Hey, I’m Cenk Ozer

I’m a pilot, flight instructor, part-time soldier, and all-around aviation nerd who’s been chasing the skies for as long as I can remember. I was born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey, and moved to the U.S. on my own at 18 to follow my dream of flying. It’s been a wild ride—full of hard work, long hours, and a lot of learning—but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

I’m the first aviator in my family and a first-generation immigrant, which makes this journey even more meaningful and proud to me. I studied engineering back home and in Germany before switching full throttle into aviation. Since then, I’ve logged over 5000 flight hours in 7 years, and I'm currently flying the ERJ-145 for Alaska Airlines in Seattle Washington. Before that, I was flying the Boeing 767 heavy cargo jet for Amazon Prime and hold type ratings for the Boeing 737, 757, and 767.

Outside of commercial flying, I’ve worked as a ferry pilot, delivering more than 50 aircraft across the U.S.—including some pretty remote spots in Alaska. I also founded the Anatolian Eagle Flight Academy in Sequim, Washington, where I’ve helped over 27 students become licensed pilots and kick off their careers in aviation.

In addition to all that, I serve part-time in the U.S. Army as a Black Hawk helicopter mechanic and soon to be Black Hawk Pilot. Balancing military service and aviation keeps life interesting, and I’m proud to be able to serve in both ways.

When I’m not flying or in uniform, I’m usually outdoors. I love hiking, biking, and camping—especially around Olympic National Park. I’m big on cold-water swimming too. Yep, even in the winter. It’s my way of staying sharp, healthy, and grounded.

At the end of the day, I’m just a guy who worked extremely hard, got some lucky breaks, and wants to pass it on. I’m grateful for everyone who helped me along the way, and I try to do the same for others whenever I can.