From Childhood Flights to Professional Heights: Spotlight on a Dedicated Aviator
In this edition of our #facesofflight series, we spotlight a team member whose aviation journey is as inspiring as it is extensive. From early flights with his pilot father to a robust career in aircraft sales, John Arnold’s story is a testament to passion and perseverance in the world of aviation.
Where it all began!
“I’ve been connected to aviation since I was born,” John stated, sharing how his father, a pilot and aircraft owner, took him on his first flight just months after his birth. Growing up in a flying community outside Chicago, he was surrounded by aviation enthusiasts and projects, fostering a deep-seated passion for flying. “I started out in a motorglider which I soloed at 15, soloed our 172 at 16, private at 17, and multi-instrument at 18. It was a very cool ride!”
John’s early experiences were hands-on and varied, from flying family trips across the country to building and restoring aircraft. These formative years laid a solid foundation for his future career. Despite taking a brief detour for college and a “real” job, the call of aviation was strong. He soon found himself at Cirrus Aircraft, where he promoted the SR20 product line, and later at Cessna Aircraft (now Textron Aviation), selling various aircraft types. Today, he brings his wealth of experience to Lone Mountain Aircraft, helping clients with their aviation journeys.
When not talking about airplanes, he enjoys time at the lake with his wife and three daughters, teaching them to ski and fish. “Teaching the kids has taken more patience than any rating!”
Professional Experience
As a sales team member at Lone Mountain Aircraft, he assists clients in buying and selling high-performance piston and turbine aircraft. His approach is highly personalized, preferring phone calls over texts and emails to build strong client relationships. “I’d rather talk to a client than text or email,” John says. This dedication to personal interaction sets him apart in an increasingly digital world.
His role is crucial in enhancing the overall customer experience. “Responsiveness is my key to success,” he emphasizes, noting how many clients appreciate his timely and detailed communication.
Memorable Moments
John recalls numerous memorable and rewarding experiences with clients. One standout moment involved helping a customer purchase their first aircraft for their small business. Initially expecting to fly around 100 hours a year, the customer ended up flying 300 hours and credited the aircraft with significantly growing their company. Another client, who learned to fly in their late 60s, bought their first aircraft with John’s assistance. Over seven years, they ended up purchasing five aircraft together. “I absolutely love watching clients grow through the product lines and getting bit by the aviation BUG!”
The Passion
John’s passion for aviation is evident in everything he does. “I still get excited to watch the ultralights fly early in the morning at Oshkosh,” he says. This enthusiasm helps his clients share in the excitement of owning an aircraft. “Throughout my aviation career, doing that late-night phone call or just one more email hasn’t been a burden. I’m absolutely blessed that I get to mix my personal passion and career together and believe the client wins with that combination.”
Favorite Aircraft
While it’s hard for him to pick a favorite aircraft, one contender is the 1964 Cessna 172E that his family restored. “There is enough blood, sweat, and tears in that plane to almost make it Family!”
Building Relationships
Building strong rapport with clients is vital during the sales process. “The transaction will most likely NOT go in a straight line. The client must have trust that their best interest is my priority.” John’s approach involves educating clients without talking down to them, earning their trust through responsiveness and expertise.
He advises first-time aircraft buyers to hire a full-time aircraft broker and “try on” different aircraft. Attending aviation events and sitting in as many aircraft as possible can help determine what they don’t want, making the final decision easier and more rewarding.
Upcoming Events & Contact
John will be attending several events this summer where clients can meet him in person:
- EAA AirVenture: Oshkosh, WI – July 22nd – 28th
- Citation Jet Pilots Annual Convention: Colorado Springs, CO – September 4th – 7th
- COPA Migration: Scottsdale, AZ – September 26th – 29th
- NBAA – BACE: Las Vegas, NV – October 22nd – 24th
For inquiries or to connect with him, reach out via phone at 630-487-1480, follow him on Instagram @naperflyer, or email at jarnold@lonemtn.com.
