About Us

A Global Team
United by Aviation

SayIntentions.AI is a pioneer in AI-driven software development for flight simulation. We create the most realistic, accurate, and immersive experiences for aviation training and flight sim enthusiasts. As the leading AI-based flight sim training solution, we leverage advanced machine learning to bridge the gap between simulation and reality, delivering a quantum leap forward in aviation technology.

From an Experiment
to a New Era of Flight Simulation

Just a Guy and his Dad

Brian and his dad have been flight sim enthusiasts for as long as they can remember, spending weekends piecing together full-size cockpit builds and sharing in the thrill of simulated aviation. One dream kept coming up: they wanted realistic ATC without the pressure of live networks — especially for Brian's dad, who was a bit shy about talking to real controllers.

Our Background

Before SayIntentions.AI, Brian served as CTO at a large healthcare company, leading cutting-edge AI initiatives. Fueled by that background — and a desire to make his dad's experience even more exciting — Brian experimented with OpenAI to simulate the back-and-forth of ATC communications. In the beginning, it was just a "cool toy" for his dad. But when Brian showed it to friends, they insisted he had something bigger on his hands.

Prototype & Testing

So he and his dad got to work. They built a basic framework connecting the simulator, their servers, and the AI. Brian's dad tackled the Windows client while Brian handled almost everything else. A website went up, a simple beta signup form was created, and a hopeful Reddit post led to the first 50 beta testers in December 2023. Even with its early flaws, everyone who tried it was blown away by the potential.

Launch & Growth

On January 15th, 2024, SayIntentions.AI officially launched in open beta at $29.95, offering USA/VFR-only coverage with a promise to lower prices and keep adding features. And grow it did. Brian assembled a team of over 35 admins, developers, aviation experts, and volunteers. Within months, response times matched real-world speeds, IFR arrived, and global coverage became a reality.

Leveling Up

But the innovations didn't stop there. SayIntentions.AI now hosts an entire multiplayer network, with AI controllers manning every position — just like in real life. Leveraging their own data and cloud infrastructure, they deliver an immersive experience unlike anything the simulation community has seen. What started as a simple "toy" between a father and son has since inspired flight sim enthusiasts around the world.

The Future of Flight Simulation

We built SayIntentions.AI to bring your love of aviation to life — no scripts, no stage fright, just pure, dynamic ATC. And we're not done yet. As we continue to innovate, we invite you to come along for the ride. Whether you're a seasoned pilot or just dipping your toes into the cockpit, we hope you'll find a home here. Welcome aboard — and enjoy the flight!

Mission, Vision & Values

Our Mission

  • Developing innovative AI solutions that enhance aviation safety and efficiency
  • Providing immersive and realistic training experiences for pilots and enthusiasts
  • Continuously pushing the boundaries of flight simulation technology
  • Fostering a collaborative community of aviation professionals and enthusiasts

Our Vision

We envision a future where AI-powered solutions advance aviation training to unprecedented levels of safety, efficiency, and sustainability. By seamlessly integrating professional aviation practices with cutting-edge flight simulation, we aim to set new industry benchmarks.

Our Values

  • Professional Excellence: Delivering high-quality, reliable solutions
  • Innovation: Continuously advancing our AI technology
  • Integrity: Maintaining ethical standards in all our operations
  • Collaboration: Fostering teamwork within our organization and with partners
  • Community: Supporting and engaging with the aviation and simulation community

Founder and CEO

Brian Shellabarger

Founder & CEO

Brian is the founder and CEO of SayIntentions.AI, the AI-based ATC startup that's changing the conversation around AI and flight simming. Brian is an AI and machine learning engineer and technology executive with more than 25 years of IT and flight simulation experience. Brian is a futurist who's passionate about bringing AI and flight simulation together to create more immersive and realistic experiences for flight sim aviators.

Meet Our Dedicated Team

Our team is an internationally diverse group united by a shared passion for aviation and innovation. Comprising experienced aviation professionals — both real-world and simulator pilots — dedicated enthusiasts, and skilled software experts, we bring together a unique blend of expertise. This fusion of knowledge and creativity drives our mission to enhance the flight simulation experience, delivering cutting-edge tools and unparalleled realism to pilots and enthusiasts alike. Together, we're committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in flight simulation.

Tom A.

Tom A.

VP of Engineering

Jared F.

Jared F.

Head of Marketing & Business Development

Gary S.

Gary S.

Windows Application Engineer

Melanie S.

Melanie S.

Logistics Manager

Ryan C.

Ryan C.

Developer

Chris K.

Chris K.

Developer

RF

Roland F.

Developer · AI Ground & AI Flow

Dave B.

Dave B.

Developer · CPDLC

Brian M.

Brian M.

Developer · Web & Mobile

Dan S.

Dan S.

Hardware & Support

Scott P.

Scott P.

Administrator

Max R.

Max R.

Support Manager

Pat L.

Pat L.

Administrator

MA

MikeAudio

Administrator

Additional Contributors

David W.

ICAO Customizations

Alan P.

Administrator

ATCMike

UK ATC Consultant

Andrew L.

ICAO Customizations

Orinks

Accessibility Expert

WakeVortex

SI Expert

Brian Crawley

SI Expert

CMDR Rick Floss

SI Expert

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