#88 - Flight Schools and Passive Income: Insights from Gordon Alvord

Passive Income Pilots

In this episode of Passive Income Pilots, hosts Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson talk with Gordon Alvord, Alaska Airlines captain and co-founder of Rainier Flight Service. Gordon shares how a 2008 furlough led to creating Washington State’s largest flight school, with over 70 aircraft and a reputation for innovation. Discover how he and his partner used business acumen, strategic investments, and bonus depreciation to build a scalable operation. Whether you're a pilot seeking side hustles or curious about aviation businesses, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Gordon Alvord is an Alaska Airlines captain and co-founder of Rainier Flight Service, and a leader in aviation business and innovation. With a BS in Aeronautics from the University of North Dakota and over 18 years as an airline pilot, Gordon combines his flying expertise with a commitment to exceptional service, safety, and professionalism. Rainier’s success reflects its client-focused culture and dedication to advancing the aviation industry.

Show notes:

(0:00) Intro

(3:42) Starting Rainier Flight Service

(8:44) Flight school financial breakdown

(17:21) Bonus depreciation for tax savings

(20:10) Balancing airline career and business

(21:25) Expanding to new locations

(23:50) Aircraft leaseback programs explained

(37:48) Flight instructor opportunities

(39:15) Airline interview prep

(42:07) Cost of becoming a pilot

(45:40) Outro

Connect with Gordon Alvord:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonalvord
• Website: https://www.rainierflightservice.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rainierflight
• X: https://twitter.com/rainierflight
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RainierFlight

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*Legal Disclaimer*

The content of this podcast is provided solely for educational and informational purposes. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts, Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson, and do not reflect those of any organization they are associated with, including Turbine Capital or Spartan Investment Group. The opinions of our guests are their own and should not be construed as financial advice. This podcast does not offer tax, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are advised to consult with their own legal or financial counsel and to conduct their own due diligence before making any financial decisions.