Unlock the world of non-rev travel as we explore the perks of being part of the airline family without the hefty price tag. Whether you're a seasoned pilot or just starting out in the aviation industry, this episode explains how to maximize this exclusive benefit while navigating its challenges with ease and style.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   The fundamentals of non-revenue flying and its advantages for airline employees and their families   Pro tips on securing seats, even during peak travel seasons   Importance of flexibility and patience in non-rev travel   Strategies for enhancing your non-rev travel experience     CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!

Ep131: Fly for Free: Pro Tips on Non-Rev Travel

If you're looking to enter the commercial aviation industry, we've got the right podcast for you!

With pilot and interview coach Nik Fialka as your host, we will deliver exceptional and insightful content to help you understand the landscape of professional aviation. We will help you organize your thoughts, score interview points, and ace the aviation recruitment process. You will get a deep dive into all the facets of the aviation industry by hearing directly from leaders and recruiters. You’ll learn how to stay composed and articulate yourself with impact as we uncover airline-specific pilot selection demands, analyze the aviation industry's culture, and give you great interview advice.

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Ever received a packet of Kool-Aid from a passenger? Nik did, and it sparked a powerful realization of his passion and purpose in the aviation industry! This short, impactful episode will challenge you to rethink your approach to work and inspire you to take pride in every flight.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   The importance of aligning with your company's mission and culture   How proactive engagement with passengers can enhance their experience and your job satisfaction   Strategies for finding purpose and joy in your daily work as a pilot     CONNECT WITH US  Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!  

Ep149: The Ultimate Pilot Hack

In this episode, we chat with Jimmy to dissect a pivotal moment in his aviation career—a failed job interview at a legacy airline. Delve into Jimmy's journey from the excitement of potential opportunities to the hard lessons learned from rejection and how he harnessed these experiences to eventually achieve his dreams. Tune in to gain invaluable insights that could steer your own career path toward success.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   How to navigate and recover from career setbacks and failed interviews within the aviation industry   The importance of self-awareness, humility, and proper preparation for airline interviews   Strategies for articulating experiences and skills effectively during high-stakes interviews   Benefits of diversifying applications across multiple airlines   Insights into transitioning from flight operations to roles that combine piloting with managerial responsibilities     RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED   02:50 ExpressJet   05:00 American Airlines   06:12 DFW Airport   06:13 Federal Aviation Administration   13:16 Sabre   19:14 Envoy Air   30:40 United Airlines   30:41 Delta   43:40  Ep75: Finding Your Why with Tim Chaplin   47:44 Goldman Sachs     CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!   SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. If you’re a professional pilot looking for a great financial planning partner for your retirement, tax, and investment, go to www.tpope.ceterainvestors.com/contact or call 704-717-9300 ext 120 to schedule a consultation appointment with Timothy P. Pope, CFP®. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order.

Ep 148: Learn from Failure, and Find Airline Success

Ever wonder what it takes to reach the pinnacle of your aviation career? Learn what it is, the inspiring story behind the phrase "Verso l'Alto," and how it can motivate you to continually strive for excellence. Press play now to discover how embracing this mindset can transform your journey as a pilot, helping you to achieve your goals and lift others along the way.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   What does Verso l'Alto mean and its significance to your aviation journey   Why setting high goals is essential for personal and professional growth   How to handle setbacks and use them as stepping stones to success.   Tips for developing a resilient mindset to navigate the challenges of a pilot’s career   The importance of supporting your peers and creating a positive, uplifting environment     RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED   Brooks Brothers   Flight Uniform     CONNECT WITH US  Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!  

Ep147: Adopt this mindset, and Change your Life

Dive into cutting-edge aviation training with guest Sam Tomanio. Explore how harnessing data enhances simulation, the transformative impact of a specialized program, and the crucial documentation shaping a top-tier training experience. Join us for insights that elevate aviation expertise.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   Advanced Qualification Program: It’s training process and what makes it different   The impact of AQP in the aviation industry’s training culture   How data collected from simulations improves flight training   Importance of a precise instructor evaluation program in aviation training   Essential documentation for developing a high-caliber AQP     RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED   Federal Aviation Administration     21.FIVE Podcast: Understanding AQP, the Next Generation of Airline Training     Read more about the AQP Program’s gold standard at  AC 120-54A - Advanced Qualification Program and  14 CFR Part 121 Training Program Review.   ABOUT SAM TOMANIO Sam is a retired airline pilot at American Airlines. As a freelance, Sam had an aviation technical writing gig that focused on aviation manual development, including training manuals, pilot handbooks and QRHs, AQP manuals, and curriculum development   CONNECT WITH SAM     Website: American Airlines  Website: Tomanio Aviation Services  LinkedIn: Sam Tomanio  Email:  samtomanio@aol.com       CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!   SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. If you’re a professional pilot looking for a great financial planning partner for your retirement, tax, and investment, go to www.tpope.ceterainvestors.com/contact or call 704-717-9300 ext 120 to schedule a consultation appointment with Timothy P. Pope, CFP®. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order.

Ep146: Understanding AQP, the Next Generation of Airline Training

Want to command respect and seize new opportunities in aviation? Discover how dressing sharp not only boosts your confidence but also opens doors you never knew existed. From perfectly tailored uniforms to polished shoes, we share insider tips on how to stand out and impress in every aviation role. Don't miss this chance to learn how the right attire can set you apart in the competitive world of aviation.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   The importance of looking put together and how it impacts your career in aviation   Key tips on selecting and maintaining professional attire   How first impressions influence your networking and career opportunities   Practical advice on dressing appropriately for different aviation roles   How dressing well boosts your confidence and projects authority     RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED   Flight Uniform   Tron Williams     CONNECT WITH US  Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!  

Ep131: Fly for Free: Pro Tips on Non-Rev Travel

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