In this final episode of the Loss of Medical series, Timothy P. Pope, CFP® turns the spotlight on United Airlines. Tim offers a full breakdown of United’s disability coverage—from how benefits are calculated to the contractual caps and offsets that impact long-term payouts. He also reviews the ALPA supplement options, including monthly add-ons and a lump sum feature. 

What You'll Learn from This Episode

• United’s Disability Formula: Learn how the 1026-hour rule works and what it means for your monthly income if you lose your medical.
• Understanding the Cap: Why pilots earning over ~$358k in 2025 could be limited by a hard monthly maximum.
  Tax Treatment: United’s benefit is after-tax by default - Tim explains why that can work in your favor.
• NEC Contributions While Disabled: Where it goes and why it still matters for your long-term savings.
• ALPA Supplement Options: Review of United's three ALPA disability add-ons-Base, Plus, and Lump Sum - and how to assess what’s right for you.
• Life Insurance Observations: A brief comparison of United’s life insurance benefit versus other major carriers - and why pilots should negotiate for more.

Resources:
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

In this episode of Pilot’s Portfolio, Timothy P. Pope, CFP® continues the Loss of Medical series with a deep dive into what happens if a Southwest Airlines pilot loses their medical. Tim outlines why Southwest’s program may be the most pilot-friendly of all the majors, including generous long-term disability benefits, a built-in COLA, a flexible tax election, and the unique “new hire bridge” benefit for newer pilots. If you fly for Southwest—or are considering it—this episode is packed with practical details and planning tips to help you protect your income and plan ahead.

What You'll Learn from This Episode

• How Southwest Calculates Disability Pay: From average earnings to TFP-based formulas for newer hires.
• Understanding Elimination Periods and Coverage Timelines: What happens after 60 days and how long benefits last.
• COLA Adjustments and Sick Bank Top-Ups: How Southwest increases benefits over time and allows you to supplement with accrued sick leave.
• Tax Election Options: When and why to choose taxable vs. non-taxable disability benefits—and why timing matters.
  Union Supplement Plans (SWAPA): Option A vs. B explained, plus how to backfill income gaps with short-term and long-term strategies.

Resources:
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

In this detailed solo episode of Pilot’s Portfolio, Timothy P. Pope, CFP® walks Delta pilots through everything they need to know if they lose their medical and can’t fly. From contractual long-term disability benefits and the Delta Pilots Mutual Aid (DPMA) program to ALPA’s voluntary insurance options, Tim explains how to layer your benefits, understand offsets, and evaluate your real financial protection. This episode is packed with actionable knowledge to help Delta pilots build a smarter, more secure plan in case their career takes an unexpected turn.

What You'll Learn from This Episode

• Delta’s Disability Structure: How 50% of your final average earnings are calculated and taxed.
• Offsets That Matter: What other income or benefits can reduce your disability payout—and which won’t.
• DPMA Explained: How the mutual aid program adds 25% tax-free coverage and survivor benefits.
• ALPA Disability Plans: Breakdown of base, plus, and lump sum disability coverages—and when they kick in.
• How to Strategically Layer Coverage: Understand how different timelines and policies combine to protect your income across short- and long-term scenarios.

Resources:
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

In this special episode of Pilot's Portfolio, Timothy P. Pope, CFP® sits down once again with Kevin Walker, CEO of Beacon Relocation, to break down current trends in the housing market that every pilot should be paying attention to. From shifting interest rates to buyer leverage, Tim and Kevin discuss what has changed since the last real estate conversation and how pilots can take advantage of current conditions. Plus, Tim shares an exciting update about the future of the financial planning practice and the official rebrand of 360 Aviation Advisors, an Registered Investment Advisor firm offering financial planning and investment management to professional pilots. 

What You'll Learn from This Episode:

• What’s Changed in the Market: Insights into how pilot homebuyers can leverage current trends.
• Real Estate Agent Strategy: Why pilots should focus on agent experience and transparency.
• Fee Rebates & Cost-Saving Tools: How Beacon Relocation helps pilots lower transaction and moving costs.
• Practice Update: Tim announces the transition to 360 Aviation Advisors and what that means for current and future clients.
• Next Steps for Listeners: What to expect from the rebranded firm and how to stay in touch.

Resources:
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Contact Kevin for the buyer or sellers guide:

• [email protected]
• Call/text: 803-493-6773

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

In this focused solo episode, Timothy P. Pope, CFP®, breaks down what happens if an American Airlines pilot loses their medical and becomes unable to fly. Tim reviews the employer-provided long-term disability plan, the union-sponsored POD and PMA supplements, and how pilots can combine these for up to 90% of pre-disability income. From elimination periods to taxation choices and income offsets, this episode equips you with the knowledge to protect your financial stability if your career hits unexpected turbulence.

What You'll Learn from This Episode:

• How the American Airlines Disability Plan Works: Understand the 50% income replacement structure and how it’s calculated.
• Pre-Tax vs After-Tax Election: Learn how this annual choice impacts your benefits and tax burden.
• No Offsets for Outside Income: Discover why this is a major advantage in the AA disability plan.
• Union Benefits Breakdown: Get clarity on the Pilot Occupational Disability (POD) and Pilot Mutual Aid (PMA) supplements.
• Financial Planning Around Disability: Tips on aligning emergency funds, taxable income, and long-term strategies based on your earnings level.

