Hangar Flying with Smokehouse Pilots Club

Scholarship, Determination, and 9 Flight Hours: The Making of a Future Airline Captain with Kala Baily

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This episode of Hangar Flying with Smokehouse Pilots features an interview with Kala Bailey, a young aspiring pilot, and includes insights from James, an experienced airline pilot with Southwest Airlines. The conversation takes place at Sun 'n Fun, an aviation event where Kala is volunteering.

Kala, who has logged nine flight hours, shares her journey towards becoming a commercial airline pilot. She received a scholarship from AOPA's James C. Ray Foundation, which covers part of her training costs in exchange for volunteer work. Kala is currently training in a Piper Warrior at Flight Training 101 based at Winter Haven Airport.

James, a Southwest Airlines pilot, joins the conversation to offer advice and share his own career path. He started his aviation journey in college, gradually accumulating ratings and experience before becoming an airline pilot. James emphasizes the importance of seizing every opportunity to fly and network within the aviation community.

Kala expresses her goal to complete her private pilot's license before turning 18 and seeks advice on maintaining her skills between high school and college. The conversation highlights the importance of networking, continuous learning, and passion in pursuing an aviation career.


Sound Bites


  • "Every time I fly, I remember that point where I was taking off into my Discovery flight. It's just like, it's a blessing." - Kala Bailey
  • "It's the best job in the world. I love my job. Every day, it's not like going to work. It's what I go to do to have fun." - James, Southwest Airlines pilot
  • "I would find every opportunity you can to fly, whether you're actually flying or you're riding with someone, get in airplanes, meet people, network, and every opportunity you get a chance to log an hour, build your time." - James
  • "When I was in that plane, every other career seemed mediocre. I knew I wanted to be a pilot." - Kala Bailey

    • Takeaways:

    1. Scholarships and volunteer work can significantly support aspiring pilots in their training journey.
    2. Networking and community involvement are crucial for career advancement in aviation.
    3. Continuous learning and seizing every opportunity to fly are essential for skill development and career progression.
    4. A discovery flight can be a life-changing experience that ignites a passion for aviation.
    5. The path to becoming an airline pilot involves multiple stages, including education, accumulating flight hours, and obtaining various ratings.


      6. Important Information and links:

        1. AOPA offers scholarships like the James C. Ray Foundation Scholarship, which can help fund flight training.
        2. Flight Training 101 at Winter Haven Airport is mentioned as a training facility.
        3. Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers a degree in aviation, which can be beneficial for aspiring pilots.
        4. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers aviation camps that can introduce young people to flying.


          • AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association): www.aopa.org
          • Smokehouse Pilots: www.smokehousepilots.com
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            Hangar Flying with Smokehouse Pilots ClubBy Smokehouse Pilots