Jessica Ambats Named Editor in Chief of FLYING Magazine

Longtime aviation journalist, pilot, and acclaimed air-to-air photographer will lead the iconic brand as it approaches its 100th anniversary.

FLYING Staff

Monday, June 22, 2026 at 09:20 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Jessica Ambats has been named editor in chief of FLYING Magazine. [Credit: Jessica Ambats]

Key Takeaways:

Jessica Ambats has been named the new editor-in-chief of *FLYING* Magazine, promoted from her previous role as deputy editor.
Ambats brings a strong background in aviation, including being a pilot, experienced editor, and acclaimed air-to-air photographer, to her leadership role.
She will oversee *FLYING*'s editorial direction across all platforms as the publication approaches its 100th anniversary.
Her appointment is a key step in Firecrown Media's strategy to modernize and refresh the storied aviation brand.

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FLYING Magazine has named Jessica Ambats as its next editor in chief, elevating the publication’s current deputy editor to lead one of aviation’s most storied media brands.

In her new role, Ambats will oversee FLYING’s editorial direction across print, digital, and emerging platforms, as the brand approaches its milestone 100th anniversary.

Ambats brings a rare combination of aviation editorial expertise, visual storytelling, and flying experience to the role. A pilot herself, she has built a unique career at the intersection of aviation and media, with deep roots in general aviation and a long track record of producing stories and imagery that resonate with pilots.

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Before joining FLYING’s leadership team, she served as editor of Plane + Pilot and senior editor at Pilot Getaways. She is also widely recognized for her air-to-air photography, with work featured across aviation media, books, and industry publications.

As deputy editor, Ambats helped shape FLYING’s editorial coverage, bringing a strong eye for storytelling, photography, aircraft features, and pilot-focused content. She has also continued to grow FLYING’s roster of subject-matter experts, whose insights inform and engage our readers.

“Jessica has already made a meaningful impact on FLYING, and this promotion reflects both the quality of her work and the trust we have in her leadership,” said Ryan Ewing, group president of aviation at Firecrown Media. “As FLYING approaches its 100th anniversary, we have an opportunity to breathe new life into the brand while honoring its legacy. Jessica is the right person to help lead that effort.”

Founded in 1927, FLYING has long been one of the most recognized and influential aviation publications in the world. The brand has chronicled nearly a century of aviation milestones, from the golden age of flight to the modern general aviation, business aviation, training, and advanced air mobility landscapes.

Ambats’ appointment marks an important step in Firecrown’s broader strategy to further develop FLYING as a modern aviation media brand. In addition to leading editorial coverage, she will work closely with sales, marketing, and digital teams to support new content initiatives, audience growth, and brand strategy.

“I’m honored to take on this role at such an important moment for FLYING,” Ambats said. “This brand has an incredible legacy, and I’m excited to help shape its future with stories that inform, inspire, and serve the aviation community.”

Ambats assumes the editor-in-chief role immediately.