This expansion is on top of the fleet growth previously announced during 2023 and early this year. With this latest update, our total fleet commitment will reach 181 aircraft, comprising 138 E175s and 43 E170s, for those tracking our progress.

“Envoy’s dedication to safety, quality, and cost has led to our steady, sustainable success,” stated Pedro Fábregas, President & CEO of Envoy. “These core values guide all our actions, allowing us to offer reliable, high-quality, and cost-efficient regional services to the numerous customers we serve daily, benefitting both American Airlines Group and its shareholders, as well as our over 20,000 employees across the Pacific, North America, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean. We extend our gratitude to all who contribute daily to maintaining our safe and dependable operations.”

There are a lot of moving parts when it comes to getting new SIMs, and it’s been all hands-on flight deck to make it happen. Part of the process to bring all SIM training to the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, Envoy recently received full qualification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for our latest SIM, manufactured by Canadian Aviation Electronics (CAE).

“Moving to a single fleet type with the Embraer 170 and 175 creates a lot of advantages for Envoy, but it also means high demand for our E170 and 175 simulators,” said John Nicks, Envoy Senior Vice President of Corporate Services. “The Flight team did a fabulous job working with CAE and going through all the testing that we needed in order to get them qualified with the FAA. These SIMs are high tech, modern and complicated devices that support some of the best pilot training in the business.”

About the SIMs

With innovation and technology being a major tenet of aviation, it’s only fitting that, during this pandemic, an Envoy mechanic would use his technical know-how to improve upon the homemade-mask movement. Humberto Montalban, an Inspector Mechanic based in Columbus, Ohio was inspired to make 3D-printed masks and face shields after he saw how the shortage of supplies was affecting frontline workers.

Humberto, 57, said that through a Facebook group of 3D-printing enthusiasts, he learned a lot about how to design the perfect mask. Now he’s been on a tear printing masks for his family, friends and coworkers, as well as continuing to send equipment to his son-in-law in New York so he can distribute to first responders and healthcare workers.

Make it work

Beginning about four years ago, Humberto began tooling with 3D printers to make unique modifications to his remote-control drones. Using his Creality CR-10 and CR-10s model printers, he has the ability to create hi-grade products in his own home.

With each project, including making masks, there’s some trial and errors. Through open-sourced designs for the 3D models, Humberto is able to tweak other’s designs to perfection.

“COVID-19 took the world by surprise, so we in the 3D-printing community geared up in order to help to first responders and hospitals,” said Humberto. “First I gave them to people in need like in New York, then I started giving them away to neighbors. I’ve made some for my family and friends, but eventually I will run out of materials, so it’s important to dial-in the design as to not waste anything.”

Come together, right now

Humberto began his airline career with Eastern Airlines, held various positions with several aerospace and engineering companies, and eventually came to Envoy in 1999 to work on a beloved “little airplane,” the ATR 72, he said. Humberto’s parents, now retired physicians, are part of the reason why he found himself contributing to the cause.

“I guess it’s in my blood to run into the fire and help,” said Humberto.

Growing up in Central America, Humberto said that epidemics were a common occurrence, so he’s seen firsthand how a disease can devastate a community.

“Epidemics were the dish of the day when I was growing up, so I’ve seen how communities are affected by disease and how they can get better,” said Humberto. “This is a time when we all have to come together to give what we can.”

Not only is Humberto sharing the hi-tech masks he made, but he also wanted to share his designs with anyone who wants to give it a try on their own 3D printers. Click here to download Humberto’s design template (.STL file) from Facebook.

Know any more “silver linings”? Send us an email at Envoy.News@aa.com. We’d love to share your stories of perseverance and hope during this COVID-19 crisis.

What makes you proud?

Achieving my goal of becoming an airline pilot. It was a long road that took me 8,000 miles away from everyone and everything I know.

Through the challenges, the ups-and-downs, and everything in between, I discovered along the way a tough, resilient part of me that I didn’t know existed — for that I am proud.

Who inspires you?

My dad is my greatest inspiration. Learning how he took care of his family, especially during war time, while always keeping his faith and helping others in need.

