Our Team

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

 

Kyle Michaelis brings precision, discipline, and a lifelong connection to aviation to his role as Chief Financial Officer at Black Tie Aviation. He holds both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master of Accounting from Abilene Christian University and is actively pursuing his CPA and CMA certifications, reinforcing his commitment to financial excellence and operational integrity.

 

Raised in an aviation family, Kyle developed an early understanding of the industry as the son of a CPA and an F-16 fighter pilot turned American Airlines Captain. This unique upbringing exposed him to both the financial and safety-critical sides of aviation. As a pilot himself, Kyle understands firsthand the importance of maintenance standards, safety compliance, and the infrastructure that supports reliable flight operations. His family’s involvement with the Allied Pilots Association further deepened his appreciation for advancing safety and accountability across the aviation community.

 

Prior to joining Black Tie Aviation, Kyle served as Controller for a Part 141 flight school, where he combined his financial expertise with his aviation knowledge to support pilot training operations and help guide the organization through a successful private equity transaction in 2024. His ability to align financial strategy with aviation operations makes him a valuable asset in supporting Black Tie Aviation’s continued growth and commitment to excellence.

 

Outside the hangar, Kyle remains deeply connected to aviation, working alongside his grandfather—an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic with Inspection Authorization—on their family aircraft. He is also passionate about giving back through organizations such as Folds of Honor, the CloudDancer Scholarship, Boy Scouts of America, and the Experimental Aircraft Association.