Turn Your Dreams Into Reality And Elevate Your Skillset

Basic through advanced real-world flight training, in your airplane, at your pace.

Private Pilot

Turn your goals into reality!

IFR Rating

Learn a valuable indispensable skill!

Flight Reviews

Not your average FR. level up your skills with an AQP

Endorsements

Whether is a bucket list goal or a bigger endeavor

About Josiah Smucker

Hi, I’m a full-time aviator and certified flight instructor (CFI/CFII) with complex, high-performance, and tailwheel endorsements. My mission is not just to teach you to fly but to elevate you as a pilot and individual.

Though I have the experience to join the airlines, my passion lies in general aviation, where I focus on flight training that goes beyond FAA minimums. With a 100% pass rate among private pilot students, I emphasize mastery, safety, and real-world application—lessons shaped by my early career flying in Guatemala.

I believe that mindset is key to success in aviation and life, which is why I approach training as personal development. Continuous learning is vital, and I strive to grow as an instructor to ensure my students thrive. As Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.”

The name "Above the Jungle" stems from my mission aviation work in Guatemala from 2018 to 2020, flying a Cessna 206. Most of my flights involved personnel transport, with about a quarter dedicated to medical missions. Though it now feels like a small chapter of my career, those experiences profoundly shaped my approach to flying and teaching, leaving a lasting positive impact.

Watch my flight training videos on Instagram!

What Clients Have To Say

Anonymous responses to AOPA's Flight Training Experience Survey

From my experience, I would definitely recommend that Josiah Smucker win a Flight Training Experience Award for his dedication and contribution to the general aviation community. His patience for training and calm personality quickly makes a student feel comfortable with whatever task is at hand. He goes above and beyond in his effort to make every concept clear

Josiah did a phenomenal job at creating and implementing an accelerated training program that worked for my schedule. He was able to get me proficient and checkride ready for my IFR in 9 days!

Josiah should receive 200 awards for his outstanding performance as a flight instructor. He has repeatedly shown to truly care about the safety and success of his students. There is no other instructor that I have met that has the commitment and expertise to creating a better flight community.