In this Christmas Special episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, Scott and Connor discuss various topics in aviation, including recent fatal accident data, the leadership change at Frontier Airlines, and the future of Spirit Airlines. They also share personal experiences as pilots, emphasizing the importance of safety, preparation, and the challenges of airline life. The conversation highlights the need for continuous learning in the aviation industry and the impact of regulations on pilot training and safety. Plus Ugly Christmas Sweaters!
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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Chapters
00:00 Christmas Cheer and Updates
01:51 Fatal Accidents and Safety
15:56 Leadership Changes at Frontier Airlines
24:06 The Future of Spirit Airlines and Industry Dynamics
31:07 The Impact of Low-Cost Carriers on the Airline Industry
35:32 The Reality of Airline Scheduling and Workload
45:20 The Differences Between Corporate and Airline Flying
50:17 Navigating Challenges in Flight Training and Operations
In this episode, Scott and John welcome Jose. They discuss Jose's journey from flight instructing to flying for major airlines, including the challenges and experiences along the way. The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of the airline industry, focusing on how airlines are adapting their business models in response to market changes and the increasing demand for premium travel experiences. They explore the significance of credit card programs in airline profitability and the impact of wealth transfer from boomers on travel trends. The episode concludes with insights into the future of aviation and the importance of meeting customer expectations. This conversation delves into the evolving landscape of the airline industry, focusing on the challenges faced by low-cost carriers, particularly Spirit Airlines, and the transformation of Southwest Airlines. The discussion highlights the impact of customer expectations, economic downturns, and competitive dynamics in the market, especially in relation to gate allocations in Chicago. The speakers also explore the future of ultra-low-cost carriers and the cyclical nature of the airline business, emphasizing the need for adaptability in a changing economic environment.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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Notes/links:
Airshow link on gate allocation:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1bfEVCfB14qjQ8PwLa41oz?si=49d1de46ca5f44e8
Link to Spirit selling Gates to AA for 30 mil:
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/spirit-airlines-transfers-chicago-airport-gates-american-airlines-30-million-2025-12-08/
Chapters:
00:00 Jose's Aviation Journey and Career Progression
06:40 Operational Differences Between Aircraft Types
17:21 The Evolution of Airline Business Models
32:37 The Transition of Low-Cost Carriers
44:45 Spirit Airlines: Current Challenges and Future Outlook
58:39 The Future of Spirit Airlines: Survival or Piecemeal Sale?
01:08:26 The Role of Low-Cost Carriers in a Changing Market
In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, hosts John and Scott discuss their Thanksgiving experiences, including travel challenges and holiday traditions. They delve into recent aviation news, particularly an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (AD) issued for Airbus due to solar flare impacts on aircraft systems. The conversation shifts to the implications of seniority in pilot employment and how changes in regulations could affect the industry. They conclude with thoughts on the future of airline contracts and pilot employment dynamics, emphasizing the importance of unions and job security.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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Wizz Air Link:https://stories.eurocockpit.be/wizz-air-legal-turbulence/index.html
Chapters
00:00 Thanksgiving Travels
07:26 Airbus Emergency Directive: A Quick Response
21:02 The Impact of Seniority on Employment
26:24 Reimagining Pilot Contracts and Compensation
32:12 The Role of Unions in Aviation
44:43 Wrap-up
In this episode, Scott and Connor discuss the current state of the aviation industry, focusing on pilot attrition at Spirit Airlines and the hiring trends across various carriers. They delve into general aviation safety, sharing insights on pre-flight planning and the importance of communication. The conversation shifts to the recent NTSB report on UPS Flight 2976, highlighting the tragic accident and its implications. Finally, they touch on mental health issues within the aviation community, emphasizing the need for awareness and support.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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Chapters
00:00 Spirit Airlines Attrition and Industry Trends
11:51 General Aviation Safety and Pre-Flight Planning
30:21 Winter Operations and Safety Concerns
36:38 Analyzing the UPS Flight 2976 Crash
46:23 Mental Health and Safety in Aviation
We wanted to put out a quick special episode on Thanksgiving. We are grateful to all our viewers and wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving!
