Pilots Say What?
Pilots Say What? is an aviation podcast featuring candid conversations with real students and pilots from Thrust Flight. Each episode shares invaluable advice and thrilling tales from their journeys in the sky, offering unique perspectives on becoming or being a pilot. The podcast is produced by Thrust Flight, a flight school based in the USA.
Episodes
Ep. 117: What Future Airline Pilots Should Do Long Before 1,500 Hours
Julie Cable recently joined Thrust Flight as our Career Services Liaison, helping students and CFIs better understand what comes after flight training. In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Julie shares her experience from Delta, American Airlines, and airline hiring to explain what future airline pilots should be thinking about long before they hit 1,500 hours.
Ep. 116: Why Mesa AZ Is Built for Flight Training
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Zach sits down with Andrew Sowers at Thrust Flight’s Mesa location on Falcon Field Airport to talk about training in Arizona, the advantages of flying in the Phoenix area, and what it’s like going through an accelerated Zero Time to Airline program. Andrew shares why Arizona’s weather, terrain, and flying environment make Mesa such a unique place to train.
Ep 115: President-Nominated NTSB Member Reveals What Pilots Learn From Crashes
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with John Duluth, a board member at the National Transportation Safety Board, retired American Airlines pilot, former 787 captain, and former Air Force C-130 pilot. John explains what the NTSB really does, how it differs from the FAA, and why accident reports can be one of the most valuable learning tools for student pilots, CFIs, airline pilots, me
Ep. 114: Flying the Embraer 175 as an Envoy First Officer
Will Garrison started at Thrust Flight with zero time, worked his way through flight training, became a CFI, later became an Assistant Chief Instructor, joined the Envoy cadet program, and now flies the Embraer 175 as a First Officer at Envoy.
Ep. 113: The Part of Flight Training Nobody Warns You About
In this episode of Pilots Say What, Tim sits down with Zach to talk about what it was really like starting flight training from zero time, moving across the country, taking on the financial risk, and learning how to handle the pressure that comes with becoming a pilot.
Ep. 112: He Pushed Through Flight Training Setbacks
In this episode of Pilots Say What, Zach sits down with Jackson, a brand-new CFI at Thrust Flight, to talk about his path from Part 61 training, medical delays, and the uncertainty of whether aviation would actually work out, all the way to finishing his ratings and becoming a flight instructor.
Ep. 111: American Airlines 777 Captain Joe Johnson Reveals What Pilots Get Wrong
In this episode of Pilots Say What, we sit down with Joe Johnson, an active American Airlines 777 Captain, check airman, DPE, and founder of the Ashton Johnson Memorial CloudDancer Scholarship. Joe shares what he has learned from decades in aviation, including what student pilots often get wrong during checkrides, why nerves can lead to bad decisions, and how pilots should handle high-pressure mom
Ep. 110: She Took One Discovery Flight and Changed Careers
Halley Bowers didn’t grow up around aviation. She was a first-generation pilot, originally pursuing college and marketing, until one discovery flight changed the direction of her life. In this episode of Pilots Say What, Halley shares how she went from testing the waters at a Part 61 flight school to moving seven hours away from home to continue her training at Thrust Flight. She talks about the t
Ep. 109: Why This Pro Baseball Player Became a Pilot
Connor Emmett spent years chasing baseball at a high level, playing through college and eventually professionally in Detroit, Missoula, Montana, and Colorado Springs. But after stepping away from pro baseball, he realized he was still looking for a new challenge, a stronger sense of purpose, and a career path that pushed him to grow. In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Connor shares how he went f
Ep. 108: He Left Welding to Become a Pilot
Nick Bowman started out working as a welder in the Texas heat. After years in blue collar construction, he realized he wanted a different future and decided to give aviation a chance. In this episode of Pilots Say What, Nick returns to the podcast as a brand-new CFI at Thrust Flight. He talks about what it was like transitioning from student to instructor, why he switched flight schools during his
Ep. 107: How to Get a CFI Job in a Tough Market
In this episode of Pilots Say What, Zach talks with Jackson Howard about becoming a CFI at just 20 years old, what the transition from student to instructor was really like, and how he navigated the competitive CFI job market after training. Jackson shares what made private pilot training the hardest rating for him, why he failed his first commercial checkride, what he learned from instructing out
Ep. 106: From Fear of Flying to Flight Instructor
Jeremiah grew up around pilots, but for years he still had a fear of flying. In this episode of Pilots Say What, he shares how one discovery flight changed everything and set him on the path to becoming a CFI. He talks about switching careers, overcoming self-doubt in flight training, struggling through delays and setbacks in his private pilot journey, and what finally helped him break through. Je
Ep. 105: From Student to CFI: What No One Tells You
In this episode of Pilots Say What, Cole Collins shares what it was like to start flight training, deal with the stress of checkrides, push through tough days, and eventually become a CFI at Thrust Flight. He talks about why slowing down matters, how chair flying can make a huge difference, what helped him get through plateaus, and what changed when he went from being a student to teaching others.
