Become a Pilot, Before it’s Too Late. (Here’s Why)

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I wanted to make this video to encourage you through any Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt ("FUD") in regards to becoming a pilot and owning your own plane one day. I think there are a lot of little reasons so many of us put of becoming a pilot, getting that next rating, or buying an airplane. There are lots of good reasons. But if we're not careful I think that can lead to a lifetime of ultimately not pursuing flying. I hear from so many people in the comments and emails that 3 months turned into 30 years and they regret not flying sooner, so I wanted to put this video together to try to encourage you that wherever you're at, the best day to start is TODAY.
I hope it encourages you in your flying journey!
If we are meeting for the first time, I'm Charlie Gasmire, a commercially licensed pilot and airplane owner, and I make helpful content for private pilots. I own a 1975 Cessna 182 in Dallas, Texas, and make content sharing my lessons learned along the way so that it might help others.
Want my help 1:1? More info at airplaneacadem...

[@AirplaneAcademy]

Hi guys - I wanted to let you know that I just launched an Insiders Newsletter, where once a week I send an email with an important aviation lesson I've learned, links to my latest content so you won't miss anything, and occasional behind the scenes content. I'm also working on a big new project that I can't announce yet, but I will be sharing more behind the scenes content with my Insiders via email along the way. You sign up (free) at airplaneacademy.com/insiders

[@jamesharkness1058]

The other really important thing is the medical side of flying. Getting your first FAA medical is a key milestone to getting your PPL. Generally, the younger you are, the easier that process is.

[@jaeahn816]

I'm a 1st generation of immigrant to the U.S. when I was 37 years old. When I first landed, I couldn't even place order at McDonalds. However, after 13 years later, I don't want to looking at GA airplanes flying over the town anymore, so decided to try a discovery flight. Yes, sitting at cockpit changed me. Since I started training, I have struggled to land for a while. Any my flight school was located in busy Class D airport. (Of course, CFIs changed every once in a while) I found a small school in Class G and I'm very satisfied to take training from there. Also, about 4 weeks ago, I soloed and started XC to other airport for the first time. I still am having difficulties to understand all the radios as it is not my first language, but I want to show my kids that what father have achieved in the age of early 50s and they can achieve what they want whatever challenges are there.

[@AeroRio]

I'm sure you'll make your kids proud. It's more difficult for you because of the language barrier, still not impossible.

[@Flyguy94]

In 2019 I woke up and told my roommate I couldn't sleep and was not liking my job and wanted to be a pilot. Today I'm flying at Southwest. This video is golden advice!

[@seannoble8948]

Would you mind explaining how you got everything done in that short period of time? I'm asking cause I'm hoping to get everything done as fast as possible in the next few years cause im closing in on 45 real quick and time is running out

[@technicalitems731]

@@seannoble8948wow. So how'd you do that so fast? I'm 49. Might be too late for me...

[@Sketches8]

WHAAAAAAATTTT NO WAY BRO

[@russelp3770]

Same, first flight in Oct 2019, was at the airlines by mid 2022 and now retired from flying. Unfortunately, I could make a lot more money working for myself and be home every night with my family instead of w@nking in hotel rooms. The eye-catching pamphlet isn't necessarily the reality for everyone.

[@cartermichaelmcmillan3105]

That’s impressive, what do you do to make more money on your own than at the airlines

[@desmondellis657]

I’m 64, have been an on again, off again student pilot for over 40 years! I just signed up for ground training again, and am going to schedule another discovery flight. Thank you for your encouragement. If I only fly another 10 or 20 years I’ll be happy! 🤘👍🏼

[@TheFlyingSlothbear]

I've wanted to fly since I was a child. I put it off, I almost forgot about it. Still, I could never shake the love of aviation. I watched your video, and I started working towards my Private Cert, almost impulsively. My family is supportive, and they have been participating as much as possible in this endeavor. The joy I feel every time I climb in the cockpit makes me question why I ever delayed in this pursuit. Thanks, and happy flying.

[@Scutum-ky2fx]

Today I took (For me) a massive step and did a discovery flight. I am 26 and want to see where I can go with it. I am scared about the financing, etc, etc but I aint going to let that get to me. That cycle of fear had me for a while and now I feel like I am doing rather than thinking. Thank you for the aid and help.

[@AirplaneAcademy]

Awesome, congratulations!!

[@tomster70]

Delaying is bad. I know there are stories of some who get their PPL late in life. Your medical is something you must think about. It can end your flying with a health issue later in life. Being able to stay current is a critical oversight by some. If you don't own, you'll have to rent. But if you do decide to go for it, my recommendation is to do your ground school and written test FIRST. Don't fly until you get that done. This was my biggest failure. I tried to fly and do bookwork without ground school. I failed! The single greatest regret I have is not having a better plan to start. I'm part of the larger percentage of folks who fail to get their PPL. The flying is the easy part. Study and test before flying. You be on your way to success if you do it in this order! Wish someone told me!

