John and Martha King are the co-founders of King Schools, a renowned provider of aviation education and training materials for pilots worldwide. John, born in Indiana, first experienced flight at age three when his father introduced him to an Aeronca Champion, sparking a lifelong passion for aviation that was cemented when he soloed at 16. Martha, a pioneering spirit with her sharp intellect and bold curiosity drew her to aviation, where she discovered both a career and a calling. The two met as students at Indiana University, where Martha, inspired by John’s enthusiasm, embraced aviation as her own passion.
With over 50 years of experience in aviation education, the Kings revolutionized pilot training by creating engaging, fun, and easy-to-understand courses that have helped countless pilots earn their certifications. The Kings ground school model evolved from weekend in-person courses, to VHS, to DVD, and now through online streaming. John’s aptitude for breaking down complex concepts and Martha’s gift for clear, engaging communication became the foundation of their success. The Kings are credited for teaching an average of 50,000 classes a day and 10,000 courses annually – that is over half of the new pilots every year!
The Kings, flying experts themselves, were the first and only married couple to attain every single Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) civilian category and class of FAA pilot and instructor certificates. Both John and Martha have a passion for aviation and entrepreneurship, leading them to author two books, Sky Kings: Flying Adventures with John & Martha and LIFT: How to Start, Run and Grow Your Own Successful Business. The Kings continue to serve as advocates for risk management by advising the FAA on the newest Airman Certification Standards (ACS). Their innovative approach to aviation instruction, combined with their passion for making flying accessible and safe, has enshrined them in both the National and International Aviation Halls of Fame and recognition as one of the 100 Distinguished Aviation Heroes in the first century of flight.
