Holiday Airways

Introduction

Holiday Airways, located in Schaumburg, Illinois, offers more than just flight training and a path to the airlines. It’s a place where pilots can embark on a unique adventure into the world of classic aviation and truly enjoy the experience.

The Origin

Founded in October 2020, Holiday Airways is the creation of two passionate corporate pilots, Chris Coltrin and Sean Kline, who brought their love of flying into the education sector. In the summer of 2020, with extra time on their hands, and enthusiasm, they acquired a Cessna 195 and a Christian Eagle. As they flew in formation around Schaumburg, Illinois, they attracted a crowd of onlookers eager to learn how to fly.

While establishing their flight school, Chris and Sean decided to honor a great influence in their lives: Sean’s grandfather, who owned a Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) and flight school called Holiday Airways from the mid-1970s to the 1990s. Inspired by his legacy, they chose to revive the name. By early fall 2020, Holiday Airways acquired its first aircraft, a Clipwing Cub, and officially became a flight school at Schaumburg Regional Airport. There, they began teaching people to fly and earn their tailwheel endorsements.

Legacy and Mission

Chris and Sean’s mission is to provide high-quality flight training with a unique approach. While many flight schools are embracing advanced technology in the airplane, Chris and Sean believe in returning to the fundamentals of flight. Their training emphasizes the core skills and techniques that are essential for any pilot, ensuring a strong foundation in the basics of aviation. At the same time, they maintain the mentality that each flight is a mini-vacation—a break from the mundane. They aim to instill this sense of joy and adventure in their students, fostering a love for aviation that goes beyond the career-centered training that many pilots seek out. Their goal is not just to create skilled pilots but to cultivate a community of aviators who see flying as a career, a passion, and an escape from the routines of everyday life.

Signature program

One of Holiday Airways’ specialties is tailwheel training, a niche that emphasizes strengthening core airmanship skills.  Skills that can often become overlooked in today’s technologically advanced aviation world. Their approach is not one-size-fits-all; instead, they offer a customized program tailored to each pilot’s specific needs. The true benefit of this program is that, unlike a private pilot certification, a tailwheel endorsement is signed off by the instructor rather than a designated flight evaluator (DPE). The absence of a DPE allows Chris and Sean the flexibility to identify and target areas where a pilot may need improvement, strengthening those airmanship skills while the student works towards a tailwheel endorsement. Their goal is to help each pilot fine-tune his/her abilities and build a solid foundation in fundamental flying techniques.

Requirements

Typical tailwheel training requires candidates to demonstrate proficiency in a tailwheel aircraft while performing normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings, wheel landings, and go-around procedures. While the FAA does not specify a required number of training hours, Chris states that most students can earn their endorsement in 3 to 8 hours, though it may take longer depending on individual needs.

Due to the age of the aircraft involved in training, Holiday Airways also emphasizes the fundamentals of straight and level flight, good stick and rudder skills, control of the aircraft’s axes, slips and skids, bounce and swerve recovery, and no-flap landings. Another unique aspect of Holiday Airways’ training is its location. While tailwheel aircraft are typically designed for grass runways, Holiday Airways is based at Schaumburg Airport, which has a paved runway. This means students must also master the art of landing a tailwheel aircraft on pavement—a challenge for even the most experienced tailwheel pilots. With this additional preparation built into their program, students are better equipped to handle the varied challenges of the aviation world.

Other programs

In addition to tailwheel training, Holiday Airways is a full-service flight school offering sport pilot certificates, private pilot certifications, instrument ratings, and commercial ratings. They also provide acrobatic training in their Pitts aircraft.

These are just a few of the services offered by Holiday Airways. For more information about training options, please reach out to Sean and Chris at sean@flyholidayairways.com or chris@flyholidayairways.com.

Scheduling

Scheduling at Holiday Airways varies with the time of year. Tailwheel planes generally have more availability, but the Piper Cub tends to book up quickly during the summer months. For the best availability and an optimal flight experience, it is recommended to schedule 1-2 weeks in advance. Holiday Airways accommodates everything from first-day training to discovery flights. With their infectious enthusiasm for flying, you’ll likely want to book a follow-up flight.

Curious but not ready to fly?

As lifelong members of the aviation community, Holiday Airways is deeply involved in local events. In September, you can find them at the Joliet Airfest at Joliet Regional Airport, Hops and Props at Schaumburg Regional Airport, and Girls in Aviation Day at Schaumburg Regional Airport. Throughout the year, they also participate in the Bolingbrook Calvacade of Planes at Clow Airport, along with other events as they arise.

Conclusion

As a growing flight school, Holiday Airways offers a distinctive approach to training. They focus on honing each pilot’s skills to ensure they are well-prepared for the challenges of the aviation world. Additionally, Holiday Airways is committed to helping pilots enjoy the journey, regardless of their long-term goals.

Want to know more?

Visit the Holiday Airways website or contact them at 847-812-7000 to find out more or schedule your first flight.

Happy Flying!