behind the wings

Welcome to the New era of Wind River Aviation

As of the spring of 2024, we have transferred ownership and started the next generation of aviation services here in Lander, Wyoming.

We are located in the center of the field in Hangar 300. Come on in, book an appointment, and view all of the services we have to offer.

Wind River Aviation was founded in 1994. Gary Loose started the business after moving from Casper, Wy. Initially he started by renting the hangar and working on some local aircraft. Soon, he was busy with work and airplane rebuilds that many other mechanics wouldn’t touch. His hard work and dedication to the general aviation fleet along with specialized dope and fabric skills kept those customers and many others coming back year after year. His business went from working on local planes to expanding throughout Wyoming and beyond. Gary is now semi-retiring, passing the baton to Sam while staying around as the inspector and mentor.

SAM RODGERS

president, A&P, And Owner Operator

As a Lander native, Sam practically grew up in airplanes and developed a passion for everything aviation early on. His family is full of pilots, including both grandparents, his dad, and his father-in-law. Sam received his private pilot’s license in 2019. He has been working as an A&P apprentice since 2020, started working for WRA in 2022, and earned his Airframe & Powerplant certificate from Spartan College of Aeronautics & Technology in 2024. He also has a Bachelors in Range Management from the University of Wyoming. Sam and his wife, Abbi, are excited to continue the legacy of Wind River Aviation and begin their lives in beloved Lander!

Gary Loose

A&P with Inspection Authorization

Gary Loose is an accomplished aviation mechanic with 52 years of experience under his belt. He built Wind River Aviation from the ground up, mentored Sam for over two years, and will continue to do so well into the future. Maintaining Lander’s fleet of aircraft has kept Gary busy, but he will never turn down a hunting or fishing trip. His knowledge, wisdom, and leadership of general aviation maintenance has molded this business into what it has become today.

Abbi Rodgers

Vice President and Secretary

Abbi is from Casper, Wy. She was raised on a ranchette where she grew her small herd of cattle along with many other animals. She met Sam in Laramie while they were both attending The University of Wyoming. She graduated with her Master’s Degree in Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management in 2023. Abbi is supportive of all of Sam’s aviation endeavors, no matter how wild. She is also very passionate for the outdoors and native lands Wyoming has to offer. Abbi will be in and out helping Wind River Aviation in every way possible.