Ep. 104: He’s Not an Airline Pilot Yet… But Already Has Flight Benefits
In this episode of Pilots Say What, Zach talks with Wil Black about becoming an Envoy Cadet Instructor while still working as a CFI at Thrust Flight. One of the biggest surprises in the episode is that he already has flight benefits before even reaching the airlines. They break down how the Envoy cadet pathway works, what it means to build time as an instructor, how airline partnerships can help o
Ep. 103: He Quit His Corporate Job to Become a Pilot
In this episode of Pilots Say What, Travis shares how he left the corporate world and committed to becoming a pilot. He talks about what pushed him to finally make the change, what flight training was really like in the beginning, the setbacks he faced during private pilot training, and how those lessons helped shape his path from student to assistant chief pilot.
Ep. 102: He Spent $25,000 Just to Get His Medical
What happens when the path to becoming a pilot gets way harder than expected? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Zach talks with Mike, a Thrust Flight student who went from working as a pilot scheduler at American Airlines to pursuing flight training full time. Mike shares how a past DUI led to a brutal FAA medical process that took over two years and cost him around $25,000, why he still refuse
Ep. 101: Tips for Passing Your Private Pilot Rating
In this episode of Pilots Say What, we talk with Adrian, a student pilot at Thrust Flight who recently completed his Private Pilot License (PPL) and is now starting instrument training. Adrian’s aviation journey started on the maintenance side. After working as an A&P aircraft mechanic, he decided to pursue flying and eventually made the leap into full-time flight training. In this conversatio
Ep. 100: Career Advice from a Pilot Who Flew 38 Years at American Airlines
What does a 38-year career at American Airlines actually teach you about becoming a pilot? In this special 100th episode of Pilots Say What, we sit down with Bill Peterson, a retired American Airlines pilot who now mentors students and instructors at Thrust Flight. Bill shares insights from decades in aviation including airline hiring cycles, the realities of pilot lifestyle, how new pilots should
Ep. 99: Is It Too Late to Become a Pilot?
What does it actually look like to start flight training later than most students? In Episode 99 of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Tim — a newly minted CFI who made the decision to leave a stable tech career and pursue aviation full-time.
Ep. 98: From Business Degree to Airline Dreams
Ashley didn’t grow up planning to be a pilot. She was on track for a business and healthcare degree — until one discovery flight completely changed her life. In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Ashley shares what it’s really like transitioning from a Part 61 flight school to an accelerated Part 141 program, overcoming comparison, surviving commercial checkride pressure, and preparing for CFI trai
Ep. 97: Building an Aviation High School from Scratch
What if high school wasn’t just about checking boxes… but actually launching careers? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Scott Meehan, founder of Rising Aviation High School at Addison Airport. Scott shares how he built an aviation-focused high school from scratch — and why putting teenagers in real airplanes can be life-changing.
