I DON"T LIKE THIS... NOPE... NOT LANDING HERE!!!

Hello there, hope you are well. On this February day my mission was to fly to Rogers, Arkansas to visit a potential business partner. But the weather had other plans for me... This trip was everything and "the kitchen sink"...
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I am NOT a Certified Flight Instructor and my videos are not for instruction purposes. The video is intended for my own personal experiences and for entertainment purposes only. Do not use my video content as information about how to fly an airplane. To properly learn how to fly you MUST visit your local flight school and work with an experienced Certified Flight Instructor.
Music by Epidemic Sound (www.epidemicsou...)
Also follow me on:
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FACEBOOK / nikoswings
Web www.nikoswings.com

[@BaronPilot]

Great Video!! Great use of music! This may be one of your best yet! 👍🏼

[@NikosWings]

Thank you Sir. Looking forward to your fly-in on May 25th

[@sky-11]

i liked the music the cross fire on that last one you did when flying your Barron recently for the engines

[@jondavies2144]

I think Dueling Banjos would have a better choice when deciding not to land on that runway.

[@bodystomp5302]

"Too risky, can't do it." That's the kind of pilot I want flying the airplane.

[@bb-bc3zw]

"In aviation, you don't have to be anywhere, you just have to be safe" Those are words every aviator should live by. Wise words Niko.

[@canamm]

"In aviation, you don't have to be anywhere, you just have to be safe". That advice has kept me on the ground and safe more than once. It's great advice.

[@bendav]

I'm sure the flight was a bit stressful, but I learned from watching how you handled the weather as well as the last minute airport deviation. The video is also beneficial to remind all pilots (especially us less experienced pilots) that if it doesn't feel right - don't do it! Loved the quote "...in aviation, you never have to be anywhere - you just have to be safe". Thanks for sharing.

[@karlsandin4515]

Ben Davis yes sir, if your gut says no, what’s the purpose of pushing it

[@adb012]

Or, as they say, "If there is doubt, there is no doubt: don't".

[@barrydawson2980]

I know I took one look at the tree line and twitched. And I dont even have a pilots license.

[@mjotd8670]

That was one of the best video's yet, in my opinion, the decision making, the actual flying experience you gave us through the very tough weather, the decision NOT to land and to continue, AND the awesome dramatic background music, like from Mission Impossible!...Great flying, great editing!

[@NikosWings]

Thanks for the kind words! Much appreciated

[@captainswjr]

I'm a boat captain, but the same rule applies: If you don't think it's safe, you're right.

[@wjatube]

I feel like I needed oxygen watching this flight. The ability for Niko to multi-task in those conditions is something every amateur pilot should admire- especially his decision making ability of safety first.

[@VenturiLife]

Love the professionalism of the ATC too. Great aviating . He who flies, and flies away, lives to fly another day.

[@georges4562]

“You don’t have to be anywhere, you just have to be safe” I like it 👍👍👍👍

[@chesterstewart9098]

Awesome video! I really enjoyed how you showed ATC's willingness to work with you to keep you out of the weather.

[@bobmccoy4652]

I like how you never compromise your safety or your airplane's. That's probably why you have the best of everything. another Great Video! thanks, and keep 'em coming!

[@smevox7490]

Man, 20 years ago I used to fly with my grandfather. I don't remember all of this communication back in the day. It is really intimidating to someone who might want to learn to fly. These videos are pretty awesome. thank you for them!

[@Coaljet]

I really like how you talk it all out for us, especially your decisionmaking process. Subscribed.

[@theblacktruth]

Niko! great job with the mood changes in the music! You're really upping your production value and story telling with every video. Great work.

[@lafterk]

"In aviation, you don't have to be anywhere, you just have to be safe." Great decision making Niko. I watched this and immediately clicked the subscribe link. And then you did it again at the airfield you didn't like the looks of. Keep up the awesome videos.

[@leeCann]

"In aviation you don't have to be anywhere you just have to be safe". RIGHT YOU ARE. And if you don't like the landing, don't land! What an inspirational video Niko! As always I enjoyed watching. Thank you

[@NikosWings]

Thanks for the great comment

[@briancorrell]

"Oxygen helps you live!" I'll remember that! Great video, great info from a fellow pilot 🤙🏻

[@PilotArt]

I like how you brought it to everyone's attention that the on board weather you were using was delayed. People have killed themselves and their passengers thinking that was real time accurate information.

