Beating the Airlines with Time to Spare

After spending Memorial Day weekend in Washington DC, visiting National Treasures like the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, it was time to fly back to Florida.
I would fly solo since the girls had their airline tickets, so I left early and took advantage of altitude to make it back to Southern Florida with enough time to make the drive to Fort Lauderdale to pick the girls up. It worked!
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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...)
On this episode you can hear:
Know Me Better
Not Ready
I Wanna Go Down
Otherworld
Crosses
Also follow me on:
Instagram / nikoswings
FACEBOOK / nikoswings
Web www.nikoswings.com

[@BaronPilot]

I try to tell people all the time, if we leave the house at the same time, often we can beat the airlines. Especially if you have a layover. Great job as always. BTW, with I was TC. 😞

[@NikosWings]

Absolutely especially for our 4 hour flights or less it’s almost a guarantee to beat the jet fuel queen...

[@clearpropcfi3744]

@@NikosWings And the rumor is that, at least for a while, the jet fuel queen might not even be an option!

[@IrishDave]

I’m a pilot but your plane and trips are goals. You use GA to its full potential and I love it.

[@chester8420]

My favorite part was at 5:00 when you removed your headset to put on the mask. That subtle engine noise addition is the most elegant piece of sound editing I have ever seen in a youtube video. It is crazy how immersive it makes the video. Especially for those that have been there before, that is exactly what it sounds like! The camera view from the left wing tip through the clouds on ascent 4:20 was really cool looking too!

[@NikosWings]

Thx for paying attention to the small things that make a difference. These small things take a lot of effort to put together

[@chester8420]

@@NikosWings, you're welcome. Thank you for the entertainment! I'll keep an eye out for you when planting corn today! Wave if you happen to fly over 5GA6!

[@buckshot704]

The Cirrus capabilities continue to intrigue me. Stefan Drury is planning to take his around the world later this year. You two are my favorite aviation vloggers; professional, and immensely wonderful editing. CAVU 😎👍

[@theflyingfool]

Stefans plan may well be scotched for at least a year, possibly two - coronavirus...

[@buckshot704]

Steve Roberts ; Yup. Saw his latest video. Even though I’ve never met him, I know he will do what’s best. Postponing that trip will definitely stink, however, if he must do it, the upside is he will still be the awesome guy we’ve come to know, and respect for his aviation channel. He will still be a smart, and proficient pilot. He will still have EYZ at his disposal. My point being I have the utmost confidence that he can do it, regardless of the challenges, or specific timing. I believe Niko is cut from the same forging as well. 😎👍

[@MassimilianoChiani]

Stay safe Niko & Family. A virtual hug from Italy

[@NikosWings]

A virtual hang back to our Italian brothers and sisters 🇮🇹🙏

[@JoeyV34]

Niko's Wings a virtual hang 😂😂 that sounds ominous

[@kevincollins8014]

Great video thanks for sharing! FL 200 not only gives you outstanding glide distance but absolutely amazing views as well. Thanks for bringing me along and stay safe my friend 🙏

[@jameshyatte7230]

Love the quality of your videos. For a lot of us GA pilots , this is about as close we will get to ride along in a Cirrus, thanks for sharing it.

[@robertmaza4272]

Awesome!!! No better way to start a Sunday morning then to take a flight with you! Thanks for taking us along!!! Hope you and your family stay healthy!!!

[@derstuka96]

Your videos are extremely inspiring. I’m 53, and ready to begin my GA odyssey!

[@MissionaryBushPilot]

I really like how you edit your videos. Gave me some good ideas for my flight vlogs. 😉

[@jonamus]

Thank you Niko, you are an inspiration for a PPL student like me

[@dheyes803]

Hello Niko. Thanks for taking all of us along as pilots monitoring. Someone else asked the same question that I had been thinking about asking you. With finishing your PPL in a year and NOT starting as a child/teen encourages me to continue pursuing my on the ground challenge of mastering the violin. The problem is I started teaching myself at age 52, ten years later I am still hanging in with the monster. Safe skies my friend and stay well.🌌✈️🎻🎶

[@garybourelle1557]

Thanks for taking me along on your trips. Really enjoy them. Probably the only way I’ll get to fly in a Cirrus. Looking forward to the next trip. My virtual bags are packed!

