Eric Weaver

Pilot

Pilot Eric Weaver has logged extensive hours in seaplane operations, global Caravan Amphibian flights, and long-range Gulfstream missions for Fortune 100 corporate clients. His journey in aviation began in rural Pennsylvania and has expanded into international operations across the Americas, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia, and South America. Now a veteran business aviation pilot, his career blends specialized flying with corporate aviation assignments that demand precision and adaptability.

Eric’s path reflects consistent growth from grassroots aviation to advanced corporate jet operations. Proficient in seaplanes, Caravan Amphibians, and complex jets, he continues to expand his expertise while guiding younger aviators. His career combines instruction, demonstration flying, and corporate assignments, making him a versatile figure whose work is characterized by steady development and a wide range of experience.

Eric’s introduction to aviation came from his family’s farm in Pennsylvania. His father and uncle owned a Cessna 170, which they operated from a closed paved road running through the property. That access gave him his first exposure to aviation and established the foundation for his career. Alongside this, he gained experience in agricultural partnerships, retailing farm products, and early direct-to-consumer food sales. After finishing high school, he joined Youth with a Mission, teaching English in Hong Kong before returning to help his family during a period of business and personal challenges. Later, he earned a degree in Business and Management Information Systems from Anderson University in Indiana, which provided him with both business knowledge and technical skills useful in his aviation career.

After college, Eric and his parents purchased a 37-room lakeside resort in Florida, which included a golf course, restaurant, and banquet facilities. He managed weddings, events, and daily operations at the resort. During this time, his interest in aviation returned when a seaplane arrived on the property. He went on to earn his private pilot certificate and purchased a 1954 Cessna 180 on straight floats. Following the resort’s closure after a 2004 hurricane, Eric turned fully toward aviation, expanding his qualifications to include commercial, instrument, multi-engine, instructor, and multi-engine seaplane ratings.

During the Great Recession, Eric co-founded a seaplane base in Tavares, Florida, which became known as America’s Seaplane City. Partnering with Ricci Rowe, he developed a successful operation centered on seaplane tourism and advanced training. As a high-time multi-engine seaplane pilot and instructor, Eric achieved the FAA’s highest combination of category and class ratings—ASES, AMES, ASEL, and AMEL. Over his career, he has recommended more than 100 pilots for advanced ratings and earned recognition for his expertise in Caravan Amphibious aircraft. He also worked as a demonstration pilot for Wipaire, the manufacturer of Caravan Amphibious floats.

In 2012, Eric expanded his career into corporate aviation, flying Cessna Caravans from New York City. His work took him across South America, the Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, and nearly every island in the Caribbean. From 2019 to 2024, he worked for a VVIP client in the New York area, where he obtained a Gulfstream 550 type rating. His career has since advanced to operating both G550 and G600 aircraft for a Fortune 100 company, managing long-range international missions across the Middle East, Asia, and South America. These assignments demand high levels of preparation and adaptability. In addition to these responsibilities, Eric continues to mentor aviators and is pursuing authorization from the FAA to serve as a Designated Examiner.

Beyond active flying, Eric has contributed to the aviation industry in leadership and outreach roles. He has served as Director of Operations and Chief Pilot for Part 135 operators, helped establish a seaplane program at the Vermont Flight Academy, and taken part in programs that support pilot training. His volunteer work includes flying with the EAA Young Eagles, providing flights for Make-A-Wish and Angel Flight, and supporting the Seaplane Pilots Association. His career has also included a credited appearance in the film The Rum Diary, piloting a twin-engine seaplane.

From flying a Cessna 170 on his family’s Pennsylvania farm to piloting Gulfstream aircraft for Fortune 100 corporate clients, Eric Weaver’s career reflects dedication, growth, and professional range. His journey combines seaplane expertise, international corporate aviation, instruction, and mentorship. Today, he continues to balance global operations with training and outreach, contributing both to his profession and to the next generation of aviators.