[@y0manda]

I started taking lessons when I was 13 thru 17 years old. college and life happened and 30 years later and on my same log book from 88' I decided to pursue what i've always wanted to achieve. Now I'm on my way to commercial then CFI.

[@jb-qi8fz]

Absolutely the number one best thing you will ever do in your life. Got my PPL in 1964 and flew for over 50 years. Bought a brand new 172 in 1971 for $12,000, (yes twelve thousand) and flew it for 40 years. Now, most will say this sounds nuts, but when asked why I did not have have health or life insurance (therefore did not pay for it), I would point to my plane and say there's all the insurance I need right there. Flying took away all stress and kept me in such a state of well being, that for me , the beneficial effects were not able to be equaled by anything. Of course, now, the cost is astronomical as compared to years ago, but don't let that stop you. It is the single best thing you will ever do in your life.

[@QiHealing]

OK, I will do it! Thanks for the prompt. I will take my written by August 5th this summer. I have been flying with my CFI husband for many years now and have just shied away from the test and the solo work. I fly a Stinson 108-3, but he flies a Cessna 210. Your comment about taking the grandchildren around in the summers was totally inspirational for me. I am 65. Thanks!

[@Ash-nz9hi]

You get a giant Gold Star for this video. Your message and advice can be applied to all who have a dream, not just flying. Well done.

[@curryblackwell]

YOU are one of the main reasons I did it !...My son decided to be a CFII a year ago & I thought it would be great for me to get (@ 57) my PPL & use that to fly with him & further our relationship....fast forward 18 months & he is a CFII & I'm working towards my Instrument !...you are a great encourager while also being realistic!...thank you !

[@AirplaneAcademy]

Hi Curry - nice talking with you today over Zoom. Huge congrats on your journey and accomplishments. You and your son will have amazing memories together in the cockpit.

[@Art65483]

Thank you. Got my private rating, logged just over 90 hours and the family kept growing. Put it aside three decades ago. Going to start reviewing the Pilots Handbook and solid KZbin videos for motivation to lay aside excuses and quite frankly fear of the mountain and start climbing into the sky once again.

[@MonsterDHFOX]

I start my school this Monday !! I needed this. The big thing I would include for getting a step done as well as ground school would be flight simulator. I did that after my buddy flew me in the Cessna and I had ground school and a sim paid for and it’s paid off, 9 months of sim time and learning aviation on my own and I’m starting school ahead of the game day one. The simulator gives you that I’m there feel and makes you believe you’re a pilot. Believing is everything.

[@thejjtp]

Thank you the algorithm is strong. i am waiting for my FAA med and was going to give up over some nonsense. I have time the money i'm going to do it.

[@markdavis4318]

I’m about to turn 54. I’ve had two major items on my life todo list and a couple of years ago checked off the first one, which was to get SCUBA certified. Woo Hoo!! My second is to get my pilot’s license. I’ve been speaking with a couple of friends who are pilots and I’m about to take that first step toward taking the test. I’m very excited! This video is another reminder and motivator that I can do this. Thanks!!

[@ricklederman]

I spent most of my life in aircraft maintenance. I got a ride in a Stemme S10 self-launching glider in late 2015 at the age of 66. I immediately ordered a new one, ended up being a Stemme S12 that I received early 2018. The summer of 2016 I drove 2.5 hours each way from Swanton, Ohio to Ionia Michigan and a full time glider school. By the end of that summer I got my glider pilot's license. When my S12 was delivered in early 2018 I spent a little over a week with additional training in order to get my 'self launch endorsement'. A year ago I upgraded to a S12G, dual Garmin G3X. During all that time, twice I flew it to Oshkosh and EAA Airventure, putting my Stemme in the manufacturer's booth, and flying it directly over the center of Lake Michigan each way, safely at 10,500 ft with its 53:1 glide ratio. It is never too late, although at 77, I have decided to sell the S12G, but do have amazing memories.

[@chennemeyer]

Pretty brilliant points really, even for goals outside aviation

[@J_Gurn32]

Your video spoke to me. Made it to single and multi-instrument rating. Need my commercials and cfi's, but I slipped it to the back burner. Money was the reason, still is. Working at a window factory now. Sucks. Current and only plan is, build my 401k to $60k, while paying down debts and life, empty it, finish up at an accelerated program. Maybe not the best plan, but it's what I got for now. Turning 39 soon. 😮

[@XBOXPLAYER8]

I’m going to set up my first discovery flight. I’ve always been interested in aviation, and I live close by an airport that offers discovery flights. Time to pull the trigger and see what this is all about!

