How I Achieved a Flying Goal that felt Insurmountable!
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- čas přidán 29. 12. 2023
- It initially seemed impossible, but I pulled it off, and I wanna help other aviators do the same!
I'll add / update info as it comes up for various #aviation opportunities here; for now, the following are some blurbs about the key players that were featured in this episode:
Dennis was the guy that really helped me get to the "next level" for almost all of my flying.
I have been working with him since ~2010.
It is fitting that his company is called "Next Level Flight Training" - learn more about working with him here:
www.nlft.ca/
Luke is my main aerobatic mentor and I’ve been working with him since ~2015.
Watch for more content #Flying and training with Luke soon!
www.harvsairinverted.com/
Jared can be blamed for my aerobatic addiction - my initial #flighttraining with him was in an Extra300 nearly ten years ago, and he's helped me work through a lot of key things since.
Here's what he had to say when I bounced the concept off of him while I was writing this episode:
"The precedent has been set time and time again that if you just put yourself out there, something cool will happen. I owe my entire aviation career to the people I’ve met who allowed those cool things to happen, and because of that I was able to open my own flight school that solo rents an Extra for the lowest possible cost I could make it. I wanted to give back and create a pathway for something that I wished existed when I was a kid."
To learn more, visit:
flygambit.com/
Jason Miller / the finer points is someone I followed via his blog and other socials since ~2007.
It blew my mind do do the mountain flying course with him in ~2015, and I've since started working with him to develop content for the Ground School app (it is a lot more than just ground school)
www.learnthefinerpoints.com/g...
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FLIGHT CHOPS DISCLAIMER:
I am a "weekend warrior" private pilot, I fly for fun with no intentions of going commercial. I have had my PPL for over 15 years, but still consider each flight a learning experience - I generally take detailed notes after each flight to remind myself what went well or what I could do to improve.... Having GoPro cameras to record flights like this is invaluable. I find these self analysis videos very helpful in my constant quest to improve, and am happy to share. Feedback is invited; however, please keep it positive.
Visit www.FlightChops.com/ for behind-the-scenes content, epic giveaways and to search episodes by aircraft type!
Steve, if you can restart the Flight Chops Experiences I think you should. It opened up my world and ignited a passion I didn't know I had. Luke has been the most valuable mentor to me over the last few years. I can't believe that was all the way back in 2019- so much has changed since. I would 100% disagree with that comment regarding the unrelatable experience in the T6...as your videos display the human element of aviation that is rare to find on social media these days. Every other aviation influencer out there glosses over the struggles, challenges, and difficult moments, but you take them in stride and show your audience what being a pilot ACTUALLY looks like, no matter what plane you're in.
-Your fan since 2018 :)
Thanks buddy! And congrats on all your success - it’s been awesome to watch you keep crushing it - and you beat me to competition flying! Well done!
Hi Steve. What is consistent with you, is that you always have your followers/the community at the heart of everything you do. It is appreciated. Keep it up.
I greatly appreciate this feedback, sir.
This! But also you @TheFlyingReporter. Aviation channels are some of the best examples of what CZcams is all about. Creators of all kinds can learn from you.
To both of you. THIS is the crossover episode the internet needs.
The flying reporter has flown warbirds with Anglian Flight Centre and needs to come visit Canada - and then you need to come try to navigate London’s insane airspace with him!
The commentary in this video goes way beyond aviation. It’s a conversation about how to approach life. 😎👍
I was just thinking this.
I met my inspiration when I was 13. Met the right people when I was 13, and was introduced off a grass runway in a champ in Southern Ontario. The Harvards out of Tillsonburg were in my face... And then I saw an RV4 and learned we can actually build our own dreams.
It's 27 years later, building a Sonerai in my garage (I'll be doing a build series on this channel) and I will be spending my 2nd summer flying with the Snowbirds this year, with plans to make it to Oshkosh...
Aviation has been amazing to me and all because I met the right people. But, I can tell you, aviation is full of the right people.
Eventually, I'll be able to pass it along when my plane is finished.
I remember the first video I saw that sparked my interest in pursuing aviation was one where someone with the initials M.G. was in a DC 3 flying to the D Day memorial in Europe. Your channel came to me through the algorithm and I've loved following on with your journey. My favorite Flight Chops content is the Atlantic crossing with the DA's. I'm in the career 2.0 group, and am considering moving to a career in aviation. I found a great instructor after one fell through, and I now have about 4 hours of flight time and one landing in the books! Colorado winter hasn't hit hard yet so I'm trying to get as much time in as I can. My goal right now is to finish my Private before summer. I am dreaming of the FL's and international flight. Most of all on my bucket list would be in the front seat of a DC3.
I can't wait to see what you share next!! Much gratitude 👏
Los Angeles area here. I'm fascinated and passionate about anything vintage aviation related. So, anything from a short intro flight to a full checkout in any kind of vintage plane is what I'm after. I have PPL with tail wheel, complex, and high performance endorsements. ALSO, I have a 1946 Aeronca Chief based at Van Nuys, CA, and I'm more than happy to give anyone a ride who wants to experience a 77 year old aircraft.
