Since launching our company, we have assembled a team of highly experienced personnel that understand our goal of putting customers, their schedules and their expectations first. We are a Part 135 Charter Operator, a Part 145 Repair Station and own and operate an FBO. We have experts for every aviation need – including avionics, charter, interiors, maintenance, management and sales. Our maintenance and avionics leads, alone, have more than 100 years of combined experience working on jet, turbo prop and piston aircraft. We are proud to call Birmingham, Alabama home and have expanded our passion for aircraft to select airports in Atlanta, Georgia, PQL in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and ECP in Panama City, Florida. We welcome you to visit one of our locations, meet our excellent team and discuss how we can be of service to you.
Executive Management
William L. Gunnells
Chairman & CEO
Bill Gunnells
Chief Executive Officer
Bill is the Chairman of the Board of Southern Sky Aviation and this is not his first appearance in the Birmingham Business scene. He started the prescription drug card company, Rx Benefits in the mid nineties and built it to be one of the premier employers in the Birmingham area. Rx Benefits became a leading national company for prescriptions benefit management in the small employer space under his leadership. After selling that company, he turned his attention to the aviation industry in Birmingham, Alabama.
Southern Sky Aviation is a company that Bill established to fill a void in the Birmingham Aviation Industry and looks forward to offering great service and continued growth.
Donald A. Howell
President & Chief Financial Officer
Donald A. Howell
President & Chief Financial Officer
Donald joined Southern Sky Aviation in February 2018 as Chief Financial Officer and assumed the dual role of President and Chief Financial Officer in November 2018. He is responsible for overseeing daily operations across all service segments of the business and has overall financial responsibility for the company. He also works with the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Bill Gunnels on setting strategic direction of the company and identifying target acquisitions.
Donald graduated from Auburn University in 1990 with a degree in Accounting. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant with 27 years of public accounting experience in the Aviation, Distribution, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail and Distribution Industries. He also specialized in advising clients on Mergers and Acquisitions. Donald’s public accounting experience included 12 years at Arthur Andersen, 2 years at KPMG and 13 years as a partner in a local firm.
After 27 years in public accounting, Donald served as Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer of a consumer product start-up manufacturing company. Donald was instrumental in launching this company from its inception and through the first three years of growth. He managed the international supply chain reducing costs by 33%. In addition, he also managed the intellectual property owned by the company. The company sold its assets to an investor group in February 2018.
Leadership Team
Mike Arrington
VP Quality
Mike Arrington
VP Quality
Mike is our Director of Maintenance on our 135 Certificate as well as our Vice President of Quality on our 145 Certificate. He reports directly to our 135 Certificate Accountable Manager, Bo Andrews.
He has over 35 years’ experience in Aviation Maintenance and 20 of those years have been in a management role. Much of this time was spent with General Aviation companies such as Beechcraft, Constant Aviation and Beech Aerospace. He brings invaluable experience to our shop, not only from a quality standpoint but in a training capacity as well.
Technical Training:
- Beech jet 400/400A Maintenance Initial
- Cessna Citation 500 Series Maintenance Initial
- Lear Jet 30 Series Maintenance Initial
- Beechcraft King Air SIRM Training
- Pratt & Whitney PT6 Line Maintenance
Current License:
- FAA Airframe and Powerplant License
- FAA Inspector Authorization
Magan Batchelor
Corporate Controller
Magan Batchelor
Corporate Controller
Magan Batchelor joined Southern Sky Aviation in November of 2017 as a Senior Accountant. She is responsible for assisting in the day to day operations and financial reporting of our maintenance, and corporate divisions.
Prior to joining Southern Sky Aviation, Magan served as a Senior Accountant at RxBenefits, Inc. where she worked with the accounting team during periods of large growth and a subsequent acquisition. Prior to her time with RxBenefits, Magan spent over seven years in various bookkeeping and accounting positions with increased responsibility in the manufacturing and childcare industries.
Magan earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Jacksonville State University. She qualifies as CPA eligible and is currently preparing to sit for the CPA exam.
