What NO ONE Tells you About Life as an AIRLINE PILOT | 10 Years of FLYING PLANES

[@DutchPilotGirl]

Thank you all so much for being here again. 😃 I hope you like this video as it describes what I’ve been going through the last 10 years of my life. Don’t hesitate to let me know what other videos you’d like to see. Have a great Sunday and again, thank you for watching! X Michelle

[@MovinOnBob]

Awww Michelle, that video kind of chocked me up. I was so happy when things started to go right for you. ❤

[@minktranslations2871]

Wat een heftig verhaal...mooi verteld.

[@Boodieman72]

Do you ever want to do long haul flights and if you do how hard is it to get into that type of flying for you?

[@aditidasgupta8913]

You have posted a video after so many days

[@aditidasgupta8913]

This video is so good

[@ronbrock2871]

I am a Captain for a major airline in the USA. I have been flying professionally for 22 years. You have brought up so many good points. Every flying job you have has its differences. I like flying for large airlines because of the large organization. They provide everything and you are only expected to do your specific job. No need to load baggage, file flight plans, clean the aircraft as well as many other requirements that some airlines require. It does not happen overnight. I had to work very hard, and I also changed companies a couple times to get to where I wanted to be. I dealt with low pay and tough working conditions. There is some sacrifices that you have to make to get to where you want to be. It is worth the sacrifices. I am so thankful that I love what I do so much and that I stuck it out through the tough times. It is so worth it in the end. Good luck and fly safe. Ron

[@davidhutchinson5233]

Clean the aircraft? Huh? Some airlines have the pilot clean the aircraft? SMH....And I thought my profession was nuts sometimes.

[@cottydry]

@Captain Obvious Maybe in this current environment, but if getting your foot in the door requires you to clean the plane, then you clean the plane. The sooner you get to the point of getting a seniority number at a major airline the better your career/life will be. You do whatever it takes to get there as quickly as you can.

[@DarkJak337]

I'm considering flight school. I know you commented on this video a year ago, but what was low pay for you? Everyone paints a rosy picture, but I'm a firm believer in 'if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.'

[@lostreb]

I am so glad I stumbled across your channel. Being over 70 years old, and retired, knowing what I went through to get from where I started to retirement, I really appreciate knowing what you have done, the ups and downs you've encountered, in your life's journey. I mean this as the most sincere compliment I can give you when I tell you that you are wise beyond your years. You are far ahead of where I was in my decision making process when I was your age. You are so impressive with your perspective and outlook. Please keep going the way you are. You are one I can honestly say I think the best is yet to come for you!!

[@flywithcaptainjoe]

Fantastic video Michelle, watched the entire thing whilst having breakfast :) I can relate to so many things you‘ve mentioned. I‘m happy for you that you made those experiences (so have I) and shared them with us and that you are now with a company you love flying for :) See you soon!

[@mvanphilips]

You guys should should co-vlog jet again, always a pleasure to watch you together👍🏾

[@gastonrecalde669]

@captain joe, the followers are waiting for you to date @dutchpilotgirl. It is kind of a Ross and Rachel thing. Is It going to happen someday? Will you find courage and declare to her? Will she accept? 😃

[@CaraVerde]

@@gastonrecalde669 Well, that would be an entertainment for us, but it's real life for them. I don't think it's appropriate for us to ask them doing things that may not be in their best interest, just to satisfy ours.

[@thattechieguy]

Hey captain I know that you've met Sam Chui did you shoot a collab video?? Can we have it??

[@TUIfly_simpilot]

Yo sup joe

[@franciscofletes1948]

I’m not a pilot, I’m a physician. Very similar story. Lessons in delayed gratification. I really appreciate your storytelling. You have a great ability to bring the audience along and truly feel your journey...

[@vonw.3294]

Crazy, I started my flight training the same year you did in 2011. I just now finished my flight training 10 years later at my flight school. I had so many financial struggles and unfortunate events that were out of my control that came up that halted my progress for years. It was tough to stay positive at times seeing my fellow friends and classmates I flew with in training go on and become CFI's, eventually Airline pilot 1st officers and Captains. I had to maintain the perseverance and patience mind frame if I wanted to success and finish. Through willpower and the love for aviation I finally achieved that recently. Finished with my Private, Instrument rating, Commercial MEL and SEL license. Now I'm working on my CFI. I was behind the 8 ball for years but in a way I'm glad I went through that struggle because it has made me stronger and has showed me that even through impossible situations your still able to make it through with patience and willpower! Now I can stand here as an advocate to give life experience to people that are new to aviation or others that are going through issues with the process. Hope this helps whomever reads to not give up!

[@seane4955]

Hell yeah my man!

[@strawberryme08]

Training and 6 figure debt is one thing but it takes a dang long time to build the hours and people get into it all without realizing this. Took my husband till age 50 to get to an airline and he had his first flight at age 18. Graduated college with a degree in a Aviation too and never stopped flying in between monies two years to serve a mission in a other country. Age 19-21.

[@embodiedbillionaire]

I already gave up, but thank you.