I've been flying as a licensed pilot for over 40 years - what you are saying is absolutely what I have tried to do. I have tried to do new ratings as BFR's, and I once did a BFR in a friend's P-51 - that was awesome! I love to fly tailwheel aircraft (I own an Aviat Husky - an excellent aircraft that is quite useful for just general flying). I am still learning...
The last few years have all been aimed at getting my PPL so I could spread my love for aviation with others, as you talk about in this video. I went back to school in my mid-thirties to change careers to finance it, did all the hard work, and now I'm stuck waiting for things to cost less because inflation killed my dream. Maybe once the girls are grown and on their own I can afford this hobby but for now videos like this inspire me to keep dreaming and holding on. One day I'd love to share my right seat with anyone less fortunate and help inspire that passion in others. Thanks for all the time, effort, and hard work that goes into your channel, Steve! You truly are an inspiration to others like myself who hope to one day be in the skies with you! (Sherbrooke, Qc, Canada - CYSC)
What an incredibly kind and generous offer. This is how to use today’s technology to apply leadership and change the world. Thank you!
This is the best aviation channel. My goal this year - to fly in the co-pilot seat in a turbo-prop or jet.
Hi Steve, I've been following you for years, the most memorable is when you took your friend who was not comfortable with flying, your concern and caring about her was very admiral. I've always wanted to fly, and get my license and you know in Canada it's way challenging. My dream plane to fly has always been the Spitfire, and crazy as it sounds the Yellow Piper Cub is the other. I've often thought that there should be some way pilots that are looking for company to flying with them... should be made available. An app of some kind.I've watched your progress it's been challenging for this non pilot to follow along. Totally enjoying your videos thanks for working so hard on them for us.
Hi ! Been following you from France for quite some time now, and can't express how happy I am that you can showcase how welcoming aviation is ;) through the people you meet and the experiences you share, we all aspire to be better pilots and to broaden our horizons ! I'm now flying in the Caribean, looking forward for challenging landings on short fields, and having in mind the wish to become a flight instructor some day (with night flying and IFR training before that). Blessings from Guadeloupe man
I have struggled with completing my private pilot license due to the pandemic, and now I’m back to pushing to get it done. Amazing opportunities and mentors along the way. Have continued to encourage me to keep moving.
Once completed, I want to fast track additional qualifications like tail and night, it is difficult to get a tail wheel accreditation in Ontario and I’m considering going out west with a few others to blitz that.
Thank you for all of the inspiration over the years and and the support of pilots everywhere , I have personally witnessed the large and small things that you do for literally thousands of aviators new and old. Your humility is inspiring.
I've had the pleasure of speaking with you during the last two Oskish's. We should be ready for our RV-14A first flight in March or April timeframe. I'm looking forward to flying the 14, but also learning how to do some basic aerobatics.
I liked your suggestions of using the BFR as an aviation bucklist. I got my SES at Jack Brown's seaplane last summer. I'd like to get my tailwheel endorsement for my next BFR.
Keep up the great video's!
Congratulations 🎉well deserved. Goals can be achieved with a lot of hard work and persistence.
You (and Jason Miller) are a big reason why I finally got my PPL in 2023. Really grateful that folks like you share what you do in such a well thought out and well presented way. My goal is to give back in the same way through sharing and help people understand what GA is all about and maybe inspire someone else to really dive into this world.
Steve, you and your channel have been so inspirational for me for many years. I remember watching you do takeoff and landings in Toronto way back, when you were first learning and remember thinking this guy is just across the boarder from me and look what he’s doing. Life delayed me, but I’m getting back to working on my PPL, however watching all the experiences you’ve shared has inspired me to do so much more. Tailwheel training and IFR will be next. I’m going to get involved at the Geneseo air museum because of your T6 training and someday a vacation trip to learn mountain flying is also in the bucket list. I’ve decided I want to build my own aircraft as my retirement job and I would love to someday find myself seated next to you flying in your RV. Thank you for everything you’ve done to inspire me, share your mistakes and successes, it’s made me realize that learning to fly isn’t perfect and mistakes are ok. I don’t know how far my journey will take me but know that you have had a huge impact for me over the years and I truly appreciate you. Have an amazing 2024, I can’t wait to see what the year brings you.
I got to do some pretty fun things when I was an active GA pilot 20 to 30 years ago, including dual instruction in a Harvard, aerobatic competition in a Pitts, ownership of a C-150 tailwheel conversion, and two trips to Oshkosh, all when the Internet was a novelty and my personal income was modest. There's still lots of opportunity out there for motivated people to do fun things in aviation, and it's good that you're showcasing some of them.
I've only taken a few flight lessons, maybe ten hours total. I haven't had the time, but I'm a big fan of aviation. I cannot relate to A LOT of what you're doing inside of airplanes, but the life lessons in resiliency, preparation, self-analysis, taking constructive feedback and doing something with it, taking non-constructive feedback and finding the nugget of gold in a pile of crap... All those lessons I take to heart in watching you. Looking forward to more content in 2024. Happy new year!