Resources:
Pilot Occupational Disability Plan (POD) Chart
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

In this episode of Pilot’s Portfolio, Timothy P. Pope, CFP® shares practical strategies for building financial resilience in volatile times. Drawing parallels between aviation safety and financial planning, Tim explains how pilots can strengthen their financial "redundancy" to absorb unexpected challenges like airline slowdowns, downgrades, or health setbacks. Whether you're buying a home, saving for retirement, or thinking about Roth conversions during market pullbacks, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help pilots stay financially stable and confident through every phase of their career.

What You'll Learn from This Episode:

• Building Financial Redundancy: Why having multiple layers of financial security is crucial for pilots.
• Home Buying and Vehicle Financing Tips: How to stay financially flexible by avoiding the upper limit of your purchasing power.
• Timing Major Financial Moves: Why it's important to match financial decisions to your career "altitude."
• Access to Liquidity: The role of cash and brokerage assets in navigating downturns and opportunities.
• Roth Conversions and IRA Strategies: How down markets could create potential opportunities for smarter tax planning moves.

Resources:
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

Join Timothy P. Pope, CFP®, and John Engel, COO of Gulf Coast Western, as they discuss strategic investment opportunities in the oil and gas sector that could help high-earning pilots. This episode offers an insider look into tax benefits and how to leverage investments to offset high W2 incomes and to secure tax advantaged future income. Dive deep into the mechanics of oil investments and learn how to navigate this market with industry insights.

What You'll Learn from This Episode:

• Tax Incentives Explained: Discover how pilots can utilize specific tax breaks offered within the oil and gas industry to lower taxable income.
• Understanding Oil Investments: Gain insights into the types of drilling and partnerships that minimize risks while offering substantial tax advantages.
• Strategic Financial Benefits: Learn how investing in oil and gas can fit into a pilot's broader financial strategy, including retirement planning.
• Navigating Risks and Returns: Understand the risk profile of oil and gas investments and how to mitigate them through strategic planning and partnerships.
• Long-term Financial Planning: Learn how these investments can provide sustained income and tax benefits over the long term, aligning with retirement goals.

Resources:
Gulf Coast Western
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

Join Timothy P. Pope, CFP®, in a profoundly important episode of Pilot's Portfolio, where he tackles the uncomfortable yet crucial topic of estate and financial planning for pilots. With a recent tragic aviation incident as a backdrop, Tim highlights the necessity of being prepared for unforeseen events. This discussion is not just about planning for growth and success but ensuring stability and security for your loved ones.

What You'll Learn from This Episode:

• Understanding Estate Planning: The critical importance of having a comprehensive and up-to-date estate plan as a pilot.
• Financial Organization: Tips on organizing your finances so that you or your loved ones can easily access important information when needed.
• Life Insurance Essentials: The role of life insurance in providing for your family's future and how to ensure your policies are aligned with your current life stage.
• Navigating Discussions on Tough Topics: Strategies for having those tough but necessary financial planning conversations with your spouse or family.
• Actionable Steps for Preparedness: Practical advice on setting up beneficiaries, understanding the implications of property titles, and ensuring all financial documents are in order.

Resources:
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

In this insightful solo episode, Timothy P. Pope, CFP®, explores how pilots can maintain command over their personal finances amidst market turbulence and external economic factors. Tim emphasizes the importance of focusing on what pilots can control in their financial planning, from responding to market conditions to proactive financial strategies. Join Tim as he guides you through managing the uncertainties of the financial world with confidence and clarity.

What You'll Learn from This Episode:

• Control Your Financial Inputs: How pilots can effectively manage their reaction to economic changes and market conditions.
• Strategic Financial Planning: Tim discusses the importance of proactive financial planning and adapting strategies based on current economic landscapes.
• Navigating Economic Policies and Market Reactions: Insights into dealing with uncontrollable economic factors and their impacts on personal finances.
• The Importance of Staying Invested: Why staying in the market and regular contributions and rebalancing beats trying to time the market, especially in volatile times.
• Long-term Financial Goals and Retirement Planning: Strategies for securing financial stability as pilots approach retirement, including considerations for asset allocation and retirement income planning.

Resources:
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more. 

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.

Join Timothy P. Pope, CFP®, and Kevin Walker, CEO of Beacon Relocation as they discuss real estate benefits specifically tailored for pilots and air traffic controllers. Recorded shortly after the PSA and army helicopter crash, this episode acknowledges the recent tragedy. This episode focuses on financial savings in real estate transactions for pilots and air traffic controllers. Kevin shares his decades of experience in real estate and how his company has grown from serving Air Traffic Controllers to include professional pilots through Beacon Relocation's specialized services.

What You'll learn from this episode:

• Specialized Real Estate Services: Learn how Beacon Relocation offers significant rebates and  services tailored for pilots engaging in real estate transactions.
• Current Market Insights: An update on the real estate market trends in major Airline hubs. 
• Recent Changes In Regulations: Learn how recent changes in real estate regulations has given buyers more control over their transaction.
• Community Support: Reflections on the impact of recent aviation incidents on the community and the role of solidarity and support among aviation professionals.

Resources:
Schedule An Appointment
Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more.

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents. We assume no responsibility for information contained on this website and disclaim all liability in respect of such information, including but not limited to any liability for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or misleading or defamatory statements.

Links to external websites are provided solely for your convenience. We accept no liability for any linked sites or their content and remind you that we have no control over their content. When visiting external web sites, users should review those websites’ privacy policies and other terms of use to learn more about, what, why and how they collect and use any personally identifiable information.

Usage of this content constitutes an explicit understanding and acceptance of the terms of this disclaimer.