helping others understand the benefits of movement and to advocating for a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. She holds a Master of Science in Health Sciences and Rehabilitation from Pennsylvania Western University and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Sciences and Clinical Studies from Eastern Michigan University.
A longtime resident of Western North Carolina, Marla values time outside with her family and their dogs. As a United States Navy Veteran, she carries a quiet but steady sense of patriotism and service into everything she does.
Flight Instructor | CSIP
Gopal Sundaramoorthy
Gopal Sundaramoorthy is a Certified Flight Instructor for both single-engine airplanes and gliders, as well as a Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP) trained directly by Cirrus Aircraft.
He brings extensive experience as both an aviator and an educator, having taught marketing to MBA students in upstate New York and serving for more than 25 years as a medical devices executive leading multinational teams around the world. Gopal holds an MBA from Duke University and a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Rochester, NY, and recently relocated from Wisconsin to North Carolina.
Flight Instructor | CFI, MEI
Blake Saine
Blake Saine is a Commercial Multi-Engine Rated Pilot who began his aviation journey in the mountains of Southern Utah, where he developed a strong foundation in flight operations and decision-making in challenging terrain. Originally from Hickory, North Carolina, Blake earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation from Southern Utah University and brings both technical knowledge and real-world experience to his flying.
Blake has a passion for aviation that is rooted in both professionalism and practical skill. His time training in mountainous environments has shaped his approach to flying, emphasizing situational awareness, safety, and adaptability in dynamic conditions.
In addition to his aviation background, Blake has over eight years of experience as a firefighter, where he developed strong leadership, communication, and risk management skills. His service in emergency response has reinforced his ability to remain calm under pressure and make sound decisions—qualities that directly translate to the cockpit.
Outside of aviation, Blake enjoys spending time on the water kayaking, fishing, and following stock car racing along with other sports. Whether in the air or on the ground, he is driven by a commitment to continuous improvement and a genuine passion for the activities he pursues.
Flight Instructor | CFI, CFI-I, MEI, AGI, IGI | Commercial Pilot: ASEL, AMEL, Instrument
Chad Ledbetter
Chad’s passion for aviation began early, when he earned his private pilot certificate at the age of 17. College came next at Appalachian State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Physics with an Electronics Engineering concentration. After college, Chad worked in various roles in engineering, technical support, and customer service.
After many years away from flying, Chad was able to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming a professional pilot. He is now a corporate pilot flying a Cirrus SR22 under Part 91 operations. Chad holds CFI, CFI-I, and MEI instructor certificates, as well as AGI and IGI ground instructor certificates. He brings not only his instructor expertise but also his real‑world flying experience in both VFR and IFR conditions.
Outside of work, Chad’s favorite hobby is flying and sharing his passion for aviation with others. He also enjoys hiking, mountain biking, and most anything that involves being outdoors.