History
John Ratcliff (Left) is the Founder of Thrill of the First Flight.
Founder
John H. Ratcliff, originally from Texas, attended college at the University of North Texas and later served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. He flew F-4 Phantoms while enlisted and engaged in over 200 combat missions. Following his time in the Air Force, John was a pilot for Ford Motor Company flying corporate jets for over 30 years, retiring in 2005. John has a wealth of knowledge and seeks to inspire everyone he encounters.
Today, John volunteers his time at community centers and airports engaging with community members and youth. Thrill of the First Flight is his passion project and has been a major success across Georgia.
Co-Founders
Dr. Tom Williams III
Dr. Beth Williams
Flight Event History
The Southern Georgia Chapter of Black Pilots of America, led by Ratcliff, has sponsored Thrill of the First Flight events at the Waycross-Ware County Airport in Waycross since 2022. In March of 2024, Ratcliff partnered with other organizations, including Savannah Aviation, to host a first-time similar event at Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport in April 2024.
Shortly after in May of 2024, Ratcliff hosted Thrill of the First Flight at the Statesboro Airport. Unfortunately, the event was postponed due to inclement weather; however, the team of volunteers pressed forward to establish a second date. The Statesboro event was rescheduled to June 15th and the committment to the community upheld.
In June 2024, volunteers in Statesboro made the decision, along with John Ratcliff, to formalize a more structured program that could be offered at any airport!
Today, Thrill of the First Flight operates as a 501(c)(3) organization.
John H. Ratcliff, originally from Texas, attended college at the University of North Texas and later served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. He flew F-4 Phantoms while enlisted and engaged in over 200 combat missions. Following his time in the Air Force, John was a pilot for Ford Motor Company flying corporate jets for over 30 years, retiring in 2005. John has a wealth of knowledge and seeks to inspire everyone he encounters.
Today, John volunteers his time at community centers and airports engaging with community members and youth. Thrill of the First Flight is his passion project and has been a major success across Georgia.