Phenom 300 First Officer • Flight Instructor

Airline Transport Pilot flying the Embraer Phenom 300 with Elite Jets / Maxair — and still teaching in Southwest Florida.

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About Me

Russell flying

I’m Russell Spurlock — an Airline Transport Pilot and First Officer on the Embraer Phenom 300 with Elite Jets / Maxair, based in Southwest Florida. I hold an ATP with a Phenom 300 (EMB-505) type rating, and I’m still an active CFI and CFII. With more than 1,750 hours and over 800 hours of instruction given, teaching keeps me sharp on the fundamentals — and flying the Phenom brings real-world jet operations into every lesson.

Jet & Turbine Experience

Today I fly right seat in the Embraer Phenom 300 for Elite Jets / Maxair, after earning my type rating at CAE. Before that I flew the Eclipse 500, Citation Mustang, King Air 350 and 350i, Pilatus PC-12, and Cirrus Vision Jet. I bring that real-world context into every lesson — CRM, ATC, procedures, and what professional flying actually expects of you. Whether you're looking to fly jets or just fly better, I bring that mindset to your training.

Flight Training

I still teach in Southwest Florida, scheduled around my flying with Elite Jets.

Programs Offered

  • Sport Pilot License
  • Private Pilot License
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Rating
  • CFI and CFII
  • Discovery Flights

What Students Say

“It has been thoroughly enjoyable to train with Russell! He is a dedicated professional and has a great demeanor to coach students for success!”

— Mark S. :: PP

“Russell’s an awesome CFI who makes flying a blast, tailors every lesson to you, uses top-notch tools to teach, brings a positive vibe that keeps you excited to learn, and inspires confidence with his clear, patient instruction!”

— Roberto S. :: IFR

“Learning to fly with Russell Spurlock has been an outstanding experience. He is not only an expert in FAA instruction, but he takes the time to look at the whole person when teaching. Russell knows how to get the best out of his student pilots in the cockpit, but what really sets him apart is his ability to blend flight instruction with life lessons.

He emphasizes the importance of remaining calm, focused, and composed under pressure—skills that are invaluable both in aviation and beyond. His patient, encouraging style makes complex concepts clear, and his steady presence instills confidence in every student.

If you are looking for a flight instructor who is not only highly knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely invested in your growth as both a pilot and a person, I cannot recommend Russell Spurlock enough.”

— Peter A :: IFR

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