[@NikosWings]

Very true. I love the moving radar on this airplane because it helps me project the weather to where it could be now vs the 20 minute delayed picture, and where it will be by the time I will be in it or next to it by measuring distances

[@ralphnoe7368]

Great video as always. Great improvisation in changing flight plan as needed to avoid weather. Thanks for letting us follow as you weighed the pros and cons of course and runways. Keep the wings level!

[@kevincollins8014]

Great video and a great example of the decision making process. Thank you for sharing with us all !

[@subsoar5734]

flights like these are honestly kinda good for you because it forces your brain to work a little and keeps you busy because we spend so many flights and so many days doing super uneventful flights.

[@grahampowell9684]

Your always so professional, calm and confident...enjoy your videos!

[@tequihua]

We got a saying here in mexico 🇲🇽, Brave pilot, dead pilot. Scared pilot, living pilot. You were correct on your decisions.

[@kestrel5065]

If there's any doubt, there's no doubt!!! One of your best episodes to date. Thanks appreciate it!!

[@mikemazzola6595]

Awesome video, Niko! As an IFR pilot and owner of a Piper Arrow, I enjoyed every minute of this video. The ATC/pilot teamwork to get through that front was inspiring. But the best quote of all was "We have no where we have to be. We have to be safe." That's my motto!

[@bacon4542]

Troy! You're a short flight from Fort Rucker near Enterprise, AL. Army's home for training heli pilots. That's why sikorsky has a hangar there. Cool to see you land somewhere near home where I've gone.

[@mattkeenan9112]

Very nicely done sir! I'm actually planning a trip to Rogers and was looking for a video of someone flying there, this is the only video I've found. Great editing, quality, and most of all aviating!

[@bcflyer99]

You look good with O2 Nikko. Your videos are getting better all the time. Thanks for letting us into the cockpit with you.

[@StefanDrury]

Awesome video mate, that had everything. Nicely done through the weather, and great decision at your destination airport. Bet you slept well after that one!

[@NikosWings]

Stefan my friend, thanks mate! Yes I was relieved to get there for sure!

[@mrbachittarsingh9243]

Found this in my recommendations, fantastic video and well edited, have subbed and look forward to more. All the best.

[@jd1029]

Great video and content. Thanks for making this and sharing with all of us!

[@uhohDavinci]

Great video! excellent examples of good airmenship throughout the video.

[@1littlelee]

"In aviation you dont have to be anywhere you just have to be safe"

[@4jup4ter4]

That need's to be on a shirt.

[@mikem.3412]

Way to go Niko! I was so pleased to see you cancel the first flight attempt that I hit the subcribe to your channel button. A great lesson to teach us all. Better to be safe than sorry.

[@Rugbyfan1973]

Great video as always Niko, safe flying and sensible decision making. Didn't look like a comfortable day's ride but got there in the end!

[@haroldrushton6735]

Good call passing Luverne. I stopped in there years ago for a business meeting. When I started to leave, the gas pumps were red tagged by the State as non-useable. I was low on fuel and it was an issue! That’s been a long time ago, but I still remember it well. Great video and content! Thanks for sharing. 👍

[@NikosWings]

It’s always in the back of my mind whether the self serve fuel will be available in small fields. Thanks for the feedback

[@PsychHacks]

So nice to hear you stress safety as a private pilot. I worked in an Air Force weather station for several years, and you'd be astounded at some of the PIREPS I saw from amateurs.

