21.FIVE - Professional Pilots Podcast

Brooks Pettit of Vaerus Jet Sales joins Dylan and Max to break down what is really happening in the business aircraft market. For professional pilots and flight departments, he covers tight inventory, strong demand, financing, tax-driven transactions, and why planning ahead matters. They also get into Challenger 3500 delivery positions, bonus depreciation, tariffs, AI-driven market research, and the realities of buying and selling aircraft in a fast-moving market. Listen in for a practical look at the transaction side of business aviation, then subscribe for more conversations from the cockpit and the flight department. Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:15 August Market Update & Inventory

14:53 New vs Used

20:53 New Airplane Deliveries

24:34 Interest Rates & Tariffs

28:06 Coaching: Airplane Transaction Scenario

35:51 Using AI in Sales

44:19 Brooks' Musings

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max checks in from a musty Missouri hotel while earning his Light Sport Repairman certificate, and the guys detour through GA maintenance, Starbase, RTA wizardry, and the ongoing decline of 123.45 as a social network. Mailbag covers Sugar Alpha, Qantas' ultra-long-haul A350 plans, where Spirit's pilots and traffic may have landed, and whether 21.Five needs a Discord server. In Flight Advice, Dylan and Max tackle the stereotype that pilots are destined to cheat—and how couples can build trust, recognize real red flags, and keep the hotel-bar lifestyle from becoming a relationship MEL.

Mentioned in this episode:

Land or Go Around: https://www.instagram.com/land_or_go_around/

Temu-style quadcopter video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUkvDe0x47A&t=15s

Husk.irl AI troll account: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577492686970

Show Notes

0:00 Intro & AMP Training

12:16 Networking In The Sky

17:22 Max's Musings: Overnights in Harlingen

21:53 News: Allegiant Contracts & Ebola

24:11 Listener Reviews & Comments

28:29 Mailbag

43:03 Flight Advice: Cheating Stigma

57:36 Temu Quadcopter?!?

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Rob Zettel joins Dylan and Max to tell the story of flying MiG-21s and MiG-23s with the USAF's secretive Red Eagles under the Constant Peg program. For professional pilots, it's a fascinating look at training, aircraft handling, risk management, and what happens when experienced aviators are handed an airplane with no two-seat trainer and no simulator. Rob gets into fighting frontline U.S. fighters in the MiG-21, taking the MiG-23 to Mach 2.35, handling a serious hydraulic failure, and later trading Cold War fighters for a career at United and the 757. Listen and subscribe for more conversations with the pilots who have some truly ridiculous logbook entries.

Check out Rob's book on his website

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:10 Who Were The Red Eagles?

6:48 Acquiring MiGs & Flying Solo

30:59 MiG-21 vs MiG-23

39:24 Maintenance & Overhaul

44:02 Airplane Design & Flying Aggressor

57:48 The Good And The Better

1:05:49 Glory Days & Fun Stories

1:10:39 Writing the Book

1:17:11 Post Air Force Career

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max gets wrecked by a closed mariscos truck, discovers there are still 727 flight engineers in the wild, and goes full test-pilot mode in his Cub after finding Bush Air's backcountry training content. In the Mailbag, we hear about expat pilot furloughs at Cathay, the French art of la bise, Allegiant's bridge agreement, and a couple of excellent Oshkosh run-ins. Flight Advice tackles how a military/airline pilot with basically no GA background should ease into tailwheels, backcountry flying, airplane ownership, instruction, and the local GA community without making a very expensive first mistake.

Bush Air / CC Pocock's Youtube Channel

Show Notes

0:00 Intro & Olympic Tickets

7:12 Max's Musings: 727, Stalling, & More

18:20 Dylan's Depictions: High ISA Takeoff

22:36 Listener Reviews & Comments

28:37 Mailbag: Kisses & Oshkosh

45:08 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

James Onieal of Raven Careers returns to break down the current pilot hiring market across the majors, regionals, cargo operators, fractionals, and cadet programs. He explains why hiring remains competitive, why ATP-CTP is becoming a practical minimum for first jet jobs, and why changing lanes can sometimes leave pilots farther behind. The crew also digs into NetJets, Flexjet, FedEx, Alaska-Hawaiian, low-time networking, and the danger of grinding for flight time without a realistic payoff. Listen and subscribe for a candid look at building a professional flying career without turning yourself into logbook dust. Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. Show Notes

0:00 Intro & Oshkosh

6:00 Cadet Programs & Decision Making

14:45 High Level Hiring Overview

20:58 Alaska Hawaiian

25:02 FedEx

28:13 Flexjet

36:19 Fractionals, Regionals, Majors

41:52 Burned out, what next?