[@SimonWestPhotography]

I never realised how poorly treated an airline pilot could be treated! You are looking after hundreds of people at a time and what a responsibility, which should be rewarded as such with all your training! I take my hat off to you and thank you for getting us to destinations safely that we can enjoy our time!!

[@---Wade---]

Michelle, thanks for educating and encouraging our next generation of aviators. I am a retired US Army helicopter pilot with 8K hours in Bell aircraft. Was recalled to active duty after 911 and taught Basic Combat skills in a UH1 at the Army Flight Center. Had the great pleasure of working with Euro-NATO flight instructors, German, Italian, Norwegian, and Dutch. I also had several sets of Dutch student military pilots that I carried for the 40 flight hour course. The Dutch pilots were amazing. The Dutch government invests millions in each of these students. My Dutch pilots had already completed fixed wing qualifications in jets and then they came to the US Army Helicopter school for helicopter qualification for another 110 hrs or so. I also had the great pleasure to be invited to a party celebrating Queen Beatrix birthday. Everything and I mean everything was ORANGE! Every drink was ORANGE! All the food was ORANGE! It was amazing and great fun. Was able to visit the Netherlands 2 years ago. Loved everything about it. But those cube building in Rotterdam made me want to re-cage my attitude indicator.

[@glickmpb]

Great story and Im glad you are successful. As a 51 year old male whos time has come and gone to be a pilot, I strongly envy you for doing what you love. I have worked in IT for over 30 years and, if I could go back in time, would have joined the US Navy to fly jets. I absolutely love airplanes and wanted to share a story for dreamers like me.... I was at the Oshkosh Air Show in Oshkosh, Wi (USA) a few years ago and had the chance to speak to an F22 pilot. Clearly, I was in awe as were so many other people around me. When I had the chance to speak to the pilot, I told him that I had been taking lessons years earlier in a small Piper Warrior and wasnt unable to finish. He looked at me and smiled and said, "that was the first plane I learned to fly in." It was a very inspirational moment for me because I, a nobody, was talking with a man who flew one of the greatest planes ever made. Even you are living my dream and I wish I could go back and do it over :( I hope you stay safe, have a wonderful career and look back years from now with wonderful stories about how well your life has been. God bless :)

[@BoomerKeith1]

Your story is such a great example of an important life lesson; don't stay where you aren't happy. Sometimes, the comfort of a routine keeps us from really exploring our opportunities and change can be scary, however, this world is too big to stay somewhere you don't see a future for yourself, or a very limited one. Great videos Michelle!

[@kevinmadore1794]

The road to the cockpit has always been tough for folks who were not fortunate enough to have military experience. It is criminal the way some of the regional airlines treat young pilots....and get away with it. These folks shoulder a ton of responsibility and often have to live like they have no job at all. Glad to hear that you've been able to break through all of those challenges and hopefully your story will inspire others to tough it out. Nice job, young lady!!

[@diegowilson9711]

I love hearing the stories about your life and climbing the ladder there. I work in emergency medicine, but I became a pilot years ago, just because of the desire to learn to fly. Very few people know the struggle that is involved with becoming a commercial pilot. And even my teachers here, who have all been airline pilots or commercial pilots flying cargo or whatnot, have talked of the struggles, and I am always impressed... because you really have to want what you do. For the cost, it's like becoming a doctor here, and you end up spending enough money to buy a house just to train.

[@pigs6486]

Poor thing. What a struggle.

[@irnbrukidsm]

An absolutely brilliant video…..well worth the wait for your return. Anybody looking for life lessons, aviation or not, cannot but have huge admiration for Michelle’s articulate expression of her experiences. Michelle is a huge asset for any airline or company. A free spirit and conscientious thinker. What a return to KZbin.. thanks Michelle. Most of my working life has been in adult education. You are an inspiration to the next generation no matter their career choice. Your lessons of education and work apply to everyone. Brilliant 👍😃🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@DutchPilotGirl]

Thanks for your kind words Jaimee!

[@THELIFEOFPRICE]

Great video, People dont understand that happiness is way more important than making more money. Luckily you got that figured out very early in life =D

[@THELIFEOFPRICE]

@Lord Venus The Great and you know nothing about “comprehending”

[@ViceCoin]

Explain happiness to your landlord and bill collectors. More money flying payloads for narcos.

[@alc.9214]

I am 29yrs old this year and if things goes well, I’ll get my CPL and Multi-engine instrument rating by the end of the year. I’m definitely a late starter and what’s ahead doesn’t look too bright. Videos like this definitely help encourage people to stay on their path hopefully pandemic will be over soon and let there be another shortage of pilots. Thanks dutchpilotgirl for the video

[@pooletrainboy]

Could be worse at least you didn't get out at the start of this. Still it's looking good for this year, good luck.

[@toffonardi7037]

pilot shortages don't exist. don't believe to bullshit. only an idioti would think about flying career after covid

[@swinterstein]

"Human beings adapt like no other species right we adapt to the best environment but also to the worst" - Michelle, you just gave ME such an "intuitive moment".. thank you!

[@JasperFromMS]

This is great. Far too many people don't understand how dangerous debt can be. The fact that you have managed it show that you make good decisions. The public needs pilots who make good decisions.

