Our Instructor
Central Florida Tailwheel’s owner and experienced flight instructor, Ryan Marracino, brings a rich and diverse background to aviation training. A Central Florida native, Ryan’s journey to becoming a full-time flight instructor started with earning a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Central Florida and working as a biomedical researcher at UCF’s College of Medicine. He also taught chemistry at the college and high school levels, showcasing his talent and dedication to education.
However, Ryan’s deep-rooted passion for flying ultimately led him to pursue aviation as a career. With over 1,700 hours of flight instruction given, he specializes in Tailwheel skills, private and commercial pilot training, Upset Prevention and Recovery training, and aerobatics for Patty Wagstaff Aviation Safety in St. Augustine, FL. Ryan is also helps pilots prepare to become Agriculture pilots with Eagle Vista’s Ag Flight School. His expertise makes him uniquely qualified to guide pilots of all levels toward mastering their craft.
Calm and Passionate Instruction
Ryan’s natural, calm teaching style and enthusiasm for aviation create an ideal learning environment for pilots. He genuinely enjoys teaching the fundamental stick-and-rudder skills that are the cornerstone of becoming a skilled, confident, and safe pilot. By tailoring each lesson to the individual student, Ryan helps his students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of flying, empowering you to elevate your abilities.
Life Beyond Aviation
When he’s not in the cockpit, Ryan enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle—running, hiking, swimming, and recently, skiing. As a talented mechanic, he also loves rebuilding car engines and competing in amateur time trials with sports cars. Above all, he loves God and his family, and loves sharing the beauty of aviation that gives you a unique perspective on life.
Our goal is to ensure every student is equipped to become a safe, skilled, and confident pilot.
Our aircraft
Whether you are training with us towards your private pilot certificate, a tailwheel endorsement, a commercial pilot certificate, or for the 61.183 CFI spin endorsement you will be flying our beautifully restored 1970 American Champion Citabria 7GCBC.
With two tandem seats, excellent climb performance, a cruising speed of 105 knots, low airframe and engine hours, and amazing visibility from the high wing airframe, this plane creates one of the purest and most enjoyable aviation experiences you can have. Contact us today to schedule your flight training!