About ridge aero
About Us
At Ridge Aero, we provide pilot training that emphasizes the true essence of aviation through hands-on, stick-and-rudder flying, deeply connecting you to the aircraft and the backcountry. Based out of Lake Ridge Aero Park (8NC8) in Durham, NC, our tailwheel training program is designed to prepare you for more than just a logbook endorsement; it equips you with the skills and confidence needed to tackle any strip, any slope, and any surface.
Why Tailwheel?
For pilots who love the outdoors, hunting trips, fishing adventures, or backcountry camping, backcountry flying with a tailwheel unlocks a whole new world of freedom. Whether you’re dreaming of flying a Super Cub into a mountain valley or simply want to sharpen your skills with our tailwheel training on grass and dirt strips, Ridge Aero provides the pilot training you need to do it safely and confidently.
Training Philosophy
Real skills, real adventure. Our experienced instructors focus on:
Precision landings on short and soft fields, essential for backcountry flying
Mastery of stick-and-rudder control, a key component of pilot training
Ground handling, crosswinds, and backcountry readiness
Building confidence for bush flying and tailwheel training and beyond.