What do you love most about your job?

What do I love most about my job? That’s pretty hard to say as the list is long.

• The person it made me: a planner, a resource manager and my ability to operate a complex machine thousands of feet above the ground.
• Enjoying the glorious views, and exploring new and different places and foods.
• The opportunity to meet different people from different backgrounds, and learn from their experiences.

If you were not in the aviation industry, what other job would you do?

I would have been a judge. I enjoy learning about the law and justice system.

Tell us one or two things on your travel bucket list.

I would love to travel to Japan and explore the beauty that country has to offer. And since I am a huge beach lover I would love to explore as many islands as I can all over the world.

Now a pilot on the Embraer 175, Jillian is a former Envoy Cadet and on the way to upgrading to Captain in a few months. Her tenacity, dedication and positive attitude have helped along the way, whether as a pilot, obstacle racer or horse rider, she’s always a step in the right direction.

Right in front of you

In college at the University of South Carolina, Jillian hadn’t quite yet landed on a career until her father took her on some very special trips during his final year at American Airlines. As a Captain on the Boeing 777, he flew Jillian all around the world to places like Germany, Japan and Argentina.

“Hanging out with the crews and seeing all these amazing places, showed me what the pilot life could be all about,” Jillian said. “It began to sink in – I wanted this to be my life, too.”

Her dad suggested that she at least take a discovery flight and see if she wanted to pursue her private pilot’s license. After that first amazing flight, she figured it was better than any other option she had, so she went and achieved it.

Also playing a part in piquing her interest in an airline career, Jillian’s mother had been a Flight Attendant for American Airlines for 20 years. In fact, her parents had met in Washington D.C. where both of them were based – so why not carry on the tradition, Jillian thought.

As many know, it’s also a tradition to fly for the same airline as their parents, so it was only natural for Jillian to eye a future at American. First, she had to lay the groundwork, which began her venture into the Envoy Cadet Program.

Career of certainty

Drawn to the assured path from Cadet to a major airline pilot, Jillian quickly found her way to an Envoy partner school as a Certified Flight Instructor.

“The Cadet Program gave me the peace of mind knowing I didn’t have to stress about multiple interviews,” said Jillian. “You have someone cheering you on and helping you organize your path. My career always feels certain.”

Even her mother, who had been retired from American, reconsidered joining Envoy as a Flight Attendant to accompany her daughter. Last year, Jillian and her mother worked their first flight together to Oaxaca, Mexico, and even her father was able to tag along.

Pass the passion

With strong role models such as her parents, Jillian aspires to pass along her passion for aviation to young people, especially young girls.

“I think it’s my duty to set an example for the next generation,” said Jillian. “It’s incredible to meet little girls so interested in becoming pilots. I tell them to go hop in a plane, because you never know you might get that excitement I had. If they catch the flying bug, it can take their career all the way to a major airline.”

As part of a growing group of women pilots, Jillian hopes the numbers get bigger and bigger and show the world that women can do anything, she said.

“I think as people begin to see more and more women on the flight deck, it becomes the norm,” said Jillian. “I’ve seen it firsthand that flight schools are blossoming with women pilots – it gives me so much hope for the future.”

Beyond the flight deck

Flying jets isn’t the only thing Jillian does with vigor and dedication. As an avid athlete and competitor, she frequently competes in obstacle races such as Tough Mudder and the Spartan Races. She also has a history in equestrian competitions with her 10-year-old horse Quinn.

“There are similarities between flying a plane and horse riding, such as multi-tasking,” said Jillian. “You have to be able to control the horse with all parts of your body, know their cues and expect the unexpected – just like flying.”

Recently, Jillian has expanded her hobbies to working on experimental aircrafts with her boyfriend. Always interested in puzzles and problem-solving, she’s drawn to the electrical wiring work where she can follow a diagram to reach her goal.

Right place, right time

As a renaissance women of sorts, Jillian just wants to be herself and carry on a life that she’s proud to live.

“My goal is to always be happy and healthy,” she said. “I think I’ve achieved that with this line of work. Not many people can walk into work excited like it’s the very first time.”

