About Sundowner Aviation

Chief Pilot, Pat Rooney

Graduated High School in 1969 and joined the Air Force 3 weeks later. Graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1973 and started Undergraduate Pilot Training the same year. Became a primary jet instructor in January 1975. From 1979 to 1982 he was a B-52 Aircraft Commander. In 1982 he was the Basic cadet Program Manager for the Air Force Academy and an instructor in T-41 (C-172 w/200 horse engine) In 1984 he was the Commander of the UV-18 (Twin Otter) Detachment, In 1986 He became a T-38 instructor and he finished his career flying T-38 as a Flight Commander, a Staff Instructor, and Instructor for instructors.

After leaving the Air Force he joined the Airlines and flew the B737, 757, and 767. He has been on every continent except Antarctica. He retired in 2016.

Pat started Sundowner Aviation with Lonnie Watts in 2012 with just 2 planes. The company now has 9 airplanes and is looking forward to many more years serving the flying public.

Why Choose Sundowner Aviation?

• Pat Rooney has been teaching new pilots how to fly for more than seventeen (17!) years. You don’t get to do this for that long, if you don’t do it right.
• Maintenance: We are very proud of the fact that all of our aircraft well maintained and in excellent condition.
• Instructors: Engines and Airplanes are important, but so are instructors. Our small team of experienced instructors carefully maintain the strictest standards in your training.
• Location: Sundowner Aviation is conveniently located at Fairfield County Airport in Lancaster, Ohio. Our airport has all of the amenities, but has much less traffic than other local fields such as Port Columbus (CMH). That means you spend less time waiting for things, and save money in the process. Less traffic also makes it a little less stressful while learning the basics.