About flyingMax.com
Max Powers: 40 Years of Adventure from the Alps to the Rockies
Max Powers doesn’t just fly; he lives the “Life Aquatic” of the sky. Born and raised as Max Fanderl in the heart of Bavaria, Germany, his journey with gravity began in 1986. After moving to Canada in 1992 and marrying his partner in adventure, Penny, he proudly took her surname, carrying the Powers name into the skies.
From his early years as a paragliding instructor, test pilot for top European manufacturers to competing in the world’s toughest adventure race—the Red Bull X-Alps—four consecutive times, Max has spent a lifetime mastering the elements. Today, he is a cornerstone of the Columbia Valley. Whether he is teaching the next generation of pilots through his Transport Canada-registered flight school, guiding tandem flights over Panorama, or competing in high-stakes mountain races, Max brings a level of precision and “mountain sense” that only 40 years of flight can provide.
World-Class Alpine Guiding
Max’s expertise isn’t limited to the Rockies. As an elite international guide, he bridges the gap between the Canadian wilderness and the jagged peaks of Europe. He leads specialized, high-altitude expeditions for pilots looking to experience the world’s premier flying sites, most notably his signature Dolomite Tour. Under his wing, pilots navigate the breathtaking limestone spires of Italy with the confidence of an X-Alps veteran.
A True Multi-Element Athlete
When he isn’t at 10,000 feet in a paraglider, sailplane, or ultralight, you’ll find Max navigating the valley in other ways:
- In the Air: Chief Flight Instructor, Tandem Pilot, and International Alpine Guide.
- On the Land: A top-tier Realtor for RE/MAX Invermere and a dedicated hiker, skier, and biker.
- On the Water: Founder of Columbia River Paddle.
- In Business: Tech innovator and founder of Appointment.com.
Max isn’t just a pilot; he’s your guide to the best life the Columbia Valley has to offer. Whether you want to buy a home, paddle the wetlands, or touch the clouds, Max is the man to get you there.
Connect with Max: max@flyingMax.com
Penny Powers
In Loving Memory: Penny Powers
Penny was the heart, soul, and driving force behind our adventures. Born in South Africa and a long-time resident of Banff, she traveled the world before settling in the Columbia Valley to raise her family. Though she sadly passed away on February 1st, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer, her vibrant spirit and legacy of service remain the guiding light for everything we do.
A Life of Extraordinary Achievement
Penny was a true force of nature, mastering every element she touched. She was a tennis pro, marathon runner, triathlete, and a competitive Nordic skier who raced in the World Masters. Her thirst for adventure took her from whitewater rafting and skydiving to paragliding and high-altitude trekking.
A Pillar of the Columbia Valley
Penny’s impact on our community was profound. Alongside Max, she was the co-founder of the Invermere Whiteway, creating a world-record legacy for skaters and skiers to enjoy. Her leadership and volunteer spirit extended across the valley:
- Cultural Leader:
Organizer of the Toby Creek Nordic Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival for over 10 years.
Founder of the Windermere “Whiteway” & the Elementary School Nordic Ski program.
Sitting on numerous boards for local tourism groups - Community Protector:
Dedicated volunteer with the Edgewater Fire Department. - Team Captain:
Head of the “Babes on Blades” hockey team. - Professional Expert:
Founder of ColumbiaRiverPaddle.com and CanadianMountainExperience.com, working as a certified personal trainer, nutritionist, and wellness consultant (Can-Fit-Pro PTS/NWS).
Family & Legacy
Above all her professional and athletic feats, Penny was an incredible mother to Katia and Erik. Her love for her family was the foundation of her life, and she instilled in them the same passion for adventure and community that she lived every day.
Penny didn’t just live in the mountains—she shaped the culture of the valley. We continue to honor her legacy by sharing the river, the trails, and the skies with the same grace and energy she brought to the world.
