Lots happening with the Tropicbird this year….
Celebrating our 24th year of safe and successful operations
- Tropicbird is now set up as an accredited flight training provider for UH Hilo Aeronautical Degree program.This is a game changer and now allows a college student to earn their 4 year BS degree while completing flight training up to the Commercial pilot rating…. all without leaving the Big Island! This makes for most efficient learning, saving plenty of time and finances in the process. https://tropicbirdflightservice.com/training-costs/#college-degree
- Our senior instructor, Mitch Foley just received a well earned award “Hawaii CFI of the Year 2024 award from our local FAA Flight Standards District Office.We are very proud of Mitch who has been with our team for over 4 years and has over 2,500 total flight hours, most of which has been “instruction given”! He has successfully graduated over 20 students, giving them a great start toward their careers in the air.
- Kainoa Lightfoot is a lifelong Big Island resident and professional flight instructor who began his aviation journey in 2023. He completed his flight training at Big Bend Aviation College, earning his Private Pilot, Instrument, Commercial, and additional ratings, where he developed strong technical skills and disciplined decision-making. Kainoa later completed his Certified Flight Instructor training in Oregon, refining his instructional style and professionalism. A proud graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama, he brings a deep local connection and a balanced mix of mainland and island experience, emphasizing safety, consistency, and real-world flying skills.
- Nai’a Balancio, born on the Big Island of Hawaii! Nai’a successfully graduated from our Commercial pilot program this May, 2026!
Nai’a is our first student to successfully start with us completing her Private Pilot, Instrument and Commercial pilot ratings while completing her 4 year degree with our partner UH Hilo Aeronautical Science program. Congratulations on a super job well done, Nai’a!!!