[@MrSupercar55]

The pilot is the critical factor in every single flight. His (or her) decisions are the difference between a safe landing and a crash. That's why, not counting medical doctors, pilots are some of the best trained individuals you'll ever meet. They're trained to deal with things most steep to myth and rumour, such as loss of hydraulics and explosive decompression (provided they don't get sucked out themselves). Their choices outside of the cockpit should be equally as good as their choices in the cockpit, but we're all humans, regardless of what we're trained to do.

[@generalrendar7290]

Oh wow. It's amazing hearing your story because I faced the same decision in 2009. I started my flight training but once I understood the costs I had to put that dream on hold. I did my research and with how terrible the job market was, especially after Colgen Air, it got delayed even more. I delayed until 2018, until the market turned around. My goal is to fly for UPS but my eyes are open for the best deal for me. Thank you for sharing!

[@LiamE69]

"Overcast, 11 degrees in May" Britain feels your pain.

[@DutchPilotGirl]

Haha!

[@MrPomelo555]

Yes but she has Tulips at least! 😄

[@rayfinkle1487]

Come to the southwest USA. It's sunny all the time and in the summer it's 40-45C every day.

[@SonorGeek05]

I'll gladly take that 11° weather for y'all. It's 93°F here in Atlanta Georgia, United States.

[@grahamstevenson1740]

@@MrPomelo555 They died in the fields, unpicked.

[@nathanm3773]

Hello, I found your videos highly motivational and I enjoyed them. I'm 37 years old, and being a pilot has always been the dream of my whole life, but life is beautifully mysterious and for one thing or other, I'm not there, yet. Right now, I'm in a part of my life that upcoming changes will be huge, working hard arranging everything to live in another country as soon as the borders open and then, finally could reset my life. There will be the perfect moment to focus all my energy and resources on my main goal, at last being a pilot. I now perhaps I will be 40 when I finally start that path, but the heart will never age. Keep the good content coming. Greeting From Mexico City.

[@timholtzclaw2224]

I am impressed by your resolve and tenacity to achieve your life goals. I'm a 58 yr old student pilot and your shear determination encourages me to continue my life dream of being a pilot. Thank you for sharing this video !

[@Ajay-hw3gm]

Michelle, I am so happy for you that you have found a place that is making you happy doing what you love. As your video shows, life is full of ups and downs. It shows that you have worked hard for it and have your head on straight! I would love to be a passenger on a flight where you are the pilot. I know I would be in good hands! Keep the videos coming!

[@briancronin8476]

Congrats on 10 yrs of flying, its great to hear pilots passing on advice to future pilots... 👍🇮🇪

[@alicjakaczynskaofficial]

Hi Michelle, I watched until the very end. You are such an inspiration for women in aviation. Congrats on 10 years as a pilot. Amazing video.

[@malcolmmcfadden9023]

Oh, my goodness, you're back! I am glad you posted again! We have missed you deeply. You still look amazing as always. Great video, please stay safe!

[@DutchPilotGirl]

Thanks! You too 😉

[@malcolmmcfadden9023]

@@DutchPilotGirl You're welcome and thank you :)

[@N1755L]

I was wondering about the gap, glad to see that it appears that this pilot is still working, still flying :-)

[@MikeOxlong-]

You’re something special girl! I genuinely wish you all the best in your travels and endeavours for the rest of your life! Good on you for following your instincts and heart. Cheers!

[@anandshedde]

Really interesting insight into the life of an airline pilot , Michelle! Greetings from India!

[@DutchPilotGirl]

Glad you find the video interesting! Greetings from Amsterdam!

[@brucelee4996]

@@DutchPilotGirl Vondelpark. I love Amsterdam.

[@billyoung8118]

I am living vicariously through channels like yours. I wanted to be a pilot my entire life. Lived on Air Force bases in many states and countries due to my dad's 22-year USAF career. Took all the hard science and math classes in high school to try to earn an appointment to the USAF Academy. Half-way through my junior year in high school, just as I was about to apply, I developed type-1 diabetes. More than 3 decades later, it still devastates me that I can't enjoy this career.

[@supermendi0078]

It’s really sad to hear this, I personally find this most unfortunate. I don’t think there’s anything I can say that can help heal these kind of wounds, but from my own experience I can confirm that if you allow God to guide your path in life, even these devastating things can actually turn out to be the best possible outcome. Maybe that diabetes prevented you from crashing in flight school and leaving your family without his son and with an insane debt, or maybe even worse…in any case, we’ll never know, at least not on this life. I do still hope you can find happiness out there tho, fortunately there isn’t just one way to be happy in life, wish you the best of luck and the best of days on your path. o7

[@darvax8333]

FINALLY A UPLOAD WOOOHO :DDD

[@DutchPilotGirl]

🥳🥳

[@roberre164]

