Linda Johnstone
Canandaigua,NY
Summary
Aviation safety and operations leader with experience across Part 121, Part 135, and corporate flight departments. Provides hands-on oversight of pilot training programs, SOP development, and safety management systems. Drives FAA approval and compliance for well-run flight operations. Produces measurable improvements in operational readiness and safety outcomes.
Overview
42
42
years of professional experience
Work History
FAA Aviation Safety Inspector
FAA
Rochester, NY
09.2025 - Current
- 13 months in GS-12 Aviation Safety Inspector role, completing on-the-job training, string course requirements, and earning 110A.
- Review safety reports, incidents, and regulatory violations to support compliance and improve aviation safety.
- Assist with complaints from pilots or passengers about aircraft safety issues, helping resolve concerns quickly and preserve operational integrity.
- Identify noncompliance with safety standards or regulations during inspections, supporting stronger regulatory adherence.
- Review certificates, manuals, and operating procedures for FAA approval.
- Monitor pilot training programs for accuracy and alignment with regulatory guidance.
Chief Pilot / Flight Department Manager
Kelmic Aviation
Rochester, NY
04.2021 - Current
- Oversaw flight operations, pilot training, and ensured FAA regulatory compliance to maintain operational standards.
- Managed safety initiatives and developed standard operating procedures to enhance safety protocols and operational efficiency.
- Type Rating: Gulfstream G100 (Captain)
Chief Pilot / Corporate Pilot
Main Street Management
Honeoye Falls, NY
02.2016 - 04.2021
- Coordinated fuel efficiency strategies, crew scheduling, and FBO operations to optimize flight readiness
- Implemented training programs and ensured regulatory compliance across operations to maintain operational standards
- Obtained type ratings for Falcon 2000, Citation 550, Beech Premier, Astra SPX, and Gulfstream 100
Chief Pilot
EMS Air Services
Canandaigua, NY
03.2005 - 02.2016
- Directed Part 135 medical and charter operations, including training oversight
- Type Ratings: Cessna Citation SII, Aero Commander AC690B
Airline Pilot
USAirways
Arlington, VA
01.1988 - 02.2005
- Operated domestic and international routes under FAR Part 121
- Type Ratings: Boeing 737, Airbus A319/A320/A321
Airline Pilot
Comair
Cincinnati, OH
01.1985 - 01.1988
- Operated regional airline routes
- Type Rating: EMB-110
Education
Bachelor of Science - Flight Technology, Business Minor
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI06-1984
Skills
- FAA compliance expertise
- Safety management
- Operational oversight
- Proven leadership in corporate and charter aviation
- Crisis management
Flight Time
- Total Flight Time: 17,700 hours
- Turbojet Time: 11,700 hours
- Pilot-in-Command (PIC): 7,700 hours
- Certified Flight Instructor: 1500 hours
Timeline
FAA Aviation Safety Inspector
FAA
09.2025 - Current
Chief Pilot / Flight Department Manager
Kelmic Aviation
04.2021 - Current
Chief Pilot / Corporate Pilot
Main Street Management
02.2016 - 04.2021
Chief Pilot
EMS Air Services
03.2005 - 02.2016
Airline Pilot
USAirways
01.1988 - 02.2005
Airline Pilot
Comair
01.1985 - 01.1988
Bachelor of Science - Flight Technology, Business Minor
Western Michigan University