Meet The Team
Your Journey to Flight Begins Here
Meet The AeroLuxe Aviation Team
At Aeroluxe Aviation, we believe that any organization is only as good as the people who run it. That’s why we can confidently say that our team stands among the most experienced and dedicated professionals in aviation. With over 100,000 hours of experience across our staff, Aeroluxe is owned and operated by some of the highest-ranked professionals the industry has to offer.
What sets us apart is the tribal knowledge we bring to the table. In aviation, experience is everything. It’s the wisdom passed down through years of hard-earned lessons. It’s the ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently, often before they even arise. At Aeroluxe, you’ll find yourself surrounded by over 35 employees whose depth of knowledge is not just theoretical, but born from the real, hands-on experience that only time in the cockpit can provide.
When considering flight training, we encourage you to ask important questions that help you understand the true nature of the business.
FAQS
Who owns the aircraft?
Who owns the company?
Can you provide a realistic timeline and dedicated training program?
John Kinard III
Owner, Designated Pilot Examiner & Helicopter Operations Lead
- Designated Pilot Examiner – Rotorcraft, UH-60
- Flight Instructor – CFI, CFII Rotorcraft, Turbine Helicopters, Night Vision Goggles
- Commercial Pilot – Helicopter, Aiplane Single Engine Land
At Aeroluxe, we’re honored to have John Kinard III as both an owner and a key figure in our helicopter operations.
If you’ve spent time around John Tune Airport, you’ve likely seen John in action—moving with the relentless energy of the Energizer Bunny. As the heart and soul of our helicopter team, John’s expertise and commitment to aviation excellence are unparalleled.
A distinguished veteran, John served with the 101st Airborne Division as a W-4 and was also part of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR). Rising to become one of the top instructors in the U.S. Army’s UH-60 Blackhawk program, John has accumulated over 10,000 flight hours across an impressive array of aircraft, including Little Birds, Blackhawks, Apaches, and more. He’s one of just two designated pilot examiners authorized to issue type certificates on the Blackhawk.
John’s career has tested his mettle in ways few can imagine, including being shot down multiple times in combat—a testament to his resilience, skill, and unwavering commitment to safety. Today, as a Designated Pilot Examiner, he continues to set the standard for aviation excellence.
As an owner of Aeroluxe, John’s passion for aviation and service drives everything we do. If you see him around, don’t hesitate to say hello. His stories are as extraordinary as his career, and we’re beyond fortunate to have him on our team.
Devitt Conboy
Owner, Chief Flight Instructor
- Commercial Pilot – Airplane Multi Engine Land, Multi Engine Sea, Glider, Helicopter
- Gold Seal Flight Instructor – CFI, CFII, MEI, Tailwheel instructor, Aerobatic Instructor
For Dev, few passions rival his love for flight. Inspired by stories of his grandfather’s time as a Navy pilot in Key West—flying P-3 Orions through hurricanes with NOAA—Dev knew aviation was his calling.
Originally from Hinsdale, Illinois, Dev earned his degree in Business Management from Saint Louis University. His first flight in a Skyhawk back in 2013 sparked a lifelong pursuit, but it wasn’t until moving to Nashville in 2019 that he committed fully to aviation. Frustrated by the lack of commitment in flight training, Dev took matters into his own hands. Training with seven different schools and dozens of instructors, he set out to master the fastest, most effective way to earn ratings—and he did just that. Leaving behind careers in music and real estate, Dev earned his Private Pilot License to Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) in just six months.
Since then, Dev has become one of the most sought-after instructors in Nashville, logging over 2,500 hours of dual instruction and serving as a recommending instructor for over 50 checkrides—all with an impressive 98% pass rate within his first two years of instruction. His specialty lies in accelerated flight training, designing programs that help pilots achieve their goals efficiently, affordably, and with the highest level of competency. Dev has a varied experience in everything that flies, from racing gliders to turbojet business aircraft and helicopters, Dev’s extensive experience in aircraft acquisition and management is helping Aeroluxe become the fastest growing aviation company in the U.S.
Beyond aviation, Dev is a serial entrepreneur with ventures spanning real estate, and live event entertainment production. His work has taken him on tour with industry giants like Harry Styles, Luke Combs, John Legend, and Tony Robbins. When he’s not in the cockpit, you can find him exploring the world, diving into the culinary arts, scuba diving, roasting coffee, searching for the next big artist, or scrolling through Zillow with his wife Carolyn.
At Aeroluxe Aviation, Dev’s mission is simple: to provide pilots with the training experience he wishes he had—one built on dedication, efficiency, safety, and excellence.
Keith Chapman
Owner, Designated Pilot Examiner, Chief Pilot
We ran out of space on the website to list all of Keith’s certificates. It’s like a CVS receipt.
With over 50 years in aviation and more than 33,000 flight hours in both airplanes and helicopters, Keith Chapman brings an unparalleled level of experience to Aeroluxe Aviation. As a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) for the Federal Aviation Administration, Keith has been conducting flight exams for fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters since 2008. He holds all instructor ratings for both, Including dozens of type ratings, making him a trusted authority in pilot certification and training.
