How do you balance an airline career, a social media brand, and a healthy lifestyle? In this episode of the Black Box Aviation Podcast, we sit down with Ava Almquist (@pilot.avabelle) to discuss the modern path to the flight deck. From navigating the flight training "hamster tunnels" at the University of North Dakota (UND) to the realities of sitting on airport reserve, Ava provides a transparent look at the industry.

In this episode, we cover:

• The 1,000-hour Restricted ATP and why your degree matters.

• Managing exhaustion and maintaining fitness on the road.

• Breaking the "old school" pilot mold through social media education.

• Transitioning from CFI to the Regional Airlines.

Whether you’re a student pilot or an aviation enthusiast, Ava’s "SparkNotes" for aviation success are a must-listen.

Connect with Ava:

• Website: airlinesonautopilot.com

• Instagram/TikTok/YouTube: @pilot.avabelle

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