Great video of the realities today of being a young Airline Pilot. I’m an old crusty and now retired Airline Pilot. I started way back in the 70s when airlines would fly you to the initial interview and put you up in first class hotels. Back then you needed a few thousand hours to get a job as an F27 F/O but no one paid for endorsements. Conditions were good and the pay was enough to buy a waterfront property and put a yacht on the pontoon. After deregulation came in it all changed. Gradually pay and conditions worsened and even legacy airlines went broke due to the economy, mismanagement, increased competition, industrial disputes etc etc. I only ever resigned by choice from one airline. Fast forward to today’s environment and you have A380 Captains down at the supermarket stacking shelves. Should have stayed short haul! 😊 So, my advice for whats its worth is ....for anyone contemplating a career as an Airline Pilot, firstly, make sure you are very passionate about wanting to do so. That big glass of passion will be depleted as you forge your career and get knocked about by the myriad things that are out of your control. Secondly, have a backup qualification. The old joke for those who only have pilot quals is that you are either a pilot or an uber driver. In my case I looked at the available things that I could manage whilst I travelled and became a property developer. That proved to be a very sound decision down the trail. Thirdly , once you become a Captain take any training positions offered and become a TRI and/or TRE. Those quals will help you get another job if circumstances change. Fourthly, look after your health. Your job depends on it. And lastly, if you ever decide to partner up, choose very wisely. Being the spouse of an airline pilot is no walk in the park. Divorces are costly! So good luck to all the young pilots out there. It can be one of the most rewarding jobs in the world and is one of the few jobs that when you shut down the engines that’s it. No conference calls later, no meetings, no presentations to prepare, nothing. There is prep for the next check and the never ending "courses" you have to do though! Oh, one last thing. Always be kind to your F/O. One day they may be checking you. :)

[@chendaforest]

Thanks for that sounds like sound advice. All those low cost-tickets are great for passengers but come at a cost to the airlines employees.

[@seraphss]

This video just speaks pureee WISDOM, Capt Michelle! This is what everyone needs. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and your truth Capt. Michelle ❤️

[@ThePilotsMindset]

Hello Michelle, Thank you for the work you put in this video. As a fellow pilot, I can tell you that I found your point of view very sensible, articulate and realistic. I started my career in 2008 and I feel the same way with regards to the points that you made. We all love flying, it is an undeniable fact, but managing to maintain the balance between our passion, the people we love, our other passions and interest is an art!

[@MrPhil19]

So happy to see a video from you again! As a current flight student, it is inspiring to hear about your past experiences. We have little to no idea where we will end up working after we graduate. Seeing this video really puts thoughts in motion about what to look out for in the future. Wishing you all the best and that you are back in the air soon!

[@jameskoralewski1006]

I love flying planes, at least in simulators. I had to perform preflights each morning and sign off the simulator logbook for readiness. What I don't like about piloting is living out of a suitcase and never being in one place very long at a time. It is like being a flying bus driver. As a senior sim tech, I still made decent money, though not as much as 777 captains, but I was still pulling over $100,000 per year and working in air-conditioned buildings at one location. We still did many, if not all, the things that pilots do, like program the FMCs and perform category 3 landings when necessary. There were plenty of things to learn, especially when the airline bought a new airplane configuration. The sims were the newest generation so they all had 6-degree full motion systems and 180-degree wrap-around visual systems. We not only had to know how the airplane worked buy how the simulator simulated how the airplane works. We also had to run yearly FAA checks to see if all the simulator controls exactly matched the aircraft controls.

[@robertfrost1683]

Your first book selection is one of the best books ever written. Majorca - What a great place to be based !!!

[@michaellamport1238]

This video about your life and philosophy should be shown EVERYWHERE...it applies to us all...whether you're a pilot, an accountant or a religious minister....or anyone...brilliantly, sincerely and wonderfully done!

[@sonukumarmandal2872]

What an inspiring video to return with! This will gonna help every aviation enthusiasts out there like me.

[@ithewonder]

Very interesting indeed, never realised how much you had to go through to be a pilot. Well done !

[@karenkingrey6142]

Man have I missed your videos!! Glad to have you back!🥳

[@DutchPilotGirl]

Glad to be back😉

[@gulfstrmcaptbob4124]

great video. i started with an airline in the states but eventually decided to fly corporate for a major company. great equipment, better pay ,more time off . just retired after 30 years with them. miss the life.

[@HadrysL]

When I was little I wanted to be either a marine biologist or a pilot. It seems both professions requiere to pay to be hired, which really sucks. I am a marine biologist now and hopefully I will be working in my area soon...but it is not easy

[@DutchPilotGirl]

Glad to hear you achieved you goal!

[@ajr4698]

Same as me! The pilot thing did not work out for me for financial reasons but I am well on the path to being a marine biologist like yourself!

[@TheSasBreeze]

I have a marine science degree and am now a pilot! Maybe its a thing!

[@ajr4698]

@@TheSasBreeze hooray for flying and marine biology!

[@HadrysL]

wooooooow!!!!!

[@ajr4698]

It is so nice to see an honest video about the struggles! I sadly had to turn away from the dream due to financial issues while everyone around me said it would be plain sailing if only I tried a bit harder, so I am happy to see someone speak so openly and honestly at last.

[@SteveMorton]

You certainly display a very 'old and wise' head on young shoulders with your outlook on life and work. What a roller-coaster of a ride these past 10 years have been for you. But I think you have made the right decisions at the right time. and I hope life continues down the right road for the next 10 years and beyond. Yes as soon as we are allowed to travel again we will be travelling to see our family in UK. Take care and thank you for sharing your video.

