21.FIVE - Professional Pilots Podcast

In this episode, Dylan and Max sit down with Casey Murray, President of the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA), to discuss the challenges and triumphs of leading 10,000 pilots. From contract negotiations to managing pilot expectations, Casey sheds light on what it takes to keep a union strong and independent. Plus, we dive into the flexibility pilots enjoy at Southwest and what’s next f...

In this episode, Dylan and Max dive into the surprising results from the 2024 AIN product survey, revealing a major shake-up in aircraft rankings—Bombardier is on top, while Gulfstream slips. The mailbag features a listener sharing their experiences with tricky aircraft maintenance, sparking a hilarious yet insightful discussion on handling service centers.  In the Flight Advice segment, Dylan and...

In this episode, Dylan and Max sit down with financial guru Timothy P. Pope to navigate the complexities of financial planning for pilots. From managing retirement funds during an election year to deciding whether to pay back a hefty retention bonus, Tim offers sage advice tailored to the unique needs of aviation professionals. If you've ever wondered how to make the most of your airline's financi...

They guys catch up on their latest adventures. Book Club: Hard Landing Chapter 7. In this episode’s mailbag, they discuss listener feedback on braking roll-aboards and tough non-rev adventures. Finally, in Flight Advice, they dig into the dilemma of choosing between a tough commute at a struggling ULCC or trying out the cargo life, all while aiming for that elusive legacy carrier job. Show Notes 0...

In this episode, Dylan and Max are joined by Greg from Advanced Air Crew Academy to discuss the latest updates in international operations. They dive into changes in oceanic clearance procedures, the impact of GPS spoofing, and essential tips for flying internationally. Check out Advanced Aircrew Academy's International Training Modules . OpsGroup GPS Spoofing Working Group Show Notes 0:00 Intro 3...

In this episode, Dylan and Max dive into the bizarre trend of passengers "raw dogging" flights and wonder what the pilot equivalent would be. Then the guys dive into Chapter 6 of Hard Landing. The Mailbag segment features listener reviews and heartfelt stories, while Flight Advice tackles a career decision about flying the 747 versus staying at a regional airline.  Show Notes 0:00 Intro & Raw Dogg...

In this episode, Dylan and Max dive deep into the topic of airline training contracts with industry expert James Onieal from Raven Careers. They explore the pros and cons, legal considerations, and long-term career impacts of signing such agreements. Whether you're a Gen Z pilot or a seasoned aviator, this discussion will help you make an informed decision. Plus Flight Advice with James: Should a...

Dylan and Max dive into their recent Father's Day cold plunge experience and its benefits for muscle recovery, then talk about recent trips to DC, Aspen, and Havana. They read listener emails about the best luggage for pilots. In the Flight Advice segment, they tackle the challenge of balancing a pilot career with impending fatherhood, offering tips on how to stay present in your kids' lives while...

In this episode, we welcome back Brooks Pettit, an expert in aircraft transactions with Vaerus Jet Sales. Brooks shares his insights on the ongoing debate between the Challenger 350 and the G280. He provides a balanced view, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of both jets from an operational and ownership perspective. We also delve into the current state of the pre-owned business jet mark...

Dylan and Max delve into the unexpected challenges of flying during the Cicada Fiasco of 2024, sharing firsthand accounts and tips for dealing with these pesky insects. They then transition to a deep dive into the history and impact of airline deregulation, discussing how it has shaped the modern aviation industry and what it means for today's pilots. Listener emails spark lively discussions on pi...

In this episode, hosts Dylan and Max interview Dr. Chris Broyhill, the creator of the AirComp Calculator, to discuss the current state of pilot compensation in business aviation. Dr. Broyhill shares insights on market trends, noting the ongoing high demand for qualified pilots and the increasing importance of comprehensive benefits packages. The discussion highlights the advantages of business avi...

The guys kick the show off with their latest piston engine adventures. Then they dive into the luggage review video series and discuss listeners' feedback. Hard Landing chapter 3 is discussed in the book club segment. In the mailbag we continue the discussion on AI and how pilot shirts should fit. We have a good one for flight advice...how do I leave my high paying job to go fly full time? To wrap...

Dylan and Max are joined by Whitney Bohac and Dave Retnam, co-founders of Crewise, a company designed to bring airline-style HR and support services to business aviation. Whitney and Dave, both with extensive backgrounds at Southwest Airlines, discuss the genesis and mission of Crewise, emphasizing the need for robust support systems in business aviation similar to those available in commercial ai...

