In this episode of the Aiming Point aviation podcast, commercial airline pilots Aaron and Anthony take you inside the cockpit to reveal what really happens during the cruise phase of flight. From monitoring aircraft systems and adjusting for changing weather conditions to communicating with air traffic control and preparing for potential emergencies, they share first-hand insights into a pilot’s responsibilities at cruising altitude.

They also dive into the lighter side of life at 35,000 feet—discussing crew meals, in-flight routines, and the unique camaraderie between flight deck and cabin crew. Whether you're a pilot, aspiring aviator, or aviation enthusiast, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the daily rhythm of long-haul flights and what it takes to stay sharp in the sky.

The episode wraps up with answers to listener questions on flight training, turbulence, and more.

Key Topics:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Updates on Flying Careers

04:12 Understanding the Cruise Phase of Flight

06:25 Monitoring and Managing the Aircraft in Cruise

09:47 Flight Planning and Routing Considerations

12:33 Weather Monitoring and Avoidance Strategies

15:32 Crew Dynamics and Learning Opportunities in Cruise

18:28 Emergency Preparedness and Alternate Airports

21:25 Real-Life Scenarios and Decision Making in Flight

28:11 Navigating Complex Airspaces

34:57 The Role of CPDLC in Modern Aviation

42:32 Oceanic Clearances and Procedures

47:09 Navigating Global Aviation Differences

50:50 In-Flight Meals and Crew Procedures

57:57 Crew Rest and Communication During Flights

01:00:43 Enhancing Situational Awareness in Aviation

01:03:26 Building Relationships and Crew Resource Management

01:06:37 Understanding Recent Aviation Incidents

01:12:34 Question Time

01:24:39 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Pilots

If you have questions, feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share:Email us [email protected]⁠Check out our Social Feeds @AimingPointUK ⁠The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

Follow Jordan on Instagram

In this episode of Aiming Point, Aaron and Michelle sit down with Jordan, a newly accepted cadet at the British Airways Speedbird Academy, to explore his inspiring journey into aviation. From his multicultural background to the pivotal role of the Fantasy Wings program, Jordan shares how mentorship, determination, and hands-on experience shaped his path.

He reflects on the valuable lessons learned as cabin crew, the importance of conflict resolution skills, and how maintaining a positive mindset helped him overcome challenges. Jordan also offers practical advice for aspiring pilots, emphasizing the power of networking, personal development, and resilience in the face of setbacks.

Additionally, he delves into the sacrifices made during training, the importance of preparation in the pilot selection process. He also discusses how social media has become a powerful tool for sharing his aviation journey and inspiring the next generation of pilots.

Key Topics:✈️ Jordan’s multicultural background & early influences🛫 The impact of the Fantasy Wings program on his career🎓 Gaining experience as cabin crew & developing key skills📈 The power of networking & personal development👨‍✈️ Navigating the British Airways Speedbird Academy application process💡 Using social media to inspire future pilots

Chapters

00:00 Hook

00:45 Intro

07:48 Quickfire Questions for Jordan

13:04 Fantasy Wings

22:14 The Moment Jordan Fell in Love with Aviation

27:15 Skills and Interviews in Aviation

31:40 Advice for Aspiring Pilots

35:58 Conflict Resolution and De-escalation Skills

40:15 Being Cabin Crew to help become a Pilot

50:34 Financial Planning: The Path to Pilot Training

56:12 The Importance of Support

59:24 Giving Back: Inspiring the Next Generation

01:02:56 Best and Worst Experiences so far

01:10:29 Navigating Nervous Flyers

01:13:52 What are you looking forward to?

01:15:12 Jordan's Aiming Point

01:22:17 Overcoming Challenges and Preparing for Success

If you have questions, feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share:

Email us [email protected]

Check out our Social Feeds @AimingPointUK 

The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

In Episode 5 of Aiming Point, co-hosts Aaron and Michelle delve into the intricacies of pilot simulator training, sharing personal anecdotes and professional insights. They explore various types of simulator sessions pilots undergo, discuss effective preparation strategies, and highlight instructor expectations during training. Additionally, they review an A380 emergency evacuation certification video, providing analysis and commentary on the procedures involved.

