Duncan Aviation has announced leadership changes to its Flight Department. Craig Rathjen has been named the Director of Flight Operations and Jon Kroesche the new Chief Pilot of Flight Operations.
In this position, Rathjen leads the day-to-day operations of the flight department. He has been in the aviation industry for the last 30 years and has been with Duncan Aviation since 1997. Goals he has for his new position include continuing to provide a great experience and value to internal flight and external charter and management customers along with providing professional growth and work-life balance for his fellow team members.
Kroesche will lead the flight crews within the department. He joined Duncan Aviation in 2002 and began his aviation career in 1996 after graduating from LeTourneau University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology and Flight. He has served in a variety of roles including Flight Instructor, Mechanic, and Charter Pilot. He says his top priority is to ensure Duncan Aviation pilots continue to “be fully confident in their abilities, familiar with the aircraft they fly, and entirely knowledgeable of the regulations.”
Jeff Lake, Chief Operating Officer of Duncan Aviation in Lincoln, Nebraska, says Rathjen and Kroesche are longtime leaders in the flight department. “Duncan Aviation’s Flight Department is in great hands with Craig and Jon’s leadership,” Lake says. “Craig and Jon have impressive resumes as pilots and they have exceptional knowledge of the regulations. Both Craig and Jon’s first priority has always been the safe operation of the aircraft and the safety of their passengers.”