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max return from aggressively vacationing with biplane rides, glacier dog sledding, Telluride approaches, and a real single-engine checkride landing at Prescott. They break down United's unusual diversion into Luke Air Force Base, swap diversion war stories, and question whether anyone actually wants a 24-hour Qantas flight. The Mailbag covers Skybus, a Harvey Watt-powered ultramarathon, and more listener follow-ups. Flight Advice tackles whether a new dad should stay in a Part 135 Citation job building turbine PIC or jump to a regional—and the verdict is to stay put for now. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:32 Max's Musings: Aviation Vacation

10:46 Aviation News: Luke Air Force Base Diversion

26:04 New Airbus A350 & Oshkosh

35:02 FAA Announcements

37:49 Reviews

40:46 Mailbag

44:27 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dr. Chris Broyhill returns to talk AirComp Calculator data, pilot compensation trends, and why business aviation leadership still needs some recurrent training. For professional pilots and aviation managers, this one matters because the market is moving faster than the standard "here's your 3% raise" corporate playbook. Dylan, Max, and Chris get into G500/G600 pay, contract rates, compensation survey safe-harbor rules, and the new Business Aviation Book: Leading Operational Excellence. Listen, subscribe, and maybe read the methodology section before walking into your next comp meeting. Click here to learn more about the Air Comp Calculator

Click here to learn more about The Business Aviation Book: Leading Operational Excellence

You can find Dr Broyhill's Podcast The Flight Department Show here

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:08 AirComp Calculator

9:22 Salary Survey

19:44 Compensation Trends & Weights

33:13 The Business Aviation Book

39:54 Writing About Leadership

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Summer scheduling chaos is in full swing as Dylan and Max talk vacation bidding wizardry, Teterboro's RNAV to Runway 1, NDB war stories, New York hotel-room misery, and a suspiciously affectionate airline lobby ritual. In the Mailbag, they tackle foreign pilots at U.S. carriers, terrifying hotel van rides, AI app-building tools, and a listener plea to stop stepping on each other's punchlines. For Flight Advice, they answer a 300-hour CFI wondering how to build an interesting aviation career while still protecting family life, QOL, and future seniority. TankerBot AI in Business Aviation LinkedIn Group Show Notes

0:00 Intro & Pagers

4:59 Vacation Slide

8:53 New RNAV Approach

15:02 Max's Musings & Kissing Conundrum

23:25 Carbon Cub Jacket

26:35 News: 737 Production

31:40 Reviews & Comments

33:57 Mailbag

44:06 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max talk Alaska dreams, Southwest's new nonstop to Anchorage, lake lodge podcast fantasies, and Max's brave decision to bypass the discounted Marriott burger for Yemeni cuisine. In the Mailbag, listener Elijah checks in with a unique path back into aviation after the Air Force and a decade away from flying. For Flight Advice, the guys break down why using the GI Bill for PC-12 initial training, single-engine ATP currency, and an Alaska 135 strategy might actually be a no-brainer. Also: meta glasses, janky gravel strips, and potential tax treatment for baklava. TankerBot - Try out the beta version of the Dylan's Tankering Calculator! NewYorkTurk - NYC Food Reviews Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:55 Max's Musings: Sitting Reserve

15:21 MD-11: PSE vs SSI

27:35 Airports & Tangents

32:37 Special Announcement: Tankering Calculator

35:25 Spirit Comments

41:59 Comments & Reviews

55:16 AI & Mailbag

1:09:35 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Timothy P. Pope joins Dylan and Max to talk through the financial side of Spirit's shutdown and what professional pilots can learn from it. For airline and bizav pilots, the big takeaway is simple but not always fun: stabilize first, optimize later. The crew digs into emergency funds, burn rate, 401(k) rollovers, IRA traps, benefits, life insurance, and why raiding retirement money is usually the nuclear option you try very hard to avoid. Listen, subscribe, and maybe give your emergency fund a little love.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:25 Building An Emergency Fund

6:46 Benefits of Brokerage Account

10:24 IRA & Other Options

16:17 Mental Aspects & Discipline

25:04 Loss of Benefits

30:11 Updates & Final Thoughts

Our Sponsors

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max kick things off with DoubleTree cookie restraint, San Diego seafood, 40-plus Vegas strategy, DJ juice, and the emerging menace of the commuter life vest. In the Mailbag, listeners bring dumpster-diving charter pilot stories, bankruptcy bassoon suggestions, skydiving-adjacent book recommendations, and a heavy airline-industry "what if" about another major demand shock. Dylan also recaps his first Atlantic crossing in years, complete with CPDLC confusion, Gander relief, and some unpaid product shoutouts. Flight Advice tackles whether a 36-year-old Caravan pilot with a young family should protect quality of life or make the jump toward 121 and start building seniority. Firefly Blood Flow Device Juice recipie: 1 cucumber, 2 bags of spinach, 1 ginger root, 1 air tight bag of beets (2 large beets - pre-cooked & soft), 2 pints pineapple chunks, 1 bag of kale, 1 lemon (juice only half the lemon),Add several dash cayenne and cinnamon. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:42 Max's Musings: Hilton & DJs

15:18 Dylan's Atlantic Crossing

21:04 Shoutouts

24:44 Reviews & Comments

32:00 Mailbag

42:52 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

James Onieal from Raven Career Development joins Dylan and Max to unpack Spirit Airlines' wind down and what it means for Spirit pilots, regional pilots, CFIs, and anyone trying to move up the aviation ladder. The conversation gets into why experience alone will not carry you through an interview, especially when 2,000-ish highly qualified pilots suddenly enter the market. James breaks down logbooks, PRD files, recommendation strategy, corporate aviation, oil-price uncertainty, and why "preferential interview" does not mean "automatic job."