Darryl Brewer
President–FBO Division
Darryl Brewer
VP Business Development
Darryl Brewer, Southern Sky’s Vice President of Business Development, has been proud to call BHM home since 1978, working in various positions for nine FBO’s since that time. Darryl has been the General Manager of several of BHM’s FBO’s, to include Mercury Air Center, JetSouth and most recently Atlantic Aviation since 1999.
As VP of Business Development, Darryl is utilizing his personal relationships with Aviation Professionals throughout the country to expand the footprint of SSA nationwide and beyond. Everyday he works to ensure that, whether purchasing a new aircraft, maintaining your investment or chartering a flight, our customers know that their schedules and expectations come first.
Barry “Bear” Lambert II
Executive Vice President
Barry Lambert
Executive Vice President
Barry serves as the Executive Vice President for Southern Sky Aviation. His responsibilities range from guidance for our clients to the overall success and leadership of the aircraft charter, maintenance, management, and sales divisions of Southern Sky Aviation.
Barry has more than a decade’s worth of experience in aviation in various roles. He started as an aircraft researcher and has been in business development, sales and acquisitions, owner services, finance, and operations – suffice it to say, he knows the aviation industry. Barry has managed finance, business development, aircraft sales, and operations teams. Barry personally developed an owner reporting package for aircraft owners using charter services. His experiences allow him to see aircraft ownership and management through a unique, holistic perspective for aircraft owners and potential owners.
Barry was awarded Top 40 under 40 in 2022 by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). Barry currently sits on the Air Charter committee for the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and is a Board Member of the Alabama Business Aviation Association (ALBAA).
Ralph Crosby
VP of Business Development
Ralph Crosby
Ralph Crosby
VP of Business Development
Ralph Crosby serves as Vice President of Business Development at Southern Sky Aviation, where he is responsible for driving strategic growth across aircraft sales, charter services, and maintenance solutions. With more than 20 years of experience spanning fractional ownership, jet and helicopter sales, and charter operations, he brings a well-rounded perspective to aviation business development.
Ralph focuses on expanding Southern Sky Aviation’s customer base throughout the Southeastern United States. His extensive industry network and deep operational knowledge make him a valuable asset in cultivating client relationships and advancing the company’s market presence.
Jeff Cotton
VP Aviation
Jeff Cotton
VP Aviation
Breckyn Ramsey
Aircraft Operations Manager
Breckyn Ramsey
Aircraft Operations Manager
Breckyn Ramsey is the Aircraft Operations Manager at Southern Sky Aviation, where he oversees both charter services and aircraft management operations to ensure seamless execution and top-tier client service. With a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management and a minor in Business from Auburn University, Breckyn brings a strong academic foundation and a deep passion for aviation to his leadership role.
His expertise spans flight coordination, aircraft oversight, and client experience—making him a vital part of Southern Sky Aviation’s success. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, Breckyn is committed to advancing operational excellence in private aviation.
Tim Thomas
VP FBO Operations
Tim Thomas
VP FBO Operations
Tim Thomas joined the Southern Sky Aviation team in 2021 as Vice President of FBO Operations. He is responsible for the day-to-day operations and business development on the local levels with each of the SSA FBO Locations. Tim graduated with his associate degree in aviation management in 2023 from Florida Institute of Technology while continuing to pursue completion of his bachelor’s degree in aviation management. Tim has worked in the Fixed Based Operation industry since 1997. His career has carried him to multiple airports across the United States serving multiple different FBO brands, and positions. The experience and knowledge Tim has gained over 26 years will aid in safety and growth with customer service, as well with day-to-day operations for Southern Sky Aviation FBO locations.
Scott Capehart
General Manager – ECP
Scott Capehart
General Manager – ECP
Scott Capehart serves as General Manager of Southern Sky Aviation’s Panama City FBO at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (KECP). Since joining Southern Sky Aviation in 2024, Scott has led the successful finalization and opening of the Panama City location, establishing strong operational standards and a service‑driven culture for general aviation customers along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Scott brings decades of experience in FBO operations, aviation leadership, and business consulting. He is a commercial, instrument‑rated pilot and a graduate of Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, where he specialized in Aviation Business and FBO Operations. A retired U.S. Army aviator and lieutenant colonel, Scott commanded large aviation organizations and flew scout and attack rotary‑wing aircraft during an accomplished military career.