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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In this episode, Scott and John discuss the latest developments surrounding Spirit Airlines, focusing on their bankruptcy proceedings, pilot concessions, and financial performance. They analyze the implications of these factors on the airline's future viability and the potential for acquisition by other airlines. The conversation also touches on the broader dynamics of the airline industry and the challenges faced by low-cost carriers.
We've both been quite busy lately, but wanted to get a shorter update out for y'all. We will keep the episodes coming, and hope to be back on a regular schedule soon! We appreciate your support!
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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Chapters:
00:00 Updates on Spirit Airlines' Bankruptcy and Concessions
10:00 Understanding Bankruptcy and Reorganization
13:14 Financial Strategies and Liquidity Challenges
17:13 The Future of Spirit Airlines and Industry Implications
24:38 Mergers, Acquisitions, and Market Dynamics
33:31 Consolidation Trends in the Airline Industry
In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, Scott and John discuss the latest developments surrounding Spirit Airlines, including its financial struggles and potential acquisition by Frontier. They also delve into the impact of the government shutdown on air traffic control operations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the realities of the aviation industry. The hosts share personal experiences related to time management and the challenges of balancing work and life in aviation. Additionally, they explore various career paths for new pilots and introduce the Ford Method as a tool for building connections in the cockpit.
Recorded 10/13/2025
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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Notes:
FORD method
https://careerservices.fas.harvard.edu/blog/2024/01/22/learn-the-ford-method-and-youll-never-struggle-to-make-small-talk-again/
Cranky flier article on spirit
https://crankyflier.com/2025/10/06/spirit-shrinks-by-more-than-half-may-have-hope-of-survival/
*The 150 million in cash to spirit was cut in a deal between the airline and AerCap, in exchange for returns on 27 leased aircraft, and letting Spirit out of 36 aircraft that have not been delivered. AerCap also gets a a large BK claim over $635 million from NK.
Yahoo article on Spirit
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/spirit-airlines-wins-475-million-195846986.html
FAA Staffing Problem Articles
https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/29112/chapter/14#24
https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/afn/offices/finance/offices/office-financial-labor-analysis/plans/controller-workforce.pdf
Living the Dream! By balroc12
https://youtu.be/rNxz2hhSXuY?si=po220ZYvYld-A8fD
Chapters
00:00 Intro
01:17 Spirit Airlines Update
12:43 Future of Spirit Airlines
21:12 Understanding Air Traffic Control During Government Shutdowns
34:19 Time Management and Life Balance in Aviation
41:07 Career Paths for New Commercial Pilots
49:53 Connecting with Colleagues: The Ford Method
In this episode, we welcome back Connor to discuss the differences between airline and corporate flying, exploring the unique challenges and benefits of each career path. We share personal experiences, insights on the aviation industry, and the importance of networking and career advancement. The conversation also touches on the work-life balance of pilots, the impact of recent hiring trends, and the evolving landscape of aviation. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on what it means to be a pilot today and the various opportunities available in the field.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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We are now on TikTok! @Autopilotonpodcast
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
05:18 The Differences Between Corporate and Airlines
14:55 Passion vs. Financial Stability in Aviation
19:56 The Current State of Hiring in Aviation
33:08 Comparing Corporate and Airline Pilot Experiences
45:50 Unique Experiences in Corporate Aviation
53:32 Safety and Responsibility in Aviation
57:25 Wrap-Up and Future Discussions