As someone who used to have their PPL, and as a fellow Southern Ontarian I have always loved your content Steve and this video stands out as one of my favorites. You nailed it on the head talking about achieving dreams is never as "impossible" as it seems and I think we all fall into that slump sometimes thinking things will never happen.
While my aviation goals have been put on the back burner for now I certainly like to think about starting a channel of my own and I definitely feel like you've put new wind in my sails.
Here's to a happy, healthy and high flying 2024! Thanks for many years of uplifting and educational content!
Thanks for this video! Been an aviation enthusiast my whole life. Both my grandfathers were Army Air core instructors in WW2. I think it’s in my blood. ❤ at 41, I’m finally financially in a position to start my PPL training. What I love so much about the aviation community is exactly what you describe in this video: pilots LOVE sharing experiences with people.
It's been great to watch your growth as a pilot. Thank you for sharing your journey with us!
I started my flying right around the time you also got back into it and started making your videos. Got my CPL, Group 1 IFR over the years and am now a weekend renter in the GTA when budget allows. In 2024 I hope to get some time in the right seat of a turbine or jet. What's kept me from knocking on doors with this goal is knowing I couldn't afford to split the fuel cost.
I look forward to seeing what's next for you in 2024!
Steve, very inspirational and so true. There are so many people out there that love to share the experience, but your attitude has to be one of the most exceptional. Saw you were at VBT this past week and can’t wait to see the results of the trip. PVT on my way to IMC.
Happy New Year Steve! Your channel is great and I've been watching it from when I started dreaming about getting back into flying after a long hiatus, through my flight review, night rating, multi-engine rating, and now soon my commercial.
2024 my goals are CPL flight test, aerobatic training, and my instructor rating...working on it now
Hi Steve. I started watching your channel when I was in the hospital for 6 weeks in 2022. I have always had a passion for flying. I remember looking up and watching planes when I was younger. I wanted to get license but at that time thought I was not good enough with math to be able to do it. Now at almost 63 I have been entertaining the idea of giving it a go. I have done some things in the last few years that I never thought I would be able to. I think learning to fly is one that is on my list again.
Happy New Year Steve! First off I live by this approach of naming the goal then forming the process; I appreciate seeing it applied to an activity as aspirational for many (Including myself) as Aviation. My big goal is I that I want to join the U.S. Navy to become an Aviator, and if lucky enough go to Test Pilot School. I finally have reached the point in life (I am 26) where I could afford to go to school and am very proud to say I have completed my first semester at the community college here in NYC with good marks working towards a degree in Mechanical Engineering. I saved/borrowed some money to work toward my PPL and am getting closer to a satisfactory point to take my checkride (~35 hours in), which leads into my more immediate goal of wanting to learn aerobatics afterward. I am extremely dedicated to this pursuit as I want to really understand the envelope of aircraft handling and maneuverability well to help with my future endeavors. I look forward to my opportunity in the future to both teach about and improve aircraft. Best of luck to everyone else and their goals and thank you for another awesome video!
"Through hardship to the stars"
Currently working towards my fATPL(A), In Poland. Nerves of steel needed and your journey keeps me going. Cheers mate!
I'm a student Marine Corps Jet pilot and I'm so glad I found your channel, I have learned a ton about aviation at large and I love flying
You are absolutely correct about not knowing what life will bring your way if you’re open to new experiences. Last year for work, I had the privilege of traveling to another country where I met some great people, learned how to ride a motorcycle, and had many other great experiences .
As far as aviation goes, I had the privilege of touring Netjets in Columbus about 16 years ago and have wanted to fly on a private jet ever since I had the experience of being able to sit in a few. This year, I am contemplating starting my private pilots license in GA if I can find a way to afford it with two young kids while working.
I am a 58 year old Marine engineer. This year I've committed to completing my PPL. A dream I've been chasing since I was 12 years old, when lied about my age to join Air Cadets. I live in British Columbia, but lined up my flight training this fall, 2024 at Harv's air (because of your videos). I'm trying to buy a Plane(a much harder thing to do than I ever thought) and I have no Idea how I'm going to pay for all this!
I want it all, aerobatics, off airport bush flying, cross country, and maybe my CPL.
You and others like you are a great inspiration. thank you for the content you post ,the honesty and humility you allow us to see along with the challenges you over come. You humanize the experience, and bring the aviation community into our homes. making it all , just a little less out of reach.
Thank you.
Steve, thanks for the video! I’ve started my instrument training and it’s challenging. It was reassuring to remember that you struggled on your instrument training on video…I’ll have to go check those videos out again.
Thanks and looking forward to 2024!
My goals: instrument, multi, commercial, CFI…the journey is the fun
You make alot of amazing videos. Many are amazing. This one in particular was Exceptional!! Thank you for the motivation…WOW!!!