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:28 Initial Spirit Observations

11:23 Factors of Job Impacts

14:49 Comfortability Traps & Preparation

25:19 Letters of Recommendation

32:43 Bigger Scale Change

44:57 Looking To The Future

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max recaps a wild GA camping trip involving gale-force winds and a midnight arboreal emergency, while Dylan discusses the "superpower" of vibe-coding your own aviation tools with AI . The Mailbag tackles the dilemma of choosing between a quick class date with a restrictive five-year contract or waiting for a better "wholly owned" offer . Finally, Flight Advice addresses a contract pilot who is being ghosted on $10,000 worth of invoices and expenses . The 2025 FAA Pilot Statistics Are Out — And Nobody's Talking About This - Seth Lake Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:24 Max's Musings: Flights & Camping

23:13 Pilot Numbers, FAA, & AI Coding

30:10 Reviews

31:39 Mailbag

42:06 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max sit down with Kyle Freiberger and Mike Sferrazza from First Class Leaders to bridge the gap between technical proficiency and effective aviation leadership . This episode explores why traditional CRM often fails to address the human element and how pilots at any rank can cultivate influence through self-awareness and emotional intelligence . The guys dive into the "Take the Lead" framework, the DISC behavioral tool, and the critical shift from defending your intentions to owning your impact on the crew . Learn more about First Class Leaders Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:11 Starting First Class Leaders

6:04 Dealing With Conflict

13:37 Program Offerings

24:24 Mindset Shift

31:02 Unique Circumstances

35:46 Pilot Personalities

55:22 Next Steps & Final Thoughts

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

This week Dylan and Max kick things off with Atlantic Bucks, the new IRS reporting threshold, and a spirited rant about airport parking, employee lots, and the endless misery of hotel vans. In the mailbag, they dig into helicopter careers, the real risk-versus-reward tradeoffs, and what that path looks like compared with airplanes. Flight Advice gets into career strategy for a maintenance pro trying to break into flying and a young regional FO deciding between staying put, jumping to 135, or chasing a bigger airplane. It's part career counseling, part curbside therapy, and very much a professional pilot problem. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:02 Breaking News: IRS Changes

9:09 The System Strikes Back: Parking

21:43 News Musings

26:25 Reviews & Comments

27:54 Flight Advice-y Mailbag

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Juan Browne of the blancolirio YouTube channel joins Dylan and Max to talk about how he breaks down aviation accidents and incidents in near real time. For professional pilots, it's a sharp discussion on separating facts from opinion, finding teachable moments, and managing the gap before the NTSB final report arrives. They get into ADS-B, ATC audio, comment-section corrections, GA repeat offenders like VFR into IMC and loss of control, plus a few backcountry Husky war stories.

Check out the Juan Browne's Blancolirio channel on YouTube

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:00 How It Started

9:10 The Process of Making a Video

18:56 The Unlikely Answer

21:45 Recurring Accidents

26:57 Reading Comments

30:35 Dragging Wingtip Story

35:25 Final Thoughts

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Why is Max recording at night, and why does every aviation headline lately feel like another runway-incursion autopsy? This episode covers TSA chaos at Sky Harbor, a rough New York accident discussion, eVTOL optimism, and Max's descent into experimental-airplane condition inspection misery. In the Mailbag, the guys debate NBAA landing-distance math, hear a loud call to bring back listener stories, and defend Max's musings like true professionals. In Flight Advice, they tackle a brutal career question: keep three years of United seniority and commute, or risk starting over at Delta for a shot at living in base. Joby Aviation's Electric Skies Tour: San Francisco Bay

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

This week Dylan and Max dig into the recent Challenger 650 accident in Bangor and the very real pressure corporate crews can feel when winter ops get sporty. In the Mailbag, they hit union negotiations, whether helicopter flying is actually a smart career pivot, a truly elite ripped-pants-in-cruise story, and a listener correction on landing the Osprey. For Flight Advice, they tackle a big mid-career question: if you had to start over in your late 40s, is a fractional the better move than going back to the bottom of an airline seniority list? It's safety soapbox, career therapy, and just enough chaos to keep things on brand.

Juan Brown Bangor Crash Video

Air India Phuket Hard Landing Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:56 Challenger 650 Crash & Deicing

26:26 Getting Too Comfortable

31:08 Pilot News & Musings

40:23 Reviews & Comments

43:52 Mailbag

1:04:01 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dan Boedigheimer from Advanced Aircrew Academy joins Dylan and Max to break down why wrong-airport and wrong-surface landings still happen, and what professional pilots can do to stay ahead of them. For Part 91 and bizav crews especially, it's a practical discussion on building better habits when nobody is spoon-feeding you the safety data. They get into visual approach traps, pilot monitoring duties, stabilized approach discipline, workload, fatigue, and what actually makes recurrent safety training stick. Listen in, then subscribe so you don't end up chasing the bright shiny airport like an amateur.