Vince is back by popular demand! In this conversation, the we discuss the challenges and responsibilities faced by Professional Aviators, emphasizing the importance of moral character and professionalism in the industry. We explore how personal experiences shape our views on life and aviation, and the impact of social media on public perception and professional conduct. The discussion highlights the need for aviators to maintain composure in difficult situations and to actively participate in their communities, all while striving for better moral character in both personal and professional lives. The discussion dives into the concept of moral character, particularly in the context of the aviation industry and the impact of social media on personal and professional conduct. We discuss the breakdown of traditional family values and how this influences societal norms. The conversation also touches on corporate responsibility, employee behavior, and the challenges faced by Spirit Airlines amidst financial turmoil. Our conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining moral integrity in both personal and professional spheres, especially in an industry where actions can have significant repercussions.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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Notes/mentions:
https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/61.153
https://www.alpa.org/about-alpa/what-we-do/code-of-ethics
Youtube: The Law & Crime channel
Books:
Dignity: Its Essential Role in Resolving Conflict by Donna Hicks
We Who Wrestle with God by Jordan Peterson
Chapters
00:00 The Power of Perspective
04:14 Intro
07:10 Ethics and Responsibilities in Aviation
12:00 Navigating Polarization and Individual Responsibility
15:08 The Weight of Responsibility in Aviation
17:22 Cultural Values and Moral Challenges
21:26 The Difficulty of Upholding Moral Character
25:09 The Holistic View of Professionalism
29:47 Common Sense and Moral Decisions
35:32 Social Media's Impact on Professional Conduct
41:28 Flight Crew Behavior and Social Media Awareness
46:37 Moral Responsibility in Aviation
51:53 Navigating Personal and Professional Ethics
53:25 Your Weekly Spirit Update
01:09:17 Wrap Up
In this episode, John and Scott discuss the current state of the aviation industry, focusing on pilot hiring trends, the challenges faced by regional airlines, and the recent bankruptcy of Spirit Airlines. They analyze hiring projections for major airlines, the implications of training contracts for new pilots, and the financial struggles of Spirit Airlines as it navigates its second bankruptcy in a short period. The conversation highlights the complexities of the airline industry and the potential future landscape for pilots and airlines alike.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
Contact us:
www.autopiloton.comautopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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Notes:
Aerocap show Airlines Confidential
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4WsFbisPq1EVQrUk94cOKH?si=299c53ee84f2462e
Airline Hiring Chart
https://airfactsjournal.com/2024/04/what-a-difference-a-decade-makes-the-ga-boom-in-statistics/
Correction: Telecom merger was Sprint and T-mobile, not AT&T
In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, Scott and John welcome Kora, the Aviation Therapist, to discuss the critical intersection of mental health and aviation. Kora (@aviation.therapist) shares her journey into aviation therapy, highlighting the accessibility issues pilots face in seeking mental health support. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by insurance requirements, the stigma surrounding mental health in aviation, and the importance of peer support. We explore the evolving landscape of mental health regulations within the FAA and the generational shifts that are influencing attitudes towards mental health care in the aviation industry. Our discussion covers the challenges and frustrations pilots face with the FAA, particularly regarding the medical certification and reinstatement process, and mental health issues. We explore the impact of technology on government agencies, the importance of trust in the FAA, and the evolving perceptions of ADHD in aviation. The discussion emphasizes the need for reform in the FAA's processes and the critical importance of mental health for pilots. From expert insights to personal stories, this episode sheds light on the importance of mental health resources and how they can be made more accessible to those who navigate the skies.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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Notes:
Flight Deck Community
www.flightdeckcommunity.com
flightdeckcommunity@gmail.com
@aviation.therpist
Th|Air|apy crisis hotline
getthairapy.org
833-532-1096
Aviation Medicine Advisory Service (AMAS)
Aviationmedicine.com
FAA AME Guide
https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Aviation Therapy
01:58 Kora's Journey into Aviation Therapy
07:56 Insurance and Mental Health Challenges
17:19 The Growing Need for Aviation Mental Health Services
19:17 Stigma and Mental Health in Aviation
25:21 The FAA and Mental Health Reform
30:39 Gatekeeping in Mental Health
34:33 The Impact of Technology on Mental Health
38:50 Bureaucratic Challenges in Mental Health Access
48:58 Government Efficiency and Technological Advancements
52:01 Challenges with FAA Processes
53:42 Cultural Shifts in FAA Management
58:47 Streamlining Medical Processes in Aviation
01:05:43 Understanding ADHD in Aviation