[@AirplaneAcademy]

Awesome!!

[@TechTSpirit]

I started flying an RC airplane, Wing Dragon. Then Belt CP RC Heli. Upgraded to Align T-Rex 600. Not satisfied with feet on ground while airplane is flying, I bought used big affordable paramotor. Now I have passed 20hrs fixed wing training. Rebuilding a pre-owned Lancair 235 now I aim at getting my license after solo. You are right, If you have a dream make a step forward no matter what obstacles may appear in front or you just leave your dream in bed.

[@cindy6576]

I just love you and your steps to overcome FUD. Schedule class 1 medical (I’m 58). I had my 21 year old son do that for his first step too. He instrument rating training currently

[@AirplaneAcademy]

Thank you! And thanks for sharing your next step here! Awesome!

[@kamikazemadmax]

I'm 41, have always dreamed of being a pilot. I hear stories of "Wrong Way" Corrigan, Charles Lindbergh, and other aviation legends, and I wanted to always do it. Tonight I flew at night for 1st time and am almost 30 hours into my training. It's never too late. I plan on owning a plane, and being a CFI one day because I want to pass on my passion to others.

[@nwjbward]

Wanted you to know that this video was highlighted on Facebook under Student Pilots over 50!! Thanks for the insight and encouragement!!

[@AirplaneAcademy]

Thanks for letting me know!

[@Reese-Hill]

I joined AOPA, then I also paid for Sporty's online training course. I think next I"m going to do what you said. I'm going to purchase me a log book and a flight bag. I've started putting money aside to pay for flight school I'm also waiting for the FAA to come out with their final MOSAIC ruling. I've subcribed to your channel and joined your online academy as well.

[@sanjaybuchanan8814]

Doing my medical today.. will come back with my results in 12 months

[@joeburgess2464]

Did discovery flight yesterday. Felt a bit odd, more nervous than I thought I would be. I called to set up flight training and left a message. If I don't get response by EOD tomorrow, I'll call again (probably not during lunch time). After getting me in the air, I don't know that anything will stop me from getting in the air again.

[@Tuno85]

After my PPL last year, I have started with my ATPL theory. I am almost 39 years and chasing my dream. Just do it.

[@rickmeyer-j7b]

Thanks for the video I’m 72 with about 60 hours hope to get certified this summer

[@jamesculverwell7884]

Started studying for the exams today thank for your video... 35 year old would like to be done in a year with my ppl.

[@sjalmeha]

I will start studying for my ATPL

[@Dolphinvet]

I started flying in high school. Was a pilot at age 17. By the time I was 19, I had my commercial, instrument, and multi-engine ratings. Got a job flying a 4 engine turboprop as an F.O. Received my first type rating at age 21 in Lear Jets. I gave up flying for a living at age 29, but I never gave up aviation. It's a very fulfilling hobby. Yes it's expensive, but I still love it. I didn't purchase my first airplane until about 6 years ago (Cessna 340a), which I loved flying. I sold it and now own a Cessna 550 (Citation II). Flying is a lot of fun, and I prefer my plane to travel over airlines any day, even though it's more expensive than the airlines.

[@robertyoushock]

I took a discovery flight. I ran the numbers a million times over. I know what I need to do and there is no magic answer. I'll get my 1st class medical within the next 2 weeks, and if all goes well I'll start a second job after my 9-5 and save up for about 8 months. That will be enough for my PPL & IR.

[@jordanwilliams2557]

The biggest problem for me is the cost, the flight school where i want to go is $60,000 usd for the training, and i live in a country where making that money is a low possibility

[@MalachiWhite-tw7hl]

What country?

[@jordanwilliams2557]

@@MalachiWhite-tw7hl Jamaica

[@MalachiWhite-tw7hl]

@@jordanwilliams2557 Come to the US, become a naturalized citizen. Flying is cheaper, and better, here than anywhere else.

[@G_Money72]

After a ten years! I just purchased my own airplane. I live very rural no place to rent and nearest flight school is over an hour away. I’m gonna fly

[@m4rtz_]

I scheduled my 1st class AME appointment :)

[@mikev9471]

Spot on. I had a private at 19. Instrument at 21. Flew a few years then stopped . Married and kids. I took a 25 year break and couldn’t get it out of my mind. I had the same thoughts of how would I get back in? Could I afford it? What do I have to re learn, ,as a lot has changed in 25 years. I remember looking at my phone with the phone number of a flight school. I said what the heck and pushed the button to dial. 5 years later I'm still flying and own my own Piper Cherokee. I didn’t think it was possible. I found many excuses not to fly again but just decided I needed to try. Not trying is a guaranteed failure. We only get one time to live in this world. We can’t say next time I’ll do something different. Do it now if it’s something you desire

