From Hawke’s Bay to the Global Skies: The Rigor and Tenacity of Training Tomorrow’s Pilots
What does it truly take to prepare a student pilot for the world’s largest commercial airlines?
In this session, Michael "Mike" Stonestreet shares the stories, strict processes, and sheer tenacity required to maintain world-class training standards. Drawing on nearly two decades as Chief Flying Instructor at Air Hawke’s Bay—where they train 50 to 60 students a year across Napier and Hastings—Mike will break down the meticulous mentorship and safety-first culture needed to shape elite aviators.
From his early roots in the freezing works industry to climbing the aviation ranks, discover how a practical, high-rigor approach builds the next generation of global aviation professionals.
Date: Thursday 20th August
Time & format: The course will start at 10am, with a coffee/tea break followed by a lively facilitated discussion to answer all your curious questions. The course will finish at 12pm.
Location: We are delighted to be hosting at No. 5 Cafe and Larder, 248 State Highway 51, Mangateretere, Hastings, 4180.
About the expert
Mike Stonestreet
Born in Australia and raised in Dannevirke, New Zealand, Michael Stonestreet developed a strong work ethic in the freezing works industry before entering aviation. He began pilot training with Air Hawke’s Bay in 2001, graduating in 2003, and joined the organization as a Flight Instructor the following year.
By 2006, Michael was appointed Chief Flying Instructor (CFI), a leadership role he has held for nearly two decades. In this position, he has overseen the training of hundreds of pilots and instructors, significantly shaping Air Hawke's Bay's reputation for safety and high training standards. Today, he continues to lead their flight training operations with a dedication to developing the next generation of aviation professionals.
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