Check out Advanced Aircrew Academy

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

1:29 Landing at the Wrong Airport

7:18 Mitigation Strategy

14:07 When Do They Realize?

23:24 Continuing Education

36:35 Upcoming Events

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max are joined by James Onieal (Raven Careers) for Episode 200, covering everything from conferences and networking to cadet programs, cargo hiring, and fractional life. They also dig into the latest conflict in the Middle East and what rising oil prices could mean for airline pilots—from hiring pressure and route economics to the broader ripple effects across the industry. The conversation gets into why pathway programs can be helpful, but also how debt-heavy options can limit your flexibility when the market turns. Add in pipeline patrol as real CRM-building time, a healthy dose of uncertainty, and the usual Episode 200 live-show chaos. Connect with James Onieal Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:08 Hiring, Furloughs, and CFI

24:15 James Question Extravaganza

1:01:16 Listener Questions

1:10:26 Special Guests

1:17:02 Max Almost Crashed

1:24:31 Final Questions & Thoughts

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max sit down with Aaron, Software Architect at Airplane Manager, to talk business aviation ops tech and where AI is headed. If you're running lean (two pilots, one tail, no dispatcher), this is the roadmap for reducing busywork without losing operational control. They dig into integrations, offline trip tools, and why "apps" might just become background APIs. Listen in and subscribe for more pilot-to-pilot ops talk. Check out the software Dylan and Max both use to run their departments: Airplane Manager Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:01 Airplane Manager Overview

11:07 App, AI, and Security

21:08 Flight Operations Efficiency

36:18 Evolving Best Practices with Tech

49:39 Final Thoughts

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max recap a jet-lagged Japan ski mission, widebody travel wins and fails, and the realities of surviving brutal time zone changes. In the Mailbag, they dig into Saab war stories, Autoland edge cases, NBAA training standards, airline-branded watches, and career wins from listeners making the jump into jets. The Flight Advice segment centers on a sobering accident discussion and the risks of slipping from airline discipline into lightly regulated operations. As always, it's equal parts technical insight, hard-earned perspective, and questionable footwear choices.

Southwest Airlines Breitling Interest Form

Dave's Cosmic Subs

TimeShifter Jet Lag App

Show Notes

0:00 Intro & Travel Updates

9:23 Restaurant Dilemma

17:46 Gulfstream SVS Flier & Clawdbot

27:59 NTSB Report Update

37:52 Reviews & Comments

41:45 Mailbag

1:00:19 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Late-night musings from Dylan and Max: corrections on "newest airports," a touchdown-point math fix, and Max's Cub antics after an oil change—including a surprise landing on BLM dirt near Lake Pleasant. Then: the inaugural JSX ATR into Scottsdale, a Japan trip preview, a wild "Gleaming the Cube" airport intro, Jepp AMM taxi chart nerd-out, ForeFlight layoff chatter, and Airplane Manager's new AI. The mailbag brings career moves, SOP love, a real-world bird strike at rotation, and finally: Flight Advice from a pilot spouse (Marie) asking what "stay flexible" really means when you've got kids, a career, and possible commuting in the future. Episode 71 What's it like to be Married to a Pilot and Raise a Family Gleaming the Cube movie Show Notes

0:00 Intro

6:46 Max's Cub & Musings

18:29 AMM Charts & ForeFlight Layoff

21:47 Reviews & Comments

24:14 Mailbag

35:15 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Financial planner Timothy P. Pope of 360 Aviation Advisors returns to break down 2026 retirement updates that matter to pro pilots. From new Roth catch-up rules to Southwest's bold move on NEC contributions, he digs into the real tax impacts for airline crews. Bonus: comparisons across the majors, advice for CFI's just starting out, and a hangar office update. Listen in and get smarter about your money. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:23 What's New: Retirement Considerations

13:26 Southwest Airlines & Carrier Benefits

32:28 Retirement For Younger Pilots

35:29 Financial Planning for Younger Pilots

44:35 Practice Updates: Tax Prep

48:01 Pilots Portfolio Podcast & Final Thoughts

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

San Diego continues its reign as the busiest single-runway "how is this legal?" airport, plus we nerd out on new terminals, recurrent training wins, and a Challenger sim surprise when Dylan's seat decided to yeet itself at ~90 knots. In the Mailbag, we hit ferry flying as a niche career path, a home-buying reality check from Diamond Dog Tim Pope (mortgage recasts, baby), and a training-center SOP rant that's painfully relatable. We also kick off the 2026 ops-manual push with the "latest touchdown point" concept and how to actually mark it on ForeFlight without fat-fingering your zoom. Flight Advice closes with a CFI weighing a pay-your-own 737 type rating in Dubai (plus a non-pro-rated five-year contract) vs staying stateside and waiting out hiring—spoiler: lots of red flags and lots of "talk to expats first." Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:56 Max's Musings: Airport Design

