From 35,000 Feet to Open Air: The Story of Johan and Hayley

At Open Air Adventure Flights, aviation isn’t just what we do — it’s part of our story. Our founders, Johan and Hayley, met in the skies, far from the home they would eventually create together in Bunbury, Western Australia.

Their story began on a flight to Orlando. Johan was the First Officer, and Hayley was part of the cabin crew. A brief conversation during Hayley’s visit to the cockpit sparked a connection. Although they didn’t spend time together on the layover, they exchanged numbers back in Dubai — and went on their first date at Hard Rock Café. That’s where it all began.

Hayley is originally from Melbourne, Australia, and Johan hails from Johannesburg, South Africa. They both joined Emirates just one month apart and spent nearly seven years living and working in Dubai. Their careers took them across the globe, exploring different cultures and sharing a life built around aviation, adventure, and connection.

Both Johan and Hayley come from families with strong ties to aviation. This shared heritage — combined with their international experience and deep love for flight — laid the groundwork for what would become Open Air Adventure Flights.

In 2022, after navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Johan and Hayley made the decision to return to Australia. While the world paused, Johan continued flying throughout the pandemic, supporting global efforts by transporting masks, medical supplies, and vaccines aboard Boeing 777 cargo aircraft for Emirates.

That period of reflection led to a bold new dream: bringing history to life through vintage aviation. Now based in Bunbury, WA, Johan and Hayley are restoring a 1941 Boeing Stearman named "Winnie" — not just to preserve a piece of history, but to share the magic of flight with others.

Open Air Adventure Flights was born from a shared journey — one that began at 35,000 feet and continues today with the wind in their hair and open skies above.

By Hayley Coulson