About V1 Iowa Aviation
V1 Iowa Aviation began the way all great aviation ventures do, with a shared passion for flight and a vision for something better. After a year of talking about how meaningful it would be to share our love of aviation with others, and recognizing the growing need for quality twin-engine training in the region, we took the leap and launched V1 Iowa Aviation at the end of 2024.
We started with a 1960 Piper Aztec and have since expanded our fleet to include a Piper Apache, allowing us to offer both accelerated multi-engine training and flexible dry-lease options for pilots looking to build valuable multi-engine time. Every aircraft in our fleet is selected with one goal in mind: preparing pilots for real-world flying, not just checkride.
Based at Ankeny Regional Airport (KIKV) in Ankeny, Iowa, we’re proud to operate out of a well-equipped, pilot-friendly airport that supports efficient training and safe operations. But V1 Iowa Aviation is about more than aircraft and hours, we’re building a community.
We partner with local mechanics, pilots, and aviation enthusiasts to create a supportive network of current and future aviators. Our commitment doesn’t end when training does. We believe in building relationships that last, offering guidance, mentorship, and continued support long after our students leave the cockpit.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide high-quality, real-world multi-engine training that equips pilots with the skills, confidence, and professionalism needed to succeed in their aviation careers, while fostering a lifelong community built on safety, integrity, and mentorship.
Core Values
Safety First
Safety is the foundation of everything we do. From aircraft maintenance to instructional standards, we emphasize disciplined decision-making and risk management in every phase of flight.
Real-World Preparedness
We train pilots for real operational flying, not just checkrides. Our instruction focuses on systems knowledge, scenario-based training, and sound aeronautical judgment.
Integrity & Transparency
We believe in honest communication, clear expectations, and transparent training practices. Our students know exactly what they’re getting and why it matters.
Community & Mentorship
Aviation is built on relationships. We strive to create an environment where pilots support one another and continue learning long after formal training is complete. We hold ourselves and our students to professional standards that reflect the expectations of today’s aviation industry.
Training Goals
At V1 Iowa Aviation, our training is designed to help pilots:
- Build strong multi-engine systems knowledge and aircraft confidence
- Develop sound decision-making skills for real-world flying
- Meet or exceed insurance and industry experience standards
- Transition confidently into advanced training or professional aviation roles
- Leave with not only a new rating, but the skills and mindset of a professional aviator
Meet Our Team
Austin Lanphier
Founder, Director of Flight Operations
Austin is an experienced professional pilot holding an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, along with Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) ratings. He has accumulated over 2,700 total flight hours and currently flies as a Part 135 charter captain, operating complex aircraft in a wide range of real-world conditions.
With a strong background in both instruction and commercial operations, Austin brings a safety-focused, disciplined approach to every flight. His experience spans multi-engine aircraft, instrument operations, and high-standard charter environments, where professionalism, precision, and sound decision-making are essential. Austin is committed to continuous learning and maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety and excellence.
Nichole Needs
Founder, Director of Business Operations
Nichole began her aviation journey three years ago and, while she is still a student pilot, she has developed a deep understanding of the aviation community and what it takes to succeed within it. Aviation is her true passion, even as she continues to balance a career in corporate America.
Behind the scenes at V1 Iowa Aviation, Nichole plays a key role in shaping the business, managing marketing strategy, social media presence, website development, and day-to-day business operations. Her blend of aviation passion and professional business experience helps ensure V1 delivers exceptional training and a strong, sustainable foundation.
Jordan Thomas
Multi-Engine Flight Instructor
Jordan started his flight training with Exec 1 Aviation in 2023 and now instructs for V1IA as an MEI. His approach is centered on elevating students and pushing his self to continually improve. He’s committed to teaching beyond the bare minimums and growing every day as a pilot and instructor.