[@russellvanklassen9291]

wow really soupy weather there Niko good flying .and with the oxy better to look a little goofy then to crash good job dude

[@shannonrussell2368]

I have horrific flying anxiety, honestly thanks to your videos I'm now less scared by the prospect of getting in a small propeller than I am a jet. Your videos are actually somewhat calming. Thanks! :')

[@NikosWings]

I’m glad you see it that way Shannon. It is actually very safe when you apply common sense and skill and knowledge to it

[@renataavgeri1132]

I was scared of planes too. During covid quarantine i landed on the aviation world in youtube and by learning more i started loving it. Had my first flight on a single engine light aircraft and even though it was a short one i loved it so much that i don't think i can do anything else now. Needless to say that my life goals changed in an instant

[@BlueWaterAlchemy]

Niko I have really enjoyed watching all of your videos. Watching the AOPA flight safety videos has recently tempered my expectations in terms of starting out in general aviation and how to safely be a private pilot, and seeing you put the types of lessons learned in those videos into action during your flights is just fantastic. I love watching you make go/no-go decisions regarding weather, runways, etc. and being aware of get-there-itis. These things make me smile and grin from ear to ear. I have really enjoyed learning from you and always look forward to your videos! Thanks for the hard work!

[@NikosWings]

Thank you for the comment and for watching. I’m glad you find them useful as that’s my goal, to share my experience for others to view, critique, respond, collaborate!

[@michaelking3327]

This video shows the importance of checking the weather BEFORE you take off. great video.

[@SimbaOlsen]

Proper use of music in a KZbin video. This is perfect, thanks.

[@Bugkiller666]

Hell Niko, First i want to say well done with your channel. I know nothing about aviation but find your channel very entertaining and informative for those who just love plane flying !. I also have a question. Do you have an infrared camera ? 13:51

[@NikosWings]

Yes, the airplane is equipped with an infrared camera. Thanks for the nice comment!

[@devwhit]

So Niko, I never want to see you in danger, but I love how you keep so collected and handle these situations with such professionalism and class. Very inspirational and educational. I've learned a lot, and as always, looking forward to the next adventure. 🛩

[@NikosWings]

Thanks Omar...

[@OBENSquad_21]

Menh it really feels good to see you make that initial NO GO decision and instantly turn around, especially knowing the kinda of flight time and experience you have, no ego at all, safe than sorry 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@johndemerse9172]

Great video Niko! Just shows that even great planning can end up a huge challenge.

[@NikosWings]

Yup

[@madcableguy]

Loved the line "you don't have to be anywhere, you just have to be safe". First video I've watched of yours, definitely won't be the last.

[@NikosWings]

Thank you, I appreciate you!

[@Zigmunad]

I love your risk management. Stay safe to fly another day!

[@fugazicoverband]

"Oxygen helps you live." FACTS

[@NovejSpeed3]

How I'm just now seeing this video for the first time is a crime to your fantastic work! Man i was stressed just watching all you was dealing with. I already suggested the T shirt with a front view of your cirrus with "clear prop".... But you need another that says "In Aviation, you don't have to be anywhere. You just have to be safe!" Brilliant Niko. I hope you got the partnership after all that!!

[@Copilotdave]

Your videos never fail to entertain and teach us amazing lessons. Thanks as always!

[@adroper62]

Superb examples of excellent aviation decision making. Every pilot and pilot want-to-be can learn from this sequence of events, and how you managed it along with ATC enroute.

[@BretAllenStudios]

Excellent decision making Niko and very professional as always! I'd fly Niko's Wings Airlines anytime! Love the videos, keep um coming!

[@dtz1000]

I don't get why he didn't land there. Apart from the dramatic music, it looked alright to me.

[@jasonbergeron6347]

Loved this IFR video! Superb decision making. Quick question, how do you like using the Precise Flight Boom Cannula? I have two on order for my Turbo Skylane.

[@NikosWings]

Hey Jason, it’s better than the standard one for sure, but they need to improve the sticky headphone piece and the loosening nut can fall off easily.

[@nateg6320]

Great video as always. I’ve learned a lot from you while getting my instrument ticket. I’m curious as why you didn’t land there. Was it too short? It looked fairly turbulent as well. Keep up the great videos

[@NikosWings]

It was very unstabilized since I saw the airport layout last minute and was not prepared for the super tall trees all around. Plus the turbulence was very uncomfortable, I was fast unstable and intimidated by the tall trees. Plus I had an alternate just 7 miles away

[@nateg6320]

@@NikosWings Great aeronautical decision making my friend. I’m striving to be as competent, and as fluid as you are in IMC. You make it look easy.