[@DutchPilotGirl]

Thank you so much for your kind words! It has indeed been a rollercoaster, but totally worth it! I'm glad for the experiences and lessons it taught me. Take care!

[@friedlhochhaeuser6707]

Thank you very much for this video. I’m also an airline pilot and currently flying the E-190 here in Bolivia South America. Just wanted you to know that your story is extremely familiar to me. I also think that we as pilots, understand each other and know for sure that live will bring you wonderful moments that hopefully are just around the corner. All the best for you and please stay safe. Friedl!

[@philippeheer4181]

Honest and sobering feedback, ... thank you Michelle. The saying goes: Airline Pilot is the best „Part Time“ job that one can have. Hence one has to have a fallback option for the situation where one has to make a temporary or permanent living outside the cockpit.

[@richarddastardly6845]

I’m glad I had something to fall back onto, it’s a gruesome industry to be in

[@aligardezi7313]

Saw the entire video. As a second generation airline pilot myself who made a well researched, balanced decision to change from engineering to aviation I have a few points which you probably would agree with. It's just a pilot to pilot talk :) 1. The infamous pay 2 fly controversy. Most of Asia is following this model for the very reason you highlighted - too many pilots , lesser jobs. For almost all of us, getting a flight instructor job is next to impossible, let aside getting paid anything at all. Pay 2 fly contracts have become the only way out for pilots who have free movement restrictions on their passports. Most operators offer a permanent job that pays well after training. Indigo, Spicejet, Vistara, Go Air are some prime examples of such p2f operators. Met many indigo pilots in simulators and they seemed very happy with what they were offered. The first airline that picked me selected me and six others up at 200 hours after a written exam and assessment. They asked us to pay an international simulator facility directly for our A320 rating and offered us a 100 hour line training contract, leading to a 2 year bond. This p2f program was similar to our neighbors, but the airline itself took nothing from us and offered proper contracts once line training was done. Basically, we were paying off the line training cost by flying as fully paid first officers. The other option was to wait for the national carrier to pick us 200 TT guys up, which never happened due to several reasons. Therefore, the guys waiting in line after us didn't make it. Conclusion : Had I not made it in back then in the airline's cadet program, I wouldn't be flying today. 2. The market was tough yesterday and it has become tougher today, thanks to the Covid pandemic. Let's hope the profession bounces back to what it was a couple of years back. 3. Fear culture - prevails in many airlines that rank in the top 20 these days. Won't name any though ! 4. Switching bases, bad pays, tough lifestyles are universal to all pilots though. 5. Again, A very well made video!

[@1spdpd]

AWESOME! I have been following you for a while now. Having learned your story, I have gained that much more respect for you! Thank you for sharing!

[@fireisle]

I worked 34 yrs as a maintenance technician for an airline. Loved your origin story. Airline management can be trying, but I worked with some of the best people. I don't regret a moment of it.

[@kevinwells4986]

What a wonderful story, and narration about your life. You are an inspiring person, which is so needed in today's world. I was impressed with you before, and it is why I subscribed. But right now I'm impressed that this world has you in it.

[@CMDRFlyAuburn]

I really enjoyed your story! After 20 years in the charter/fractional/corporate world, I’ve landed my dream airline job that I will almost definitely retire from. I really enjoy hearing other pilot’s stories, as all of our journeys are different but there is something we can all relate to in each of them. Safe skies.

[@Wolfie6020]

Lots of up and downs to being a Pilot. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@vincedebart]

Congratulations!! I was flying on a United 737 800 just yesterday and the first officer was a young woman. It was quite bumpy coming into Denver international airport. this time of year there are lots of thunderstorms. I was able to poke my head in the cockpit and think the flight crew for such an awesome job. It was great seeing a woman at the controls. I am a proud father of two daughters. Girl power all the way

[@churblesfurbles]

Why? If you want grand children this is not the path, debt and dead end path for any family life, but sure, be proud of diluting the labor demand and drive wages down even more.

[@sonukumarmandal2872]

After soooo long Thank you Michelle for finally being back here! 🙂

[@paladinhill]

Interesting behind-the-scenes video. I soloed in July 1965, got most of the ratings, and am now medically grounded by the FAA. Coming from an aviation family (Dad was a captain, Mom was a stew), and having worked for TWA (long before they went bankrupt), I can tell you that you really brought back some memories. I will also tell you that you will never lose your love for flying, even if it is only in a Piper Cherokee or a Cessna 150. Sounds like you might be with KL, but regardless, here's a tip, cargo flight customers never complain to crewmembers.... so go cargo if you can...lot less stress, safer, and generally smoother at night!!

[@megandawntoo]

Thanks for sharing! You are certainly a breath of fresh air in today's society! Never let those principles become compromised or lost!

[@gs550t81]

I'm 40yrs old. Just started my journey to become a career helicopter pilot. I live in NY. Flying was ALWAYS something I really wanted to do but could never afford the school. And now I can. I know ill be taking a pay cut. I know I have a long expensive road ahead. But even at the age I'm at now I feel itll be worth it. Watching videos like this inspire me. Keep it up!