Ep. 96: Why I Walked Away From a 9-5 for Flight Training
Jordan shares her journey from college classrooms to the cockpit as she works through commercial pilot training. In this episode, we talk honestly about choosing aviation over a traditional 9–5, what flight training actually feels like as a new student, and the mental challenges that come with private, instrument, and commercial training. This episode is perfect for anyone considering flight train
Ep. 95: You Don’t Truly Understand Flying Until You Teach It
Most pilots think learning stops once you pass a checkride — but the real understanding often begins when you start teaching. In this video, we talk with a flight instructor about why becoming a CFI forces pilots to move beyond memorization and into true understanding. Teaching aviation concepts exposes gaps in knowledge, sharpens aeronautical decision making, and builds confidence in a way that f
Ep. 94: What It’s Really Like Interviewing for the Regionals
What is it really like interviewing for a regional airline once you hit 1,500 hours? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with a Thrust Flight CFI who recently crossed the 1,500-hour mark and started interviewing for the regionals. He breaks down the full process — from preparing your application and résumé to studying for the interview, managing nerves, and understanding what airlines
Ep. 93: From Delta Flight Attendant to Flight Instructor
We sit down with Casey Talbot, a flight instructor at Thrust Flight, to talk about her journey from working as a flight attendant at Delta to becoming a certified flight instructor. Casey shares what it was really like to leave a stable airline career, start flight training in her mid-30s, and commit fully to aviation while raising two kids. We dive into fear, motivation, study habits, Part 141 fl
Ep. 92: My Experience With a Deferred FAA Medical
Getting stuck in the FAA medical process is one of the most frustrating—and least talked about—parts of becoming a pilot. In this episode, Tyler shares what it was really like having his medical deferred, waiting nearly a year with no clear timeline, and pushing through the uncertainty without quitting. We talk about what happens when your paperwork is “just sitting in line,” how medical delays af
Ep. 91: When You Finally Trust Your Training
There’s a moment in flight training when things finally click—when you stop second-guessing and start trusting what you’ve been taught. In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Zach sits down with Austin, a flight instructor at Thrust Flight, to talk about how that confidence shift happens. They discuss the role instructors play in building trust, why first solo is such a turning point, how community
Ep. 90: From Zero Time to Assistant Chief
What does flight training really look like once the honeymoon phase is over? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Zane, who started flight training from zero time in January 2024 and quickly worked his way through the program to become a CFI and Assistant Chief Instructor. Since his last appearance on the podcast, Zane has gained a completely new perspective—one that goes far beyo
Ep. 89: Switching Careers to Become an Airline Pilot
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Zach sits down with Justin, a former mechanical engineer who spent years working in the oil field before making the leap into full-time, accelerated flight training. Justin shares what pushed him to change careers, how he navigated finances and family support, and what it’s like transitioning from Instrument to Commercial training in a fast-paced Part 141 envir
Ep. 88: Why He Changed Careers at 32 to Become a Pilot
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Sean — a former high school teacher and coach who completely changed careers at 32 to pursue aviation. Sean opens up about discovering flight training later in life, learning from scratch with no aviation background, navigating the financial and emotional challenges of switching careers, and balancing flight school with being a husband and fath
Ep. 87: The Mindset Every New Pilot Needs
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Tyler Brown, a Thrust Flight CFI whose path into flying wasn’t traditional — but it proves something every new pilot needs to hear: your mindset matters far more than having everything perfectly figured out.
Ep. 86: Flying Became the Key to His Success
Today on Pilots Say What? we sit down with Don to hear a pilot story with a totally different perspective — one that shows just how meaningful flying can be, even outside the traditional career path. Don shares how he got into aviation, what drew him to flying in the first place, and how owning and flying an aircraft opened doors in his life, helped him overcome huge travel challenges, and gave hi
Ep. 85: From CFI to C-17s: His Unexpected Journey
In today’s episode, we sit down with Nate — a pilot whose aviation path is one of the most unconventional we’ve ever featured. He started as a CFI, moved into the regional airlines, jumped into the Air Force Reserve flying C-17s, then returned to major airline flying… all while building Backseat Pilot, a training resource used by CFIs around the country.