15:11 Allegiant to Acquire Sun Country

24:28 Dylan's Recurrent Training

33:14 Small Flight Department Counseling Session

44:25 NBAA Opps Manual Integration

56:16 Rolex GMTs vs 21Five Watch

1:07:08 Reviews & Comments

1:16:34 Mailbag

1:36:24 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

First show of 2026: we talk Garmin Autoland in a King Air and why internet speculation is the fastest way to sound like a jabroni. We also hit the chaos of international ops (Mexico permits/APIS pain) and tease the Chicago Layover Guide dropping soon. In the Mailbag: Coeur d'Alene layover intel, a legendary lav story, Pilot Pete confusion gets cleaned up, airline-switching "sunk cost" drama, and surviving an unhinged sim instructor. Flight Advice is a big one: a 2,000-hr pilot with a baby inbound weighs staying in a single-pilot piston twin 135 gig vs taking a King Air 200 EMS job (and whether a regional/fractional move makes more sense). Luggage Review Series Show Notes

0:00 Intro

4:02 Musings: Training & Self-Landing Planes

28:03 Other Incidents

50:55 Caribbean Airspace Shutdown

56:07 Reviews

1:01:15 Mailbag

1:24:21 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

James Onieal from Raven Career Development returns to break down what pilot hiring is shaping up to look like in 2026. We dig into majors, regionals, corporate paths, and why movement can feel slow right up until it suddenly isn't. From CFI logjams to corporate and furlough realities, this episode is all about timing, strategy, and expectations. Subscribe and listen to stay ahead of the hiring curve. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Click here to learn more. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

4:15 Big 3 in 2026

11:52 Rejection Rates

15:23 Cadet Program Pipeline

26:08 Corporate Pilot Q&A

32:32 Regional FO Q&A

40:46 CJO or More Interviews

48:50 No Legacy Offers After Furlough?

59:29 Retirement Gameplan

59:29 GED & Education

1:20:20 Final Thoughts

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

This episode introduces the new NBAA Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Manual and why it's a big deal for business aviation. Dylan and Max are joined by Brian Small of FlightSafety International and Tim Schoenauer of CAE to explain how the manual was developed, who it's for, and how operators can actually use it—not just shelf it. They break down the regulatory intent, training implications, and where this fits into real-world Part 91 and 135 operations. If you've ever wondered what "good SOPs" are supposed to look like, this is the starting point.

Download the New NBAA SOP Manual Manual (no login required, just share contact information)

Connect with Tim Schoenauer in LinkedIn

Connect with Brian Small on LinkedIn

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

1:46 The Start of Standardization

14:59 What's an SOP Guide?

19:08 Benefits of Standardization

32:04 Already Have an SOP?

34:36 Phasing into Training

43:19 Recommendations Going Forward

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max kick off this PM edition with holiday-on-the-road war stories: Cowboys Thanksgiving trips, O'Hare blizzards, Vegas taxi laps, and that deranged border tether balloon that literally broke loose over Sierra Vista. The mailbag hits everything from FlightSafety's Master Aviator modules and Shorts 360 island hopping, to 50-something career-changers, disc golf and pickleball layover hacks, and using tools like Notebook LM without getting your manuals on the evening news. In Flight Advice, a 19-year-old CFII in Auburn asks whether to bail on instructing for a full-time A36 Bonanza gig in Destin, and the guys break down real-world 91 experience vs. multi-time and keeping your long-term 135/121 options open. If you're grinding through holidays, fatigue, politics, and career FOMO, this one will feel uncomfortably familiar. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

5:01 Holiday Stories & GA

18:37 Reviews

30:01 Mailbag

41:37 Flight Advice

50:29 Holiday Bidding

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan recaps his brutal post-"ATC meltdown" commute and rants about the GA ban at 12 major airports while Max counters with cub flying and Chicago layover tips (including a dangerously spicy El Chingón). In the mailbag, listeners call the guys out for drifting toward aspiring-pilot advice, recommend MU-2 and airline YouTube channels, drop a credit-card points hack for flight training, and share how they commute to FedEx in their own airplane. Flight Advice closes the show with a regional FO at a United feeder wrestling with whether to jump to a GoJet direct-entry captain gig that requires a 1,600-hour PIC commitment and a $75K training payback. Dylan and Max dig into seniority, family life, and why "outside-the-cockpit" experience might beat another line of RJ PIC on your app.

Caverns of Cracklemore young adult's book Dylan's BIL wrote

Layover Guide homepage

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

4:05 Miserable Week

18:04 Cub & Chicago

33:39 Reviews & Comments

38:40 Mailbag

1:14:48 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dr. Chris Broyhill returns to break down the latest Air Comp Calculator data and what it means for 2025 pilot compensation. Dylan and Max dig into the trends, the slowdown in wage growth, and how bizav departments are navigating post-COVID market corrections. They also talk negotiation strategy, job titles that actually matter, and Broyhill's new 600-page industry textbook, The Business Aviation Book: Leading Operational Excellence. Finally, they wrap up the episode with a discussion on the Go/No Go specialty course Dr. Broyhill used to teach at a large training center.