[@piotrchwalek6925]

You definitely should name airlines that offer that kind of “contract” so we not only as a potential new pilots but as a customers will know where not to buy tickets. Absolutely disgusting..nearly mafia like treatment..

[@trueffelsucher]

It's Ryanair.

[@piotrchwalek6925]

@@trueffelsucher I’m done flying with them.

[@trueffelsucher]

@@piotrchwalek6925 There was a short-term improvement for the conditions in the boom before covid, but it's turned even worse since then. They're currently "recruiting" people into self-sponsored type ratings only to have them fly a "line training" for a few months (I believe for free) and place them in a holding pool without a job afterwards. Even there, they're presumably only waiting for a contract with a Ryanair contractor that may or may not come, not the airline itself. It's a good video and it's nice that things turned out okay for her after some time, but currently, things are worse than ever out there. It's really bad and I worry that it will take years to overcome this crisis in Europe - if not the virus itself, then the crisis concerning the unemployment and employment conditions in aviation.

[@Crouchypants]

Man that’s a shame - progress was being made at RYR. Union recognition, industrial action making Michael O’Misery wake up a bit... I did hear about RYR paid TR - honestly I thought it was incorrect, but perhaps it was true......briefly.......out of desperation.......!

[@churblefurbles]

@@trueffelsucher no, its increasing the labor supply, what did people expect would happen, that was the goal of all these fashionable notions in the end.

[@chris24j48]

Thx great video & Congratulations that was what I learned from my mom “whoever you are,whatever you do and wherever you are “you can make a difference and she did.

[@DrishalMAC2]

Can't wait to watch this! It will give me a good insight into my future hopefully!

[@DutchPilotGirl]

I hope it lives up to your expectations!

[@galas455]

This was a really good talk Dutch girl. I got my A&P rating and private pilot license in 1976 and had the opportunity to go for my ATP rating, I was faced with a similar situation you were faced with . . . lots of debt and uncertainty about getting hired as a pilot. I chose to work for Boeing and passed on the ATP rating. No regrets though, so I was happy to hear your story and your struggles and I'm glad you stuck to it. You go, girl! 😃

[@recklesstv2523]

I started flying in a 1947 Stinson Voyager when I was a teenager, dad was a multi-rated pilot. I regret not following through with my license. Great content. Grats.

[@jameskoralewski1006]

I have worked on flight simulators since 1971. First, for the U.S. Navy on their A7 simulators and P3 Orion simulators for 8 years. Then I left the Navy and worked for Eastern Airlines in Miami, FL. until they went bankrupt in 1990. Then I got a simulator job working for Delta Airlines in Atlanta, GA., and worked there until I retired in 2017. So I, like you, have been in simulators quite a bit.

[@vw2112]

So glad to see your back. I know why you quit doing the updates now. Never really thought much about Europe since I've been stuck in asia next to an airport.there's constant planes in and out of here during the pandemic. But only island planes mostly. To get to Europe I have to fly to s korea or Tokyo first which should happen as soon as Europe opens up.

[@adrianpeters2413]

Vance Watson same same in Laos, not stuck really, just think of England, then I rejoice at being here...thank you Laos govt. Thank you

[@kevinlowen8901]

Thank you so much DPG. You do an amazing job with your videos. I love how you add the little captions in as the plane is traveling into or out of airports. That is such valuable information for those of us that are not pilots. I always wanted to be a pilot but had a child at a very young age and had to go to work. I have since had 5 more children. All girls. So it warms my heart when I see young ladies like yourself being successful in a male dominated industry. I used to take my three oldest daughters to the airport and sit at the end of the runway to watch and guess what types of planes. That was in the early to mid 80’s and my daughters still remind me how we used to do that. Please keep doing the takeoff and landing videos when you can, they are my favorite. Kevin

[@cymbalspecialist]

"Kind, positive and authentic". Awesome. Thanks.

[@neiljones5814]

Only just come across this…I can’t believe the risks you took to follow your dream, to achieve your dream. You’re an inspiration ❤

[@071949]

Hi Michelle, So nice to see you again! The past 10 years have seen you experience a lot of changes; good to know you have "landed" in a happy place.

[@markvin1234]

Hi There. I just discovered your videos and I have to say I am quite inspired by them. My sister-in-law just recently retired from US airways as a captain and had started flying for Provincetown Boston airways which was featured in the TV show called wings after going to Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach Florida. She met her husband at Embry-Riddle a long time ago and he ended up being a captain for Delta and he just retired about 6 months ago. I'm always fascinated that she began flying back in the days of propeller aircrafts and she was the first Captain for Provincetown Boston airways and went her entire career with US Air. Her husband the pilot for Delta has an identical twin brother and he became a captain for an airline I can't remember the name now. Unfortunately she had to retire and do a medical problem but he continued on with his career. A funny thing is they lived in Boston Massachusetts and she had enough seniority that she could drive 10 minutes to Logan airport and that's where she was based out of whilst he had to commute from Boston to Detroit to go to work. I always chatted him about that and would tell him well Peggy's the boss. You should be very proud of yourself for what you've done especially the hard start you had where they had easy starts going to Embry-Riddle and then basically getting hired almost immediately back in the seventies but you had to work really hard at it. I bet you have had a great career and will continue on your career path and you just said on your video that you never have to go to work. That's what they used to say all the time. I spent my career as a captain on a sheriff's department and I used to say the same thing about my job I never felt like it was going to work. Thanks for making these videos they are really really great take care

[@us4marine]

Extremely honest and down to earth summary of hard work, resilience and determination to obtain your desired goal. Congrats you're a tough girl and deserve and will deserve whatever you accomplish. Good luck 👍🏻

[@graemeroberts2935]

So wise and helpful, no matter what career you are following. Michelle is astonishingly articulate and always honest. What generosity and kindness!

