Flying instructor of the year Jeremy Miller is building better pilots through passion, precision and aerobatic flair.
If your dream as a pilot includes pulling off loops, barrel rolls or hammerheads, Jeremy Miller is the kind of instructor you want in your corner.
Jeremy was recognised as Flying instructor of the year in the 2024 Australian Flying/CASA Wings Awards, in honour of his longstanding contribution to flight training and aviation safety.
As the founder of UPRT Australia, based at Archerfield, Queensland, he’s played a major role in championing upset prevention and recovery training (UPRT) – a skill that helps pilots safely recover from unusual or dangerous flight situations.
Jeremy is also a formation flying leader, author, mentor and long-time airshow performer who’s been teaching pilots how to stay safe in the sky since he was just 18.
‘I’ve been a career instructor from the start – it’s in my DNA,’ he says. ‘I’ve got about 13,000 flying hours, with 9,000 of those spent instructing. I teach aerobatics, tailwheel, formation and UPRT – it’s about making pilots not just competent, but confident too.’
Jeremy’s commitment to safety and skill-building goes far beyond the classroom. He heads up the Freedom Formation display team, regularly performing at airshows across the country, and has recently published a book – Up, Forward, In – on the art and discipline of formation flying.
His company UPRT Australia was also recognised in 2022 as Flight training organisation of the year.
Jeremy grew up around aviation, inspired by his grandfather who served as a WWII Air Force pilot. He had his first flight at 14, flew solo on his 16th birthday and earned his commercial pilot licence and instructor rating by 18.
‘I was around aircraft from a young age – it was a natural progression for me,’ he says. ‘Aviation offers so many paths – commercial, rescue, helicopters, ag work. I love helping students see what’s possible.’
Now with more than 150 aircraft types under his belt and advanced CASA testing approvals in aerobatics, spins, formation and more, Jeremy continues to give back to the industry – shaping the next generation of pilots with energy, enthusiasm and a deep love of flight.
He was genuinely taken aback when he won the award, seeing it as confirmation that his dedication is making a real difference.
‘Winning this award is a surprise – but also a nice confirmation that I’m doing something right. I just do what I do because I love it. This tells me it’s having an impact.’
About the Wings Awards
The Australian Flying/CASA Wings Awards celebrate the achievements of exceptional individuals and organisations in the general aviation sector.
The awards are run in partnership with Australian Flying magazine and recognise those who go above and beyond to make general aviation safer, stronger and more connected.
Nominations for the 2025 awards are now open, and more information is available on the Australian Flying website.
