Uplink with Shaesta Waiz & Michael Wildes

Key topics covered include: Enhancing Airport Operations and Infrastructure Current Trends in General Aviation: Alex Gertsen discusses the latest trends in general aviation during the travel season, emphasizing how airports are preparing for increased traffic. Challenges of General Aviation Airports: Highlighting the unique challenges faced by general aviation airports, Alex addresses issues such...

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Episode Notes About Julia Harrington: Lead Captain and Base Manager at Axis Jet in Chicago. Known for her pioneering role as a woman in the aviation industry. Balances her professional career with motherhood. Early Interests and Influences: Julia shares her initial fascination with Business Aviation. Recounts her experiences at the EAA AirVenture, sparking her interest in aviation. Discusses famil...

In this engaging episode of Uplink, we were honored to host Rob Wesley, Supplier Program Manager at Boeing Defense, Space & Security. Rob shared his expert insights into the evolving world of autonomous air combat, spotlighting the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program and the pivotal role of supply chains in aviation's future. Key topics covered include: The Revolution of Autonomous Air Com...

In this episode of "Uplink: The Big Story," we dive into FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker's illuminating testimony before lawmakers. This session provides a unique lens on the intricacies of American aviation management and future directives under his leadership. Key Discussion Points: Whitaker's Capitol Hill Briefing: An overview of FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker's recent testimony, highlig...

In this episode of Uplink, we were honored to welcome Dr. James E. Sulton, III, a distinguished figure from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. The episode dove deep into the critical and ever-evolving world of aviation safety, where Dr. Sulton has made significant contributions through his professional work and his nonprofit, AviationEd. Dr. Sulton shared his personal journey into the...

In this episode of Uplink: The Big Story, we delve into the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, a critical legislation that stands at a pivotal juncture in American aviation history. We unpack the legislation's significance, its current status in the Senate, and the wide-ranging implications for safety, efficiency, and innovation in the national airspace. Key Discussion Points FAA Reauthorization Act...

In our recent episode of Uplink, we had the privilege of hosting Michael Camal from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The focus was on the pivotal issue of human trafficking in the aviation sector. Michael discussed his journey and the development of the Blue Lightning Initiative, a crucial program aimed at training aviation staff to identify and report signs of human trafficking. The disc...

In this episode of 'Uplink: The Big Story, we delve into the ongoing saga of Boeing's 737 MAX 9 and its implications for the aviation industry. The recent FAA inspections of Boeing 737 MAX 9 airplanes, following a serious incident where a cabin panel detached mid-flight, have brought Boeing's manufacturing processes and safety protocols sharply into focus. With 40 of the 171 grounded planes requir...

In this special episode of the Uplink Podcast, we deeply dive into the transformative realm of airport accessibility, spotlighting the groundbreaking WHILL Powered chair system redefining mobility for disabled travelers. Our narrative begins with a personal reflection that sets the tone for the episode's focus: the paradigm shift in awareness accompanying parenthood and the newfound empathy for th...

Is there a pilot on board? Guest Kevin Antcliff, Director of Product at Xwing discusses the benefits of Autonomous Regional Air Mobility. Plus, Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen announces departure, and SpaceX's Starship launch- success or failure? The acting administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, Billy Nolen, has announced that he will resign this summer, leaving the agency. The...

Join us on Uplink as we discuss the launch of SpaceX 'Starship' and its first orbital test flight. Plus, should taxpayers be compensated for the profits of SpaceX? Also, the National Aircraft Finance Association is hosting its 51st annual conference this week. We share some key topics the industry will discuss at the conference.  Our featured guest this week is Mr. Lou Seno. Seno serves as Chairma...

This week on Uplink, we talk about an “uptick” of aircraft runway incursions and close calls. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there have been 381 runway incursions reported so far in 2023. We ask the question: are we noticing more airline incursions now due to social media, or has it always been there and not reported on? Furthermore, we talk about the FAA Safety Summit tha...

Did you go to Sun 'n Fun? What goes into a Blue Angels performance? Why is there still an aviation mechanic shortage, and how can we fix it? Do you really need to be a pilot to be FAA Administrator? This week on Uplink, we dive into ALL this. Also, Shaesta and Michael discuss the recent kerfuffle in the search for a new FAA Administrator after President Biden’s pick to head the FAA, Phil Washingto...

Every Monday, the Uplink podcast offers sharp, unfiltered insights and predictions surrounding aviation’s important stories of the day. Featured guests on the podcast include leading voices in various aviation sectors. The first episode of Uplink features Dr. Sharon DeVivo, President and CEO of Vaughn College in New York. In 2020, Dr. DeVivo was appointed chair of the Youth Access to American Jobs...

Key topics covered include: Early Exposure and Education Importance of Early Exposure: Kathryn emphasizes the significance of introducing aviation and aerospace careers to children at a young age, noting her own passion for aviation beginning at age 5. She suggests that the industry is currently missing opportunities by not targeting younger demographics and highlights the need for outreach to ele...

In this episode of Uplink: The Big Story, we take a deep dive into the turbulent affair of the blocked merger between JetBlue Airways Corp. and Spirit Airlines Inc. This major development in the airline industry comes after a federal judge halted the $3.8 billion deal on antitrust grounds, leaving both airlines facing a future filled with uncertainties. The Grounded Deal: We start by exploring the...

Please note that the views and opinions expressed by the speaker are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, positions, or policies of any other organization or entity with which they may be affiliated. The content provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to represent the official stance of any other group or institution.   In this insightful episode of Up...

Join us as we build the future career Hub for the aviation industry's workforce. The solution is here. Today is a new day for the industry. During our inaugural Dream On event, we share the next chapter of Dreams Soar, an aviation workforce solution. The catalyst for growth is inspiring, connecting, and empowering young professionals. Moreover, it needs to exist in one location. A hub. We’ve never...

Every Monday, aviation record holder Shaesta Waiz, and Michael Wildes, pilot, journalist, and Chief Operating Officer for Dreams Soar, offer sharp, unfiltered insights and predictions into the biggest stories in and around aviation. Featuring guests who are leading voices from all walks of life, Waiz and Wildes offer context and deep dive into the latest news and the most impactful trends shaping...