Have enjoyed your show for years, sorry it took so long to say great job for your team and your awesome attitude!!
Your a teacher like it or not!😊 Thanks for providing fun content...good afternoon from Northern California
I’ve been watching your very inspiring channel for years. My goal was to become a competent tail wheel driver. Now I’m flying a Murphy biplane that I own with my CFI.. starting to think about some airbatic maneuvers…
Started watching back in the Super Cub/PA28 days and I was learning to fly gliders and couldn't afford to go any further.
Since then and a series of lucky and sometimes less lucky breaks got a PPL, built a load of tailwheeel time towing gliders, flown some cool stuff, met more awesome people. Now flying for a decent airline and long term goal vintage aeros/warbird stuff. Keep up the good work Steve, best wishes from the UK.
I took a pilot I'd met at the FBO for a ride in my Traveler. We land and as I'm talking about my experience on F-16's, being an A&P and wanting to build an RV8 he then shares he is my hangar neighbor and was an RV8 owner. Next thing I knew I'm hoping in his RV8 and we were doing aerobatics. Definitely solidified my desire to build one and I got a mentor with years of knowledge and experience to pass down. What we do is so special and it's a great injustice if we don't share it.
Steve, your channel was my 'gateway drug' into being in love with general aviation. I had done my Discovery Flight back in 2017 as the first step of getting my PPL, but I'm ashamed to admit that I haven't gone flying since (at least not on the front seat). The emotions I felt during my Discovery Flight is something I haven't forgotten, and I just need that extra push (and realistically, some $$$) to get my PPL and beyond.
And to stay on topic of this video, I would like to go all the way to earning a MEI rating. And to own and operate my own airplane. I've always had my eyes on a Cessna Skymaster. Some sights on the ground are best seen from the air, and a high-wing aircraft like the Skymaster would give me a great view (weather permitting). And to cut down a 10-hour road trip into a 3-hour journey (also weather permitting).
Steve, you are a legend. I am so glad that I have met you. And as you said, we all pay it forward. That is who we are as pilots. We just pay it forward. You are welcome in my right seat ANY TIME. Let's keep this going. We are all in this together. Promoting GA.
That is Awesome Bud, very proud of you!
Great initiative, Steve! I'm a PPL competition aerobatic pilot in New Zealand and attended my one and only AirVenture in 2013 (during a Govt Shutdown so no military hardware on display or Thunderbirds/Blue Angels in attendance). I've seen plenty of footage of both of those teams on CZcams but never seen them in person. As last year (2023) the National Air Races were being held in Reno for the last time, I made the effort to attend my first (and last Reno) but again, no Thunderbirds or Blue Angels. Following Reno I attended NATCA's Communication for Safety conference in 'Vegas (I'm an Air Traffic Controller by trade) on the way home and had the pleasure of meeting Richard McSpadden over dinner one night where he regaled me with stories from his time as the Boss of the Thunderbirds - a dream come true...almost...but a magical night none the less! We spoke about him coming out to NZ to do some flying and speaking engagements but, tragically, Richard lost his life the very next weekend. Anyway, I digress...
My goal for the "unobtainable" aviation experience would be to land at Oshkosh during AirVenture...not that difficult I hear you say...but I'd love to do it in a Thunderbirds F16! I bet we can't make that happen!
Love your content and the honest presentation of your journey thru GA...keep it coming!
Happy New Year!
Looks like you’ve got some great stuff going on! Lots to unpack with your thoughts - agreed it was super tragic to loose Richard. I think your goal to land at AirVenture is attainable, but I’m pretty sure a big limiting factor to being onboard a Thunderbird is that they have a policy to only fly with U.S. citizens (I think).
CZcams Influencers like you are the reason I got current again after 12 years. I always had a love of flight and not the resources like time. Now money is the one thing that keeps me from flying as much as I want BUT I do fly and I have shared with some who had never been in a single GA aircraft. My current goal is to get my instrument rating. At 66 years old I find my ability to remember is causing me to really push hard on the written but it is information that interests me so its not boring. Since you asked us to tell you where we are, I am on the coast of North Carolina just above the South Carolina state line. One of my unforgettable experiences is getting to fly to KFFA (First Flight) with my middle son.
Thanks again for your videos!!
Steve
Thank you for doing what you do!
I am the guy that sent the crazy postage for the free FC sticker a few years back.
😆
I would love to get connected with someone in the Denver Colorado area that I could tag along with on flights. I do not have the time or funds to pursue my ppl at the moment, but it is a goal of mine over the next 5-10 years. Thank you for your love of aviation, and desire to share it!
Awesome video, Chops! Totally agree...there are so many amazing people in aviation who want to share their joy. This is what this is all about. My goal in 2024 is place top 5 in NA in the unlimited category. Won't be easy, but to Lukes point, if it doesn't scare you what's the point :)
Thanks for the inspiration Steve, and here's to a lot more aviation awesomeness in 2024!