[@mattstadt3250]

Hey Charlie and your followers, i am planning to go on a discovery flight before EAA Oshkosh 2024 and possibly get a fed med card if I feel confident about flying. I am 53 now and still exceptionally well health wise. Thanks for the inspiration , -Matt

[@bfine15]

I'm gonna go in and get all the info I need

[@davidwiederholt9802]

My discovery flight is in two days and I am taking my son's along as well to start the process alit sooner then I did

[@max_ridgeland]

I hate my Job, and I am mid-career right now. I've wanted to be a pilot since I was a little kid so I started looking into becoming a commercial pilot, but I think the FAA medical will be a challenge. It seems that if you have ever received an Anxiety/Depression diagnosis and have been prescribed medication in the past, that i no longer take, then the FAA makes it a massive hurdle to pass the medical. The funny thing is I served successfully in the military and served in a war zone with this and even had it waived to serve. I should have never asked for the meds but I was going thru a period of increased stress due to my job and I sought help to manage it.

[@sirfoxalot434]

The reality for me is having both the money and time. I need both at the same time or it can't happen. I am working on that as my prime focus now.

[@alanparker7012]

Been looking for a plane for 2.5 years. Have no mentor so cautious and trying to find a pre buy mechanic, especially far from home where an aircraft might be located. Thats a lot of money to be spending so I better know what I’m doing.

[@DarnelTv]

Started last year

[@andrebello4191]

One first step can be to get a flight simulator for your computer. Lots of practice for cheap. Its not a substitute for the real thing but it helps. Well other than financial. I'll be honest. I'm scared of the spin recovery training. I'm scared of having an engine failure and having to set down somewhere. And the amount of accidents that happen with general aviation you hear about can really make you think twice.

[@MAXLOPEZ-oj8gc]

i going to work harder and thanks

[@McMartinVille]

Congrats on CSEL and CMEL! Hopefully getting mine in a couple of weeks.

[@lannmurphy2592]

I’m going to call the flight school tomorrow! 👍

[@Catpanl]

There should be a disclaimer on videos that flight schools or online courses benefit from new pilots. It’s like colleges promoting courses. The job market isn’t always reflective of what those who make money from training claim… Having said that most of what is discussed here is true. If you love it. Do it.

[@Philly-lq6zr]

Awsome for you , great inspiration, 😊 ive flown a plane once , need to make that second step , ,

[@samuelhesterjr7010]

I thought about applying to Emirates training academy. If nothing else, I will do online ground course. Thanks for the encouraging videos! Could you do a video on pilot pay scales in commercial and otherwise? Maybe even benefits outside the pay? Thanks so much!

[@Thefatbob55]

Just started reading the FAA PHAK for fun

[@hivoltagedriver]

If you think you might want to be a pilot, find someone (CFI, friend, flight school, etc...) to take you on a discovery flight. It's a little step, but it might ignite the fire. Anybody who flies would love to take you flying.

[@arthurzielinski8187]

I’m going to fly my 73M8 from YYZ to YYC today… because I have no choice! It becomes a bit different when you fly for a living lol

[@TheRealDanielRamos]

With 22hrs and a passed written, I’m going to contact my CFI and get back in the air. It’s been too long …

[@Don-nw5sy]

Im going to join the EAA and the Local Chapter!

[@Rogueaviation]

Flight training is like planting a tree. The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The next best time is today. I put learning to fly off for years, and went to flight school 20 years ago, now. Go for it, you guys. It's verty difficult, but it's a hell of a life.

[@pilotlasse]

I am definitely guilty of this. Last year, I didn't fly anywhere near as much as I wanted to because I thought it was better to do just one thing at a time with my flight training. So I ended up spending all of my time studying for my written test and even now, I am more focussed on getting the funds for my flying career, instead of just taking the plunge and just fly the plane. This month, I did my first solo and since then I got very very nervous to get back out there due to those nerves. Flying planes for a living has been my lifelong dream and to attain my first ever pilot license is a milestone that is right around the corner. That thought of getting effectively halfway to my lifegoal after just 2 to 3 years of flying is getting a bit too far into my head and it's starting to scare me out of flying if I'm not careful. The TLDR of it all is basicly that The Office meme of Steve Carell shouting ''OMG, Okay it's happening, EVERYBODY STAY CALM'' I'm not that worried about it all though, I am just in my early 20s (turning 21 soon), so I have plenty of time to get there. Edit: the thing I am going to do next is plan out a whole day of flying where I'll train some more emergency procedures and a cross-country flight to the airports I have to visit on my solo cross-country and plan it TODAY.