Check out aircompcalculator.com and chrisbroyhillbooks.com for more.

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:41 Q4 Marketplace

12:47 Buying & Using Reports

22:35 Seniority & Qualifications

34:14 Business Aviation Book

40:58 Go, No Go Course

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max kicks off his annual training rant—breaking down the highs, lows, and downright absurd moments of recurrent at "the training center." Dylan adds perspective on flight training efficiency and why a great instructor makes all the difference. The mailbag delivers everything from a new layover guide in Portsmouth to a 14-year-old aircraft dealer to a Marine pilot navigating a tricky transition to the airlines, plus a Learjet Pilot with a 1 hour call-out seeks guidance. In Flight Advice, a hard-working pilot is stalled out waiting for the industry to start moving again. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

5:42 Annual Training Rant

28:00 Watches & Shoes

34:13 The Cub & Random Thoughts

54:12 Reviews & Comments

55:13 AI Music & Mailbag

1:38:57 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Tim Pope, CFP® and founder of 360 Aviation Advisors, joins Dylan and Max to talk about how pilots can make smarter financial moves—on and off the line. From variable pay to early retirement and crashpad cash flow, Tim breaks down what makes pilot finances uniquely tricky and how to stay ahead of turbulence. The crew also dives into taxes, scheduling volatility, and the "golden handcuff" problem in today's airline contracts. Tune in for real-world money talk that every professional pilot should hear before their next recurrent.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:45 360 Aviation Advisors

6:04 End-Of-Year To-Do

14:46 Income, 529s, Roth IRAs

21:48 Super Saver vs Super Spender

49:18 Pilot's Portfolio

Our Sponsors

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

We kick off with Southwest red-eye shenanigans, hot/high GA drama departing PRC in a 150, and Max's backcountry "mesa strip" adventure (with hard data from the STOL-mate). The Mailbag is full: 2,500-hour 135 pilots debating regionals, cockpit sun-shade gear, commuting to MEM in your own A36, first flights post-PPL, time-building without a CFI, and making that first 91/135 SIC→PIC jump. Flight Advice tackles the big one: take a regional CJO now or accept a 135 upgrade for immediate PIC while a baby's on the way — we weigh time-to-legacy, family timing, and logbook strategy. Show Notes

0:00 Intro & Storytime

22:03 MU2 & Neck Pillows

26:51 Layover Guide Overhaul

30:04 Reviews

37:50 Mailbag

59:49 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Colin and Mara'D—both airline FOs and cast members from The Rehearsal—join Max and Dylan to dissect the tricky dynamics of speaking up in the right seat. Why is it so hard, and what makes it easier? The crew digs into SOP gaps, CRM training, real-world examples like Asiana 214, and the subtle art of being a chameleon in the cockpit. Plus: bizav vs. 121 culture, and how personality plays a bigger role than you think.

Connect with Colin on Instagram

Connect with Mara'D on Instagram

Check out Season 2 of The Rehearsal to watch Mara'D (episode 2) and Colin (episode 4)

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:15 Speaking Up

13:00 Getting Involved in the Show

17:41 Wings of Voice & Training

30:56 Considering Personality

41:19 Flying with the Same People

47:05 Final Thoughts & Reflections

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan opens from an echo chamber (literally) and the guys kick around first impressions of Gulfstream's newly announced G300 versus the G280—windows, avionics, "longest cabin," and whether depreciation and warranty keep the new-metal carousel spinning. Mailbag hits everything from those mysterious skid marks on SNA 20R and whether an RJ type helps more than becoming a check instructor, to Phoenix haboobs, GA commuting from the islands, and a listener swag request. Flight Advice: a 40-year-old "late bloomer" with 1,600 TT/500 multi weighs fractionals vs. regionals; Dylan and Max lay out a strategy heavy on networking, patience, and targeted moves. Plus: disc golf as the stealth layover hack and a quick ode to SAN's shiny new terminal vibes. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:34 G300 Thoughts & Musings

27:26 Reviews

30:08 Mailbag

45:14 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Benjamin Bailey (@flybenfly) joins Max and Dylan for an honest, hilarious deep dive into aviation's influencer world, airline interview faceplants, and the realism gap on pilot social media. For professional pilots, this episode cuts through the curated BS to talk timing, authenticity, and bouncing back after setbacks. From CRM failures to career detours, Ben brings the real talk with a dose of humor. Hit play and subscribe for the stories you're not getting on your For You page.

