Eastern Mennonite University is pleased to announce the appointment of Derek J. Kline as its new director of aviation. With over 13,800 total flight hours and extensive leadership experience in the aviation industry, Kline brings a wealth of expertise to EMU’s growing aviation program. Kline begins his role on April 1.
Kline’s distinguished career spans over two decades, including service as captain and first officer at both American Airlines and Piedmont Airlines where he operated domestic and international flights under Part 121 Air Carrier operations. His experience encompasses multi-engine, turbine, and jet aircraft, with DHC-8, B-757, B-767, ERJ-170 and ERJ-190 type ratings.
In addition to his extensive flight experience, Kline has served as a flight instructor, chief pilot and ground instructor, ensuring the highest standards in pilot training and safety through curriculum development and pilot performance evaluations. A Central Missouri State University graduate, Kline holds a bachelor of science degree in aviation management.
“We are thrilled to welcome Derek to EMU,” said Dr. Tynisha Willingham, provost and vice president of academic affairs at EMU. “His extensive experience in commercial aviation and his passion for mentoring future pilots aligns perfectly with our mission to prepare students for successful careers in aviation. Under his leadership, EMU’s aviation program will continue to grow and provide top-tier education for aspiring pilots.”
EMU’s aviation program has seen significant growth since it launched in 2018 with five students. The program added 24 new students in fall 2024, bringing total enrollment to 46. A total of twenty students have graduated from the program, and six more are set to graduate in May. Demand for the program remains high, with a waitlist for the 2025 cohort.
“I am truly honored to be the new director of aviation at Eastern Mennonite University,” Kline said. “I was drawn to the incredible growth of the program and the unwavering commitment to providing students with the knowledge to excel in aviation.”
About Eastern Mennonite University’s Aviation Program
Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) established its aviation program in 2018, offering a bachelor’s degree in Leadership and Organizational Management (LOM) with a concentration in aviation focusing on professional flight training. In partnership with Aero-Tech Services, Inc., EMU provides a comprehensive pathway for pilot education that equips students with exceptional training and career opportunities in commercial aviation and private charter operations.
As a Part 141 collegiate aviation program, EMU has a reduced requirement for the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, allowing graduates to qualify for the ATP with just 1,000 flight hours. Students earn their Private, Instrument, and Commercial Certificates, including a multi-engine rating and their Flight Instructor Certificates.
It’s rewarding to know that Derek Kline is the new director of aviation, continuing the excellent work of his predecessors. I hope to get acquainted with him in the near future. I taught at EMU-Lancaster for 24 years until retiring in 2021. Working with all of the teachers and staff was a treat and an honor.
Fortunate to have Derek as my instructor decades ago during my CPL training.
He was Gold Standard before the term was invented.
With best wishes. Derek and EMU.
Captain Kline’s 13,800 flight hours and multiple type ratings bring incredible real-world expertise to EMU’s program. His experience flying everything from regional jets to widebody aircraft will give students invaluable insights into all career paths within commercial aviation.”