David Smith is the founder, president and chief pilot of CAVU. For more than a decade, David worked in all seven countries of Central America, conducting hundreds of low-level overflights on a variety of conservation and humanitarian missions, and offering consulting services to both governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Following the creation of CAVU, David's focus broadened to include film as an integral part of an expanding educational outreach effort, with the ability to bring cutting-edge technology to the most remote locations. Finally, working closely with CAVU's executive director, David helped establish strategic partnerships with organizations recognized for innovative techniques and on-the-ground effectiveness.

Today, David believes that CAVU, while still small and young, is uniquely positioned to be a nimble, creative and cost-effective force in the critical struggle to balance sustainable economic development with the protection of natural resources.

David is a commercial/single/multi-engine land/sea/glider/instrument rated pilot with over 4,000 hours experience on three continents.