Keith’s career took flight with Southwest Airlines, where he served as a captain for over 30 years. After retiring seniority number 11 from Southwest, he helped establish the aviation unit for the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, where he continues to oversee operations of two OH-58s and a Huey helicopter for public safety missions.
Now, as the Owner and Chief Pilot of Aeroluxe Aviation, Keith is dedicated to providing pilots with the highest standards of training, safety, and professionalism. Whether you’re pursuing your first pilot’s license, advancing your skills, or taking a scenic flight over the city, his mission is to ensure your experience is not only safe but truly memorable.
At Aeroluxe Aviation, you’re learning from the best—because aviation isn’t just a career for Keith; it’s a lifelong passion.
Juan Delgado
Director of Maintenance – Airplanes
- A&P I.A., Diamond, Rotax, Pratt and Whitney PT6, PW700
- Commercial Pilot – Aiplane Single Engine Land, Multi Engine Land
With a lifelong passion for aviation, Juan’s career began in 1986 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, when he enlisted in the Navy and quickly rose through the ranks as a naval officer. Maintaining Beech 1900s and King Airs for the Argentine Navy, Juan gained invaluable experience working on turbine and piston aircraft in some of the harshest environments imaginable. He fondly recalls flying in observation bubbles on early King Airs and embarking on high-altitude expeditions in the Pilatus PC-6 Porter on skis, reaching some of Argentina’s most remote peaks.
After his distinguished military service, Juan’s expertise was quickly recognized by LAN Airlines, where he was entrusted with overseeing the maintenance operations center. In this role, he supervised and instructed mechanics on Boeing 767s and Airbus A320s, ensuring the highest standards of safety and performance across an international fleet. His career then brought him to the United States, where he became Director of Maintenance for KOLOB Air Cargo, leading the upkeep of an extensive fleet of Learjets and Metroliners.
Now, as Director of Maintenance for Aeroluxe Aviation, Juan upholds an impeccable safety record, with zero engine failures over hundreds of thousands of flight hours on his aircraft. His diligence and expertise make our fleet among the safest in the country. In addition to being a world-class aircraft mechanic, Juan is an accomplished pilot with over 3,000 flight hours and is the proud owner of a beautifully maintained Twin Comanche. As an investor in Aeroluxe Aviation, his dedication to excellence extends beyond maintenance—he is an integral part of our mission to provide safe, reliable, and top-tier aviation services.
Recently earning his U.S. citizenship, Juan is a true embodiment of the American Dream, bringing decades of skill, discipline, and passion to Aeroluxe Aviation.
Levi Davis
Senior Flight Instructor – Helicopters
Levi Davis brings over 6,000 hours of flight experience, specializing in Robinson helicopters, making him one of the most experienced and competent instructors in the world in this field. His calm and reassuring demeanor, paired with his deep knowledge, makes him an exceptional instructor for anyone looking to pursue a career in helicopter aviation.
Levi’s extensive experience in helicopter instruction has solidified his reputation as a top-tier pilot and instructor. His years of training students have earned him recognition as one of the leading Robinson helicopter instructors in the country. Whether you’re new to aviation or looking to advance your skills, Levi’s ability to remain calm under pressure and provide clear, actionable guidance makes learning with him a unique and valuable experience.
Outside of aviation, Levi is a recognized Kung Fu Black Belt, which speaks to his discipline and dedication in all aspects of his life. His diverse background and passion for teaching make him an invaluable part of the Aeroluxe team.
Tom Baker
Senior Flight Instructor – Airplanes
Originally from Colorado Springs, Tom Baker brings a unique background to aviation, having worked as a CPA for a big four accounting firm before fully embracing his passion for flying. After discovering Aeroluxe’s accelerated services, Tom completed his CFI, CFII, and Tailwheel endorsements within 30 days. He is currently working on his helicopter ratings and has gained flight experience across the country at numerous flight schools. Tom also completed our Upset Recovery Course in the Super Decathlon, demonstrating his dedication to both learning and teaching. He enjoys sharing his expertise in aerobatics and spin training, helping students master critical skills for safe and confident flying.
Luke Kohler
Flight Instructor – Airplanes
Born and raised in Raleigh, NC, Luke Kohler’s aviation journey has taken him across the country and through a variety of flying experiences. After living in Florida and Colorado, Luke has flown to Sun ‘n Fun in Florida and has even piloted gliders in Colorado. He earned his pilot certificates at ATP Flight School in Smyrna. As a young father to a newborn baby girl, Luke brings a newfound perspective to aviation and strives to share his wisdom with those around him.
Luke’s flying career includes some incredible highlights—he’s flown in a B-24 Liberator and is a proud member of the Civil Air Patrol, where he earned the General Ira C. Eaker Award. He was also accepted to and attended the U.S. Air Force Academy. With his approachable and friendly demeanor, Luke is one of the most welcoming faces in flight training. He is also actively involved in training high school scholarship winners from Mount Juliet High School, passing on his passion for aviation to the next generation of pilots.