[@Hawka-Loogy]

Sir: you once mentioned acronym for anticipating Instrument Approach Clearance. Can you refresh?

[@rudyberkvens-be]

I got my cpl at 62 and mu FI at 63. 😊

[@engrxtn]

I was afraid of doing the solo and stopped flying. Worst mistake of my life…

[@shockwavegaming1376]

I'm 42 and recently divorced. I am also currently in ground school and scheduled to start my flight training in mid-July. The icing on the cake is that in a couple of weeks, I'll be getting married to a wonderful woman who enjoys taking care of me and encourages me in my life goals. Life is short. Don't wait on your dreams.

[@neverclevernorwitty7821]

I know this channel and comments will tell you nothing but do it, do it, do it! Here is some balance. For me personally, the challenge of systems management and precise procedures both mental and physical is what drew me to flying. I greatly enjoyed the preflight planning, takeoffs, and landings. What most don't tell you is that VFR XC flying is beautiful, and .... boring AF. After the first few trips the novelty wore off and I was left quite bored in the cockpit staring at a magenta line. If you are of the engineering mindset and drawn to the challenge of flying and/or view it as faster form of transportation, do NOT do it. If however you have career aspirations, or you absolutely love sightseeing from altitude, or have an exploration spirit, then go for it.

[@PrBaLLaz123]

Great comments!

[@GeorgeShook-su8fs]

I was a young lad between 5 to 7 years old when on the news Amelia Earhart was being interviewed on flying the transatlantic ocean made history as what did she eat on the flight and she said I had sandwiches and he asked you what kind and she laughed and she said chicken sandwiches. Everybody laughed because she was no chicken.

[@ASFxBajan]

I applied to a online ground school called sporties any suggestions or study tips ?

[@thorburnmcgee7937]

I’ve been in the ground school phase for several months, sort-of half-way done with it now. Should I try adding pilots to my circle of friends, or go on a “discovery ride” every so often, or what else do you recommend for a lower-middle-class man like myself?

[@pika1111]

Thank you! I'm 29, software engineer, willing to start aviation training. I got my English proficiency test (8 for IELTS), and Canada AME examined. Ready to enrolled to flight school and start my training in 2025. But sometimes still wondering whether it is worth of this risk of taking great loan. Can anyone encourage me and tell me why it is absolutely worth it? I would be really appreciated.

[@rodneytrynor7374]

can a UAV pilot's license lead to a private pilot's license?

[@crg34]

Owned an airplane for 8 years after getting my PP. I should have rented, would have been tens of thousands of $ ahead.

[@haroldridenour1280]

How hard is ground school

[@antoniobranch]

"THE MORE YOU DON'T. THE MORE YOU WON'T."

[@0Pranzetti0]

I’m almost 32 currently a union carpenter. have wanted to fly all my life I’ve dumped many hours into realistic flight sims but I wonder if I could ever financially afford an airplane 😂

[@gavinlew8273]

I want to get my motorbike license first :D

[@michaeltoney2277]

My dream is to have a friend who likes to fly and has their own plane and ideally has a bit of the autism so they never cut corners. Then we fly all around together lol

[@Noblerr_gaming]

I'd like to be a pilot, my problem is I'm already making over 100k a year and am the only provider for my wife and daughter, but I also work so much so that I don't have weekends to be able to do flight lessons on. Not sure what to do because I can't just stop working, advice?

[@mikegaudreau5853]

You don’t read a book in one night. ;) one chapter at a time. I am guilty of the same thing; very similar situation. Don’t look to the end; enjoy the journey. That’s my plan. Better to do something than nothing. In fact it was mentioned in the video pretty much - where would I be if I logged just some hours over time?

[@GeorgeShook-su8fs]

It was just a young boy how about 5 to 7 years old when the news had Amelia Earhart after she flew across the ocean and made

[@flyingcountryboy]

I obtained my ticket at the age 56 in my own aircraft

[@hayden9272]

Do you need a college degree to be ab airline pilot?

[@ryanfuxa6738]

color vision impairment...Thats what's stopping me.

[@ClassicCase]

All right, give me 100k and I'll do it. I have 0 dollars right now.

[@POWERLINECONTACT]

❤ aviation

[@Sarah-cm5do]

I booked 2 discovery flights with 2 different schools and I’m sooo excited. I’m a single mom and still able to pursue my childhood dreams. 🙌🏽🙌🏽🩷🙏🏽

[@AirplaneAcademy]

Congratulations, this is awesome!