Todd Newton
Director of Maintenance
Jeremiah Watts
Interior Service Team Manager
Jeremiah Watts
Interior Service Team Manager
Jeremiah came to Southern Sky Aviation in March of 2018. Watts Interiors has been a the leader in Aviation Interiors at BHM since 1976 and now they bring those significant talents to Southern Sky Aviation. As a result of Jeremiah joining SSA, we have been able to create a “one-stop shop” for all maintenance and interior needs for our customers.
Jeremiah and Mike have built a reputation as the experts in all things interior in the Southeast and are helping SSA continue to offer World Class service in all areas of maintaining your aircraft.
Our Commitment
We believe that when you are doing business and focused on your local community you always strive to do a better job. It is our commitment to hire local and train our team to do it the Southern Sky Aviation way, while building a world-class aviation company.
Careers at Southern Sky Aviation
We’re always on the lookout for people passionate about aviation. Following are our current open positions.
Birmingham Openings
Airline Maintenance
Technician
Airline Maintenance Technician
Education, Certifications and Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or equivalent required
- Airframe and Powerplant License required
- Two years Airline experience required
- General Familiarization training preferred but not required
Job Duties include:
- Line Maintenance in accordance with specific aircraft maintenance manuals
- Servicing engine and hydraulic oil systems
- Service oxygen and nitrogen systems\
- Remove and Replace tires, brakes, avionics equipment and other aircraft parts
- Troubleshoot various aircraft systems
- Defer and facilitate other maintenance
- Perform various checks/inspections for airline customers
Other Essential Requirements:
- Hold a valid state driver’s license, and a good driving record
- Hold and maintain Airport Authority security clearance and badge
- Availability to work nights, weekdays, weekends, and holidays
- Ability to effectively communicate through verbal, written and electronic means
- Strong attention to details and good organizational skills
- Work under minimal supervision
- Move up to 100 pounds periodically
- Work indoors and outdoors in varying temperatures, climates, and conditions
- Medium to heavy work requiring prolonged or repeated standing, walking, climbing, stooping, and kneeling
- Travel may be required periodically
Birmingham, AL (BHM)
Pascagoula Openings
Line Service
Technician
Line Service Technician
As a Line Service Technician, you will provide ground support to arriving and departing aircraft, professional, and courteous service for crew members and their passengers. Additionally, you will perform daily line service operations by safely and accurately conducting general flight line operations.
Required Qualifications:
- Must pass all conducted drug/alcohol screens, background and security checks and prove eligibility for employment in the United States
- High School Diploma
- Must be 18 years of age
- Experience with aviation ground handling preferred
- Valid state drivers license
- Basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills
- Ability to act under pressure and be adaptable to change on a constant basis
- Professional verbal/written communication skills
- Excellent listening and problem solving skills
- Ability to work as part of a team and independently
Physical Demands:
- Requires operation of vehicles in excess of 50,000 pounds
- May require lifting/moving/pushing/pulling up to 200 pounds
- Ability to communicate with crew/tower using base radio and with customer service rep and line service manager via two-way radio
Pascagoula, MS (PQL)
Panama City Openings
Customer Experience Representative
Customer Experience Representative
Job Title: Customer Experience Representative
Department: Customer Service
Reports To: Lead/Supervisor/CS Manager
Grade: Hourly Non-Exempt
Summary:
Customer Service Representatives serve as the primary liaison between the company and its customers. CSR’s must interact with customers in a professional and positive fashion. This position performs tasks associated with the servicing of aircraft and the coordination of logistics for aviation customers.
Key Position Responsibilities:
- Ability to provide customer service in a friendly, professional, and positive manner.
- Develop and maintain strong customer relationships.
- Ability to work within a team and take direction from leaders.
- Partner with line service team to meet and exceed customer’s service expectations
- Ability to act under pressure and be flexible/adaptable to change on a constant basis
- Proactive preparation for all incoming aircraft
- Ensure a clean and pleasant customer and work environment.
- Follow all company SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) at all times. Report any safety hazards to management immediately.
- Always use sound judgment to ensure a safe and accident-free work environment.
- Knowledge of FBO and airport operations.
- Ability to follow and work within all safety policies and procedures
- Compliance with all regulatory rules and regulations to include airport authority, TSA, and FAA.