[@leannestrong1000]

Hi, I will add my two cents to this. Children's books, movies, and shows, need to talk about the realities of certain jobs, in addition to talking about the perks of those jobs. That way, if children still want to do those kinds of jobs when they grow up, they can go in with more of an understanding of what the job is really like. When I was a teenager, I used to watch a show where all of the main characters worked for an airline based in my country. My dream is actually to become a flight attendant, and while the show's main characters were actually customer service agents, it did give me a more realistic idea of what airline employees have to deal with.

[@tomarmstrong1281]

I was fascinated by your video and your ten-year journey in the industry. I worked for many years as a flight instructor and FECPL for OAT at Kidlington and their fair-weather bases in America. I kept in touch with very few students who passed through the training regime. Many were sponsored by an airline, and their careers were already mapped out. There were also many self-sponsored, and I knew they faced a much more uncertain future. I am happy you were able to find the emotional resources to face the very real challenges of finding a position: warmest regards and best wishes for a long and successful career.

[@pjd5046]

When you start learning to fly, keep your career expectations low, but hope to achieve the top job. I was happy flying light aircraft for my career, but I ended up being a captain for one of the top 3 airlines in the world.

[@bamf6603]

I wonder how long does it take untill it pays off? I mean all the costs to go to school and to get enough flying hours.

[@aronchas]

And i ended losing my license because of diabetes...

[@bamf6603]

@@aronchas wow thats sucks, and pretty unfair, thats probably most unsecure job of them all, anything wrong with your health and you are out. Btw for how long you been flying comercials?

[@nmikloiche]

You really do a beautiful job explaining and making an impact. I have no idea why I’m watching this bc I’m 48, a software analyst with no desire to be an airplane pilot. It just proves that you are just so very engaging.

[@Blast6926]

Great video! And an inspiring journey you had on those 10 years! I can relate to all what you had in those years. Happy that it worked out for you)

[@edwardwalker3229]

Your candid description of the way the airline industry treats its staff is a great lesson to all who wish to follow the dream you had. I am sure you have made many people truly examine their motives in following in your footsteps which is a good thing. We'll done for being honest. Take care please and continue your dream your way.

[@wesleycurrier13]

Great video. Left me with some things to think about. Currently I am waiting on my instrument rating checkride. When the pandemic started it left me thinking a lot about if going through with pilot training was a good idea after so many pilots were let go. It’s def an expensive task and the environment is ever changing. I’m planning on sticking it out, I love flying and really can’t imagine myself doing anything else in ten years.

[@seangregory2309]

Congratulations on your success. I was in the US Air Force pilot screening program when I had a seizure. My career ended before it began. I became an engineer instead. I'm very happy for you that you are living your dream. Most people do not live their dreams.

[@emilytaylor695]

In 10 years I want to become an airline pilot for Air Canada!

[@trevorgwelch7412]

My best friend is a retired Air Canada Boeing 777-300ER Pilot .... Take Care .

[@emilytaylor695]

@@trevorgwelch7412 Thats amazing! You too, stay safe.

[@LlamaNomaNinja]

This was very encouraging to hear, I had a bad experience at my first airline and got furloughed and ended up quitting during the pandemic. Thinking of going back and it was nice to hear a positive experience from you.

[@MickG90]

being a pilot is great when you young. not so nice when older and away from your family all the time!! at least a bus driver gets to go home every night.

[@Soordhin]

You can have that in some airlines as well. I work for a largish low cost airline in europe and i am usually home every night. "Usually" because simulator training is done in a different country so that requires some nights there, and every once in a while there can be something unplanned and you are stuck out of base for a night. And yes, it is not Ryanair, where i believe the same is true. Now that i have part time (to keep more of my colleagues in a job) i have quite a relaxed lifestyle. 7 days off, then 3 days of work, another day off and another three days of work. I am on the older end now after 20 years in commercial aviation and 35 years of flying (i started at 14), so i thoroughly enjoy that. I had enough of months with 15 nights in a hotel in a previous airline, i do not need that anymore.

[@MickG90]

@@Soordhin thanks for the insight. Maybe time to make some changes so I can be home more. However, it's hard to give the gig cause you just can't beat the kind of flying I do. Maybe it's time to go to the airlines and leave the bush/mountain flying when the world finally gets the gears turning again. ;)

[@Soordhin]

Fair enough, there are many different kinds of flying, and there is always the process of which jobs are available and what do i personally want. And yes, airline flying is a LOT different to mountain/bush flying, in many ways more boring, but also more streamlined and with a lot of support.