01:14:48 Navigating the Complexities of Aviation Regulations
01:21:19 Mental Health Awareness in Aviation
01:32:34 The Importance of Mental Health Support for Pilots
In this engaging conversation, Greg Kaley shares his journey as a Comic Artist and Airline Pilot, discussing the challenges and changes in the aviation industry. He reflects on the impact of furloughs, the evolution of airline careers, and the importance of balancing work with family life. The discussion highlights the shift from viewing aviation as a dream to recognizing it as a job that supports a fulfilling life. We share our experiences as pilots, discussing the balance between personal life and career, the importance of staying active, and the evolution of the airline industry. We delve into the challenges of navigating career decisions with family support, the joy found in the journey of aviation, and the complexities of airline business models. The discussion also touches on future trends in aviation and the barriers to entry for new pilots, emphasizing the need for passion in the field.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
Contact us: www.autopiloton.com
autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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Notes:Airlinesalary.com
Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly by Anthony Bourdain
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Greg Kaley: From Art to Aviation
07:48 The History of Getting Hired into Legacy Airlines
11:27 Hard Personal Realizations in Life
24:36 Industry Statistics, Mergers and Acquisitions
33:16 The Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions38:45 Life Beyond the Cockpit
49:54 Navigating Career Choices and Family Life
51:02 Incorporating Hobbies into a Pilot's Lifestyle
56:28 The Importance of Life Balance and Personal Growth
01:00:40 Making Informed Career Decisions
01:10:13 Finding Joy in the Journey of Aviation
01:17:08 Navigating Relationships in Aviation
01:20:15 Understanding Airline Operations
01:22:55 The Future of Airline Business Models
01:28:50 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook
In this episode, we welcome Fernando Contreras @captaincontreras, creator of Fit Aviators Club. We discuss the intersection of fitness and aviation, sharing personal journeys of health and wellness. We explore the importance of sleep, nutrition, and finding purpose in fitness, while addressing the psychological aspects of motivation and the impact of social media on expectations. The conversation emphasizes that fitness is a journey that requires consistent effort and dedication, and that small changes can lead to significant improvements in health. In this engaging conversation, Fernando Contreras shares his insights on fitness, martial arts, and the importance of living life to the fullest. He emphasizes that fitness is just one aspect of happiness and discusses his journey in martial arts, highlighting the differences in training compared to traditional fitness. The discussion also touches on the significance of personal motivation, building connections with others, and embracing change as a part of personal growth. Fernando encourages listeners to find their purpose and enjoy every moment of life, reminding us that life is a journey filled with constant change and opportunities for growth.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
Contact us:www.autopiloton.comautopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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Special thanks to our guest:Fernando Contreras@captaincontreraswww.fitaviatorsclub.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:40 Fernando's Journey in Aviation and Fitness
02:58 The Intersection of Aviation and Health
06:10 Personal Stories of Transformation
09:04 Challenges in the Aviation Lifestyle
14:54 The Importance of Sleep and Nutrition
18:40 Building a Sustainable Fitness Routine
24:48 Transformative Weight Loss Journey
37:20 The Psychological Aspects of Fitness
45:18 Understanding Personal Needs and Goals
52:59 Social Media, Self-Perception and the Journey
58:11 Transitioning to Martial Arts: A New Approach
01:05:59 Finding Personal Motivation in Fitness
01:10:57 The Importance of Defining Your Why
01:13:18 Life Beyond Aviation
01:20:42 Connecting Through Personal Stories
01:23:25 The Importance of Curiosity in Conversations
01:27:11 Building Relationships in the Flight Deck
01:30:47 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Life Choices
01:37:17 Embracing Life's Moments and Future Aspirations
Autopilot On: An Aviation Podcast. Connor is back! In this episode we talk about Connor's experiences flying to exotic locations and the challenges of commuting for pilots. We talk about the Air India 787 crash, general aviation crash statistics, and the future of single pilot operations in aviation. The conversation highlights the impact of technology on aviation safety and the potential for automated systems in the cockpit.
