Windward Aviation is a unique aviation company, which has been a staple in Hawaii’s skies since 1990. Started by Don Shearer, Windward Aviation began as a family venture and has grown into a vital community asset, specializing in diverse aviation services across Maui. John went out to learn about the business from Nicole Shearer, Vice President of Windward Aviation, and Don Shearer, President and Founder.
As Nicole reflects on the company’s origins, she expresses gratitude for the opportunity to help steer the business alongside her father. “I am so thankful that I was able to move back to Maui to help run Windward and hopefully keep it going for generations to come,” she shares.
Windward Aviation’s operations are far from typical. The company tackles a variety of missions each day, ranging from assisting Hawaiian Electric with wire pulls to performing search and rescue missions, transporting conservationists, eradicating invasive species, and even firefighting. Nicole highlights the challenges of operating such a unique and dynamic business: “The only way we overcome this is by having open communication and a strong team environment where we all work together.”