Ep. 84: How Switching from Part 61 to 141 Helped Me Finish in Under a Year
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Caitlin, who started flight training under Part 61, stalled out at 80 hours, and then transformed her entire training journey after switching to Part 141. She became Thrust Flight’s very first Finish Line student — and went from stuck to fully rated (Private, Instrument, Commercial, CFI) in under a year.
Ep. 83: He Left Vet School to Become a Pilot
In this episode of Pilot’s Say What?, Austin shares his incredible journey from pursuing veterinary school to becoming a Certified Flight Instructor at Thrust Flight. He talks about how he made the leap into aviation, balancing family life during training, and what it’s like teaching the next generation of pilots. If you’ve ever thought about switching careers or wondered what it’s really like to
Ep. 82: The Industry’s Problem Is Your Opportunity
This week, we sit down with Jamail, the FAA’s Ambassador for Aviation and Space Education and founder of AviationStart.org, to talk about the growing aviation workforce crisis — and why it could actually be the opportunity of a lifetime for anyone considering a career in aviation. From pilot and mechanic shortages to ATC hiring surges, Jamail breaks down what’s really happening behind the numbers
Ep. 81: How Flight Training Shapes You as a Pilot
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we talk with a Thrust Flight student who’s progressed through instrument, commercial, and CFI training on his way to becoming an instructor. Matt shares how flight training has shaped him — from mastering new skills to building confidence and finding purpose in aviation. He also talks about the value of community, overcoming challenges, and what keeps him motiv
Ep.80: How He Turned Down College to Chase Aviation
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Drew to hear how he went from high school graduate to private pilot in just a few months. Drew opens up about nearly going to college instead of flight school, the moment he realized aviation was for him, and how learning to network completely changed his confidence.
Ep. 79: How an Exchange Program Led Her to Aviation
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Zach talks with a Thrust Flight student pilot who was born in Brazil and came to the U.S. through an exchange program—long before she ever thought about aviation. After her first flight at 21 years old, she realized she wanted to be in the cockpit, not just a passenger. Now she’s in Texas, working through her instrument rating and sharing how she discovered a p
Ep. 78: Quitting Tesla to Become a Pilot
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Ian, a former Tesla and Lucid Motors employee who left the car industry behind to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot. Ian shares his journey from being passionate about engines and design to making the leap into aviation. He talks about the spark that pushed him toward flight training, the challenges of financing and medical requirements, and
Ep. 77: How I Fought the FAA for My Medical
What happens when your dream of becoming a pilot almost ends before it begins? In this episode, Mac shares his journey from working at Lockheed Martin to pursuing flight training—despite a year-long struggle to get his FAA medical approved. Whether you’re curious about FAA medicals, exploring flight training, or just want to hear an inspiring story of perseverance, this conversation is packed with
Ep. 76: Balancing Flight Training & Operations
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with Kobe Evans, Operations Manager at Thrust Flight’s Denison campus, who’s not only helping run the school but also training to become a pilot himself. Kobe shares his unique perspective as both a student and leader in flight training. From the challenges of balancing long days of work and flying, to lessons learned about aviation medicals, connec
Ep. 75: Why I Chose Flight Training Instead of College
What makes someone choose flight school over college? In this episode of Pilot’s Say What?, Zach sits down with Jaxton, a recent high school graduate who decided to pursue aviation instead of a traditional degree. Jaxton shares his journey from taking a discovery flight to completing his multi-engine checkride, the challenges of accelerated training, and how Thrust Flight’s Zero Time to Airline pr
Ep. 74: The Future of Flight Training Explained by the CEO of a Flight School
What does the future of flight training really look like? In this episode of "Pilots Say What?", Thrust Flight CEO Patrick Arnzen shares his perspective on where pilot training is headed, the challenges schools face, and how innovation is reshaping aviation education. Whether you’re considering becoming a pilot, currently in training, or just curious about the industry’s future, this episode gives
Ep. 73: What Airline Pilots Don’t Tell You
Ever wondered what airline pilot life is really like behind the scenes? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with retired Captain Philip Stromer to uncover the highs and lows of an aviation career. From the excitement of getting hired to the burnout that comes later, Philip shares raw, unfiltered stories from decades in the cockpit.