With her eye on carrying on the tradition of flying for American, Jillian is poised to accomplish any goal she sets her heart on.

In 2001, back when Envoy was American Eagle Airlines, we brought the CRJ-700 into our fleet beginning with 25 jets. Captain Ric Wilson, now Envoy Vice President of Flight Operations, was the first pilot to be Type-Rated on the CRJ-700 and, as the Fleet Captain at the time, went on to author the initial operating procedures and checklists for flying the CRJ-700.

“From its advanced auto-flight systems to its high performance, the CRJ-700 was well known as the real sports car of the regional jet market, and it was an absolute dream to fly,” said Ric. “So it is understandable that the CRJ-700 holds a very special place in my airline career.”

Ric Wilson at the Bombardier Facilities in Montreal, Canada.

As part of the airline’s strategy to grow with the times and stay competitive in the reginal airline market, the CRJ-700 was a perfect fit of reliable performance and first-class capabilities that not only pleased our customers but also our operation as a whole.

“The CRJ-700 was a part of the continuing evolution toward more spacious, comfortable and capable aircraft from Envoy’s more humble beginnings,” said Dee Temples, Envoy Senior Vice President of Air Operations. “In terms of speed, it remains the fastest airplane to ever fly under the American Eagle banner.”

We’ll C-RJ you around

Now, nearly 19 years later, we say goodbye to the CRJ-700 as it flew its last revenue flight for Envoy on Dec. 6 from Memphis to Chicago O’Hare. Or, actually, that would have been the last flight for the jet, had it not been pulled in to a last-minute flight from Chicago to Marquette, Mich., the very next day.

And that’s really a testament to the reliability of the CRJ-700 over the years – it was still counted on to serve our customers up until the very last minute. Now, it will have its final heavy check and maintenance before being transferred to another wholly-owned American Eagle operator.

Captain Eric Hinz, Envoy CRJ-700 Fleet Manager, flew the CRJ series for over ten years and said that his favorite part of the jet simply was how it flew.

Photo: Closing the door on the final flight for the CRJ in Memphis

“My favorite part of flying the aircraft was the handling and range,” said Eric. “The CRJ-700s are a pleasure to hand fly, and to be able to fly coast-to-coast, to Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas, was a fabulous experience.”

While it’s bittersweet to see a member of the fleet go, there’s also a building excitement, knowing that we now have an all-Embraer fleet. With the Embraer 140/45s operating as the backbone of the company, and continually bringing in new, larger Embraer 175s as our flagship aircraft, we’re positioned to maintain the same range, reliability and comfort of the CRJ-700.

Envoy flight and ground crews in Memphis take a selfie before the final CRJ flight.

“Envoy is positioned for a terrific future,” said Eric.  “With two fleet types, both from Embraer, many aspects of training, operations and maintenance will be simplified. But, with the new E175s coming to Envoy, it will be easy to replace any nostalgic feelings with that new-aircraft smell.”

After almost two decades with the CRJ-700, we’re sad to see it go. But in this ever-evolving industry, we’re looking forward to the future and continuing our place as the most innovative and best regional airline in the world.

As the largest regional airline flying under the American Eagle brand, Envoy is proud to celebrate such a momentous achievement that signals growth, innovation and a promising future ahead. Just this year, Envoy sent 320 pilots to American, and with the latest projection of five to six years to flow and the delivery of 15 more Embraer 175s next year, it’s no wonder we are continuing to fill training classes.

Smooth & Simple

Entering his first week of training classes at American, now-former Envoy Captain Eric Osburn is proud to be Pilot 2000.

“Obviously, I’m excited – it’s a dream come true,” said Eric. “It’s a major milestone for myself, my family and the program.”

Eric, who will be based at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and fly the Airbus A320, said the training he received at Envoy has been invaluable. David Tatum, Director of Pilot Recruiting and Development at American, said that’s by design.

“The training that pilots receive at all three of our wholly owned carriers is exemplary,” David said. “It sets them up for success at American, and we are really happy with the caliber of pilots who have joined our team through the flow through program.”

