Meet Our Pilots
Dr. Gareth Williams
Gareth is an accomplished pilot, a PhD scientist, and a retired business consultant. Beyond his dedication to family and his zest for life, one of his greatest joys is witnessing the pure delight on the faces of those experiencing open-air flying for the first time.
As a Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI), Gareth ensures every guest of Suncoast Biplanes is in expert hands. Whether you’re seeking a serene airplane ride as gentle as a cloud or the adrenaline rush of an aerobatic adventure, Gareth and his wife Joy provide an unforgettable experience.
Born and raised in the UK, Gareth discovered his passion for flying early. His aviation journey began with the Air Training Corps (ATC), culminating in his first solo sailplane flight at just 17. After moving to the United States in 2001, a Discovery Flight in a Cessna 150 reignited his love for aviation—and the rest, as they say, is history.
Over the past two decades, Gareth has piloted a variety of general aviation (GA) aircraft. His first biplane, a 1942 Boeing Stearman, took him on an unforgettable cross-country flight from Pennsylvania to California. This same Stearman featured in the documentary Steve McQueen: An American Icon alongside Mel Gibson, Gary Sinise, and Greg Laurie, as well as the upcoming movie When the Moon Was Twice as Big.
Gareth has shared the magic of open-air biplane flying with countless passengers, giving hundreds of rides over the years. His wealth of experience, deep knowledge, and genuine passion make him the ideal guide for this one-of-a-kind adventure.
Gareth and Joy reside in Lake Suzy, FL, near Punta Gorda and the Sunseeker Resort. Their close-knit family includes five children—Isaac, Debs, Timmy, Bryce, and Sean—and four grandchildren: Nehemiah, Norah, Andrew, and Beatrice.
John Manchester
As a third-generation pilot, John brings over 40 years of flying experience to Suncoast Biplanes, with nearly 10,000 flight hours logged in more than 100 different aircraft types, including the Beech 18, DC-3, and Learjet—all with an impeccable safety record.
John began his aviation journey as a student pilot at the Spartan School of Aeronautics in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he earned his pilot certificate, multiple ratings, and flight instructor certification. As an experienced instructor, John has guided countless students toward achieving their aviation goals.
Originally from Massachusetts, John relocated to Clearwater, Florida, in 2017 to study advanced aviation electronics at the National Aviation Academy. In addition to earning his Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certification, John holds Inspector Authorization (IA), enabling him to certify aircraft as airworthy.
Beyond aviation, John enjoys cycling, swimming, and tarpon fishing—a passion that drew him to the world-famous fishing waters of Punta Gorda. He also serves as an instructor in the Aviation Maintenance Technician program at Charlotte Technical College, sharing his expertise with the next generation of aviation professionals.
As both a professional pilot and mechanic, John brings a safety-focused mindset to Suncoast Biplanes, ensuring every flight is a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for all who fly with us.
