Five Minutes with Jimmy Hayes
- CJP Member Since: 2014
- Occupation: Retired. Former CEO of Cox Enterprises, Inc.
- Current Aircraft: CJ3+, SNJ-4, Pilatus PC-7, Pilatus PC-9, L-39 Albatros
- Home Base: KSRQ
- Number of Years Flying: 43
- Total Time: 5,500 hours
- Can you summarize your background in aviation?
I obtained my license shortly after graduate school in 1976, but most of my flying has been in the last 15 years. I’ve flown myself to 37 countries and am a FAST-qualified formation pilot.
- What led to your purchase of a Citation? Your typical mission?
I purchased the Citation in 2014 following a trip around the world in a Pilatus PC-12. After the journey, I began to reflect on the fact that I did not want to end my flying days without achieving a jet type rating. I considered several options, but ultimately chose the CJ3+ based on range and useful load criteria. My typical mission is the lower 48 states but I’ve completed several Atlantic crossings as well.
- How does Citation ownership benefit and enhance your life?
It’s really all about family for me. My wife is a competitive ballroom dancer, and I fly her to competitions across the country. We also travel to visit our children in Colorado and the east coast of Florida.
- What do you find is the most valuable part of being a member of CJP?
Friendship with terrific people who share common interests and passion for aviation and information.
- Can you describe your most memorable trip in a Citation?
There have been many memorable trips. One that was particularly memorable was flying to Havana, Cuba for a ballroom competition in 2016. Given the history of Cuba and the United States, it was certainly a memorable occasion that few pilots have the opportunity to do. Trips we have taken with Air Journey to different countries have all been memorable, too.