About Our Flight School | Coast Aero Ventures

Est. Ocean Springs
Airport · 5R2

Our Story

Built by Pilots,
for Aspiring Pilots

Coast Aero Ventures Unlimited was founded on a simple belief: that learning to fly should be accessible, affordable, and genuinely exciting — not intimidating or financially out of reach.

We're based at the Ocean Springs Airport (FAA: 5R2) on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. We chose this location intentionally. The airspace here is calm, uncongested, and forgiving — exactly what a new pilot needs to build confidence without the pressure of heavy traffic. And as students advance, the proximity to larger Gulf Coast airports means real-world IFR and controlled airspace experience is never far away.

Our fleet of Light Sport Aircraft was also chosen with purpose. These nimble, glass-cockpit machines are efficient to operate, modern in their avionics, and critically — every single one is equipped with a full airframe parachute system. We don't just talk about safety. We build it into everything we do.

From your very first discovery flight to the day you earn your CFI certificate, our instructors are with you every step of the way — not just as teachers, but as fellow aviation enthusiasts who genuinely want to see you succeed.

Why Choose Us

What Sets Coast Aero Apart

There are flight schools all over the country. Here's why students on the Gulf Coast choose us.

Safety-First Culture

Every aircraft has a full airframe parachute system. We never cut corners on safety, and our students leave with the habits of safe, confident pilots.

Modern Glass Cockpits

Training on modern avionics gives you a head start. Our Garmin-equipped fleet teaches the same technology found in much more expensive aircraft.

Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees or surprise charges. We give you a realistic cost estimate upfront and explain every item so you can budget with confidence.

Student-First Approach

Our instructors tailor training to your schedule, learning style, and goals. We train 365 days per year so you progress at your own pace.

Meet the Team

Your Instructors

Experienced, passionate, and genuinely invested in your success.

Mark Stevens

Chief Flight Instructor

CFII MEL ATP

Mark has been instructing for over 30 years. He began flying with his dad at age 7 and hasn't stopped yet. After serving 30 years in the USAF as a Navigator with the Hurricane Hunters, he continues to share the joy of flight and help others achieve their aviation goals.

Mitchell Tyndall

Flight Instructor

CFII MEL

You can find Mitch out at the airport almost every day giving lessons in one of the CTs. He is passionate about flying and tries to widen his experience by flying as many different types of airplanes as he can. Originally from Maine, he now calls Ocean Springs home.

Allison Lensink

Sport Flight Instructor

CFI-S

Allison started as a Sport CFI and is working her way toward her full CFI certificate. She began flying later in life and fulfilled a lifelong dream. Her personal journey from student to instructor gives her a unique perspective on what new pilots go through. She enjoys travelling in her spare time.

Zane Slade

Flight Instructor

CFI

Zane is a Mississippi native who began flight training at Ole Miss and earned his CFI certificate right here at Coast Aero. He has learned to love the CTs and has flown a variety of aircraft throughout his training, bringing a broad perspective to every lesson.

Our Location

The Perfect Place
to Learn to Fly

Ocean Springs Airport (FAA identifier: 5R2) sits on the scenic Gulf Coast of Mississippi — calm, uncrowded airspace that's ideal for student pilots building confidence.

As you advance, our proximity to busier airports means you'll get exposure to real-world IFR environments and controlled airspace — everything you need to earn your ratings.

We train 365 days per year, weather permitting, and are at the airport by appointment. Whether you prefer early mornings or late afternoons, we work around your schedule.

Ocean Springs Airport Ocean Springs, Mississippi · 5R2

228-424-3768 Call or text anytime

coastaeroventures@gmail.com We respond within 24 hours

365 Days Per Year By appointment · Weather permitting

About Coast Aero Ventures

Built by Pilots,
for Aspiring Pilots