*Disclaimer: This episode was recorded before the Indian Aviation Authority released their preliminary report on the 787 crash*
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
Contact us:www.autopiloton.comautopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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Chapters
00:00 Intro
02:17 Connor's Busy Summer and Career Updates
08:41 Weather Impact on Air Travel
20:13 The Importance of Choosing the Right Airline
27:53 Maximizing Earnings and Living in Base
30:15 Air India Crash
34:33 Trends in General Aviation Fatalities
42:57 Reflections on Small Aircraft Flying
48:47 The Future of Single Pilot Operations
57:15 Public Perception of Automation in Aviation
01:01:02 Innovative Solutions for Aircraft Operations
Yoke Me Daddy returns! In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast (An Aviation Podcast) we discuss various topics related to the aviation industry, including the challenges faced by JetBlue, the recent Air India crash, generational differences among pilots, and the experiences of commuting in aviation. The conversation highlights the complexities of the airline industry, the impact of age gaps on pilot dynamics, and the personal experiences of the hosts as they navigate their careers in aviation.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
Contact us:
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autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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@autopilotonpodcast
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Chapters
00:00 Intro
02:09 Industry Consolidation and Future Prospects
15:16 Spirit Airlines: Financial Struggles and Future Outlook
19:26 Air India Crash
30:08 The Risks of Aviation: A Pilot's Perspective
42:38 Navigating Age Gaps in Aviation: Challenges and Insights
56:42 The Challenges of Commuting in Aviation
01:08:54 Rethinking the 'Pay Your Dues' Mentality
In this episode, we chat with Yoke Me Daddy (IG @yokemedaddy), who shares insights about his popular Instagram page dedicated to aviation humor and memes. The conversation explores the evolution of his platform, the role of humor in the aviation community, challenges faced by pilots in the hiring process, and the impact of social media on the industry. We also talk about the importance of health and wellness for pilots and discusses Yoke Me Daddy’s vision for building a supportive community for aspiring aviators.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
Contact us:
www.autopiloton.com
autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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@autopilotonpodcast
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Links:
Clark Aviation Consulting
www.flytheline.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Yoke Me Daddy
01:47 Disclaimer
04:03 Introduction Continued
05:27 The Evolution of Yoke Me Daddy
12:01 Navigating the Hiring Process
22:24 Interview Prep: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
29:43 Navigating Airline Hiring: Metrics and Challenges
31:08 Influencers and Career Advice
35:35 The Cringe Factor: Influencers and Professionalism
42:08 Health and Wellness in Aviation: A Pilot's Perspective
46:00 Future of YokeMeDaddy and Community Building
Our first 4-person panel! In this episode, the we engage in a lively discussion with Spencer, who Vince talked about in a previous episode, and Tom is back! Spencer shares his journey in aviation, starting from flying gliders at a young age to becoming a captain flying Hawker jets. We discuss the importance of networking in aviation, share our experiences with fatigue management, and reflect on the challenges of flying on the East Coast compared to the West Coast. We talk about the unique airplanes we’ve flown and airports we’ve flown into. We also discuss personal stories about early morning flights, weather challenges, and memorable landings, providing insights into the realities of being a pilot.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
Contact us:
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autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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@autopilotonpodcast
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Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:42 Introducing Spencer and his Aviation experience
07:04 Flying Experiences and Aircraft Types
09:04 Engine Failures and Airmanship
13:24 Networking in Aviation: How to Fly Different Planes
24:48 Challenges in East Coast Flying, Delays, and Fatigue Management
39:52 The Impact of Chronic Fatigue on Pilots
52:19 What's Your Most Challenging Airport?
