About Us

Patriot Aircraft is a bespoke aircraft manufacturer founded by brothers Don and Ron Wade, whose lifelong passion for aviation has driven a legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and community engagement. Their journey began with Don’s Dream Machines, a venture renowned for exceptional aircraft maintenance and restoration services. Building on this foundation, they launched C&D Aviation in Helena, Alabama, offering cutting-edge aircraft services and a wide range of aviation solutions.

C&D Aviation quickly gained recognition for restoring award-winning aircraft, including those featured on the covers of Sport Aviation and Vintage magazines, and winning accolades like the Prestige Craftsman Award at Oshkosh in 2018 . Their expertise in restoring older planes informed the design of Patriot Aircraft's first model, "The Recruit," aimed at providing better quality, attention to detail, and improved accessibility in small aircraft.

Patriot Aircraft's flagship model, the Super Patriot, is a custom-built backcountry aircraft that combines performance and luxury. It features a spacious cabin with full leather interiors, a modern Garmin G3X avionics package, and is designed for exceptional low-speed controllability and ease of maintenance . The Super Patriot has been assembled and finished at Patriot Aircraft's facility in Alabama, with oversight by Don and Ron Wade, ensuring each aircraft is a quality custom work of art.

Beyond aircraft manufacturing, Don and Ron are committed to community and youth engagement. They actively participate in outreach programs, sponsor educational workshops, and offer mentorship opportunities to local youth, striving to make aviation an exciting and attainable pursuit for all.

Patriot Aircraft's mission is to design and build unparalleled bespoke backcountry aircraft while making a positive impact on the community. They prioritize safety, innovation, and integrity, ensuring that every interaction is marked by professionalism and genuine care.