The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast

Hold off on the crucifixions! I tip, I swear, but spare me the Mr. Pink nickname, alright? Today, buckle up for a riveting episode where I dive into the latest news, including hair-raising near-misses at three major airports. I'll arm you with crucial mitigation tactics to keep you off the danger radar. Plus, I'm dishing out advice to aspiring aviators and unraveling the mystery behind SkyWest's reluctance to snag those sleek 175 E2s. Stay tuned for all this and more—let's goooo!!

EPISODE REFERENCES

Reservoir Dogs | Mr. Pink Doesn’t Tip

FAA investigating after Rockies coach plays pilot on United charter flight

Pratt & Whitney Engine Woes could cost U.S. Airlines $150 Million

Scope Clause: The Regional Airlines’ Capacity Cap Explained

Contour Airlines Pilot Pathway Program

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Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show

Contact: [email protected]

Instagram: climbvx

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In today's episode, I explore the current trend of airlines slowing their hiring processes and discuss why the challenges faced by some carriers won't necessarily impact the entire aviation industry. But if you're facing a furlough, what's your best course of action? Should you rely on unemployment benefits until your airline recalls you, or should you actively seek alternative employment? Do you find yourself envious of peers progressing while you feel stagnant in your career? Is it worth considering a career change, even if it means compromising your values? Are you willing to prioritize personal advancement, even if it means disadvantaging others?

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Contact: [email protected]

Instagram: climbvx

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I had so much fun talking with my friend Micah.  In this first part we catch up, talk about Micah’s student pilot journey and the differences between Part 61 and 141 flight training. We also have a little fun with aviation hot takes provided by one of our listeners!

About Micah:

Micah, a ramp lead for Alaska Airlines in Salt Lake City, UT, caught the aviation bug early on. As a kid in California, he'd gaze up at the sky, dreaming of piloting "family-sized planes" whenever those little Cessnas zoomed overhead. His love for planes soared even higher around 2016 when he discovered flight simulator videos – and let's just say, he hasn't landed since! 

When Micah got his driver's license, his dad gave him the classic "get a job" talk. So, naturally, Micah took off (pun intended) to the airport for work. Starting off with Prospect, where he rolled with wheelchair service, Micah's journey eventually led him to the Alaska Airlines ramp gig in late 2022. 

Sure, he's not a big shot mainline employee, but Micah's loving every moment of his job. From wrangling planes to juggling bags, chatting with pilots, and maybe even moving a jet bridge or two, there's never a dull moment. Plus, bonding with coworkers over card games adds an extra bit of fun to his day. Micah's grateful to be living his dream and is always ready to take flight into another awesome workday!

Follow Micah!

Instagram: kslc_aviator

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In today’s episode I answer one of my fellow Army Soldier’s questions.  He wants to make the right choice for his family so I give him some advice in picking the right airlines for them. Also, I tell you what my favorite mode of descent is in the E175 and finally I share some of my favorite overnights and… am I a “slam-clicker?” Come on in and find out!

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Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show

Contact: [email protected]

Instagram: climbvx

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Welcome to this special Eclipse episode; Manny’s in trouble with the Chief! Join me as I bring you up to speed on my latest adventures and take you backstage on a repo flight. Plus, I offer advice for those contemplating a career switch to aviation, covering the good, the bad, and the ugly. Don't miss out – come join the conversation! Oh… and yeah… I’ll tell you why I got in trouble at work. (Sigh)

Let’s get it on!

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Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show

Contact: [email protected]

Instagram: climbvx

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• (00:00) - Episode 23

Welcome to today's podcast episode, where I'll be tackling your questions, including strategies for dealing with a challenging captain. Additionally, I'll be offering an exclusive glimpse into my Upgrade Initial Operating Experience (UIOE) trips. We'll dive into why United Airlines opted to divert to Stewart International in New Jersey instead of its intended destination, Newark, amidst windy conditions. Stay tuned as I share my insights and theories on this interesting scenario.

LINKS:
 
The “gas station burger” restaurant in Gunnison, CO: Powerstop
United flight diverts to Stewart International due to winds: United Flight 85 from Tel Aviv

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Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show

Contact: [email protected]

Instagram: climbvx

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Welcome to the grand finale! It's time to delve into the technical aspects and witness Patrick's expertise in air traffic control. He details his use of equipment and tools at TRACON to ensure aircraft safety. We also explore controller training, staying current, and Patrick's role as an instructor guiding new hires through their initial experiences. Join us for this and more!