I'm currently a CFI located in the Fresno, CA area with about 2 or 3 months left before I leave for the airlines... I would absolutely love the chance to get my tailwheel endorsement and do some aerobatic flying (even just one flight, although I'm sure it won't stop there) before I leave. I guess I'll start knocking on some doors, see what I can make work!
Just the boost I needed for 2024! Thank you!
Great motivation, long time viewer, first time comment, hello from South Australia!
I am fascinated by electric aviation, sailplanes such as the new AS 33 Me, the experimental Electric Xenos and Pipistrel Velis Electro. I would also love to be able to winch launch our club sailplanes with electric power, after all, we have lots of sunshine which we could use instead of a petrol powered V8!
Steve I'm an RC pilot and YT'er. I LOVE your channel. You inspire so many of us. My flying techniques in RC have been improved greatly by watching your channel and applying some of the full scale techniques you and your guests have shared.
You've got to be one of the most genuine folks in the online content creator space, especially in the aviation world. I'm lucky enough to fly for work, but now have the 2024 goal to fly the first airplane that interested me - a Chipmunk! My grandpa and I built rubberband-powered balsa models when I was a kid, and the first one we built was a Guillow's Chipmunk, and I've loved 'em ever since. Your initial training in the yellowbirds world caught my eye, and that hooked me on your channel. I hope 2024 is an amazing year for your and yours, and thanks for all you do in the aviation arena!
👊👍appreciated!
I can't recall the first of your videos that I watched, but I believe it predates your tailwheel endorsement. Watching you struggle with the Instrument Rating while I struggled also, inspired me to keep at it. So, good on you for making content that inspires in addition to entertains. Thank you!
Have been enjoying your videos for a long time. I hope you have a great 2024!
I’ve got 3 aviation goals I’m chasing. Instrument I’m working on these days and will be done. Flying from Quebec/Labrador across the arctic over to the Yukon would be something I would love to do and was something I said I wanted to do when I got my license almost 20 years ago - but still haven’t checked off. Next up would be time in the log book flying a jet. One day hopefully!
In the spirit of what you’ve asked: I want to add the Multi/IFR ratings to my CPL, retire from my current day job and fly an air ambulance/medevac aircraft. I’m 63, so I may never make Captain of that PC12 or Beech 1900, but I would have achieved something in aviation that I never thought possible…and frankly I could happily fly right seat in a meaningful aviation job until my Class 1 medical fails.
I’m a huge believer in the truth: that having a gift only has value when you can share it. I am an aircraft owner, and there’s nothing better than having someone hop in even for a jaunt around Niagara Falls (which is the best way to see them…)
Love this: "having a gift only has value when you can share it."
Hey Steve you sure have done a lot of cool flying. I’ve always wanted to get my private. Done some flying but everything seems so hard - from costs, to overcoming fear etc. thanks for inspiring us to keep trying
I’m rarely one to leave comments, but I found this video and the replies really inspiring. I got my PPL a while back and had to take quite a bit of time off for graduate school, but have just come back to flying in the past month. My goal for 2024 is to figure out how to fly consistently but on a relatively tight budget, and potentially take a mountain flying course or backcountry flying course.
But I got into flying because my dream has always been to fly fighters. For many reasons my life took a different course, but getting anywhere close to being able to fly in a fighter jet would be absolutely surreal.
Thanks again for this video!
Steve, thank you for all of your work and sharing the authenticity of your journey. I do video work as well and can only imagine the amount of time that goes into each episode.
This is excellent advice about knocking on doors. We have to stop letting our minds get in the way. The Universe will support us if we just show up; take it one step at a time, and follow our heart.
Earlier this year I showed up at Spectrum Airways with barely enough gas money for my motorcycle, let alone getting my pilot's license. However, I asked them if they need video work done and they said yes! I'm helping them with videos for their Flight School as I go through their programs! How cool is that!? I've seen some of your stickers there. So, hopefully one day I'll get the chance to meet you and maybe even do a ride along! I'd love to pick your brain about your filming and editing process.
One of my aviation goals is to create a Jet Aerobatic Display Team!
Thank you once again for all you do. The first video I saw of yours was about 2 years ago and it inspired me to keep going when I was at one of my lowests points. Your content has continued to be an excellent learning resource, especially the past few months once I really started watching them!
Keep up the amazing work Brother!!!
Chops, thank you for all the years of inspiring content.
I’m an Instrument rated pilot, currently in a club based in the Hartford, CT area and have several aviation goals for 2024 and beyond:
1) Get involved with club aircraft maintenance. That means changing oil, tires, bulbs, all the way to sourcing and assisting with avionics upgrades for our fleet.
2) Fly sole PIC to Canada. I got my first taste with int’l GA flight on a weekend trip with club members to Quebec City and it was a blast! The most experienced pilot took the lead on all the paperwork, but it’s less daunting than I expected. I look forward to taking the lead with friends on a future trip in the spring.
Stretch goals:
* Fly south to First Flight airport in Kitty Hawk, NC.