Carter Runnion
Flight Instructor, Director of Operations – Airplanes
Born and raised in Nashville, TN, Carter Runnion has been a part of the Aeroluxe family since day one. His aviation journey began in 2018 when he took his first discovery flight in a helicopter with Keith Chapman. A twist of fate led him to train with Dev at their previous flight school, and when Aeroluxe founded its fixed-wing division in 2023, Carter found his home here.
As Aeroluxe’s first student, Carter has completed all his ratings with Dev and has flown in every aircraft in our fleet, gaining unparalleled knowledge of our operations. With exceptional stick and rudder skills and a profound sense of character, Carter embodies the values that make Aeroluxe great.
Outside of flying, Carter enjoys classic country pleasures, including duck hunting at his 5-star hunting cabin in Arkansas and riding dirt bikes. His passion for aviation and his commitment to excellence make him a natural leader and instructor at Aeroluxe.
Grant Riley
Flight Instructor – Airplanes
Born and raised in East Tennessee, Grant Riley discovered his passion for aviation at 25 years old. Though his academic background is in philosophy—having studied at Union University in Jackson, TN—his love for flying quickly took hold, leading him to earn his certificates and later become a dedicated flight instructor.
Grant began his aviation journey in 2017 at KBNA, and by 2022, he was not only refining his own skills but also helping others, including Dev, complete their ratings. With nearly a decade of aviation experience, he brings a thoughtful and methodical approach to flight training, blending technical expertise with his natural curiosity and love for learning.
When he’s not flying, Grant enjoys writing, studying new languages, and spending time with his dog, Alyosha. His unique perspective and passion for teaching make him an invaluable part of the Aeroluxe Aviation team.
Anthony Velazquez
Aviation Safety Officer, Flight Instructor – Helicopter
With a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science and over 15 years of service as a U.S. Army engineer, Anthony Velazquez brings a powerful combination of technical skill, discipline, and passion to Aeroluxe Aviation.
Anthony specializes in rotor-wing aircraft and has a strong reputation as a dedicated instructor with a deep understanding of both systems and safety. His military background fuels his methodical and structured approach to flight instruction, while his genuine enthusiasm for aviation keeps students inspired and engaged.
In addition to flight training, Anthony plays a key role as Aeroluxe’s Safety Management System (SMS) Program Officer. In this capacity, he helps lead the development and oversight of safety policies, hazard reporting protocols, and risk assessment practices in accordance with FAA and ICAO safety standards. His responsibilities include:
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Overseeing safety data collection, analysis, and reporting
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Managing internal safety risk assessments
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Promoting a culture of proactive safety awareness
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Ensuring compliance with the FAA’s State Safety Program (SSP) framework
When he’s not flying or working on safety initiatives, Anthony enjoys spending time at the beach, where he finds the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Damon Evans
Flight Instructor – Airplanes
With a distinguished background in both aerospace leadership and flight training, Damon Evans brings a uniquely technical and mission-focused perspective to the Aeroluxe Aviation team. A former Squadron Commander in the Civil Air Patrol, Damon’s aviation journey is rooted in structure, discipline, and real-world application.
Damon completed his tailwheel and basic aerobatic training right here at Aeroluxe, where his attention to detail and natural teaching ability made him a perfect fit for our instructor team. Today, he primarily instructs in our Super Decathlon, delivering high-performance tailwheel and upset recovery training with an emphasis on technical precision, systems understanding, and safety-first flying.
In addition to his role as an instructor, Damon plays a critical role in the development of our UH-60 Blackhawk Search and Rescue protocols, helping shape the future of Aeroluxe’s emergency response and S&R programs.
Whether in the classroom, cockpit, or planning room, Damon brings thoughtful leadership, deep knowledge, and a clear passion for aviation to everything he does.
Eli Tice
A&P Mechanic & Commercial Helicopter Pilot
Eli Tice was born in Berlin, Germany and raised in West Virginia, bringing a strong work ethic and hands-on mindset shaped by both his upbringing and his military service. A former U.S. Marine Corps infantry rifleman, Eli served in Afghanistan and is a Purple Heart recipient, a testament to his resilience and commitment to duty.
After his time in the military, Eli transitioned into aviation maintenance, earning his Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate in 2016 through on-the-job training at a helicopter maintenance program. He holds both Commercial and Instrument ratings in helicopters, and completed his Bachelor of Science in Aerospace from Middle Tennessee State University, with a focus on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).
At Aeroluxe, Eli serves as our in-house mechanic, responsible for maintaining the safety and reliability of our rotorcraft fleet. His background as both a pilot and mechanic gives him a unique perspective on maintenance practices that prioritize airworthiness and real-world flight performance.
When he’s not in the hangar, Eli enjoys hunting, fishing, riding motorcycles, and spending time with his daughter, keeping a steady balance between work, family, and the outdoors.