[@jraybye]

I started training after I retired at age 62. I soloed and was just beginning cross-country work when covid hit. As (bad) luck would have it, during the pandemic I developed some intermittent inner ear issues and didn't feel it was safe to fly alone. However, I passed the written and continue to fly with young cfis who are looking to build time on their way to the airlines. They are grateful and I have a captive audience for my boring old man stories! I guess my point is dreams can come true even if it's not what you first imagined. Thanks for the positivity and excellent content your channel provides.

[@ratdog7050]

I just started ground school,King through weather, and first hour of flight with CFI, just turned 62 19days ago! I passed my 3rd class med, but don't wait with the SAD it gets harder to just stay fit. Plan to solo and get my PPL by fall.

[@timhoke2]

Keep it up. I did not get my private certificate until I was 72!

[@malcolmsutherland8585]

You are an inspiration! I am nearly 62 and have a dream to fly between North Carolina and Cape Breton, but was thinking I am too old!!

[@elwoodkwong8334]

I am 76 and I have been flying for many years. I just bought a Mooney. I had a hard time getting insurance because as a rule, they don't insure 76 or older pilots (even I have over one thousand hours and I am a CF II (instrument instructor). So hurry up do it while you are under 76.

[@jjsifo1]

As long as you understand,respect weather,respect aviation and its rules,know your limitations, go for it. Only way to survive general aviation is having respect for it.

[@chrisdutoit2641]

A few years ago I was homeless and living in a tent next to a sea cave on the coast of South Africa. One of the biggest things that kept me going was my love for aviation and my life long dream of becoming a pilot. Today, five years later I have one written exam left and I am just under 20 hours in on my private license. The goal is to earn my commercial before my 55th birthday. (I'm turning 53 in October). It is going slow and sometimes two months go by before I saved enough money for my next hour, but I am getting there. No matter your circumstances, if you really really want it, it is yours for the taking!

[@AirplaneAcademy]

Thank you for sharing and encouraging us all!

[@nikhilabraham5000]

Good going Chris. Just wanted a clarity as to why CPL instead of PPL ? I mean at age 55yrs Airlines will be looking for much younger pilots as they are available in plenty at any given point of time. So why do you still choose CPL over PPL ? No matter what I am really happy to see you grow and fly buddy . Cheers

[@Mister_Kemp]

I was about to ask how old was the “grandfather “ ( in the first story) when he started? 😊

[@chrisdutoit2641]

@@nikhilabraham5000 I am not really interested in the airlines. I would love to instruct though. The other thing compelling me is that I am part of the Harvard Club of South Africa. We give training on the T6 Harvard (Texan) and we will also be taking PAX for flips soon. For this I will need a CPL. In my opinion flying is about stick and rudder. When you join an airline, you pretty much stop flying. I hear this complaint from a lot of my friends who have been with the airlines for long.

[@chrisdutoit2641]

@@Mister_Kemp I have been flying with friends for a long time in their GA aircraft. I am also part of the Harvard Club of South Africa and I have been flying backseat for a while. Obviously while I was on the street there was none of that. But I officially started my PPL about a year ago, after I quit Professional MMA at the age of 50.

[@ryanshelburne]

That was just what I needed. My first discovery flight is tomorrow. 38 years old and I’ve been obsessed with aviation since I was 2 standing in my back yard watching planes in the pattern over Tinker. I’ve got an uphill battle to get where I want to go, but I’m excited to take my first step.

[@buddysmith1721]

I started training at 38, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. You have a lot of very memorable milestones ahead. Enjoy!

[@cg5138]

Hey man! It's an awesome ride. I'm 40 and not done yet. The 1 st solo is amazing. Don't get discouraged when it gets tough. Just from personal experience so far I've hit a allot plateaus and learning blocks and it's get s frustrating. Just wanted to reach out to you, because you comment reminded me of myself. Your first introduction flight will hook you hard!

[@robd9819]

In 1999 at 38 I got my PPL took about 6 months PT and got my Instrument rating in 2000. Almost completed my commercial rating then stopped flying sold my plane and I'm not even sure why. Just started flying again at 63. Wish I had never stopped. Never too late to start. It's a lot of work as it should be, but some hard work and persistence you'll get through it. Set a goal and timeline.

[@kacybruce4379]

Took my first lesson at 39 back in February. I got to do my first solo 3 weeks ago! Go for it! I had a plan to just do one lesson a month to get my feet wet. I took four lessons within the first five days. lol. It is an obsession that you can’t deny. I too stood in the back yard as a kiddo watching planes fly over! Good luck my friend!

[@FoxtroxAviation]

Honestly these messages are all shouting my name. Flying has been my dream since I was 5 yrs after a school excursion. I took my introductory flight and ordered all the textbooks materials and began self learning. I pray this becomes reality

[@waterboy330]

On my 28th birthday I woke up and said to myself I have always wanted to be a pilot since I knew about planes. I went to a flight school that day. I am now working on my instrument training. This was one of the best decisions of my life and my only regret was thinking I could never be one.