Key Topics:

• Personal experiences with simulator training
• Types of simulator sessions in pilot training
• Preparation techniques for simulator assessments
• Instructor expectations and feedback
• Analysis of A380 emergency evacuation certification

Chapters

00:00 Preview

00:38 Intro

00:55 Welcome and Catch Up

08:03 Life In the Simulator as a Pilot

18:57 Simulator and Maintenance Costs

22:50 Types of Simulator Sessions

24:59 Return to Work Simulations

27:49 Manual Handling and Flying Techniques

34:30 Preparing for Simulator Sessions

41:49 Teamwork and Communication in Simulations

43:48 Navigating the Challenges of Flight Simulations

46:29 The Importance of First Officer Development

49:45 Pilot Perspectives: Emergency Evacuation Testing

55:29 Key Takeaways from Flight Simulations

Pilot Perspectives video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_8hbsWKoOU

Pilot Sydney's TikTok: PilotSydneyRae

In this inspiring episode of Aiming Point, we welcome Sydney Sullivan, a newly qualified A320 pilot based in London. Sydney shares her remarkable journey, from aspiring to be a doctor to thriving in the sales industry, and finally finding her passion in the skies as an airline pilot.

We dive into her experiences with initial flight training, navigating challenges, and overcoming setbacks. Sydney provides a detailed look at her type rating process, base training, and how she manages flight schedules and shifts. With candid reflections on performance, financial challenges, and breaking preconceived notions about being a pilot, she offers invaluable advice to aspiring aviators.

Whether you’re dreaming of a career in aviation or simply curious about the path to the flight deck, this episode is packed with insights, motivation, and practical tips.

Key Topics:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and New Beginnings

01:48 Meet Sydney Sullivan: A New Pilot's Journey

06:36 From Medicine to Aviation: A Career Shift

17:33 Initial Flight Training

29:03 Length of Flight Training and Managing Challenges

34:05 Type Rating Experience and Learning Techniques

39:46 Managing Flight Challenges

42:38 Reflecting on Performance

54:46 Base Training Experiences

01:02:16 Flight Scheduling and Shift Preferences

01:08:14 Advice for Aspiring Pilots

01:12:08 Funding Flight Training and Financial Challenges

01:19:50 Preconceived Notions of Being a Pilot

01:25:07 Future Aspirations and Career Goals

01:29:28 Final Words

In this episode of Aiming Point, Pilots Aaron, Michelle, and Anthony share their unique journeys into aviation, discussing their experiences as pilots, the challenges they faced, and the lessons learned along the way. They explore the importance of trial flights, the dual roles pilots can take on, and the balance between family life and career. The conversation also delves into the different training paths available for aspiring pilots, highlighting the significance of resilience and adaptability in the aviation industry. In this engaging conversation, the hosts share their personal journeys into aviation, discussing memorable flying experiences, overcoming fears, and the diverse paths that led them to become pilots. They explore the challenges of communication in aviation, the importance of personal growth, and the insights gained from their experiences as both pilots and passengers. The discussion highlights that it's never too late to pursue a career in aviation and emphasises the value of understanding and addressing fears related to flying.

Send us an email - [email protected]

⁠https://linktr.ee/aimingpoint⁠

00:00 Introduction

01:16 Who is Anthony?

05:46 What we've been up to

09:05 Journey into aviation: Anthony

24:31 Journey into aviation: Michelle

41:21 Journey into aviation: Aaron

56:35 Pilot Perspectives: Communication Challenges

01:04:41 Quick Fire Questions for Anthony

01:10:53 Wrapping up

01:13:59 Aiming Point Intro.mp4

In this episode of Aiming Point, Pilots Aaron and Michelle take you behind the scenes of a typical day as commercial pilots, exploring the differences between long-haul and short-haul flying operations. From early mornings to extended layovers, they reveal what it’s like to be in the cockpit and on the go in the world of aviation. They also catch up on what they've been up to over the past few weeks and dive into the highlights of the recent Airbus Family Day event in this week’s Pilot Perspectives segment. To wrap up, they answer some of your questions about life as pilots and share a few insights from the skies. Join us for a glimpse into the world of aviation!

Send us an email - [email protected]

⁠https://linktr.ee/aimingpoint

In the very first episode of Aiming Point, hosts Michelle and Aaron introduce themselves and share what this podcast is all about. After a quick intro to their backgrounds in aviation, Michelle puts Aaron in the hot seat with some rapid-fire questions about his preferences as a passenger, helping you get to know him better. They also launch their recurring segment, Pilot Perspectives, by breaking down a video of an A320 dealing with engine trouble after a bird strike. To wrap it up, they answer some listener questions and give you a taste of what’s to come.

Send us an email - [email protected]

⁠https://linktr.ee/aimingpoint

00:00 Intro

00:46 Welcome to Aiming Point

15:23 Getting to Know Aaron: Quick fire Questions

24:29 Pilot Perspectives: Engine Failure After Takeoff

41:26 Question time

53:46 Conclusion and Future Episodes