Fly8MA

Fly8MA (Flight Mike Alpha) is one of Alaska's most distinctive flight training operations, founded by ATP-rated CFI Jon Kotwicki on 115 acres in Big Lake — a 15-minute flight northwest of Anchorage. Kotwicki left a career as an airline pilot in 2018 to pursue his passion for general aviation and bush flying instruction, and the school has since grown into a celebrated destination for pilots seeking an authentic Alaska experience.

The school's fleet reflects its bush-flying focus: a modified Piper Super Cub with oversized tires, a STOL-winged Cessna 172, a classic Piper J-3 Cub, a Cessna 140, Cessna 170B, and Cessna 206. Training is conducted on the privately owned 57AK airstrip three miles northwest of Big Lake, where students practice on real backcountry terrain rather than a manicured airport environment. The school welcomes student aircraft as well, allowing pilots to train on their own machines with Jon's guidance.

Beyond flight training, Fly8MA has earned national media attention for its unconventional pilot lodging: retired airliners including a Boeing 727, McDonnell Douglas DC-6, and DC-9 have been converted into distinctive accommodations on the property. Course offerings range from a Tailwheel Endorsement and single-day Bush Pilot for a Day experience to multi-day Bush Pilot Courses and full Private, Instrument, Commercial, and CFI programs.