61Pilot Eric Weaver has logged extensive hours in seaplane operations, global Caravan Amphibian flights, and long-range Gulfstream missions for Fortune 100 corporate clients. Over time, he has grown into a veteran business aviation pilot whose path began in rural Pennsylvania and now spans international operations across the Americas, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia, and South America. His career represents steady advancement from grassroots flying to complex corporate missions with global reach.
Eric’s professional development reflects consistency, technical ability, and adaptability. Proficient in seaplanes, Caravan Amphibians, and corporate jet operations, he continues to expand his expertise while also mentoring younger aviators. His work has included flight instruction, demonstration flying, and demanding international missions. Today, he remains recognized for the breadth of his career, combining hands-on experience with high-level business aviation operations.
Eric’s first exposure to aviation came on his family’s farm in Pennsylvania. His father and uncle owned a Cessna 170, kept on a closed paved road through their land, providing him with early access to an airplane. This introduction set the stage for his lifelong connection to flying. He also developed a background in farming, agricultural partnerships, and direct-to-consumer food sales. After high school, he joined Youth with a Mission, teaching English in Hong Kong before returning to help his family during a difficult period. Later, he earned a degree in Business and Management Information Systems from Anderson University in Indiana, building knowledge that supported both entrepreneurial efforts and his aviation career.
Following graduation, 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 resort operations, but his interest in flying returned when a seaplane arrived at the property. He earned his private pilot certificate and purchased a 1954 Cessna 180 on straight floats. When the resort was destroyed by a hurricane in 2004, he committed himself fully to aviation. Over the next several years, he expanded his credentials 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. Along with his partner Ricci Rowe, he built a successful business based on seaplane tourism and training. As a high-time multi-engine seaplane pilot and instructor, he achieved the FAA’s highest combination of category and class ratings—ASES, AMES, ASEL, and AMEL. He has recommended more than 100 pilots for advanced ratings and is recognized for his knowledge of Caravan Amphibious aircraft. He also worked as a demonstration pilot for Wipaire, manufacturer of Caravan Amphibious floats.
In 2012, Eric moved into corporate aviation, flying Cessna Caravans from New York City to destinations throughout 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, earning a type rating in the Gulfstream 550. His career later expanded to flying G550 and G600 aircraft for a Fortune 100 company, operating long-range missions across the Middle East, Asia, and South America. These assignments require high-level planning, discipline, and adaptability. In addition to his flying duties, he continues to mentor pilots and is working toward FAA authorization to serve as a Designated Examiner.
Eric’s contributions extend beyond his cockpit responsibilities. 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 participated in aviation outreach programs. His volunteer work includes supporting the EAA Young Eagles, providing flights for Make-A-Wish and Angel Flight, and working with the Seaplane Pilots Association. He has also been involved in film, with a credited role in “The Rum Diary,” where he piloted a twin-engine seaplane.
From early flying in Pennsylvania with a Cessna 170 to global missions in Gulfstream aircraft, Eric Weaver’s career reflects dedication and professional growth. His path combines seaplane operations, corporate jet missions, training, and industry involvement. Today, he continues to balance international aviation responsibilities with mentoring and outreach, contributing both to his career and the broader aviation community.