Business Management
Michael James
Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer
WAir Charter & Travel
Connect on LinkedInEducation:
Purdue University
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering
Michael James has had a passion for aviation since he was a kid, even dressing up as a pilot for Halloween. During his youth, James enjoyed single-engine family vacations after his father earned a private pilot certificate. This went a long way to further encourage James’ interest in general aviation. So much so, that he worked to obtain his own pilot certificate while attending college. James began a career in technology consulting before realizing he could no longer deny his true calling. He met his current business partner while they both worked as flight instructors, and WAir Charter & Travel was born, initially including a flight school and aircraft maintenance facility. Within the last year, they earned a freshly minted Part 135 certificate and have expanded their business to include customer-focused charter travel.
“Aviation is such an exciting and passion-driven industry,” James said. “But having a positive impact on students and customers…there’s nothing I enjoy more!”
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.