* Fly to Baja California with a group (blame SocalFlyingMonkey’s excellent video for that dream!)
* Fly to Oshkosh with an experienced crew
* Earn my tailwheel and CPL ratings
A good pilot is always learning, and I aim to never stop!
Awesome!
Thanks for the motivation. I started my IFR training in Oct 2023 and my goal will be to complete in prior to July 2024. I’ve had to work around some obstacles and I’m sure other obstacles will arise, but I will continue to work towards my goal
Blue skies,
David
Flying offers so many opportunities for having the adventure of your life. Got my PPL when I was 20 years old. Always rented planes. Six years ago I decided to buy my first airplane, a Vans RV-8. I had a rusty 20 year old tailwheel endorsement in a Citabria. Over the course of 3 weeks I bought the RV-8 in TX, redid my tailwheel endorsement at 7,000 ft DA in Colorado, flew back to TX to complete a week of transition training, then flew my RV-8 over 1,000 miles across the deserts of west TX and NM back to Colorado. For awhile there I thought maybe I'd bitten off more than I could chew. I now fly my RV all over the western USA. So happy I did it.
I helped my wife’s cousin buck some rivets on his RV8-A, and it was a really cool experience to fly in it over Vancouver BC after it was finished. A baby fighter plane for the masses.
For me every flight is something I never thought possible. As a kid I was told I could never be a pilot and only discovered during covid I could qualify for a class 2 medical. I was watching people like yourself, flying in the flight sim, long before I got air born.
I've also adopted a similar mindset to this. At the start of the year I'd set myself a list of flying things I wanted to achieve, and while the weather didn't allow a number of them, it was a great motivation, and the remaining ones will join next years list with some new options. You've given me some more inspiration to dream a little bigger and further out now so thank you.
From my viewing perspective, i started watching you BECAUSE of the almost unreachable flying, seaplanes, stearman, aerobatic, warbird, im here for all of it haha if all i had was watching landing videos of taylorcrafts id have a woefully short search list haha you keep it very fresh and interesting, and make me realize there is more to reach for, no matter what you attain, keep it up please
Thanks for this feedback - it’s appreciated 👊
Chops! Long Time dude! Inspire brother and Happy New Year!!
Love you Steve! I needed this one.
Thanks Josh - Glad I could help! 👊
This was a very interesting video. Back in the 90's I could relate to a lot of it as I was in a community that was providing me with some very cool opportunities and have always wondered where I'd be if I had stayed down there instead of following a girl to DFW. I am excited for you feeling the call to spread the joy and to see where that leads you. I am ending 2023 with some pretty horrible and palpable anxiety as I think that the thing I've wanted most for the last 10 years is going to be pretty much dead to me now. I have been fighting that with thoughts of flying my Cheetah more, though. I've got a long list of people that have never been in a small plane and want to experience it. Not to mention flying with my pilot niece (she already has more hours than me!) and the other niece working on her pilot's license. Yep, it is flying therapy time and the plane is fresh out of annual baby! Good luck up there brother and thanks for an uplifting video.
Great video Steve. I am blessed to have ended up with a pretty awesome warbird career myself and when people ask how to get involved - "you just gotta show up." Then keep showing up, while making the effort to set youself up with the qualifications warbird operators are looking for so that when the opportunity happens you will be ready. "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity."
Good stuff
Awesome video - I just finished my PPL at the end of 2022 and I’ve been trying to figure out “what’s next” for my license. I’m based on Vancouver Island so I’d love to start learning floats and (eventually) start doing some backcountry stuff on my way to CPL.
Loving the videos - keep it up!
Steve, I’ve been following you since I got my PPL back in 2016.
Since then I’ve done my night rating, mountain check and VFR OTT.
I haven’t been able to fly as much for the last few years, but I want to get back into it and do my tail wheel and/or float training. Maybe even acrobatics!
Thank you for the great content and stay frosty!
Steve, thank you for creating the amazing content for everyone and bringing awareness to different aspects of flying. My story begins with going to Waterloo Wellington (Breslau) with my grandfather as a very young boy. We would get a toasted western sandwich and watch the planes together. I got to sit in various planes and helicopters in those days. He passed away when I was 9 but the aviation bug had bitten. Fast forward to now at 35 I still don't have a PPL. I have been fortunate enough over the years to fly in a Cub Special on floats, J4, Champ, Bonanza, RV7, 172 as a volunteer with CASARA (London), Griffon helicopter (also CASARA), Harvard flight (gift from wife). I need a kick in the butt to help focus on getting my PPL and being able to come up with activities to include my young family while spending the time needed for aviation.
Thank you.
Catching up on comment replies here - great stuff - update us on that PPL journey!
I'm with you Steve on the Biennial, I've always managed to book something I haven't flown before. For 2024 I'd like to go over to the dark side and try my hand at flying a helicopter.
Loved the video, Steve. It did get me thinking. I love Luke's quote as well. This year is going to be some intro aerobatics and actually experience a spin. They have always made me nervous. I know there is a school running out of the Burlington Air Park. Will let you know once that happens and whether I need the bag ;-). Keep posting and Happy New Year!