[@mrjones29]

Pros and cons with the job surely? Everyone knows with a job that has increased responsibilities, less time will be spent at home but the salary compensates than con. Or at least it should. I'd swap my career now in my middle age with family if I could be a pro pilot.

[@wileycoyotesr8623]

My goodness. You are a good natured and intelligent woman with an enjoyable sense of humor. It appears your parents raised you well. It's so important to be nice. Call them for no apparent reason, just to say thank you.

[@alsa4real]

Michelle and Kelsey uploaded at the same time. Nice.

[@projectbluemartin7532]

you're an aviation enthusiast too?

[@brucelee4996]

Bjornpilot too.

[@billyopiyo0366]

I kept dreaming of oneday being an airline pilot like you....some dreams are valid ...thanks to God your living your dream... others like us are kept off course of our dream career...all I wanted was to become a pilot until when I applied for a flight school and saw how the fee structure was...just anightmare it's really expensive ....hope oneday I will go back and dream again and maybe fly with you...your a living example to many ,what a story kudos

[@Stressbreaker999]

What a great inspiring story of perseverance. Makes me wish I had followed my second choice of career to be an airline pilot instead of an illustrator.

[@pharris23]

I hope my daughters will navigate the world and life as good as you. Thank you for sharing, this is great.

[@andyturbo]

I live in Melbourne Australia and miss seeing Qantas 717's flying overhead

[@simonf7623]

You’re such an inspiration! Sending positive vibes all around the world, just like your airborne adventures x

[@FlywithMagnar]

Where am I ten years from now? Retired from airline flying, for sure. But there are some nice Piper Cubs around...

[@adafatima5680]

Sir do you have any idea about airlines that offer pilot training program in europe

[@richardayala4356]

“Opportunities favor the prepared!” I am 72 and retired for six years now. During my 50 years in corporate and commercial banking, I learned to always reinvent myself, always engaged, always learning and getting graduate degrees along the way and eventually becoming CEO of seven banks along the way! Always stay ahead of the curve, don’t give up and don’t despair. You fall down but you get up again with stronger resolve. No one said life would be easy, and it isn’t! I think you have done well for yourself. Keep it up and as they say, “the sky is the limit!”

[@kevinkocher737]

In 10 years I am 23 yo. That would be soooo nice if I could be a pilot. The only problem is that my eyes are getting worse and worse... Thanks for your amazing videos! 🙂

[@henriklmao]

Then try your best to have a perfect balance of looking into the far and looking close. Even though both my parents had glasses in my age, my eyesight is brilliant because I maintain a good balance between the looking distances.

[@kevinkocher737]

@@henriklmao yeah I am really trying! I also make a so called "eye training" This strengthens the eye muscels. I can really feel a difference before the training and after!

[@mtygardsurgimesh]

Michelle, it was a pleasure watching your video! I have recently retired from a 45 year career in Medical Device Sales and the path to success seems similar. Long days, lots of rejection, and many companies until you achieve your dream. I earned my pilot's licence at age 17, thought about a career in aviation, but life took me down another path...still love aviation, still read and watch all of it I can get my hands on. Great to here of your success. You go Girl!

[@saurabhmehra7603]

You, did not mention on how many years it took to pay out the pilot loan?

[@maxsnts]

My guess is that the loan is still being payed

[@PetraKann]

Most professions present themselves in a glamorous way. It’s when you enter the front door of a company that this idealism and enthusiasm is tested. This is why persistence and integrity/honesty are so important. I like those persons attitude and outlook. Well done - keep going.

[@jaypatil6713]

10 years! it’s been a very long time

[@DutchPilotGirl]

It has!

[@scottthompson8946]

I just listened to your experience. Now, imagine doing this back in the 90s. We had to jump through all the same hoops, pay to fly was EVERYWHERE...oh, one more thing, to even be considered, you needed to have 1,500 hours to even apply. I was 31 years old, a former military pilot, 2 years as a civilian CFI just to pay $10,000 for my training in a turbo prop WITH NO TYPE RATING!! I'm now 55 years old and a 767 Captain, Instructor pilot. The road I (and all pilots in my gen) traveled was ridiculous. Be glad.... no, make that drop to your F'n knees and thank the sky gods that in your mid 20s you were able to land a jet job at an airlines. I'm deadheading from Vegas to Sophia today to operate SOF to KWI; I'll listen for you on the radio!😎

[@bwagenberg]

"The other side of the pancake." I never know when to flip it after you see the tiny bubbles. Incredible true story. I'm surprised your beautiful hair isn't already gray.

[@Atleast37ninjas]

Umm

[@ChangingAperture]

Awesome video!! Really enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing your story

[@peterlazuric5641]

Where do I want to be in ten years from now, well let me tell you. I am sixty nine years old and in good health. So ten years from now I hope I am seventy nine years old and still in good health. That is all I can ask for. 😂

[@RhettLego]

Loved the honesty and candour of this Michelle. Reflection is a powerful skill and never really easy. Keep chasing those rainbows! And being an Aussie living in Munich in Germany, I absolutely get the disdain for 15 degrees and cloudy in May ....