August 2026 Ramp Report
Business Member Spotlight
Bo Bateman, owner of Warbird Whiskey
Bo Bateman, Warbird Whiskey
This month, we’re highlighting Bo Bateman in Excelsior Springs, who is not only a pilot but is the owner of Warbird Whiskey, a pub/restaurant that many of our customers frequent when they stop through GPH (with good reason – keep reading).
We asked Bo a few questions, and here are his answers in his own words:
I go by "Sinner." I'm 35, grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and the dream of flying took root sitting across from my grandfather, folding paper airplanes together when I was just a kid. That dream became a mission. At 16, I took my first flying lesson. By 18, I had my pilot's license and was hooked. Turning that passion into a career was a different problem entirely: the cost of professional flight training was out of reach. The United States Air Force Academy was a great option for me to not only serve my country, but also help get myself in the cockpit. I took the SAT 8 times to get there! I didn't walk straight through the front door either. I first spent a year at Marion Military Institute in Alabama, sharpening everything I had. It paid off. I earned my spot at the Air Force Academy in 2010, graduating in 2014 with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Arabic.
After graduation, I completed Undergraduate Pilot Training at Vance AFB, OK, and was selected as a T-6A Instructor Pilot. In 2019, I was selected to fly the T-38A and the B-2A Spirit. A dream come true. Flying the B-2A has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that few pilots ever attain, and one that gave me a deep appreciation for the mission, the people behind it, and the incredible history of American military aviation. I currently serve in the Missouri Air National Guard as a B-2A Instructor Pilot, and on August 19, 2026, I begin my next chapter with American Airlines.
My three young daughters are my biggest motivator in life. They’re my why. Everything I build, every sortie I fly, every risk I take is rooted in one simple goal: to leave their world a little better than I found it. They love going plane spotting at airports with me, chocolate milk in hand. Watching the world through their eyes is the greatest motivation I've ever had.
Warbird Whiskey opened its doors September 20, 2024. Warbird Whiskey is a craft cocktail bar in downtown Excelsior Springs, Missouri, built to honor American military aviation heroes and heritage. We pour world-class whiskey, handcrafted aviation-themed cocktails, and great food in a space filled with authentic military artifacts. It's a place where veterans, whiskey lovers, and anyone looking for a great drink feels at home.
I started Warbird because, as an Air Force pilot, I wanted to build something that genuinely honored those who served—not just in decor, but in mission. A portion of every glass supports veterans, and we back that up with real community programs. We're looking forward to launching our own Warbird Whiskey branded spirit in the near future. Whether you're a veteran or simply curious about the culture and history, there's a seat at the bar for you.
And if you're a veteran or active service member, bring your patch. We proudly display them on our walls as a living tribute to every branch, unit, and community that has answered the call. We'd be honored to add yours.
BBQs and Rodeos
Missouri - The 26th BBQ & Fly-in is in Excelsior Springs August 14-15, and it features some of the top pitmasters in the nation. Fly into GPH and head down to check out the festivities at the BBQ contest, it’s gearing up to be the best one yet!
Oklahoma - The Edmond Jr. Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma are August 28 and 29 this year. Will you be flying in?
Be sure to let us know if you need to reserve an overnight spot for either of these great events.
National Aviation Day
Happy National Aviation Day (August 19). We’re so happy to have you along for the ride with Apex Aero Center.
Reliability You Can Count On, Consistently
Thank you for your trust in Apex Aero Center.
We believe what really sets Apex apart is reliability. The experience doesn’t depend on who’s on shift—you get the same high standard every time.
Sincere Appreciation for Your Reviews
We do our best to always provide tier-one service and are grateful when people notice.
If you’ve been through one of our FBOs lately, we’d truly appreciate a review on Google (links below), Foreflight, or AirNav. These go a long way in helping us maintain stellar service for you.
Runway Watch:
Cool Aircraft Spotted at Apex ✈️
This North American Aviation T-6 Texan beauty was used to train pilots during World War II and into the 1970s. Spotted at our Terrell, TX FBO.
“When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.”