Onward & Upward

Over the years, Captain Ric Wilson, Envoy Vice President of Flight Operations, has seen firsthand how the steady success of the Flow-Through Program has catalyzed the growth of Envoy. As we continue to prove that we can sustainably staff aircraft and airports, Envoy’s bond with American will only strengthen.

“The time to flow has come down rapidly, and in fact, we expect to see a pilot hired in 2020 flow in about five and a half years,” said Ric. “The flow is a huge attraction for us, since pilots only have one interview at Envoy and are set for the rest of their career. There’s also our rich history as the original ‘American Eagle’ and the strong ties we have with American that draw skilled pilots our way.”

As we look forward to a new decade and an ever-changing industry embracing innovation and technology, Envoy aims to remain a leader on the cutting edge of aviation. For now, we’re going to enjoy this moment of sending our 2000^th proud pilot to their dream job.

Right out of high school, Colter received a scholarship to play golf at the University of Idaho, but soon after college followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the military as a U.S. Army helicopter pilot. Colter had also just met Sara, his soon-to-be wife, which played a part in his decision to enlist.

For a few years, Colter and his family lived the military life – moving from one country to the next – which he knew all too well, having grown up the son of an Air Force pilot. However, during his deployment in Germany, his mother was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer and her condition worsened, prompting Colter to request a move to the Arizona Army Guard where he and his family could be closer to her.

Although his domestic tasks were of a more tame variety than the Medevac missions he performed in Europe and the Middle East, Colter still enjoyed it given his passion for aviation. Eventually, Colter’s interest to become a commercial pilot was piqued when he got word that Envoy had created the first Rotor Transition Program for military helicopter pilots.

“At the time, if you wanted to be an airline pilot, you had to do it on your own,” said Colter. “The fact that Envoy did their homework and were the frontrunners for the Rotor Transition Program made me choose Envoy. They had everything we needed and made a great plan for pilots like me to make an easy transition.”

Perfect fit

As far as First Officer training, Colter said there are a lot of similarities between Envoy and the Army. Colter especially appreciated the step-by-step process communicated to the pilot trainees, which kept everyone abreast of what to expect and focused on the learning aspect of training.

He also mentioned that Envoy was smart in going after military pilots, because they have experience working as a crew. Just like on a Medevac mission, Colter and his fellow crewmates depend on strong communication and proper planning for every departure.

His years of experience, whether it be in the military or playing golf, are something Colter wears proudly like a badge of honor. He said he’s never felt any regret starting his aviation career later than most pilots.

“The experiences that my family and I have had has prepared us for this opportunity,” said Colter. “I’m 35 years old, so that means I still have 30 years left with the company. You can’t really ask for much more than that in terms of career stability.”

Back in the swing of things

After a few years off from Colter’s true passion of playing golf, he is now at a place where he can focus on competing at the same level he played at during college. He’s a member of the Veteran Golf Association (VGA), a non-profit organization promoting service members who play the links, and has basically picked up where he left off.

As a result of his fantastic play in VGA tournaments, he was named 2019 VGA Overall Men’s Champion, which granted him entry into professional tournaments on the PGA Tour. In 2020, Colter will be competing at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and A Military Tribute at the Greenbrier, as well as taking part in Jordan Spieth’s Top Golf Fundraiser.

Even though he had to tweak a few things about his game, Colter feels that this is the best he’s ever played. He said that a big part of his success is his ball striking and the ability to place the ball where it needs to be.

He said he views his career the same way. For years in the military and as a new pilot, he was always looking for the next milestone, but now just wants to enjoy the moment.

Getting in the groove

Without a doubt, Colter said, he wouldn’t be in this great of spot in his life if it weren’t for the support of his family. For now, Colter, his wife and two daughters are cherishing the moment in their new home in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where they can be closer to Colter’s father who is a test pilot at Gulfstream Aerospace.

At this stage in his life, it seems that Colter is planting some roots and really finding a groove in life.

