Meet Mike Daniel
Mike Daniel, known by his tail number N665CC, is a backcountry pilot and visual designer on a mission to reshape aviation through the lens of adventure, creativity, and innovation. With a passion for flight and a background in design, Mike brings a unique perspective to the aviation world, aiming to inspire the next generation of pilots and enthusiasts. His work bridges the gap between timeless aviation traditions and modern storytelling, offering fresh solutions and perspectives that connect the spirit of flight with today’s evolving cultural and technological landscape.
THE CHESHIRE CAT
The Cheshire Cat is no ordinary aircraft; it’s a CubCrafters FX3 Carbon Cub transformed into a living work of art and imagination. Featuring a bold, custom design inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, the plane’s striking exterior brings the enigmatic Cheshire Cat to life, captivating onlookers with its whimsical charm. But the magic doesn’t stop there—this aircraft is a gateway to an immersive experience that blurs the line between reality and fiction. Using augmented reality through their phones, viewers unlock an interactive adventure that brings the Cheshire Cat’s playful mystique to life, turning this backcountry plane into a storytelling marvel of aviation and creativity.
FROM IMAGINATION TO REALITY: THE MAKING OF THE CHESHIRE CAT
The Cheshire Cat airplane is more than just a backcountry aircraft—it’s the culmination of a creative journey, blending artistry, design, and technical precision. This backstory showcases the inspiration behind the concept, the meticulous process of crafting the artwork, the intricate implementation of the custom wrap, and the collaborative effort that brought the vision to life. A heartfelt thank you goes to Robin Petgrave of Compton Airport, Erik and the talented Spin Imaging crew, Greg and his family, Kelly Robertson, Dan Stolling, my wife and kids, and everyone else who supported this project. Your contributions, big or small, were essential to making the Cheshire Cat airplane a reality. Thank you all!
BACKSEAT
STORIES
WHERE AVIATION
MEETS STORYTELLING
Backseat Stories is a captivating video series that blends adventure, aviation, and storytelling to create unique, intimate conversations in the sky—a podcast-like experience set against the backdrop of stunning aerial views. Each episode features notable figures from action sports, creative arts, and other inspiring fields, captured during scenic flights over nostalgic or iconic locations.
With the aircraft’s backseat serving as both a literal and metaphorical space for storytelling, Backseat Stories transforms the journey into a dynamic in-flight podcast, where meaningful dialogue unfolds thousands of feet above ground. The series offers a fresh perspective on personal journeys and achievements, seamlessly mixing stunning visuals, heartfelt conversations, and unique destinations. It’s an immersive experience that connects human stories with the wonder of flight, redefining how we share and explore adventure and creativity.
Riding The Waves Of Insight
By Grant Washburn
Pilot Mike Daniel and big wave legend Grant Washburn fly over Northern California, discussing technology for tracking Mavericks' massive waves.
Humor and Heart
By Jason “Wee Man” Acuna
In this Backseat Story, Jason Acuña joins Pilot Mike Daniel over California to discuss skateboarding, his career, and making a difference.
Outshining The Dark on Lake Tahoe
By Roy Tuscany
Athlete and High Fives Foundation Founder Roy Tuscany takes flight to discuss injury, recovery, and the new surf programs launching on Lake Tahoe.
Bruised Skater, Happy Angler
By David Gravette
Professional skateboarder David Gravette takes to the skies to showcase what "fly" fishing truly means.
Moments That Shaped the Journey
By Trent Palmer
YouTube sensation Trent Palmer reflects on his youth, selling his Kitfox, and future aircraft plans during a scenic flight.
Where The Dream Started
By Lynn Rippelmeyer
Captain Lynn Rippelmeyer soars over her hometown, Valmeyer, Illinois, reflecting on her trailblazing journey and love for aviation.
The Half Brain Project
By Jim Zellers
Jim Zellers shares his story of the first and only known snowboard descent of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park.
MEDIA
AND PRESS
THE CHESHIRE CAT
TAKES CENTER STAGE
Explore the stories behind Mike Daniel’s projects, from groundbreaking aviation concepts to creative designs and travels. For media inquiries, press materials, or interview requests, please reach out. Discover how his work continues to inspire and push the boundaries of innovation and adventure.
Cover Story – GA News
General Aviation News featured the story and launch of the Cheshire Cat airplane, including a cover shot in the publication.
Pacific Airshow Spotlight
A featured pilot and performer at the Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach.
AOPA Pilot Feature
Pilot Mike Daniel designed his Carbon Cub with a custom Cheshire Cat wrap inspired by Alice in Wonderland and featuring an AR QR code.
