In this episode of the Plane + Pilot podcast, host Cayla McLeod sits down with Levi Noguess to recap his debut at the High Sierra Fly-In. Levi shares the story of his journey to the Dead Cow Lakebed in a borrowed Legend Aircraft Nomad, including a cross-country trek through New Mexico and Nevada that featured a unique Onewheel commute from the tarmac to his motel room.

The conversation dives into the high-stakes world of STOL Drag racing, where Levi details the technical challenges of competing on the lakebed and the adrenaline of racing against world champion Steve Henry.

Beyond the competition, Levi highlights the "ultimate fly-in" atmosphere, focusing on the camaraderie and backcountry spirit that define the event. He encourages pilots of all levels to explore the STOL scene and experience the unique community found in off-airport flying.

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Join host and Editor in Chief Cayla McLeod for an in-depth conversation with Gus and Courtney Thoreson, the owners of Heart X Outfitters. In this episode, we explore the vital intersection of general aviation and the rugged outfitting lifestyle throughout the remote Idaho backcountry.

Gus and Courtney provide a unique look into their lives in the wilderness, discuss the real-world utility of their Cessna 206, often called the "backbone of the backcountry", and share essential tips for navigating challenging airstrips like Lower Loon Creek (C53). From the logistics of mountain flying to the daily realities of the outfitting business, this episode shines a light on life in the wilderness.

You can read more about the Thoresons and flying the Idaho backcountry in the January/February issue of Plane + Pilot magazine. Visit https://heartxoutfitters.com/ to learn more about their operation.

In the first episode of the Plane + Pilot Podcast, Editor in Chief, Cayla McLeod, sits down with seasoned backcountry instructor and tailwheel CFI, Aaron Foster, at the Missoula Montana Airport (KMSO) for a detailed chat on the high stakes and high rewards of backcountry flying.

From the critical importance of front country and tailwheel training, to the nuanced etiquette required when flying over pristine wilderness areas, Foster offers invaluable insights for both novice and experienced general aviation pilots.

Whether you're a pilot looking to head west, or an aviation enthusiast intrigued by the rugged beauty of Montana and Idaho's unique flying environments, this episode provides an inside look at what it takes to fly the backcountry... the right way.

Learn more about Aaron's work here https://flyfosteraviation.com/