“I’ve just matured enough to see that it’s not just about a long drive off the tee,” Colter said. “It’s like the flow to American; sure, it’s an incredible and exciting part of being an Envoy pilot. But I don’t want to get ahead of myself. I’m just happy keeping the ball on the green, for now.”

Recently, Captain Curtis Limbach and his mother, First Officer Cindy Limbach, flew their first trip together on the Embraer 175. Cindy, a longtime flight instructor who owns a flight school and has done commercial flying in the past, and Curtis, an A&P Licensed mechanic and ex-medical evacuation pilot, said that while it was exciting, “there’s still standards and checklists, so it was a pretty normal flight.”

Cindy and Curtis aren’t the only aviators in the family – they are joined by Cindy’s husband Bruce Limbach, who is a recently retired American Airlines Captain on the Boeing 787. Both Curtis and Bruce, father and son, recently earned their seaplane ratings and are avid skydivers. (Side note: Curtis and his wife Maria met while skydiving — talk about falling in love!)

Well, it’s safe to say that aviation is the lifeblood of the Limbach family. Let’s hear more from Cindy and Curtis about their special bond in a quick Q&A below.

Family Flying Fun

When was the first time you knew you want to be a pilot?

Cindy: I loved looking at the sky since I was a little kid. I wanted to fly by the time I was in high school but had no idea how, plus my friends thought I was nuts!

Curtis: Pretty much forever.

Is flying a ‘family activity’? Describe what that’s like.  

Cindy: I guess similar to families that go boating or camping. If mom and dad like it, we all do it!

Curtis: There’s a lot of “MY PLANE.”

How is your family different than other non-pilot families, and how is it the same?  

Cindy: Other than going to see their grandparents in a Cessna instead of a Chevy, it’s pretty much the same.

Curtis: We are just as up and down as any other family. We have some other aviation-related hobbies, such as both my parents and I power paraglide. We’ve even got some other friends into it, as well.

Why did you choose Envoy?  

Cindy: My son did a lot of research and chose Envoy. He suggested I ought to give it a go!

Curtis: The connection to American Airlines, and a Chicago base was important.

What are your initial thoughts on the son being the Captain and the mom being the First Officer? 

Cindy:  My initial thought was that it probably wouldn’t happen, but would be fun. When he upgraded and got the Embraer 175, I knew it may happen when he texted, “I like cream in my coffee.”

Curtis: She better get my coffee order correct – black.

Cindy, normally a mother is proud of their son for achieving their dreams, but how is it different that you both accomplished the same dream? 

Cindy: The husband and I are proud that both of our kids pursued their dreams. Curtis’ sister Amanda has a passion for art, so she became a jeweler.

We don’t really care what it was our kids pick as long as they are happy.

Cindy, we’ve heard a lot of pilots say that their time to become a commercial pilot has run out, but that’s not the case with you – do you have any advice for anyone who is on the fence about joining an airline because of their age?

Cindy: At 56 years old, I thought the option was long gone. I didn’t want to look back and regret missing this opportunity. I have a friend that was hired at 54, and just flowed to American at 60. They love it!

Curtis, explain what it’s like growing up in an aviation family, especially with your father as an American Airlines pilot?

Curtis: There’s a good aviation community where I grew up, which meant that we got to be around a lot of different planes. In addition to general aviation, I’ve flown medevac (Lear Jet) and skydivers (Twin Otter) before starting at Envoy.

My mom also owns a flight school and maintenance shop, where my dad and I worked, and I have my A&P and FAA Inspection Authorization. I think having my A&P helps when talking to our mechanics out in the field when issues come up.

What’s your favorite part about flying a plane and being an airline pilot? 

Cindy: I like flying anything. Any size and any speed. Airline-pilot flying exposes me to new people and new friends. Can’t forget how great Known Crew Member is!

Curtis: Not sitting in an office.

Want to become part of the Envoy family? Apply today!

But when you meet Anne, you can’t help but think that you’re in exceptionally rare company. Her smile is bright, her energy is lively, but most of all, her ability to lead is magnetic.