Ep. 72: Why Loving Flying Matters More Than Salary
Is becoming a pilot really about the paycheck — or the passion? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, Gregory shares his journey from theater to aviation, and why he believes passion, not money, is the only way to survive flight training and succeed as a pilot. We dive into the challenges of private pilot training, strategies for avoiding burnout, and the mindset needed to truly enjoy the grind of
Ep. 71: Why I Switched Flight Schools & Finished Faster
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we talk with Nick about his journey from a long training delay at his first flight school to completing ratings faster through Thrust Flight’s Finish Line Program. Nick shares why he made the tough decision to switch schools, the challenges of transferring hours, and how our in-house check rides and accelerated training helped him move forward without losing mo
Ep. 70: Is It Too Late to Become a Pilot?
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, AJ shares his powerful story of walking away from flight training for two years—then risking everything to come back. From ministry to the cockpit, AJ talks through the fear, the finances, and the fire that never went away. We get into what it’s like to take out a huge loan, restart flight training after years off, and why he believes it’s never too late if you
Ep. 69: First Time at Oshkosh Changed Everything
What's it really like flying into the world's biggest aviation event for the first time? In this episode, Assistant Chief Flight Instructor Chisholm Brewer shares his first experience at Oshkosh — from landing at the legendary Fisk Arrival to representing Thrust Flight at our first-ever booth. He breaks down why Oshkosh is called the “Woodstock of Aviation,” what makes it so powerful for pilots, a
Ep. 68: Why I Left Part 61 Flight Training
Hayden started his flight training at a classic “mom-and-pop” flight school — but quickly realized he needed more structure, more support, and a faster path. In this episode, he shares why he switched to a Part 141 school, what the transition was like, and what he’s learned now that he’s instructing students making that same move.
Ep. 67: How This CFI Beat Imposter Syndrome and Nailed His Checkrides
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, CFI Ryan Whitaker returns to share what he’s learned since stepping into the right seat as an examiner. From the mental battles of imposter syndrome to the practical techniques for nailing a power-off 180, Ryan opens up about his growth, setbacks, and how he's preparing for the next big step in his aviation career.
Ep. 66: The Truth About Aviation Scholarships in 2025
This episode pulls back the curtain on how aviation scholarships really work in 2025. Guest Jamal Larkins has spent nearly two decades traveling the country connecting future pilots with financial opportunities—and he’s not sugarcoating anything.
Ep. 65: What’s It Really Like Being a CFI at Thrust?
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we welcome back Hayden Hayes—one of Thrust Flight’s own CFIs—for a real and raw conversation about what life is actually like as a flight instructor.Host Zach digs into how Hayden’s perspective has evolved since becoming a full-time CFI, what it’s like working with students daily, and the biggest technical and emotional challenges of the job. Whether you're a s
Ep. 64: Youngest CFI We've Ever Hired? Hamilton's Fast-Track Journey
Meet Hamilton Grant—one of the youngest Certified Flight Instructors at Thrust Flight. In this episode, Hamilton walks us through his accelerated path from high school to the right seat as a CFI. We talk about his time at Rising Aviation High School, how he got started at just 16, the challenges of commercial training, and what it’s like teaching students while still being early in his own career.
Ep. 63: Mastering CFI Training & Conquering Cross-Control Stalls
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with CFI Nick, who specializes in training new flight instructors. Nick shares powerful tips for student pilots and future CFIs, including how to overcome the challenges of cross-control stalls, switching to the right seat, and building confidence with complex maneuvers. We also explore the mindset and discipline needed to thrive in aviation. Whethe
Ep. 62: She Trained Here. Now She Teaches Here.
In this episode, we welcome back a familiar face — a former Thrust Flight student who appeared on one of our earliest podcast episodes. Now, she's returned as a Certified Flight Instructor. We talk about her journey from brand-new student pilot to full-fledged CFI, the challenges she faced along the way, and what it’s like being on the other side of the cockpit now.
