Meet the Founder
Phil Tomlinson
Aviation has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I was born in Orlando, Florida, and at the age of five, I moved to Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Growing up in Cape Girardeau gave me valuable connections throughout the Midwest, which I continue to draw upon today. After my time in Missouri, I moved to Gainesville, Florida, where I attended school. Upon finishing school, I came to Fort Myers, Florida, to help my father run Tomlinson Avionics of Florida, an FAA-certified repair station we proudly operate together.
I'm proud to hold a Private Pilot License (PPL) and a repairman certificate. Together with my father, we've built one of Florida's premier avionics facilities, performing major retrofits that include glass panel upgrades, advanced avionics installations, and cutting-edge engine information systems. I've been in general aviation airplanes since I was born, and aviation isn't just a career for me; it's a way of life.
Truth be told, if it's not about family, airplanes, hunting, or fishing, I'm probably not interested. I have a wonderful wife, a son, and two daughters, and I'm deeply passionate about being there for them in every way I can. My love for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing fuels my passion for aviation because I see so many parallels between them. Both are rooted in tight-knit communities of like-minded people who share a love for freedom, adventure, and connection. This sense of camaraderie in the outdoors mirrors what I value so much in the aviation world-it's not just an industry; it's a family.
More Than Avionics
A Full-Service Approach
For decades, my focus was on helping aircraft owners upgrade their planes, guiding them toward the latest technology to enhance safety, performance, and reliability. While I loved every moment of that work, I always felt something was missing. That's why starting Tomlinson Aircraft Sales felt like the final piece of the puzzle. Finally, I could help people not just upgrade what they thought they wanted but guide them to the right aviation vehicle for their mission.
Whether it's finding the perfect single-engine piston for a first-time buyer or sourcing a multimillion-dollar turbine for a seasoned aviator, I take pride in helping my clients land in the right airplane. My goal is always the same: to ensure you walk away with confidence, knowing you've made the best decision for your needs.
The Tomlinson Difference
When you work with me, you're not just hiring a broker-you're gaining a trusted advisor with decades of aviation experience, technical expertise, and an unrelenting passion for flying. I don't just list planes; I curate opportunities. Every aircraft I sell has been vetted for quality, mechanical soundness, and market value. And if you don't see the right plane in my inventory, I'll use my extensive industry network to find exactly what you need.
I also provide a comprehensive, full-service experience that goes beyond the sale. From connecting clients with professional pre-purchase inspection teams to recommending trusted instructors to meet insurance requirements, I'm here to make your ownership journey as smooth as possible.
A Legacy of Passion
Aviation is more than a business for me-it's my heritage and my calling. For over 70 years, my family has shared this passion, and I'm proud to carry it forward by helping others experience the freedom, adventure, and opportunity that aircraft ownership provides.
If you're ready to buy or sell an aircraft, I'd love to put my expertise, resources, and passion to work for you. Let's find the plane that fits your mission and ensures you're ready to take to the skies with confidence.