Eli Screws

Eli Screws is a native of North Alabama, an Aerospace Engineer, and a part-time Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI) and Certificated Flight Instructor–Instrument (CFII). Eli’s career as an engineer has been dedicated to modernizing the Army’s fleet of helicopters, specializing in Army aviation, airworthiness, and project management. While engineering has been his career focus, flying has remained his passion. Eli’s engineering background has honed organizational skills and attention to detail that are directly applicable to flying and instructing. Eli has a deep understanding of the systems, principles, and precision that define aviation at its highest level. Eli brings a strong technical foundation and a lifelong passion for aviation to the East Aviation team. Eli has long been fascinated by “all things aviation,” and that enthusiasm carries directly into his role as a flight instructor. Eli’s grandfather was a commercial pilot and crop duster who introduced him to airplanes and flying at an early age. Eli earned his private pilot certificate in 2002 and has been hooked ever since. He instructs at Guntersville Airport, where his meticulous nature, thorough teaching style, and attention to detail have earned him consistent praise. His instructing experience includes single-engine land, complex, high-performance, and tailwheel airplanes. He has also provided specialized Mooney transition training. As a Certificated Flight Instructor–Instrument, Eli is qualified to provide both primary and instrument flight instruction. Eli is passionate about helping students achieve their aviation goals, whether they are just starting out, finishing a certificate or rating, or staying current. Eli considers himself a lifelong learner in aviation and is committed to continually expanding his aviation knowledge and experience. Eli is married to his wife, Lydia, and they have one son and two dogs. Eli’s long-term goal is to retire from his engineering career and focus on instructing. We are fortunate to have Eli as part of our instructor team. His blend of technical expertise, thoughtful mentorship, and steady professionalism reflects East Aviation’s mission to pay it forward and support the next generation of confident, capable aviators.