Earlier this year, Anne, who has been a pilot with American Eagle and Envoy for more than 20 years, was named Chief Pilot of our Dallas-Fort Worth crew base. Her experience as a pilot, her history working in the Chief Pilot’s office as an administrator, and her excellent reputation as a leader made Anne a perfect fit for the position.

“My goal as Chief Pilot is to simply help our pilots,” said Anne. “My door is always open for anyone who wants to just chit chat, or needs someone to talk to and work through any work or personal issues. I understand that life can get stressful, so I take it as my responsibility to help ease some of that as much as I can.”

“I was a natural!”

Anne’s helping nature is what initially drew her to a teaching career before she ever even thought about flying planes. A native Michiganian, Anne attended Central Michigan University where she pursued a degree in teaching, with the hope of becoming a K-12 teacher.

Anne said she loved teaching children, interacting with their parents and other teachers, but just never got the feeling that it was her destiny to be teacher for the rest of her life. That’s when the ever-present Flying Bug nudged Anne toward life as a pilot.

In fact, the option of a pilot career was always hovering around Anne considering she grew up around aviation with her father flying as a corporate pilot for General Motors. She frequently joined her father on his trips flying around in King Airs, Convairs and Gulfstreams, which ultimately convinced Anne that she too wanted to be a pilot.

“I just thought that if my dad could do it, then I could do it, too,” Anne said. “After my discovery flight, I thought, well this is easy. I was a natural!”

So, in 1992, Anne shipped out to Florida where she took an accelerated pilot’s course at Comair Aviation Academy. After earning the necessary certifications, Anne worked as a Certified Flight Instructor in Michigan and in Florida to obtain enough hours to begin her career as a First Officer in 1997 with Business Express, a predecessor of American Eagle and Envoy.

“Do your thing. Do it safely.”

Fast forward to today, and Anne is as happy as can be. She’s a Captain on the Embraer 140/45, a Chief Pilot and a role model for young girls who dream of flying.

“Nowadays, there’s nothing holding back young girls and women from becoming airline pilots,” Anne said. “Between scholarships, organizations like Women in Aviation and support groups, there’s a ton of resources to get them on track. If you have the dream, I say just go for it.”

Growing up with brothers and working with men in the airline industry, Anne said she always wanted to be her best and prove herself as an equal. Whenever she faced negativity, Anne kept her cool and just focused on the task at hand.

“It’s important for women in this industry not to react to any negativity,” Anne said. “All that matters is that we’re doing our job well and right. Just keep doing your thing, and doing it safely.”

Right where she needs to be

Following her own advice, Anne has consistently performed at her best. She still likes to get out and fly, and work with our great crews. As Chief Pilot, it gives her a good perspective of how things operate on the ground level.

The most rewarding aspect of her role as Chief Pilot is working with the “great team at DFW,” Anne said.

“Meeting managers in other departments, from the ramp to the operations tower, has been eye opening for me,” she said. “The teamwork is sensational. They’re always open to suggestions, they communicate and are always willing to try something new. They’re all game changers.”

Anne hopes more pilots get to experience Envoy and the great teams we have throughout the system. Based on Envoy’s great safety record, a training department that is “second to none,” a growing fleet and excellent maintenance, its flow-thru program to American Airlines, and a culture that is centered on teamwork, Anne said that choosing Envoy is a wise decision.

From pups to hogs

Anne’s dogs, Rudder (left) and Aileron/Ally (right)

Outside of Envoy, but not far from the airport in Denton, TX, Anne lives a humble lifestyle in the country with her life-partner Dan and two dogs, Rudder and Aileron, or Ally for short. Yet, Anne remains close to fast machines – Harley-Davidson motorcycles to be exact.

“Planes and motorcycles go hand in hand,” said Anne. “I love being in control and going fast. I think most pilots have the need for speed and a thirst for adventure. Riding a Harley and being outdoors is like the best of both worlds.”

Okay, maybe Anne, with her burly chopper and bandana, pushed the envelope of modesty. Yet, in the Chief Pilot’s Office, Anne will continue to be the model of consistency and sensibility as the leader of DFW pilots.