This is part two of our conversation with Art Warbelow. Check out part 1 for his back story and how he learned to fly.

Strap in for an unforgettable journey into the world of bush flying with Art Warbelow, a bush pilot who started flying when he was 16. He shares tales of adventure, survival, and lessons from his years in the air. In this second part of our Coffee and a Hanger podcast, Art offers unique insights into off-airport flying, including techniques for STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) operations, lessons learned from near-misses, and stories of bush planes navigating Alaska's challenging wilderness.

From the raw dangers of wake turbulence and aircraft accidents to the art of precise landings on gravel bars and ridges, this episode is packed with wisdom every pilot can learn from. Hear how Art turned his experiences into a course for the FAA, teaching pilots how to approach off-airport operations with safety and preparedness in mind.

Key highlights:

Surviving a plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness.

Essential tips for STOL landings and takeoffs in bush planes like the Super Cub and Cessna.

Why knowing your airplane’s strengths and weaknesses is critical for Alaska bush flying.

How wake turbulence and poor decisions can lead to airplane wrecks.

The crucial importance of training and preparing for high-stakes situations.