Ep. 61: Kit Darby on the Future of Airline Hiring – Pilot Shortage in 2025?
In this special episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with aviation industry expert Kit Darby for a deep dive into the pilot shortage, airline hiring trends, and what 2025 could look like for aspiring and current pilots. Is the shortage still real? Are airlines still desperate to hire? What do pilot retirements mean for your future career? Kit brings decades of insight and data to help you unde
Ep. 60: How to Pass Your Stage Check and Be Checkride Ready
We sit down with a seasoned Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) whose primary role involves conducting stage checks. He shares invaluable insights into the stage check process, offering tips to help student pilots prepare effectively. From understanding common pitfalls to mastering the mindset needed for success, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating their flight training journey.
Ep. 59: They Just Finished Flight School
They started as student pilots and now they’ve finished flight school and are just days away from becoming certified flight instructors. In this episode, we sit down with 2 of our students to talk about their full journey through flight training, the highs and lows, what surprised them the most, and what it really takes to make it all the way to CFI.
Ep. 58: How to Become an Assistant Chief at a Flight School
Are you thinking about moving up the ranks from flight instructor to Assistant Chief? In this video, we break down exactly what it takes to earn the title of Assistant Chief at a flight school. From the responsibilities you’ll take on, to the leadership qualities schools look for, we’ll cover the path, the challenges, and why it matters. Whether you're a CFI looking to grow your aviation career or
Ep. 57: Examining Authority and What It's Like Training the Flight Instructors
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with one of our Assistant Chief CFIs to talk about what it really takes to become a successful Certified Flight Instructor—and what it means to have examining authority. From mentoring students to evaluating checkride readiness, this is a behind-the-scenes look at a leadership role in flight training.
Ep. 56: How to Choose the Best Path to Become a Pilot
We chat with a CFI about the different paths to becoming a pilot—college programs, Part 61, Part 141—and what might work best depending on your goals. It’s a down-to-earth conversation with practical tips for future pilots and current students alike.
Ep. 55: Meet the Student Pilot Who Drifts Cars
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with one of our students who's not only learning to fly—but also shreds tires as a professional drifter in his free time. We talk about the adrenaline of flying vs. drifting, what it's like balancing intense hobbies with flight training, and how high-speed focus carries over from the racetrack to the runway. This one’s a wild ride.
Ep. 54: What It Takes to Be an American Airlines Captain
In this episode, we sit down with a Navy veteran who went from flying jets for the military to becoming a captain at American Airlines. He shares what it was like transitioning from military to civilian flying, how his training carried over, and the advice he has for students looking to build a successful aviation career. Whether you're a student pilot or just curious about military-to-airline tra
Ep. 53: Secrets Airlines Won't Tell You: How Soft Skills Land Your Dream Job!
Most pilots focus on their technical skills, but the real secret to success in the airlines is something else—soft skills. From how you interact with flight attendants to the way you communicate with passengers, these skills can make or break your career. In this video, we break down why soft skills matter, how they impact your career, and what you can do to improve before you ever set foot in an
Ep. 52: The State of Aviation & Running a Flight School
One year of Pilots Say What?! In this special episode, we sit down with the VP of our flight school to discuss what it takes to run a successful flight school and the current state of the aviation industry. From student trends to hiring challenges, we cover what pilots need to know right now.
Ep. 51: What You Need to Know Before Your Checkride
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with an experienced Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) to discuss what you really need to know before your checkride. We cover the right mindset, what happens if you make a mistake, and how to set yourself up for success. Whether you're preparing for your first checkride or just want to understand the DPE perspective, this episode is packed with insigh
Ep. 50: How These Pilots Helped During an Electrical Failure
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we talk to two pilots who played a key role in helping an aircraft during a critical electrical failure emergency landing. While they were a small part of the story in the viral video, they share their side of the experience and shed light on how they helped the pilot in distress, working alongside ATC to get the plane safely back on the ground. This is a behin
Ep. 49: Which Flight School Is Right for You?
