In the newest episode of the Plane + Pilot Podcast, Aviat Aircraft Vice President of Brand Matt Hofeldt joined editor-in-chief Cayla McLeod for an in-depth discussion on the iconic Husky and the world of backcountry aviation.
Hofeldt, who also serves as president and co-founder alongside his wife Jade of Capital Flight, a Wisconsin FBO and flight training center at Morey Field, traced his own entry into aviation. Coming from a family without industry ties, he was introduced at a young age to flight by a next-door neighbor who led a local flying club. His first airborne experience came aboard a 1968 Piper Cherokee 180, sparking a passion that shaped his career.
Much of the conversation focused on Aviat's longstanding home in Afton, Wyoming. The facility, with roots dating to the Call-Air company in 1939, stands as the longest continually operating aircraft manufacturing site in the United States. Hofeldt highlighted how this heritage underpins the development of the Husky line, which was certified in 1987 loosely based on the venerable Piper Super Cub design.
From the early A-1A to today's A-1C variant, the Husky has evolved while retaining its fundamental structural strengths. The robust fuselage DNA that made it a favorite for backcountry operations on wheels, floats or skis remains unaltered. Yet the aircraft has gained modern amenities including comprehensive Garmin glass avionics suites that bridge traditional brawn with contemporary cockpit technology.
Hofeldt spotlighted two key innovations in the A-1C that have transformed the owner-pilot experience. A redesigned trim system replaces the former bungee arrangement with an elevator trim tab that delivers a crisper, more precise feel while substantially reducing pilot workload. The aircraft also features upgraded ergonomic seating adjustable in four directions—forward, aft, up and down—to comfortably fit pilots of diverse sizes and improve overall ergonomics.
With short takeoff and landing aircraft gaining significant interest across general aviation, Hofeldt provided grounded counsel for those considering entry into backcountry flying. He urged prospective owners to perform due diligence, engage directly with factories and representatives, and carefully evaluate which model aligns best with their geographic area, typical missions and personal preferences. While acknowledging that most current offerings are highly capable, he stressed the importance of an individualized match rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
The podcast illustrates Aviat's ongoing commitment to refining a proven platform without compromising the qualities that have made the Husky a staple for pilots seeking adventure in remote terrain. Capital Flight's focus on training and services further supports new generations exploring these capabilities.
The full conversation is available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular platforms, offering listeners valuable perspective on blending heritage with innovation in one of general aviation's most rugged segments.