Position Duties
- Greet customers in a friendly, professional manner and maintain appropriate continuous assistance to customers necessary to ensure good customer relations.
- Check in and register customers and determine their specific needs and ensure follow up.
- Adhere to the uniform policy.
- Dispatch responsibilities such as coordinating services between customers and line service personnel.
- Invoicing for services provided. Reconciliations of all gallons sold versus pumped.
- Drive passengers and/or pilots to and from requested locations such as hotels, restaurants, etc.
- Occasionally drive on the AOA (Aircraft Operations Area).
- Make necessary reservations and arrangements, including hotel and car reservations.
- Receiving and recording all credit card receipts and cash receipts.
- Keep work area and terminal neat in appearance at all times.
- Periodically inspect and organize facilities and replenish amenities and beverages.
- Assist line service when needed for services such as wing-walking and security escorts.
- Initiating emergency response procedures when required.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Completion of high school or GED.
- Minimum of 21 years old.
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Must maintain a valid state driver’s license and meet insurability standards of the company.
- Ability to comprehend and perform basic math calculations.
- Must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check and meet background requirements of the company, Transportation Security Administration, airport authority and other governing agencies.
- Flexible availability to include, working overtime, nights, weekends, holidays and be on call.
- Good communication skills and ability to interact with customers and coworkers in a positive manner.
- Experience with Word and Excel.
Physical Requirements:
When performing the duties required of this position, the employee will regularly use hands, fingers, reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk and hear. The employee is required to stand and walk. The employee must be able to lift and move up to 30lbs. Vision abilities required by this job include distance vision, close vision, peripheral vision and depth perception.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.
Panama City, FL (ECP)
Line Service
Technician
Line Service Technician
Summary:
As a Line Service Technician, you will provide ground support to arriving and departing aircraft, professional, and courteous service for crew members and their passengers. Additionally, you will perform daily line service operations by safely and accurately conducting general flight line operations.
Required Qualifications:
- Must pass all conducted drug/alcohol screens, background and security checks and prove eligibility for employment in the United States
- High School Diploma
- Must be 18 years of age
- Experience with aviation ground handling preferred
- Valid state drivers license
- Basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills
- Ability to act under pressure and be adaptable to change on a constant basis
- Professional verbal/written communication skills
- Excellent listening and problem solving skills
- Ability to work as part of a team and independently
Physical Demands:
- Requires operation of vehicles in excess of 50,000 pounds
- May require lifting/moving/pushing/pulling up to 200 pounds
- Ability to communicate with crew/tower using base radio and with customer service rep and line service manager via two-way radio
Panama City, FL (ECP)
Other Openings
Captain
Captain
Education, Certifications and Qualifications:
- Education: High School Diploma required; Bachelor’s Degree preferred
- Types of Certifications/Licenses: Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, (Airplane Multi-Engine Land)
- Valid First-Class Medical certificate
- 3500 hours total flying experience with at least 3000 hours as PIC, 1000 of which should be multi-engine time
- Type rating preferred but not required
- No accidents/Incidents last 5 years
- No restrictions to international travel
Other essential requirements:
- Work varying hours including day and night, weekdays, weekend, holidays
- Be extremely flexible, demonstrate ability to adjust to rapid changes
- Be prepared for flight duty at all times during their tour
- Secure appropriate airport authority and/or U.S. Customs security badges
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA) required background screening
- United States Passport and be able to travel internationally without restrictions
- Hold a valid state driver’s license
- Ability to make a positive impression and effectively interact with passengers
- Possess excellent oral and written communication skills
- Exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects
- Work around animals, including the handling and care prior to, during, and after passenger flights
Citation Bravo
Mobile, AL (MOB)
For more information and to apply, contact:
BHM
Birmingham, AL
We started Southern Sky Aviation after seeing an opportunity to provide services that didn’t exist from a local Birmingham company.
ECP
Panama City, FL
Newly constructed FBO along the Florida Northwest Gulf Coast.
PQL
Pascagoula, MS
Our first FBO brings our exceptional services to the Mississippi Gulf Coast – sixty-two miles of quaint town, seaside retreats and busy businesses.