@FlightChops, hey Steve, it been pretty incredible to follow along with your journey from the cub to now. One thing i can say for me when it comes to avation is how intimidating it is to put yourself out there even for the basic stuff like PPL. The airport feels like such a no nonsense place and when you walk up to ask, "hey who should i talk to?" Man, i just feel like shuch an impostor for even being there. And yes, i know, almost everyone in avation is super kind and welcoming but it still feels like a barrier to entry. I know its kept me away.
No doubt it can feel intimidating, and you WILL sometimes run into people that are not welcoming, but don’t let that deter you.
Truly inspirational.
Hi Steve - Thanks for the channel! I have gotten a Huge amount out of it and I appreciate greatly your willingness to put your journey out there for people to join in and go along on. Responding to your challenge - I want to earn my Instrument Rating (I live in Michigan and our weather almost mandates an IR! haha!) and I would like to build an RV of my own. I have done a small bit of aerobatics and while that’s not something I see myself competing in, the possibility of doing some barrel rolls or a loop once in a while has a certain attraction. Thanks for all the great content, you are a learning resource and an inspiration! Happy New Year and Safe Flying!
I moved to a new (much more expensive) city in CA that has made it a lot harder for me to afford casual flying that I started doing, and absolutely loved, after getting my PPL in 2021. My goal is simple: figure out how to get flying regularly again and get motivated to make it happen despite any obstacles in my way.
Once I accomplish that, I want to work through my 'learning wishlist' starting with a tailwheel endorsement and seaplane rating. My absolute dream would be to get my helicopter PPL.
Since early 2019, you have been an encouragement in my return to flying (after a 38 year hiatus because life and adult responsibilities happened). I had considered building an RV14a, but after some serious thought and discussions with my wife, I decided that I was more interested in flying than building. I am flying again (loving every minute of it) and am now the proud owner of a beautiful PA24-250. To answer the challenge you make in the video, I want to earn my instrument rating this year.
Hey Steve, Great video as always. I have always said that aviation is truly what you make of it. I put myself out there and had an amazing time, great experiences, met fantastic experiences.
If you ever have a seat open the the RV leaving CZBA please let me know!
Steve, thanks for all the valuable content. Not simply for the information and inspiration but you embody the best part of aviation; the community. There’s simply nothing like it.
I’m about to embark on career 3.0 pursuing my life long passion (obsession) w aviation. I’ll be attending a flight school in AZ full time w the goal of obtaining my ratings in the next 12-15 months.
My ultimate goal is to fly heavy jets (91/135) internationally. I’m always seeking out great mentors so if anyone in this community wants to connect I certainly welcome that.
I love all the great comments here… everyone has a dream to pursue under this amazing, shared experience called aviation. This group is so inspiring… keep going for it! 💪
This goes way beyond aviation. thanks
I'm with you, keep trying new things, always learning. Got my private at 60, plan now is to have my CFI when I retire so I can teach a few days a week. Currently doing tailwheel training then there will be spin, aerobatic training and a seaplane endorsement. :)
Hey Steve, I’ve been watching your channel from nearly the start. It inspired me to get into flying and now I’ve completed my CPL and group 1 IFR and am looking for my first job.
One thing I’d absolutely love to do in aviation is to do my float rating and fly a Beaver. I’d also love to fly a WW1 replica aircraft one day.
Hope you and the family have a happy new year!
Thanks for all of the great videos. I've been watching a long time. My goals in 2024 include, becoming an owner, fly to Oshkosh, and as much cross country as possible. I currently have a prebuy being done... so I'm close at this point. After that's finished, begin my pursuit of an Instrument rating, perhaps in 2025 (or sooner). Hi from Calgary, appreciate the channel very much.
Current goals - firstly complete my tailwheel conversion, hopefully by the end of next summer, then fly a Spitfire (it'll only be the once, as it's so expensive). Secondly, do a lot more adventure flying. Third, have some time in a floatplane. USA or Canada would be awesome, but realistically, it'll be in Scotland. Thanks for being an inspiration and a catalyst Steve! Happy New Year to you and yours!
I'm an Airline Pilot new to the Waterloo area. Stretch goal is flying a Warbird for public discovery rides. Could be Jet or prop... Spent a day w the Waterloo Warbirds already, But just getting my feet wet right now ;)
I hope one day I can get my PPL here in Canada. Right now I have some other things that need my focus and resources, but if I can do this before my 50s that would be nice! 34 now, so I still have some time to work it out.
Thans for this inspiring video. Always great content! Happy New Year!
Repeating myself I think but, Steve - it's amazing how much you have achieved - dedication, perseverance and all to raise the bar incredibly. That prop damage was sickening... can just imagine. Wish I was way younger and wealthy enough to be able to try and emulate your abilities. Proud of you . :)
Happy New Year and much great flying.
Right on - thanks Chris!
