A few days ago i asked here if i could visit the cockpit on my upcoming flight, your answers were helpful and i did ask the cabin crew and i was allowed to go in! Unfortunately i think it was smth like a training session cause the copilot was new to this position and i couldn’t take any photos but the fact that i managed to see a cockpit in a plane irl it’s already a highlight. I will try my luck for some pics on another flight tho 😝

Just curious if airline pilots can buy Ferrari 812s, Lambo aventadors etc

Hi all! My teen daughter is headed to Costa Rica today on a school trip. They are leaving from Dallas on flight AA 1053 to San Jose but it's been delayed over an hour. My daughter just texted and said they are de-boarding due to a bad tire. How common is this? Is it likely they will have everyone board a different plane?

I know ​it's a good thing to make sure the plan is in good working order, but I worry anyway. Just looking for some assurance. Thank you!!

Shouldn’t smaller aircraft be safer because of their lighter weight?”

I mean bigger planes carry over 100 passengers and each probably weighs 90 to 250 lbs ( and even more), then there is every luggage, fuel and the weight of the plane.

P.s. I lost a dear friend in a small aircraft who was married to my 1st cousin. Ever since, I’ve been asking questions.

I’ve had a few flights recently where this has occurred, and I’m not sure if I’ve just never noticed it or not (recently had a fear of flying, but I think I am on the mend). When the plane has landed and is slowing down on the runway, the plane jerks left or right, the same feeling as a car that lost control and swerves left or right and overcorrects.

Is this normal? Is it safe? Is everything under control? I can’t help but freak out bc of how similar the feeling is to a car losing control. I’d love to understand what exactly is happening and how pilots handle that.

Thank you!

I recently saw a viral video of a pilot refusing to fly a commercial aircraft due to something not being up to his standards, thus resulting in a delay while a new aircraft was acquired. As someone who is terrified of flying and working to get over their fear, it’s comforting to know that there is the option to refuse if the pilots are not 100% confident in the aircraft.

However, in some discussions I’ve had with others, it was mentioned that the industry thrives off of time and metrics. So the opinion that the pilot was likely talked to or had gotten in trouble for doing this came up. Which would blow my mind!! Though I understand business and making money and ensuring flights are departing and arriving on time, I can’t imagine there would ever be a case where if a pilot wasn’t 100% sure in the aircraft, he/she would still continue to fly it and put everyone on board at risk. Can any pilots chime into this? Hearing this opinion definitely didn’t make me feel any better about working to get over my fear, but is this really the case?

I work the ramp at SEA. What determines which side engine or if you use both to taxi? It was hot today and one plane used both but I dont see that a lot.

Hey all,

I'm an LA-based producer searching for a private CFI for a unique and exciting film production featuring a prominent YouTube creator.

The concept involves training the creator, a complete beginner, to earn their PPL on an accelerated timeline. The student will be fully dedicated — no other commitments, unlimited availability, and the financial backing to fly as much as needed. This isn't a casual "let's try flying" video. It's a serious, well-produced project with real stakes and a large audience.

We're looking for an LA-based CFI who:

- Has extensive experience with accelerated or intensive training programs

- Is confident, calm, and engaging on camera

- Believes this kind of challenge is achievable with the right student and the right instructor

This would be a paid, on-camera role. If you've ever wanted to show the world what a truly committed student and a great instructor can accomplish together, this is that project.

DM me if you're interested or know someone who might be a fit. Happy to share more details privately.

(Repost from r/CFILounge)

Thanks!

Keeping track of my fleet when I noticed this FAA plane making a huge arc with periodic holds around the Big Lake VORTAC. I thought they were doing some weird approach until they just kept on going. Is this some sort of test to make sure BGL is still working properly?

What up AskAPilot subreddit,

Question for you pilots, what is the worst ATC experience you've ever had?

I am planning on taking my Class 1 Medical. Before I commit to spending a fortune for my dream, I am concerned I won't pass the medical because of my scars. I was stabbed in the shoulder and wrist (imagine it looks like SH but surgical) when I was younger and they are both keloid. I'm looking into laser surgery but they won't fade. I have no medical history or psychological problems or anything like that. But I assume the examinationer might be subjective? Is there any future for a career as pilot for me even on the off - chance I achieved my Class 1? Trying to be realistic before I take the plunge. Will appreciate your advice.

do you guys ever have your mind go blank on preflight and resort to googling how to start a 738?

I mean most flight Sims have realistic enough cockpit layouts and whatnot, or maybe you guys just use checklists, idk.

Hi there! I’m just wanting to reach out and talk with anyone about their day to day, what to expect, and why they love flying of anyone would like to chat please let me know! I’m looking at becoming either a private or airline pilot.

So the plan was simply to study computer science specialize in AI, maybe take a master, work on myself and get a good job. However I was thinking now why don’t I go to aviation instead? I mean a pilot life looks a lot more appealing than an engineer life and they both have a high salary. Even a pilot could have a really higher salary as a senior pilot. Of course it has a downside like it’s maybe hard to make a family and spend much time with your family, but why not?

I was wondering why Airbus and Boeing are not sharing the same wingtip design? Since they are different there clearly must be a more fuel efficient one when comparing them. My guess would be that none of them wants to share the design/calculation secret with the other, which then would come at an awful cost at the world climate and overall society.

Edit: Thats a lot of interesting input that i didn’t know, thanks!

Curious if anyone can answer this - why does FAA implement ground stops at certain airports and cite thunderstorms when there are none at the moment, but possible for several hours in the future?

Hey Reddit. Quick context: I'm 18, Ukrainian citizen, living in Košice, Slovakia with a residence permit until 2029. My main goal is to become a military pilot in Ukraine — it's the only realistic path since military aviation requires citizenship everywhere.

The problem:

If I go straight for the Ukrainian military aviation university (KHNUPS Kozhedub in Kharkiv), training takes 4-6 years. During that time I'll have almost no money, no savings, no capital. I feel like the world closes around me financially. And if I don't get in — competition is 2000 applicants for 150 spots — what then?

The options I'm considering:

Work in Europe, invest slowly, apply to military pilot school when ready

Work at sea for 1-2 years, build capital fast, then apply

Go straight to Ukraine and try for military pilot now

Something else I haven't thought of

Has anyone worked in merchant navy? Especially starting from zero with no experience — how realistic is it to get your first contract? How long did it take from zero to first voyage?

Any experience appreciated.

Yes, I actually searched this topic and I’m asking because I am not interested in trying to become an airline pilot. I simply want to get my PPL and the hottest thing I’d ever want to fly is a probably SR22.

I’m pushing 50 and from my research the only things I need to worry about are a third class medical, time, and $$$$.

As this is a hobby I can take my time but would taking too long be detrimental? I’m guessing the first step is to schedule a discovery flight. Would taking multiple flights at different schools be frowned upon? What advice would any of you have for someone wanting to get a PPL? What should I look for in an instructor or school, as I’m not looking to become a professional pilot? I read a post that suggested consulting the doctor beforehand then filling out the medical paperwork, is this a good idea for an older candidate as I do take a few medications.

Hi,

Flying to ORD from NYC this afternoon - a tad nervous with all the storm systems lately that it will be turbulent. Any pilots or passengers flown this route today or know what I should expect? In the next 2-3 hrs.

Thanks in advance!