Roy "Deacon" Qualls

Pilot • Author • Speaker • Mentor

For nearly four decades I flew fighters and airliners. Along the way, I discovered airplanes were only part of the story.Today I share those stories—and the leadership, decisions, and life lessons behind them—through books, speaking, and media.

FEATURED IN

PODCASTS • NATIONAL TV • INDUSTRY PUBLICATIONS

Sharing perspectives on aviation, leadership, and the stories behind a lifetime in the cockpit.

MY STORY

Three days in the summer of 1986 changed the course of my life.On Sunday I attended an airshow.On Monday I bought a book by Richard Bach - A Gift of Wings.On Wednesday I saw Top Gun.When the movie ended I walked into an Air Force recruiting office determined to become a fighter pilot.That decision led to a lifetime in aviation—from the OV-10 and F-15 to the Boeing 777—but the greatest lessons came from the people I met and the experiences we shared along the way.Looking back, I realize the airplanes were never the destination—they were the vehicle. The real story was always about the people, the lessons, and the opportunities they created.Today I write, speak, and mentor, sharing those stories in the hope they'll encourage others to pursue excellence, embrace opportunity, and recognize possibilities they may not yet see.

Everything on this website—the book, the speaking presentations, the interviews—grew out of those three days in 1986.

SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

FEATURED PRESENTATION

Three Days That Changed my Life

An airshow. A book. A movie. Three days that transformed my future and launched a lifetime in aviation.This keynote explores how seemingly ordinary moments can reveal extraordinary possibilities—for those willing to act.

Whether speaking to pilots, business leaders, veterans, or students, every presentation blends unforgettable stories with practical lessons audiences can apply immediately.

OTHER KEYNOTES

• Pilot's Edge: Think, Train, and Fly Like a Pro
• Leadership When it Matters Most
• The Stories Airplanes Leave Behind
• The Power of Mentorship
• Professional Airmanship
• Finding Possibility

Looking for something specific? Every presentation can be tailored to your audience, industry, and objectives.

PILOT'S EDGE

Pilot's Edge: Think, Train, and Fly Like a Pro is a practical guide to succeeding in flight training—whether you're pursuing a civilian certificate, military wings, or an airline career.Drawing on nearly four decades in military and airline aviation, Pilot's Edge shares practical advice, hard-earned lessons, and proven techniques to help pilots think more clearly, train more effectively, and perform at their best.Whether you're pursuing your first certificate or preparing for an airline or military career, this is the book I wish someone had handed me before my first flight.

Endorsements

“Pilot's Edge is a compelling blend of heartfelt storytelling and technical mastery—a must-read for student pilots and aviation enthusiasts.”

Scott Winder
777 Lead Check Airman
Former Chief Pilot / USAF A-10 Pilot

"Best performance I've seen in 20 years instructing. Pilot's Edge captures the preparation techniques and mindset that made it possible."

Lee Smith
Former USMC Harrier Pilot / 777 Captain

"I've witnessed Deacon's preparation techniques firsthand. Pilot's Edge is a game-changer for student pilots."

Richard Phillips
787 Captain / Former Army Cobra Pilot

GIVING BACK

The Gift of Possibility

Aviation has given me opportunities I never imagined possible. Today, one of the greatest privileges of my career is helping others discover what's possible through aviation.A portion of the proceeds from Pilot's Edge helps support aviation scholarships and discovery flights, creating opportunities for young people to experience flight firsthand. Sometimes one flight is all it takes to change the course of a life.These efforts are supported through Flying Frenchie Press, my publishing imprint, named in honor of King Louis—the original "Flying Frenchie."He reminds me that life's greatest adventures often begin with curiosity, courage, and someone willing to believe they're possible.

FOLLOW THE JOURNEY

If you've enjoyed these stories, I'd be glad to stay in touch.I regularly share stories about aviation, leadership, and life, along with updates on new books, interviews, and speaking engagements.

LET'S CONNECT

Interested in a keynote, podcast interview, media appearance, or would simply like to say hello? Use the form below.