Follow Ben on Instagram @flybenfly

Ben's WWII Aircraft Engine Youtube Channel @flightdojo

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:29 Upgrading to Captain

9:45 It's All Timing

13:56 The Interview Gauntlet

31:24 Pilot Career Stories

48:38 YouTube Deep Dive

56:38 Spirit Story

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max rants about St. Louis still acting like it's O'Hare, but enjoys the accomodations. The mailbag covers creative GA commuting strategies and whether backcountry camping flights belong on a professional resume. Ted calls in on his drive home from the airport to share some bidding tips. Flight Advice closes with a skydiver pilot wondering if it's time to trade jumpers for smokejumpers with the USFS—and what that career path really looks like. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

5:19 Max's Musings

13:24 Reviews & Comments

16:40 Mailbag

31:18 Straight Talk with Ted

45:41 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

A listener asks the question every pro pilot eventually faces: should you stay put and try to fix what's broken in your flight department, or cut bait and move on? Dylan and Max bring in Jenny Showalter and Jim Lara to explore the real-world tradeoffs. From career coaching to leadership insights, they share what to weigh before pulling the ripcord—or digging in to make change happen. It's candid talk about loyalty, burnout, and how to navigate tough calls in business aviation.

To contact Jenny Showalter, visit showalter.com

To contact Jim Lara, visit graystoneadvisors.com

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2: 23 Unprofessional Operations

14:59 Structure, Culture, Excellence

28:01 Plan B

33:38 Investigation Red Flags

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max returns from the Idaho backcountry with a Cub full of stories—starter failures, in-flight repairs, surprise rafting, wildlife rescues, and nearly becoming the emergency contact for a hiker with a head injury. This standalone episode is a wild tale of aviation adventure, mechanical mayhem, and resourceful fixes. No mailbag or flight advice this time—just pure story time from the sticks. Strap in and enjoy the highs (and literal downdrafts) of off-the-grid bush flying. Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:35 The Adventure Begins…

14:41 Darkness Falls

28:47 Heading Out

40:36 TL;DR Highs and Lows

Our Sponsors

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more.

The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact

Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates).

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max sit down with James Onieal of Raven Careers for a wide-ranging industry update. James breaks down the latest pilot hiring trends across legacies, regionals, and corporate operators—and why networking still beats any resume hack. From CFIs grinding to 1,500 hours to regionals debating upgrade timing, to cadet program uncertainties and the "pilot leverage index," this episode maps out what the next 12 months could look like. Tune in for sharp insights and some laughs along the way—your jumpseat briefing on the state of pilot careers.

Get in touch with James Onieal

Show Notes

0:00 Intro & Oshkosh

5:54 Hiring Increasing

22:51 Aircraft Accident Outcomes

29:06 Rapid Fire Questions

48:10 Career Coaching & AI

1:04:38 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max connect from hotel rooms across the West, with Max prepping for his Cub camping trip to Idaho and Dylan testing out foam ear tips for his ProFlight headset (link in the show notes). In the Mailbag, listeners weigh in on commuting trade-offs, a gear-down hydraulic improvisation involving bottled water, and flying under Bravo airspace with "raw dog radios." Flight Advice tackles a business aviation bait-and-switch: hard days off evaporating into 24/7 on-call duty. The hosts dig into leverage, contracts, and how to sniff out a toxic flight department.

Comply 400 Foam tips for Bose Proflight

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:34 CPDLC & Sh!t Landings

11:58 Many Musings

15:46 Gear Review: Bose ProFlight Headset

20:55 Upcoming Education

25:07 Reviews & Comments

28:07 Mailbag

45:51 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Corporate pilot (and MrBeast 100-day jet winner) Armando Carrion jumps in to unpack the ops behind living on a Hawker 800 for 100 straight days—no devices, no Netflix, just Part 91 brainpower and a lot of extension cords. We get into air-to-air formation over SoCal and the Grand Canyon (yep, with a Bonanza), CRM, and why Armando turned down the "double-or-nothing" 100-day extension. We also talk post-win realities: maintenance bills, management, and why the airplane is probably headed to a new owner. Follow Armando at @flyajc

Watch Armando's Mr. Beast Challenge

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:27 Preparing for the Video

12:41 Tech & Logistics

31:21 Physical & Mental Challenges

36:21 Cleanliness

42:15 Flight & Food

54:11 Consequences of Winning

1:09:01 Final Thoughts

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

This week, Dylan and Max talk Oshkosh FOMO, a rogue taxiway takeoff, and some serious Midwestern rental car struggles. Mailbag highlights a listener mapping out his aviation career path and asking if it's possible to fly both corporate and airline gigs at once (spoiler: not easy). Flight Advice tackles how to best spend $8K of National Guard tuition money—seaplane rating, CFI, backcountry flying, or something else entirely? Plus, Starlink outages and the return of our favorite sunshade gear review. The Killing Zone Book Pilot Armor Sunshades Show Notes

0:00 Intro & Oshkosh

9:41 Musings: Flights & Tolerance

19:18 Starlink

23:08 Reviews

25:45 Mailbag

44:19 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max sweats through fence repairs in 110 °F while plotting an Idaho back-country Super Cub adventure, and Dylan tries (unsuccessfully) to review a "dad-grade" sun-hoodie. In the Mailbag we read spicy reviews, debate the sanity of commuting, and swap credit-card hacks for pilots living on per-diem. Flight-Advice gets heavyweight help from James Onieal of Raven Careers, who steers a listener through the mine-field of a United Flight-Ops internship vs. PC-12 135 gig vs. aerial-survey multi-time. Plus: Reginald stops by for a quick check-in, and Dylan still owes half the world 21-Five stickers.

