KENTUCKY STICK & RUDDER ACADEMY LLC

ABOUT

At Stick and Rudder Academy, we are passionate about fostering the next generation of aviators. Our team brings an extensive breadth of experience and expertise in aviation, coupled with an insatiable enthusiasm for teaching. With a commitment to excellence, we strive to provide high-quality flight training that is both engaging and effective.

Whether you're taking your first steps into aviation or looking to advance your skills, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Our trained instructors, each with their unique backgrounds and perspectives, ensure that your journey in the skies is safe, educational, and enjoyable.

Who We Are

Meet our dedicated team of aviation professionals:

CJ and Misty Koch

CJ and Misty Koch call Fawn Haven in Taylor County, Kentucky, their home. With a Bachelor's degree in Professional Flight from Eastern Kentucky University, CJ began his aviation career as a flight instructor. Through hard work and dedication, he achieved his dream of flying internationally and now serves as a captain on the 757/767 fleet at a major cargo airline. CJ holds type ratings in multiple aircraft, including Learjet, Cessna Citation, Embraer 145, Airbus A300, and McDonnell Douglas MD-11. As a certified flight instructor, CJ is devoted to helping new pilots earn their ratings and endorsements, and he actively participates in Angel Flights whenever possible. Misty manages their farm and contributes to various aviation businesses, including Classic Biplane Tours and Koch Leasing LLC.

Eric and Kelly Mattingly

Eric, who was born and raised in Springfield, Kentucky, has dedicated 28 years to flying diverse helicopters and airplanes during his career in the Army. He holds several ratings, including MD-11, Airbus A300, BE-200, and S60, and has been a CFI since 1995. Currently, he serves as a Captain at UPS Airlines. Kelly, originally from Campbellsville, Kentucky, has spent 25 years as a professional educator and shares Eric's passion for fostering growth and learning.

In their spare time, Eric and Kelly are currently building an RV14, showcasing their commitment to hands-on aviation experiences.

CJ and Eric bring over 55 years of combined professional aviation experience to the team. Together, our team is dedicated to nurturing aspiring pilots and enhancing their skills, ensuring that each student reaches their aviation goals with confidence and competence.

Our Mission

At Kentucky Stick & Rudder Academy, our mission is simple: to provide top-notch instruction in taildragger aircraft while ensuring safety, skill development, and a deep appreciation for the art of flying. We believe that understanding the unique nuances of taildraggers is crucial for any pilot’s education, and we are committed to sharing our expertise with you.

Our Program

Our comprehensive training program is designed to prepare students for FAA taildragger certifications, focusing on:

• Tailwheel Basics: Learn the fundamentals of piloting taildragger aircraft, including ground handling, takeoff, and landing techniques.
• Flight Maneuvers: Master advanced maneuvers that taildraggers excel at, emphasizing the skills needed for safe and efficient flying.
• Aerodynamic Principles: Gain a solid understanding of the unique aerodynamics associated with taildragger aircraft to enhance your flying proficiency.
• Real-World Experience: Enjoy hands-on training in a variety of taildragger models in a supportive, immersive environment.

Why Choose Us?

• Expert Instructors: Benefit from personalized instruction from certified flight instructors who are not only aviators but also mentors dedicated to your success.
• Taildragger Focus: We specialize exclusively in taildragger training, offering expertise and insights that few other programs can match.
• Community-Oriented: Join a close-knit community of aviation enthusiasts where camaraderie and collaboration are encouraged. We believe in building relationships that last beyond flight training.
• Customized Training: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pilot looking to refine your skills, we tailor our training programs to meet your unique needs and goals.

Get in Touch

Ready to take off on your taildragger journey? Join CJ, Misty, Eric, Kelly and our team of dedicated instructors at Kentucky Stick & Rudder Academy, LLC. Let us help you navigate your path to becoming a certified taildragger pilot.

Contact us today to learn more about our courses and schedules, and follow your dreams of flying!

Together, let’s keep the spirit of aviation alive—one taildragger at a time!