TRADEWIND AVIATION: Executive Charter | Premium Scheduled | Ownership Solutions

Eric Zipkin – President:

With over fifteen years as a pilot, Eric is the founder of Tradewind Aviation. He began his aviation career as a charter sales representative for Westchester Air, eventually serving as a pilot, Director of Marketing and General Manager. Prior to aviation, Eric developed residential and commercial real estate in southern New York and founded a successful e-commerce business. Eric holds a B.S. in entrepreneurial management and economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.

David Zara – Vice President:

David’s primary responsibility is to ensure that Tradewind Aviation provides the highest level of service possible. In addition, he has extensive experience in acquisition process and handles all Tradewind aircraft purchases. A graduate of Vassar College, David speaks 7 languages and holds an Airline Transport Pilot certificate. David’s experience is wide ranging: from the financial industry, transport aircraft leasing, and of course, executive air travel. Should you have any questions about the kind and quality of service Tradewind provides, or if you are interested in purchasing an aircraft, please contact David.

Kaj Wren – Chief Pilot:

Responsible for selecting, training and supervising flight crews, Kaj brings 15 years of flying experience, as well as aviation and business management, and a degree in Organizational Psychology to Tradewind. Kaj has been the chief pilot for three different aviation companies, and most recently was Director of Charter Vendor Standards for Executive Jet Management. If you have any questions about crewmember training and qualifications, please don’t hesitate to contact Kaj.

David Girton – Director of Maintenance:

Responsible for the maintenance of Tradewind’s fleet of aircraft, David has over 20 years’ experience in aviation. David began his training in the United Kingdom. He holds Inspection Authorization and has experience in a wide range of turbine aircraft. He has attended factory authorized training for the Cessna Caravan and Pilatus PC-12 series of aircraft. David has also served as mechanic for several Formula One and CART (Indy Car) racing teams. Should you have any questions about aircraft equipment and maintenance, please don’t hesitate to contact David.

RACHEL HALLDEN – CONTROLLER:

Rachel is responsible for managing the accounting department and all financial aspects of the business with emphasis on financial planning, analysis and reporting. Rachel is also responsible for human resources and facility management. She received her undergraduate degree from Southern CT State University in 2003 and has been with Tradewind Aviation since 2005. Should you have any questions in regard to Tradewind’s service please do not hesitate to contact Rachel.

David Zipkin – VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND Marketing:

With over 10 years of marketing experience, David is responsible for Tradewind's corporate, client, and strategic marketing. Prior to Tradewind, David served as Director of Brand and Product Management with Return Path, a leading online marketing services firm based in NYC. David is an instrument rated pilot and holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Vermont. If you would like to discuss a partnership opportunity please do not hesitate to contact David.

Signup to receive the latest Tradewind news and special offers.

Email address:

home | about | management

Tradewind Aviation’s management team includes some of the most experienced professionals in the business. With well over 100 years of private aviation experience, you can be assured that your expectations will be exceeded each and every time you fly with us.


ERIC ZIPKIN President	DAVID ZARA Vice President	TINA DAVIES Chief Pilot— Turbojet	DAVID GIRTON Director of Maintenance	DAVID ZIPKIN Vice President of Marketing	RACHEL HALLDEN Controller