Fantastic video, Steve - I am super proud of everything you've done. When I reached out to you all those years ago it was basically the same process.. I thought "there's no way this dude from CZcams would come out here and fly with little ol' me", but I put it out there. The only reason why I was able to fly with you was from putting myself out there when I had nothing, and the people I was working around took some risks and gave me some chances. I firmly believe that you get out what you put into aviation, as the age old adage goes - luck favors the prepared. Can't wait to fly with you again soon in the next crazy thing. :)
I have been following your channel for years by now ( think your first video that I've seen was the unexpected IMC debrief), and even though I was hooked for aviation my whole life by flight simming and subsequently becoming an aerospace engineer, your channel had a significant part in my decision to pursue my PPL, which I got september last year :D.
Getting caught up in replies here - thanks for being a long time viewer and congrats on your current progress!
Bro!
This video is KEY for me!
Thanx much
Non-PPL. Aspiring. 👊
Hi Steve, I’ve been watching your videos since the VFR to IMC situation, and while I am a simulator pilot based in Hong Kong (logged so many hours in p3D). I’m currently unable to find a adequate and affordable ppl flight school with the endorsements I would like (multi-engine, IFR). But… I would love it if you or someone could help find something in the area that I could do to have an introductory flight. But once again, I love the inspiration that you have for the flying community and learning a lot. Keep doing what you do!
First-time airplane owner, never thought that would happen. A little overwhelming. Really want to get my IFR rating this year. Thanks, Steve for the motivation, great work.
Thanks, Steve. Really, I totally believe in the door to open if knocked, but really to me, the commitment to knock, over every day commitment to just make living, is the hardest part for me. I live next to the airport in Denver, and there is a lot of fun flying to be had, but keep hesitating to start my IFR training, because the commitment for training is daunting.
Steven when you’re not in trouble is also good 😂. You’re getting a good name for your self. I like the “can we” idea 😊 Thanks for sharing your experience 😎
How inspiring Steve!!!Thank you!!! Whatch this space!!!😊
You got it!
Hi Steve, I always try and offer the right hand seat to people. Most recently I took a friend flying who had heard me bang on about it enough...you know how it is somebody asks you about aviation and sometimes its hard to stop talking about it. We'd been airborne for about 30 minutes or so and I had just started letting down over the coast for a bit of sight seeing, when she turned to me and said "I can see now why you do this".
I don't know what goal to set flying wise for 2024 other than I might make it to scotland this year (weather has thwarted previous attempts).
I love how your channel has moved forward from those early videos and I have to say that those early tailwheel videos removed some of the preceived mistique of tailwheel flying for me.
if you are ever in the UK it would be an honor to have you in the RHS of my Condor; G-AYFC.
Thanks for the great video. This year I have to finally do the IR. And maybe a video series about my training process.
What a fantastic video! I feel inspired to comment.
Currently working on my PPL in Victoria, BC. Im not exactly sure what aviation holds for me in the future, but i hope to do some flying here in the coastal mountain... i foresee a tail wheel endorsement, and float rating.
If i ever get my CPL, then i would like to fly super caravans or twin otters for skydivers. Ill keep that on the back burner until i build more time though. Dreams for the future!
What an inspiring video @flightchops. Thank you. My goal is (and always has been) to fly a P-51 Mustang solo. I know that's a long shot for anyone who isn't a millionaire or wasn't born into the warbird world, but that doesn't make it less of a dream. And I don't mean to simply fly with an instructor; I want to be in a position where I can be trusted with a warbird by myself. Who knows....maybe it'll happen someday.
Hi Steve, I have been watching your videos since the beginning. Thank you for producing such cool and inspiring aviation content. I would like start my PPL, and one day fly a DHC-2 beaver.
I have been saving up for the cost flight school. But with costs skyrocketing not sure when this will happen. Hopefully one day. Hope to see you again at Oshkosh 2024.
Following your prompt:
Earlier this year I quit my job and I finished my CPL as well as my Multi-IFR as I had set out to do last year.
Next steps would be ideally to fly boxes in the Canadian Arctic somewhere, and/or fly in something that floats or skis.
Thanks for all the inspiration over the years, and it's your videos that helped me push further than I thought I would go.
I simply want to start the journey into flying. From the first video of yours I said I want to experience this and just need to find a way that somehow fits into everything else going on!
Encouragement and fist bumps accepted. Goal for 2024 is to remove the rust from my wings. 11 years since I've been PIC, need to complete re-training to become as or more proficient than I was 20 years ago. Proficient, not just pass the check rides. Great content as always Steve.
Hi Steve, although I rarely write comments I've been here pretty much since the very beginning, I found your nervous flyer/wake turbulence video when I was in the final stages of my flight training. It's kinda hard to believe how much time has passed and how much has happened since, I've thoroughly enjoyed watching your channel grow and your flying career progress along the way. I remember that one of your ultimate goals was to one day fly a Spitfire just like your Grandpa did, is that still something you're working towards?
I wish you all the best for 2024 and many happy landings!