[@eliabzizelman5445]

Haven’t you think about the eclipse jet? Might be a good choice for you and your business. Not having to worry that much about the weather, safety of 2 jet engines, speed etc...

[@NikosWings]

I’m not there yet financially, maybe in a few years

[@eliabzizelman5445]

Niko's Wings 💪🏻🛩

[@ampedcrypto808]

Awesome Video "In navigation you don't have to be anywhere - you just have to be safe!"

[@dustintravis8791]

Good on you for making your safety priority number one, as everyone should.

[@canuckeraust]

Nico just started watching you last month, your videos are great mate. Keep up the good work buddy, very informative and lots of fun to watch. Cheers mate.

[@NikosWings]

Thanks Brian

[@michaelm3881]

Another great video! It is always better to be safe than sorry!

[@donjones1203]

Good call Niko; not flying through a line of thunderstorms! Enjoyed the video. Thanks for sharing!

[@michaelstern1945]

Great video. What was the reason for deviation? Was it wind gusts and crosswinds? I guess in those conditions it wasn’t enough runway.

[@NikosWings]

It was the wind and size of runway and the usable runway with the obstacles that i chose not to land there

[@michaelstern1945]

Niko's Wings Thanks for that.

[@cgrilley]

Great video! I was seriously hearing the banjo music from "Deliverance" when I saw that tiny, scary airstrip in Alabama. Glad you diverted to Troy!

[@johnlibra7734]

Great video. I just picked up my SR 22T In Knoxville. Nice training for weather issues. Excellent video edit.

[@NikosWings]

Congrats John

[@galja6889]

As usual fabulous video besides being super educational I wasnt sure if you didn't land at the uncontrolled airport because the wind was so unsettled or the airport looked like no facilities. Thanks for a great video!

[@NikosWings]

It was everything, wind was too turbulent, tall trees all around risking a go-around, runway looked a bit rough, facility (at a quick glimpse) looked a bit scarce, and the airport next door was a better choice, yet pricier fuel.

[@jameshyatte7230]

Nice video once again , great call to go somewhere else when things aren't just right.

[@becausereasons8507]

So glad you decided to avoid the weather the first attempt. Looking at it now, it looks like it would have been unmanageable.

[@LarjoskiFlyingAway]

Great video. What you said at the end was exactly what I was thinking. All the little tucked away airports that are fun to explore. Cheers.

[@NikosWings]

Thanks Laurie

[@christianhill3426]

Question for Niko - what was it about the first airfield that made you divert, e.g., tree-line or runway surface? I’m about to buy my fist Cirrus (older G3), and really appreciate learning from your videos and experience, many thanks!!

[@NikosWings]

There’s many comments on that, but all of the above plus very windy and unstable.

[@steini6771]

A real pilot`s decisions! I command you for that Niko. As always, great video and fab music. Like a mini movie. Once again, Thanks -

[@frankhuber969]

Excellent video, showing that pilot need to use good judgment to insure a safe flight. your first decision to abort day 1, then picking your way through the weather, then finally not landing at the airport with less than good conditions. Great show

[@vgamedude12]

I had no idea there was so much communication during flight as this

[@NikosWings]

And I filter out most of it...

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

I agree with all the pilots around here! YOU know what you’re doing and Mrs. Niko can expect you home, once again. Tomayto, tomahto, you got there any way-o!

[@NikosWings]

Thank you 🙏

[@kingsuper97]

Great videos! Currently in training for my A&P love watching people fly.

[@Pav500]

25 minute video from niko?!? Best 25 minutes spent all week. =) =) =) =)

[@NikosWings]

It started as 8 hours, then 1 hour, and I picked the best content to pack in just 25 minutes. I think it worked. Thank you for your time!

[@normsuther2695]

he couldave descended quite a bit earlier. i think he was scared of the runway length. practice makes perfect but never step outside your comfort zone when flying. good work.

[@marcoantoniobregalda8305]

Hey! I’m from Brazil and want to become a pilot, like you! You are an inspiration to me, with 16 years old I’m so close to civil aviation by your job on KZbin! Thank you!