Mr Beast Survive 100 Days Trapped In A Private Jet, Keep It video

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

3:36 Max's Musings

17:09 Reviews

19:50 Mailbag

38:13 Flight Advice

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max walks into a 737 cockpit guarded by a five-inch hula girl and promptly invents the "Shakira Scale" for bumps in flight . Listener mailbag hits everything from the best starter credit card for flight instructors to whether a degree really matters and if paying $5 K for ATP-CTP is smart when you're 49 and eyeing the next hiring wave . In Flight Advice, a military helo pilot with only ten working years left asks whether to chase a major or ride the fractional lifestyle . Plus: back-country flower bombs, 37-hour B-2 runs, and a polite plea to stop yelling at the intro.

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

10:08 Reginald Sage Returns: EASA Single Pilot

11:24 Max's Musings

15:38 B-2 Bomber

19:33 Reviews and Comments

24:05 Mailbag

37:46 Fight Advice

Be sure to subscribe to 21Five's Youtube Channel to see our luggage review videos!

Connect with us on LinkedIn

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

WWII & Vietnam combat pilot Col. Richard "Dick" Bushong takes us from 155-knot B-17 climbs to Mach 2.1 in the F-4, describing 28 hairy missions, dead-reckoning nav, and sheet-metal patch art. He's 102, still volunteers every Thursday at Tucson's 390th Memorial Museum, and wrote My Wars to capture the stories. Grab a coffee, tighten your formation, and hear a masterclass in staying alive—plus the morale-crushing day HQ "prorated" his tour. Four engines, two out, no brakes? No problem.

Learn more about the 390th Memorial Museum in Tucson, AZ

Check out Col. Bushong's book My Wars

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

6:00 Getting Into Aviation

16:50 390th Bomb Group

28:53 Missions and Formations

39:10 Logistics

44:33 Closest Call

Be sure to subscribe to 21Five's Youtube Channel to see our luggage review videos!

Connect with us on LinkedIn

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max are recording from hotel rooms across the country and catching up after some time off. They kick things off with a deep dive into aviation YouTube, comparing backcountry flying with ferrying retired Airbuses from Asia. In the mailbag, they respond to listeners with questions about juggling a corporate flying gig while working for a major airline, updates from a newly minted high school grad CFI, and a debate on whether you need to report vacating altitudes during "descend via" clearances. Flight Advice wraps the episode with tips for a low-time pilot who just landed a chief pilot role flying a TBM.

Sunscreen recs: Sky and Sol | Freaks of Nature

Caspian Sea Monster Ekranoplan Flight Video

Homework: Watch The Rehearsal: Season 2

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

4:41 Max's Musings: LRD, Reggie, YouTube & TV

23:20 Reviews

24:43 Mailbag: Nate Update & More

47:21 Flight Advice: Great Opportunity, Low Experience

Be sure to subscribe to 21Five's Youtube Channel to see our luggage review videos!

Connect with us on LinkedIn

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Dylan and Max are joined (again) by everyone's favorite multi-hyphenate pilot, Seth Lake. This time, he walks them through the process of reinstating their expired CFI certificates—turns out it's not as terrifying as they thought. From FOIs to ACS, Seth breaks it down like a DPE Jedi. If you've let your CFI lapse, or you're just morbidly curious, this one's for you.

Seth's Website | 10% Off the ACE Guide

Seth's Youtube Channel

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

5:01 Keeping CFI Current

15:58 Reinstatement

31:27 Creating this Document

39:02 On Ground vs In Plane

58:24 Emergency Operations & After Landing

1:07:05 Wrap Up Questions

Be sure to subscribe to 21Five's Youtube Channel to see our luggage review videos!

Connect with us on LinkedIn

Our Sponsors

Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more.

Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more.

Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast.

Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more.

VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more.

Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Max shares his PM flying grind and how soft pay is easing the sting—plus a soggy New Orleans beignet run. The Mailbag is loaded this week with tales from a long-haul trucker pilot, NetJets rejection therapy, type rating dilemmas, and the dreaded training contracts making a comeback. In Flight Advice, a low-time pilot lands a dream SIC gig and asks: how do you not screw this up? Max and Dylan break down how to stand out and stay sharp as a new jet FO.

Garmin Smart Charts

100LL Video - The Hidden History of Aviation Fuel Why Anchorage is America's Most OP City - Youtube video

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

2:16 AMs, PMs, and Max's Musings

17:29 Reviews

22:09 Mailbag

34:02 Flight Advice

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Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program.

ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.

Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.