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Chief Pilots & Aircraft Owners

Principal Bill Cook (left) and chief pilot Bob Harbstreit continued their close collaboration when outside the cockpit. Courtesy John King
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The relationship between a chief pilot and principal is uniquely strong, respectful, and trusting, often intensified when the principal also flies, creating a "war buddy" dynamic.
  • Corporate aircraft serve as essential "weapons" for entrepreneurial leaders, providing critical mobility, enabling rapid business expansion, and allowing them to effectively pursue diverse interests vital for their companies' success.
  • Chief pilots play a profound, multifaceted role, not only managing the fleet but also providing principals with command of time and place, mobility, and personal security, making them indispensable to these "superstar" entrepreneurs.
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The relationship between the chief pilot and the principal is extraordinary. Like our entrepreneur friend, Bill Cook, and his chief pilot, Bob Harbstreit, people in this relationship become mutually entwined. They develop very respectful and trusting relationships. I know of no parallel relationship outside of aviation.

John King

John King started King Schools Inc., with his wife, Martha, in a spare bedroom of their home. Today, the school operates out of a dedicated complex in San Diego, California, that includes a video and software production facility. John and Martha have shared flying and teaching aviation for more than 50 years.

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