[@rogermoore7644]

Hey niko was it hard for you to learn the aviation communication lingo cuz it seems like it is a lot to know and learn. I’m checking around for av schools. Thanks to you I really would love to fly the views are amazing

[@NikosWings]

It’s not that hard. Plus you keep learning and getting better with it

[@damnsong8675309]

"In aviation: you don't need to be anywhere, you just need to be safe." New to aviation and never heard it put this exact way before. Possibly my favorite phrasing.

[@NikosWings]

Thanks 🙏

[@KeyPointProductionsVA]

The way you wait to start after saying clear prop is the way I like to do it. I see many people just say it and instantly start it up, doesn’t give people much time to clear out

[@Stepclimb]

What sort of cannula are you using? Is the O2 continuous flow? If so, have you looked into the mountain high O2D2 portable pulse demand system?

[@NikosWings]

I use a Precise Flight boom but it’s not very user friendly. It is continuous flow. I haven’t looked at other options yet.

[@gsp-greenstripepilot9508]

Really enjoyed this one. Once you landed I felt myself Un-clinch. I look forward to my own adventures soon. 👍🏼

[@Jerfish1]

I just noticed your shoulder harnesses say ‘airbag equipped’. Are these standard on Cirrus SR22’s? Is this an aftermarket/what brand?

[@NikosWings]

Standard

[@ozziepilot2899]

Now that was really exciting and tense, well done. Handled like a pro :)

[@NikosWings]

Thanks Paul

[@tomjones2845]

So very subtle, but your call outs for checklist items highlighted my persistent failure for the brake check as a memory item. I continue to enjoy your content, but I really appreciate some of the Cirrus specific things that I believe you include (2004 G2). Safe travels and know that you have made some of mine safer.

[@kiwikeith7633]

The strip you avoided, looks much like one I trained at. It was a strip cleared through a forest of tall trees and a road crossing at the near approach fence. Yes there were issues we needed to be cautious of - I'm just wondering if those are the same issues that made you bypass it? So I am curious which hazard concerned you most?

[@NikosWings]

The tall trees compound with my stupid u stabilized and fast approach plus being unfamiliar and surprised by it all

[@kiwikeith7633]

@@NikosWings Yes. thanks for you reply - and so fast. Because I wanted to understand how you read it I did not reveal the issues we had. The canyon between the trees could cause wind sheers in X-wind conditions. Below the tops, the wind would flow one way or the other , but lack the x-wind component. However depending on how cross the wind was, a pilot could encounter wind direction reversals. On approach, it was not so bad because we knew the wind above and wind-socks showed what it was along the runway. But taking off, we start knowing what it actually is along the runway, and only have data (perhaps) for the tops and above. So we always stayed low after take-off, building ample speed in case of the sheer. Then we ascended decisively so as to not linger in the chop between the wind layers. And of course so we had airspeed in reserve in case of sheer. I only know of one case of an accident - but if you ever flew with that guy, that would explain the accident better than the situation attending this runway. The unpaved Runway was a private one established by a forestry owner who set up his own mini-airline running out to Norfolk Island in the Tasman sea. It was set up for night flying. That guy too took too many chances. His small airline ran also from Auckland to Wanganui. On the fatal night he was seen using his foot to close the cargo door of his twin. With a good load of fuel and a very stormy night including active cells, he took off for Wanganui. Somewhere short of the destination and over very rugged country - in tempestuous conditions - the fuel use moved his CofG aft making the plane un-flyable. Searchers found the wreckage some days later. And that sent his runway into decline. I watch you great items all the time. I no longer fly. I have my own "Flying into IMC" story - which taught me how often underestimate the changing weather around us. But that I am writing this shows I did not get fully into IMC with my non-instrument C152 - so lived to tell the tale. No more effective teacher than a mortal fright. Please keep up what you do, educating and setting a positive example which I am sure helps keep some pilots and passengers alive, and planes from getting bent.

[@NikosWings]

Great story, thanks for sharing

[@kiwikeith7633]

Dare I risk relating an interesting flight training accident? I have not seem anything like it online, and you are so educational. I hope I am not being too presumptuous. It occurred late in the day to a Cherokee 140 practicing forced landings. During the climb out westward, the plane caught the High tension power grid lines between pylons, and plummeted to the ground in flames. The Instructor was seriously burned although alive. The Student had fractures, but still made it to a farm some distance away to raise the alarm. The instructor was advised to put his affairs in order, and he soon died. They never saw the wires because they were climbing westward dazzled by the lowering sun. This was the low flying training area I learned in. I won't need to identify the valuable lessons involved in this accident.

