Personal Wings

?? The Pilot Journey: Paying It Forward ?? One of the best parts of being an airline pilot is crossing paths with others on their aviation journey. During a walkaround in Tucson, I had a great chat with Donald Epie, a ramp crewmember, about how to fast-track his pilot career. Shortly after, I met Josiah, another ramp worker who recently soloed, and we talked about airline life and tips for making his aviation dreams a reality. No matter where you are in your journey, there’s always someone ahead and behind you. It’s easy to get caught up in the grind for hours, pay, or that next airline job and lose sight of how incredible it is to be part of this industry. I try to stay grounded by remembering how lucky I am to experience this, whether through a smile, a fist bump, or sharing advice for those on their way up. If you’re in the Tucson area and interested in mentoring aspiring pilots like Donald and Josiah, reach out to me—I’d love to help connect you! #PilotMentorship #AviationJourney #PayItForward #TucsonAviation

Another new Cirrus owner! Just sold this SR22 and it’s enrout home to Florida. Want help selling or buying an aircraft? Visit our Brokerage page to learn more. https://lnkd.in/g4F_ZQYF

???? Navigating New Horizons: Transforming Mental Health in Aviation ???? In my latest article for Twin and Turbine, I dive deep into the heart of aviation’s silent challenge: the mental health of pilots. Drawing from candid conversations with pilots, flight attendants, AMEs, researchers, and those directly impacted by the current regulations, it’s clear that a seismic shift in the FAA’s approach to mental health is overdue. The recent recommendations by the ARC signal a glimmer of hope for change. Yet, history reminds us that recommendations without action fall short. We stand at a critical juncture where the safety of pilots and, by extension, the flying public, hinges not just on the physical but equally on the mental well-being of those at the helm. Key insights reveal that over half of the pilots may hide mental health issues for fear of losing their certification. This stark reality underscores a broader issue of transparency, trust, and support within the FAA’s regulatory framework. With pilots navigating not only the skies but also the complexities of life — loss, grief, and stress — the need for a humane approach to their mental health has never been more pressing. The article explores the fine balance between maintaining safety standards and fostering an environment where seeking help is not penalized but encouraged. It celebrates the courage of voices advocating for change, highlights innovative global initiatives, and calls for a collective reimagining of mental wellness in aviation. The journey ahead is long, but with informed dialogue, empathy, and persistent advocacy, we can champion a future where pilots are not only seen as operators but as humans deserving of comprehensive support. Let’s continue to advocate for a system that upholds the safety of the skies by ensuring the mental well-being of those who navigate them. Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/g8EsQMZu Thanks to everyone who spoke with me, specifically Brian Bomhoff, Reyné O'Shaughnessy, Anthony Faul, Herwin Bongers, Emma Laczko & Madolyn Miller, Zachary Friedman, Jessie Naor, Austen Jarboe, Jillian Bourdage and Owen Heldman. #AviationSafety #MentalHealthAwareness #PilotLife #FAA #ChangeForAviation #SupportOurPilots

$750,000 OBAP - Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals Scholarships are now out! Apply by April 30th and help support OBAP by becoming a member. https://lnkd.in/gDdBQpnu