Team Beluga Air

We are excited to introduce Brian Harry
as the new owner and operator of Beluga Air

Brian Harry

Pilot and Owner

For Brian, flying has always been a family affair. His daughter has been by his side in the co-pilot seat since she was young—first in California and later soaring over the vast skies of Alaska. Together, they have made unforgettable memories in some of the most beautiful and remote places, all while sharing a deep passion for aviation and adventure.

That deep connection—to both flying and family—shapes everything Brian does. He is also an owner at Intricate Bay Lodge and Beluga Air where he spent years creating a well-run, trustworthy operation built on experience, hard work, and genuine care for the people he serves. But his passion for aviation reaches far beyond the lodge. He is also a certified flight instructor and owns and operates Foothill Aviation both in California and Alaska. He enjoys training the next generation of float plane pilots. His flying style is built on safety, precision, and deep respect for the tough and unpredictable terrain he knows so welll.

With his recent purchase of Beluga Air, Brian is honored to continue the legacy built by Wes and Angela, who poured their hearts into making the company what it is today. He is committed to keeping their vision alive while finding new ways to improve the experience for every guest. His goal is simple: to make every flight feel personal, safe, and unforgettable for the families and adventurers who climb aboard.

Stuart Sams

Pilot

Stuart grew up in Eastern Oregon. In his early adult life he was in The United States Marine Corps, eventually moving on to become a Certified Flight Instructor and Seaplane pilot. Stuart has been getting to explore Alaska from the air since 2014. Before joining Beluga Air, Stuart worked across the Last Frontier, from Southeast Alaska to north of the Arctic Circle.

At Beluga Air, Stuart brings both his flying expertise and years of Alaska experience to the skies of Homer, guiding guests on unforgettable bear viewing tours and custom charters across Alaska’s remote backcountry. Whether he’s in the cockpit or on the trail, Stuarts passion and knowledge of aviation and is always front and center.

Mikaela McCarthy

Pilot

Mikaela is Beluga Air’s dedicated Cessna 206 pilot. In a previous life and careers, Mikaela worked as a marine biologist, a scuba diving instructor and a tour guide. While living in Florida and dreaming about going back to Alaska (where she had previously worked on commercial fishing vessels), Mikaela decided she would become an Alaskan pilot.

With hard work and dedication, Mikaela finished her aviation training in record pace and started working as a pilot all over Alaska- from Bethel to Anchorage and eventually, Homer, where she has been flying for 2 years. Mikaela became a float pilot with Beluga Air, so it was a natural fit to have her become one of our fantastic pilots and bear guides!

At Beluga Air, Mikaela soars the skies, combining her love and knowledge of the natural world with her expertise in guiding and flying.

Beluga Air will continue offering incredible bear viewing tours, glacier flightseeing, and remote air taxi service — with the same commitment to dependable, friendly service that our guests have come to know and love.

Whether you’re heading out with your kids, family, or friends for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or flying solo into the wilderness, you’ll feel right at home with Beluga Air.

The Office

What Our Guests Say

We take pride in serving our guests with the best experience. Read what they say.

Unforgettable Bear Viewing!

“You could not ask for a more accommodating and friendly staff — Angela & Wes Head. Angela arranged 2 fabulous bear viewing adventures at Hallo Bay, Katmai National Park and Wes was our expert pilot. If you’re in Homer, Alaska do not hesitate in using their many services.”

Could not have had a better day!

“Great experience starting with booking right thru the final debrief. Great communication and instruction from Kelsey and Angela. Wes; the ‘infamous’ ‘Back Country Pilot’s, commentary is a perfect mix of ‘history lessons, funny stories and genuine BS. We are glad we chose Beluga for our day trip to Brooks Falls!!”

Best Bear Viewing!

Exceptional and entertaining pilot, excellent bear guide and the most amazing day watching dozens of bears and a fox up close in Katmai National Park. I’ve lived in Alaska for nearly two decades and have been out there before but this was an exceptional day I will never forget! Thank you Beluga Air, Angela, Wes and Dave!