[@NikosWings]

Oh man that’s terrible

[@heycameraman4411]

Great job choosing to go around. You had very little hesitation there. Picture perfect example of a safe go around. \

[@NikosWings]

I think I somehow knew I didn’t like it even before I said it

[@heycameraman4411]

Niko's Wings yep, I feel you.

[@gregnettles3677]

I have flow thru some cold fronts with my father in his piper turbo arrow that would make you cry for your mom.thats what I get for flying with an old military pilot.so I know the felling of not feeling safe, you did the right thing for calling it quits.

[@raulvargas352]

Outstanding work, I felt as though as I was with you stressing it out minute by minute. Love the breifings

[@slaero5411]

One of your best ones for sure ! Thank you for sharing this experience

[@NikosWings]

Thanks

[@gcharouhas]

Great video, Niko. I always feel like I'm up there with you! Do you do your own editing?

[@NikosWings]

Yes 100%

[@mitchy5142]

I know he wasn’t the first but Stefan drury once said “it’s better to be on the ground wishing you were in the air than being in the air wishing you were on the ground” great piloting by you, stay safe

[@chuckcampbell3927]

Captain Nikko, just got through watching your return to Boca and what an excellent choice you made. You have heard the "ancient axiom" I'm sure!?!? There is old pilots, and there is bold pilots, but there ain't no "old bold" pilots!! Good call my friend, you have a very beautiful family. Good decisions like you just made in the video will keep The circle unbroken.

[@PortCharlotteAlex]

Wow. I’m about to start my IFR and I was white knuckle flying. Don’t know if I would have gone through that weather. But then again I’m not IFR cert. Excellent piloting amigo. Man I love these videos. Blue Skies amigo

[@NikosWings]

Good luck with IFR

[@brianb5594]

Niko, great decision making skills! I an curious would going higher given you better visibility on your deviations? Seems as though getting into the low flight levels may have provided a better picture of the weather. What were the tops? Thanks again for sharing as we all learn from your experiences.

[@NikosWings]

They had no reports about the tops and the weather briefing didn’t provide certainty on tops. Having known the tops, rest assured I’d be flying as high as possible above them

[@K1DTC]

What’s the name of the song at the intro? Your link gives 30000 lol. Thanks! Love the videos

[@NikosWings]

It’s called summer wave

[@brettb.7425]

You were flying right over Tyndall Air Force base, Panama City, and Elgin Air Force base which is the area l where I grew up. Cool video!

[@SmittySmithsonite]

"You don't have to be anywhere, but safe" - I like that line. 👍👍 Great stuff as always, Niko! 😎

[@NikosWings]

Thanks Smitty

[@malibujack4852]

What was the issue with landing? It looked fine. A little turbulent, but nothing extreme???

[@nmnmnm35]

This dude just makes videos for clickbait thats the explanation. Hes an idiot and should be reexamined if he couldnt land there

[@mateo672]

@@nmnmnm35 I'm going to assume that you're involved in aviation in some way, and if that's true, hopefully you've been taught not to shoot an approach that feels unstable or might result in a bad outcome. Based off of that assumption, why are you pressing a pilot so insistently to attempt an approach that they aren't comfortable with? Or, the alternative is that you aren't involved in aviation, and instead you're expressing an uninformed opinion. So, which is it? Are you an unsafe pilot, or are you ignorant?

[@tommy35ss]

@@mateo672 He gave it one shot and then did not return. For whatever reason he would not land there. Considering I have worked in a commercial capacity flying skydivers off of a short and soft field, it did seem strange he did not land or try at least a second approach to the runway.

[@NikosWings]

Sometimes you listen to your gut. This was a very long day of flying, don’t look at the specific event, consider how much work flying was that day, and the day prior. This is not a simulation and the real experience is not a video that you watch

[@tommy35ss]

@@NikosWings You should always do what you believe to be safest as the pilot in command. If something isn't right definitely go around and do not land there.