About Patrick:

Patrick, an aviation enthusiast, photographer, and Air Traffic Controller, boasts nearly 17 years of experience in the field. He has worked in two different facilities throughout his career: the Honolulu Control Facility and the Salt Lake TRACON. Originally from Utah, Patrick’s love for aviation began in childhood, traveling with his family. At the age of 4, he realized his passion for becoming a controller, a journey he pursued through education at Salt Lake Community College and the University of North Dakota.

Outside of work, Patrick treasures spending time with his family, relishing his roles as a husband and father. His hobbies include skiing, paddle boarding, traveling, camping, engaging in flight simulator sessions with friends, and pursuing aviation photography. He lives by the motto “never stop learning,” recognizing the vast knowledge within the aviation industry and cherishing the friendships he has forged along the way.

Follow Patrick!

Instagram: Patrick “PD”

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Email me at: [email protected]

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What an incredible journey it's been! In this episode, I dive into topics that truly ignite my excitement. Overflowing with enthusiasm, I couldn't resist recording this episode using my iPhone. I address listener questions, share encouraging reviews, and invite others to submit their own. For those eager to maximize their non-revenue benefits, this episode is a must-listen. Additionally, I offer my personal take on the current state of airline hiring as a fellow regional pilot eagerly eyeing a position at Delta. 

Listen to my guest episode!

Ep126: Skywest Airlines: Elevating your Aviation Career at this FANTASTIC Airline!

Ready 4 Pushback Podcast with Nik Fialka

LINKS:

Apple Store: StaffTraveler
Google Play Store: StaffTraveler

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Email me at: [email protected]

Instagram: climbvx

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In this episode we continue the conversation from part 1. Patrick highlights the importance of perseverance. He also mentions how dynamic hiring and duty station placement is.  After all was said and done, Patrick ends up working in the most unlikely place, but falls deeply in love with his new duty station before eventually making it back to his native state of Utah. This and more in Part 2.  Let’s go!

About Patrick:

Patrick, an aviation enthusiast, photographer, and Air Traffic Controller, boasts nearly 17 years of experience in the field. He has worked in two different facilities throughout his career: the Honolulu Control Facility and the Salt Lake TRACON. Originally from Utah, Patrick’s love for aviation began in childhood, traveling with his family. At the age of 4, he realized his passion for becoming a controller, a journey he pursued through education at Salt Lake Community College and the University of North Dakota.

Outside of work, Patrick treasures spending time with his family, relishing his roles as a husband and father. His hobbies include skiing, paddle boarding, traveling, camping, engaging in flight simulator sessions with friends, and pursuing aviation photography. He lives by the motto “never stop learning,” recognizing the vast knowledge within the aviation industry and cherishing the friendships he has forged along the way.

Follow Patrick!

Instagram: Patrick “PD”

REACH OUT!

Email me at: [email protected]

Instagram: climbvx

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Pushing Tin! If you haven’t seen the movie, you gotta go watch it.

Patrick never runs out of things to talk about. In this episode we start digging at the surface to get to know how Patrick got to where he is now. You want to find out how to become an air traffic controller? Then stay tuned!

About Patrick:

Patrick, an aviation enthusiast, photographer, and Air Traffic Controller, boasts nearly 17 years of experience in the field. He has worked in two different facilities throughout his career: the Honolulu Control Facility and the Salt Lake TRACON. Originally from Utah, Patrick’s love for aviation began in childhood, traveling with his family. At the age of 4, he realized his passion for becoming a controller, a journey he pursued through education at Salt Lake Community College and the University of North Dakota.

Outside of work, Patrick treasures spending time with his family, relishing his roles as a husband and father. His hobbies include skiing, paddle boarding, traveling, camping, engaging in flight simulator sessions with friends, and pursuing aviation photography. He lives by the motto “never stop learning,” recognizing the vast knowledge within the aviation industry and cherishing the friendships he has forged along the way.

Follow Patrick!

Instagram: Patrick “PD”

REACH OUT!

Email me at: [email protected]

Instagram: climbvx

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