[@MonsterDHFOX]

Good job! That’s the wild thing about life, if you’re meant to do it, it will still happen just not how you planned. I’m starting at 36. Wish I did it earlier but then I say I don’t think I would have put as much effort in like I do now.

[@FlywithJake-rh3rt]

Same man! Started a few months before turning 29. Completed instrument within 7 months of starting and currently working on my commercial! Wish I would have started sooner!

[@figura574]

Bro legit what I am doing right now, started at 28, and currently working on my instrument 😂😂

[@AeroRio]

A friend started at 40, he is flying small cargo planes now. Couldn't be happier. Go for it.

[@matthewgrichmond]

Doing online ground school now! Talking to one flight school now 😊

[@HyperSpaceProphet]

I agree: Just Do It. I built simulators in my 20's....always wanted to be a pilot. Got busy, worked my ass off, never had time to learn to be a pilot.....I was always gonna do it....someday. Before I knew it, I was in my 50's. Holy shit. when did that happen?? 7 years later, I'm 60 years old with 850 hours and a Cessna 340, having owned a 182 along the way. Just Freakin' Do It. .....Today. ....Take the first Step, as Charlie says. Get off your ass and start. You won't regret taking that first step. This is true for whatever you dreamed of doing. Just start doing it before you are old. Trust me on this.

[@timsmith8506]

“Holy shit when did that happen” that is the current stage I’m in.

[@iiddrrii6051]

Great advice, thanks for sharing! There are certainly ways to get in, even for people with regular incomes.

[@AeroRio]

I would love some good tips for building a flight simulator

[@highendaudio]

Yes. Yes. Yes. If you had told me a year ago I would be a licensed pilot with my own plane, I would have recommended you for the funny farm. But yet, here I am. 55 and working busily on my instrument and flying everywhere and loving GA life. The best kept secret in America. How did I do it? I said to myself “it’s now or never.” It was a life long goal. Great content channel!

[@bartmitcham9697]

When I was 16, every Saturday I washed and waxed two airplanes for one hour of flight time. The more I was at the airport, the more pilots I got to know who would help me by letting me fly with them in their airplanes.

[@brentsheldon8667]

Im 58 and just soloed. I always wanted to take up flying, but time and money when I was younger was a problem. The upside of being 58 and getting my PPL is that I can easily afford to buy a plane and have more time to use it.

[@hefeibao]

Congrats! I was 55 when I got my PPL. You are not alone in your post-50 journey!

[@RetreadPhoto]

Just remember that a lot of caution and preparation goes into being safe. A lot of people take it up late in life but don’t take it seriously, and it ends poorly. If someone takes it up late, they have to be a conservative and very good to excellent pilot, not just a trained and certificated pilot. Older people have to try harder.

[@hefeibao]

@@RetreadPhoto 💯!!!

[@UOTDF]

Congratulations, mate. I will be 60 in a few weeks and just did my first solo two weeks ago. What a buzz, hey? Well done 👍🏻

[@brentsheldon8667]

Congratulations to all of us who are 50 plus and going for it. Speaking for myself, I have become so bored with everyday things. Flying has renewed my interest in learning something new with so much to learn it will take the rest of my life. Leaving the house in a little while to get some night hours logged.

[@00Skyfox]

The biggest thing holding so many of us back from getting into flying, or getting back into flying if life circumstances got in the way, is reasons filled with dollar signs. When I started flying it was $42 an hour wet. Last time I saw prices in my area, before all the FBOs closed during the plague, it was about $140 an hour dry for a 152 or a 172. Considering the increase in prices on real estate, gas, groceries, utilities, and everything else, the increases in paychecks have not kept up.

[@Terry-ib6uv]

Spot on...no money...no flying. Eat or fly. 🤷

[@AeroRio]

So true.. but then there are flight simulators, companies that will finance your education if you work for them afterwards, etc. Every little step counts.

[@jb-qi8fz]

When I learned on a J-3 Cub in 1962, it was $7.50 /hour , wet, including instructor.

[@ohkaygoplay]

Exactly. Every time minimum wage goes up, everything else does to "compensate." Companies don't want to see a low bottom line, so they raise prices on everything to maintain profit growth. But the problem with this is that the whole POINT of raising minimum wage is to allow people to buy the groceries they need, pay their rent and bills without worrying, save for emergencies, and have the means to live. Not barely survive. If minimum wage went up and nothing else did, companies would actually see an increase in profits, because people would have the money to spend.