01:12:37 St. Barts and Aspen
01:22:35 Outro
In this episode, Scott and John welcome Chad, a former DEA pilot, who shares his unique journey through aviation, transitioning from law enforcement to airline flying. Chad discusses the challenges and rewards of his career, including the diverse experiences he encountered while flying for the DEA. He offers valuable advice for aspiring aviators, emphasizing the importance of exploring various opportunities in aviation beyond the traditional routes. The conversation highlights the significance of experiences over monetary gains and encourages listeners to consider unconventional paths in their aviation careers.Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors. Contact us:www.autopiloton.comautopilotonpodcast@gmail.comFollow on Instagram:@autopilotonpodcastFollow on X:https://x.com/AutopilotonpodLinks:DEA Recruitmenthttps://www.dea.gov/dea-recruitmentFederal Air Marshal Recruitmenthttps://jobs.tsa.gov/law-enforcementChapters00:00 Intro01:12 Chad's Unique Aviation Journey08:07 Life as a DEA Pilot14:42 Surveillance Operations and Daily Life at DEA27:47 Career Pathways in Aviation and Law Enforcement33:50 Reflections on Career Choices and Experiences43:10 9-11 and the Air Marshals46:34 Transitioning from DEA to Airlines50:37 Advice for Aspiring Aviators54:23 Exploring Unique Opportunities in Aviation
Brent shares his journey through the aviation industry, highlighting the challenges of job instability, the importance of networking, and the transition from corporate flying to becoming a Simulator Instructor. He discusses the rigorous training processes and the recruitment strategies used in aviation, emphasizing the need for flexibility and the evolving nature of aviation careers. We delve into the intricacies of flight simulator training, the challenges faced by pilots during type ratings, and the importance of experience in aviation. We discuss the current landscape of flight training companies, the preparation required for new type ratings, and common pitfalls that pilots encounter. Brent gives the secret for success when training for a new type rating!
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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Links/notes:
Matt McNeal: Lift Effect
In-and-Out Jet Crash
https://airlinegeeks.com/2023/12/15/in-n-out-and-boeing-757-wake-turbulence/
Captain Roger Victor - Learjet clip
https://youtu.be/4HXeHcbGq1U?si=PIWRejuE17YGUh0A
Watches on your panel?
https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkx2FFaY77mn3QyoPWo3c0tOAToeULo7dUP?si=NiqgCeBUJgKnaFjE
Chapters
00:00 Intro
01:43 Brent's Background and Transition to Training
05:34 Corporate Aviation Challenges and Expectations
13:22 The Transition from Corporate to Sim Instructor
17:56 The Reality of Pay and Job Satisfaction in Aviation
23:07 The Impact of Health on Career Choices
27:13 Flexibility vs. Stability in Aviation Careers
31:20 Navigating the Hiring Process
43:38 Recruitment Strategies in Aviation Training
48:58 Explaining the Business of Sim Centers
55:42 Troubleshooting Techniques in Aviation
56:24 The Secret Recipe for Success in Training
01:00:03 Common Struggles in Flight Training
01:04:31 Unique Situations in Simulator Training
01:10:41 The Importance of Humility in Decision Making
01:15:59 Addressing Experience Levels in Aviation Training
01:20:44 Concerns About Modern Pilots
01:26:11 The Importance of Manual Flying Skills
01:28:23 Transitioning from Sim-world to Flying again
01:34:28 Unique Avenues for Building Flight Experience
01:37:37 Conclusion and Reflections on the Industry
Connor is back! In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, we discuss significant developments in the aviation industry, focusing on Spirit Airlines' financial strategies and new initiatives, the impact of Starlink on in-flight connectivity, and the controversial topic of single pilot operations in commercial aviation. Then we discuss the challenges faced in Air Traffic Control, and the state of the FAA's NextGen modernization efforts. We highlight the increasing failures in Air Traffic Systems, staffing shortages, and the impact of outdated technology on aviation safety. The discussion also touches on public perception of safety in air travel and the need for proactive safety measures to prevent accidents.
Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors.
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autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com
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Links:
FAA NextGen
https://www.faa.gov/nextgen
FAA and NATCA Agree to New Rest Rules for Controllers
https://www.natca.org/2024/04/19/natca-calls-on-faa-to-collaborate-on-air-traffic-controller-fatigue/
https://www.youtube.com/@balroc12
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Spirit Airlines Changes
10:04 The Evolution of Airline Loyalty Programs
16:46 Starlink: Transforming In-Flight Connectivity
26:09 Single Pilot Operations: The Future of Aviation
37:28 The History of the Air Traffic System
54:14 Controller Fatigue and Overload
01:01:10 Safety Concerns in Aviation
01:04:58 Statistical Safety in Aviation vs. Other Modes of Transport
01:10:41 The Need for Effective Communication in Aviation
01:13:31 Dealing With The System Failures
01:18:40 Wrap-Up and Outro