EXTREME FLIGHT
AIRSHOW PILOT
Patrick McAlee: From Early Aviation Enthusiast to Acclaimed Airshow Pilot
Patrick McAlee – Airshow Pilot
Patrick McAlee is known for his infectious enthusiasm, approachable style, and boundless passion for aviation. Flying his signature Pitts S1 “Blue Demon,” Patrick energizes airshow crowds across the country with a blend of precision, power, and showmanship that makes every performance unforgettable.
A lifelong aviator, Patrick’s journey began in St. Louis, Missouri, inspired by a family legacy of flight. From building award-winning biplanes as a child to earning his commercial pilot credentials as a teenager, Patrick’s path has been defined by relentless passion and dedication. He is a seasoned airline captain and a creative force in the airshow industry-constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the sky.
Patrick’s commitment to excellence is rooted in his competitive background with the International Aerobatic Club (IAC), where he spent five years honing his craft in aerobatic contests. During his IAC career, Patrick achieved multiple wins and consistently ranked in the top ten at national competitions, never finishing outside that bracket. His advanced training, including time at the Tutima Academy of Aviation Safety, helped shape his signature style and precision.
Alongside his wife Natalia, Patrick brings a fresh, family-friendly energy to the airshow scene, combining thrilling aerial routines with innovative STEAM outreach, interactive programs, and creative storytelling that engage and inspire audiences of all ages.
With thousands of flight hours in a wide range of aircraft, Patrick is committed to sharing the wonder of aviation, mentoring future pilots, and delivering unforgettable experiences at every event. Driven by innovation, fueled by community, and dedicated to the art of flight, Patrick McAlee continues to raise the bar for airshow entertainment in America and beyond.
Patrick expresses his sincere gratitude to his sponsors and supporters, who have played a vital role in his journey. Some of his proud sponsors include Softie Parachutes, Catto Propellers, Michelin, Bristol Watch Company, The Aero Experience, Aircraft Smoker Oil, Evolution MMA, Lift Aviation USA, Tiger Performance Products, Enersys Corporation, Aircraft Spruce and Specialty, and Tempest Aero Group.
Learn More About Patrick
How did you get involved in aviation?
My dad and uncle were both airline pilots, so I was exposed to aviation from a very young age. My dad worked on the Gemini space program before becoming a pilot for Ozark Airlines. He started teaching me to fly when I was just 5 years old.
How did you transition from aerobatic competitions to airshows?
I got inspired watching airshow performer Sean D. Tucker at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh as a kid. In 2006, I attended Tutima Academy of Aviation Safety to master advanced aerobatic maneuvers and recovery techniques under instructors like Ben Freelove. After that training, I began competing successfully in aerobatic competitions for around 5 years.
When did you start flying aerobatics?
I got inspired watching airshow performer Sean D. Tucker at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh as a kid. In 2006, I attended Tutima Academy of Aviation Safety to master advanced aerobatic maneuvers and recovery techniques under instructors like Ben Freelove. After that training, I began competing successfully in aerobatic competitions for around 5 years.
What makes your airshow act unique?
We inspire youth by blending dynamic STEAM education with the excitement of aerobatic flight. Our programs uniquely combine my performance in conjunction with immersive Virtual Reality experiences, helping students grasp the science and technology behind airshow aerobatics.
By bringing students into the cockpit virtually-we make complex aviation concepts accessible and engaging, setting our Extreme Flight act apart as a hands-on, unforgettable learning adventure
What is your background beyond airshows?
In parallel to pursuing aerobatics, I was building an airline career. I was hired by Republic Airways in 2004 and quickly upgraded to captain on the Embraer regional jets by 2006, where I’ve remained ever since with over 16,000 total flight hours across 30 aircraft types. I also have my A&P mechanic certification. The two careers have complemented each other well.