[@22LR.addict]

I got my PPL in high school, then college and having a family prevented me from having the time or money to continue flying. I am slowly 11yrs later getting back to where it could be a slight possibility again, but truthfully, I find just as much enjoyment riding motorcycles for a significantly lower cost and hassle. Do I want back in the air? Absolutely I do, but when $50 in fuel on the bike will get me about 1k miles vs what $50 in a Cherokee or 172 will get me.....kinda makes flying less appealing

[@jonathonhinson2070]

Thanks for posting this. More people need to hear this message. I got my private certificate when I was 35 and my commercial when I was 43. I was just an "average" person learning to fly, but something happened along the way. I had been working in the Information Technology world, but I learned about entirely new job industry after getting those certificates. Perhaps I was a "late bloomer", but we must all start where we find ourselves NOW. Was it worth it? YES, it changed the course of my life. I'm now starting my third summer season flying commercially in Alaska.

[@MonsterDHFOX]

How was it starting at 35, I’m starting my private this Monday at 36. Zero to hero program in one year then fly commercial.

[@nikhilabraham5000]

Good going Jonathan. By the way you said you had been working in the Information Technology world, but you learned about entirely new job industry after getting those certificates. Jonathan what was that New job industry and how did you get into it ? How is it going now for you ? In the mean time Happy Landings Jonathan. Cheers

[@SmittyPilot]

I will also say that both my parents were pilots and I learned to loved aviation. But for anyone that thinks "I'm too old now", I became a private pilot in my late 60s.

[@i60r14]

Wow, thank you for being the proof I can do this. Turning 64 this year and I am committed to become a pilot.

[@AeroRio]

It's never too late, as long as you' re phisically and mentally fit.

[@eric.ross.art1]

I was a Part 141 Student Pilot back in 2008 while I was still in the Marines. Logged 31 hours before I wasn't "able" to fly anymore. But I never stopped my aviation learning. I love aviation so much it HURTS. For the years since I've been at the actual controls, I've flown an unknown amount of VR simulator hours. Basically taught myself instruments to the point of absolute comfort in IMC with no autopilot. After many hardships and many years away, I FINALLY enrolled in flight school at the beginning of this month and have been studying my ASS off. Tomorrow is my med exam. I WILL have my licenses and ratings and I WILL get my Debonair. I WILL.

[@ohkaygoplay]

I wish you the best of luck. :)

[@tylersmith4554]

For those that need to hear it, you can do it, it is possible. I’m 35, I come from VERY humble beginnings, and always wanted to be a pilot. It seemed insurmountable every time the idea would come to mind. Last year I took the leap of faith and bet on myself. As of about a month ago, I’m an instrument rated commercial pilot, currently working toward my multi engine and flight instructor ratings. Just take the first step and see where it leads. What you consistently think about and put your energy towards, you will become. Good luck future aviator!

[@timsmith8506]

My first step was that I grabbed a print out with Cessna 172 checklists and every time I get into my car I am going to spend three minutes running a checklist and the same when I get to my destination. May be weird to do a pre landing checklist when I’m sitting in a parking lot parked, but it will help me memorize them. Going to make a list of steps for each maneuver and do the same thing when I’m getting ready for work, bed, etc.

[@RetreadPhoto]

I use WingX for weather at home and even while driving a car on the interstate, just as if I were navigating by plane. No rules against it.

[@jb-qi8fz]

I advise against thinking you have memorized a checklist. Read it aloud and call out "check" EVERY time you get in your plane even if it is 50 years of the same thing.

[@timothysmith7080]

@@jb-qi8fz 100% agree. For me it is more so I just know what I'm expecting instead of it being like reading it for the first time and trying to figure out what I'm doing.

[@savage22bolt32]

CIGARTIPS There are different versions of this old mnemonic.

[@MontyChicola]

I got my certificate in 1982. Flown ever since. Flew from Destin fla today at 14000 ft. You still cant slap the smile off my face. Flying changes your life. 😊

[@ruairim7551]

I literally called my local flight school yesterday and booked in my first lesson. Just got it in my mind that I'm gonna start now.

[@LL-dl9vx]

Good luck, I wish you reach your goal ASAP

[@AJ-qv9yo]

Very relatable. I finally started my PPL at age 58. Let me tell you, your hearing, your vision, and your brain are not getting better with age. Everything I took for granted and easy at younger age, is harder now. The flight school being close to a large international airport does not help it either, but it builds skills. Flying is so much fun. So many memories. I have the fortune to have an instructor to flies with me even in poor weather conditions: wind, rain, low ceiling... I take lessons whenever I can afford it and after 18 months I am at my first solos. What a feeling to control an airplane all by myself, even if it is only traffic pattern ... yet. Yes, it is possible. Next is the written exam, solos at other airfields and then cross country solo and navigation ... I am looking forward to the challenge.