Max recounts the complications following his seemingly routine knee surgery, underscoring the precarious nature of pilot health and the implications on flying careers. We cover chapter 2 of Hard Landing for the book club segment plus an actual hard landing of a 747 at LAX. Mailbag: Luggage Review Update, Allegiant Pilot Perspective, and life of a fractional pilot. Flight Advice: Junior FO at Sprir...

The guys dive into the intricacies and amusing challenges of aircraft lighting protocols.  They humorously recount instances of "light shaming". We discuss chapter one of Hard Landing for the book club. In the mailbag segment topics range from the importance of different types of flying experience, to the impact of personal decisions and career changes post-furloughs. They highlight stories from p...

James Onieal joins us to unpack the rollercoaster of recent airline developments—from unexpected furlough announcements to hiring surges at major carriers like UPS. We explore the emotional and professional impacts of such turbulent times on pilots, emphasizing the critical importance of resilience and strategic career planning.  Show Notes 0:00 Breaking News 6:06 Advice For Pilots Being Furloughe...

They guys check in with their college buddy Ted to get the real story on what it's like to fly the 787. Plus: Mailbag and Flight Advice Show Notes 0:00 Intro & Updates 7:53 Hard Landing Book Club 14:29 Straight Talk With Ted 23:19 Trip Scheduling & Crew Positions 44:49 Listener Reviews 48:21 Mailbag: Audio / Non Rev / 141 Program / Tim Pope 1:02:45 Flight Advice: Pilot Job Regardless of Salary Har...

Timothy P. Pope, CFP, joins the guys to discuss the significant financial implications of the new Southwest Airlines contract for pilots, focusing on pay raises, bonuses, and enhanced retirement contributions. Pope emphasizes strategic financial planning to navigate these changes, including tax considerations and the benefits of market-based cash balance plans. The conversation highlights Tim's ex...

The guys recap their vacations and Max talks about playing the non-rev game // The latest PJP drama (recorded prior to the release of JC's rebuttal video) // We've both performed go-arounds recently, Dylan and Max both reflect // Mailbag: Clarity Aloft vs. Bose Proflight, More jumpseat headset observations, EVTOL thoughts // Flight Advice: #1 - College student asks for advice on applying for inter...

Billy Nolen, Chief Safety Officer for Archer and former FAA Administrator, joins us to update us on the EVTOL space. Billy gets us up to speed on the latest regulator news as well as technology EVTOLs are operating. We ask Billy everyone's burning question: will I be able to fly one with my fixed wing certificate? 5:06 EVTOLs & Time Savings 12:28 Training, Certification, Integration 21:48 Manufact...

The guys discuss the NTSB report on the Challenger 604 crash in Naples // Mailbag: What's our opinion on Meowing on Guard, More comments on the headset in the jumpseat discussion, Feedback on training episode, Listener meets Dylan at PHX // Flight Advice, Texas Style: San Antonio based Medivac pilot loves his job but wonders if he's missing out? Plus: Houston corporate pilot has a great gig but is...

In this episode, we're joined by Seth Lake, SWA Pilot and an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), who shares invaluable insights into the life of a DPE and its potential as a side gig for professional pilots. Seth delves into the current dynamics of the flight training industry, outlines the qualifications necessary to become a DPE, and offers strategic advice to make your application stand out. B...

Challenger 350 vs. Gulfstream G280: with limited knowledge and poorly researched facts, Dylan and Max try to settle the debate on which super-mid is better // Mailbag: Listener shares crop dusting story, should I plug in headset in the jumpseat, Listener Rick offers to match donations to PMHC up to $1000! // Flight Advice: Ben Fuller from International Trip Planning Services joins us to explain th...

In this episode, we delve into the world of aviation training with Dave from Advanced Air Crew Academy. As the Director of Instructional Design, Dave shares innovative approaches to enhancing recurrent training for 135 pilots, moving beyond traditional, formulaic methods to scenario-based learning. This technique aims to shift pilots' attitudes towards training, making it more engaging and effecti...

The guys catch up on their recent adventures including a vist to St. Maarten and a backcountry trip in the Murphey Moose // Failed JetBlue/Spirit merger fallout // Dylan has a Top Gun moment // Mailbag: Listener shares a story of flying with an unprofessional captain, Marriott points follow-up, ground-breaking new beer idea // Flight Advice: Starting your aviation career at 50 years old: what's th...