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Chicago Executive Airport member Alan Zielinski balances aviation career with family business

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Chicago Executive Airport member Alan Zielinski balances aviation career with family business
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Chicago Executive Airport | Chicago Executive Airport

Alan Zielinski has balanced a career in both aviation and home remodeling for decades. He manages Better Kitchens, a company his father Ed started in 1956, while also playing an active role at Chicago Executive Airport as a member of the Leading Edge Flying Club and as a flight instructor.

Zielinski’s aviation experience began at age 18 and includes serving as chief pilot for a large corporation for 22 years. He is currently a certified pilot examiner for the FAA. His passion for flying was sparked by his uncle during a family trip, leading to a lifelong involvement in aviation that now extends to his son Justin, who works as a commercial multi-engine pilot.

“It’s rare for someone to find one passion in their life, and I am really lucky to have found two,” explains Alan. “Both roles let me collaborate with people eager to fulfill a goal, whether improving their home or learning to become a pilot. It’s an honor to be part of others’ lives in such a meaningful way.”

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Aviation is also part of Zielinski’s family background. His father served 27 years in the Naval reserves at Glenview Naval Air Station overseeing aviation supply programs, while his sister Lynne teaches space science and has led student experiments on six Space Shuttle missions.

In addition to piloting planes, Zielinski races hot air balloons across the Midwest and participates annually in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. He brings his Feather Light II balloon to events like Chicago Executive Airport’s Run the Runway 5K so attendees can see it up close.

As an instructor, he has helped certify thousands of pilots over the years. Zielinski expressed appreciation for Chicago Executive Airport staff: “I have a high regard for the CEA team that keeps the airport open during the winter,” he says. “Kudos to them for always clearing the runway and path to the hanger. It makes a big difference for those who are landing after a long day fighting the weather.”

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