Autopilot On Podcast

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...

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...

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...

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.

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...

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...

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...

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...

In this engaging conversation, Greg Kaley, writer of Coffee and Pretzels, 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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 abou...

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...

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...

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...

This is a raw, hard-hitting conversation, walking thru the highs and lows in the life of a pilot. In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, Vince shares his tumultuous journey through aviation, from his childhood dreams of flying to the challenges he faced in flight training and the commercial pilot industry. He discusses the realities of flying in the Skydive and Ag sector, the importance of safety and decision-making, and the evolving culture of aviation. Vince reflects on how becoming a father shifted his priorities and how the industry needs to address mental health for pilots. The conversation...

In this episode, our guest Tom shares his unique journey into aviation, detailing his transition from a fisheries technician to a professional pilot. He discusses the challenges he faced during flight training, including financial constraints. Tom emphasizes the importance of community connections in Alaska and how they shape the flying experience. He also highlights the significance of nutrition and health in maintaining performance as a pilot, as well as the challenges of managing fatigue in a demanding industry. The conversation explores the diverse paths within aviation and the personal choices that lead to fulfilling careers. We delve into the...

In this episode, Scott and John welcome Connor, a pilot who shares his journey through the challenges of furlough in the aviation industry. Connor discusses his background, the emotional impact of receiving a furlough notice, and the strategies he employed to navigate the job market during uncertain times. He highlights the differences between airline and corporate aviation, the importance of networking, and the changes in quality of life after transitioning to a new role. Connor offers valuable advice for those facing similar challenges, emphasizing the need to stay proactive and maintain connections in the industry.

In this episode, Scott and John discuss the current state of the airline industry, focusing on significant events such as leadership changes at Spirit Airlines, the merger between Mesa and Republic Airlines, and the challenges faced by Air Wisconsin. They explore the impact of economic conditions on airline operations, consumer sentiment, and the potential for future mergers in the low-cost carrier segment. The conversation highlights the complexities of the airline business and the importance of adapting to changing market dynamics.

Air Show episode referenced:

In this episode of the Autopilot On podcast, hosts Scott and John discuss their unique journeys in the aviation industry, highlighting the various paths pilots take to reach their goals. They delve into the realities of pilot training, the importance of networking, and the sacrifices required to succeed in the field. The conversation emphasizes the significance of teamwork and collaboration in aviation training, as well as the need for dedication and hard work to navigate the challenges of the industry. Listeners gain insights into the expectations of 121 training and the importance of understanding the realities of timeframes in aviation...