Choosing the right flight school is one of the biggest decisions future pilots face. In this episode, we sit down with a brand-new CFI who trained at one flight school and now teaches at another, giving him a unique perspective on different training environments. We talk about what students should look for in a flight school, the differences between fast-paced and more personalized programs, and h
Ep. 48: The Truth Behind Flight School and What to Really Expect
Flight training isn’t always what you expect. In this episode, we sit down with a student who just finished all of his ratings to talk about the realities of flight school. From the biggest roadblocks to what new students should prepare for, he shares his firsthand experience to help others on their journey. Whether you're just starting or already in training, this episode is packed with insights
Ep. 47: What You Need to Know Before Your Aviation Medical Exam
Getting your aviation medical exam can feel confusing, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, we sit down with an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) to answer the most common questions and clear up misconceptions about the medical certification process. Whether you're worried about past health conditions, unsure about disqualifications, or just want to know what to expect, this episode will help
Ep. 46: Swapping Seats: Learning to be a Certified Flight Instructor
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with a newly certified CFII to talk about his journey from student to instructor. He shares what it’s like to swap seats, the challenges and rewards of teaching, and why CFIs are such a critical part of aviation training. If you’re thinking about becoming an instructor or just want to hear about the experience of someone who’s been through it, this
Ep. 45: American Airlines Captain Answers Your Biggest Questions
Ever wondered what it's really like to be an airline captain? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, an American Airlines captain answers your biggest questions about airline life, career progression, and what it takes to succeed as a pilot. He also dives into the financial side of flight training—sharing insights on managing costs, handling student loan worries, and whether the investment in flight
Ep. 44: Should I Go to Flight School? Everything You Need to Know
Thinking about going to flight school but not sure if it's the right path for you? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we break down everything you need to know before making the decision. From the costs and training process to career opportunities and challenges, we cover it all. Whether you're just curious or seriously considering becoming a pilot, this episode will help you figure out if fligh
Ep. 43: College Flight Program or Fast-Track Flight School
Which path is better for aspiring pilots—a traditional 4-year college flight program or a fast-paced Part 141 flight school? In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we break down the pros and cons of both options, including cost, training speed, career opportunities, and overall experience. Whether you're trying to decide your next step or just curious about the differences, this episode has the insi
Ep. 42: Common Checkride Mistakes and How to Ace Your Checkride
Are you preparing for your checkride? This episode dives into the most common checkride mistakes students make and how to avoid them. Plus, we share tips to help you impress your examiner and pass with flying colors. From pre-checkride prep to in-flight tips, we've got you covered. Don’t miss these insights from experienced CFIs who’ve been in your shoes!
Ep. 41: Unpopular Opinion: Flying Private Jets Over Airlines
In Episode 41 of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with a CFI who shares his journey in aviation and his unique career aspirations. Unlike most CFIs who aim for the airlines, he has his sights set on flying private jets in the corporate aviation world. Tune in to hear his thoughts on the differences between corporate and airline careers, along with tips for aspiring pilots.
Ep. 40 : Uprooting Your Life for Flight School
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we dive into the inspiring journey of a career changer who left it all behind to pursue their dream of becoming a pilot. We discuss the challenges of transitioning into aviation, the sacrifices it takes, and the rewards that come with following your passion. If you’ve ever thought about starting over to chase your dreams, this episode is for you!
Ep. 39: Getting the Flight Hours You Need
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with an experienced CFI to talk about the journey to building flight hours and advancing in aviation. He shares insights into life as a CFI, tips for students and instructors, and strategies for reaching your aviation career goals. Whether you're just starting or working toward the airlines, this episode is full of practical advice to help you succe
Ep. 38: How a Flight Instructor Became an American Airlines First Officer
In this episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with a former Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) from our school who is now flying as a First Officer at American Airlines. He shares his inspiring journey from teaching students to landing a job at a major airline. Discover the steps he took to advance his career, his tips for aspiring airline pilots, and what life is like in the cockpit of a commer
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