Best of AR 2023
Mike Daniel created this experience to bring the Cheshire Cat airplane to life and celebrate aviation as our wonderland.
California Sun Feature
The California Sun features a Backseat Story with Jim Zellers, showcasing his flight over Half Dome and iconic snowboard descent.
Pre Flight for Winter
As we move into new seasons, Mike preflights and gets ready to depart on another adventure.
Photo of The Day
Photo of the day by Chris Kunkle, capturing the beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley, California.
Sierra Sun Article
Mike Daniel’s flight path blends aviation, design, and community at Truckee Tahoe Airport
Pilot Magazine Highlight
AOPA Pilot Magazine features the Cheshire Cat airplane, diving into its unique design and the creative backstory behind its creation.
Flying Magazine
Flying Magazine features a two-page spread highlighting the 2024 wrap update.
AOPA Lightning Round
This week: AOPA's Buckeye Airfair, the Sweeps 170's first flight, a Continental Engines directive, and a spotlight on @n665cc!
SHOWS
AND EVENTS
INSPIRING
THROUGH AVIATION
From captivating airshow demonstrations to inspiring static displays, sharing the Cheshire Cat airplane is a privilege and a joy. These events provide an opportunity to connect with aviation enthusiasts, curious onlookers, and especially kids, sparking their imagination and passion for flight. My goal is always to inspire beyond just flying an airplane—showing that aviation can be approached through a fresh, creative lens that blends art, innovation, and storytelling. I’m deeply grateful for the chance to showcase this unique vision, offering a closer look at the magic of aviation while inspiring the next generation of dreamers and pilots.
Pacific Airshow
Participated as a pilot and performer at the Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach, California.
Buckeye Air Fair
The 2023 Air Fair showcased an airshow, vintage and military aircraft, thrilling demonstrations, Aviation Academy exhibits, and more.
Truckee Tahoe Airshow
Featured in a static display at the Truckee Tahoe Air Show & Family Festival.
BRAND
PARTNERS
ELEVATING BRANDS
THROUGH AVIATION
My goal is to collaborate with visionary partners to elevate brands within the aviation space in ways that feel authentic, innovative, and fresh. By leveraging content creation and storytelling, I aim to craft meaningful connections between aviation and lifestyle brands that have inspired me throughout my life—those rooted in art, adventure, and activity. These partnerships are about showcasing creativity and aligning with brands that share a passion for authenticity and innovation. Together, we create unique opportunities to merge the spirit of flight with the culture and values that define influential lifestyle brands.
Melin
A partnership uniting Backseat Stories and Melin, connecting Melin ambassadors with captivating stories from the sky.
Wild Tonic
Wild Tonic Kombucha has supported my project from day one—a refreshing and delicious beverage choice for every pilot.
Vans Shoes
A longtime supporter of Vans Shoes, a brand that has been a part of my lifestyle for over 40 years.
Big Sur Bar
Fueled by Big Sur Bar, keeping me energized for every adventure.
SOCIAL
PRESENCE
A GROWING DIGITAL FOOTPRINT
Since late 2022, I’ve been building an online presence by combining my passion for aviation with creative storytelling. Through events and flights with influential individuals, my following has grown organically, fueled by authentic connections and unique content. With my design background and fresh approach to aviation, I’ve been invited to high-profile events, further expanding my reach. My goal is to inspire through innovative ideas and content, with projects like “Backseat Stories” showcasing the creativity and possibilities that only the Cheshire Cat airplane can offer.
OTHER
SIGHTINGS
PROJECTS &
INNOVATION
The Search For Max Purro
The Search for Max Purro is an interactive aviation game built on the concept of pilot-to-pilot pass-it-on. Designed to create an airport tagging system, it tracks pilots as they journey from one airport to another, using AirTags and small Pelican cases to map their progress. The game evolved into a rich narrative centered around Max Purro, a character whose cherished collection of aviation mementos has mysteriously gone missing. Pilots become part of the story, working together to recover Max’s lost treasures while fostering a sense of community and adventure across the skies.
Augmented Reality
Augmented reality brings the Cheshire Cat airplane to life in a way that goes beyond its striking exterior. By using an interactive AR experience, viewers can engage with the story of the Cheshire Cat in a dynamic and immersive way, blending technology, art, and aviation. This innovative approach not only enhances the visual appeal of general aviation but also inspires others to see the endless possibilities within the field. It challenges conventional perceptions, showcasing that aviation can be a canvas for deeper ideas, creativity, and connection, encouraging a new generation to explore its untapped potential.