[@icalexander]

Excellent flight always good to see you in the cockpit of 122SZ

[@spencerkoch1]

Thanks for including the shots of KSC!

[@brandonmurray9448]

I got that flight review done. Now working on IPC. I joined a flying club but we have nothing like the Cirrus. We flew a Warrior from KLZU to Marco Island KMKY and back Saturday. 10.5 hours...oh well, it's helping remove the rust from 10 years away from flying. Keep up the great work! These videos are very well done! Fly safe!

[@NikosWings]

That’s a nice long flight on a warrior. What a great airplane!!!

[@slcarlsson7424]

The 360 Wing cam is my personal highlight. 👍

[@kenbryant2570]

Great flight. I love your airplane. My goal is to someday own a SR22T. I would love to be able to travel in the flight levels. Have a great day Niko.

[@ifixbones]

As usual, excellent video. Great content and quality, and of course, your professionalism never fails! Keep it going. Pleasure to fly with you!

[@pilotpeego1820]

That's a cool looking oxygen mask. You now look like a fighter pilot. 😅🤣

[@michelegianni389]

Really thanks for you videos, Niko. We in Italy are almost quarantined even if healthy (and it's a smart thing to do). So seeing you fly as free as a bird is a wonderful thing and gives us hope. Stay safe, you and your wonderful family.

[@NikosWings]

We are at home too and although the US Government is way behind we are doing our part. Stay healthy my friend and our hearts 💕 are with our brothers and sisters in Italy 🇮🇹❤️

[@Wayman_Simmang]

Thanks Niko for the ride along..

[@hockaday2fer2]

Thanks for the regular opening music Niko, love it

[@StephenLee529]

20000......that’s performance.....! Great visuals

[@NovejSpeed3]

When a regional jet flies BELOW your Cirrus! 😳 I tell you what, Niko you have gotten soo good with the editing on these videos.... And I am just in love with your bird... She's like your supporting actress. Her capabilities are just mind blowing. I just saw the 2020 G6 with spectre wing tips.... MY GOD 🥰

[@NikosWings]

They are beautiful machines

[@chuckhanabarger1810]

Another great ride along! Thanks Niko!

[@cpuwolf]

the most exciting moment of this episode is the airline pass by at FL200, Thank you Niko

[@trryhin]

Such a beautiful sky at that altitude! The wing camera gives some great views!

[@terencecottington4273]

Amazing flight. I was surprised at the height. Did not think the Cirrus was able to go that high. You learn something new every day. Always a pleasure flying with you Niko.

[@fiat.freakx19]

If I remember from one of your other videos, you said you can go up to 25,000. Correct me if I'm wrong. Its awesome you can fly that high!!

[@blake86303]

I have to admit that is a sweet airplane for a single engine.Lol. You are an excellent pilot,also.

[@andrewmartin8739]

Great video Niko , you make your flights look incredibly easy , your confidence is an inspiration

[@jgusick]

GA is especially wonderful these days with COVID19.

[@rhondaplait9236]

Beautiful! Thank you for taking us away from this temporary altered state of living on the earth. 💞

[@markdristy]

Fun to see final for runway 5 at KBCT again. I used to land there all the time and practice my Class D tower communications while training out of KLNA. Nice video, as usual!

[@jcposada]

Man, I love your storytelling. And your flying of course. :)

[@Rugbyfan1973]

Thanks Niko a great edit, loved some of the work flow shots like fuel tank changeover reminders and the panoramic pan from the left wing. Looked like a long but enjoyable leg for you. Thanks again for the great work.

[@richardbates895]

Wow Niko, another gorgeous video! I love the quick cut away shots throughout the plane...they help make "us" comfortable in your plane. How often do you fly at elevations with oxygen in typical GA flying (although you sure don't have a typical GA plane)? Happy St. Pat's Day to you and the family!

[@NikosWings]

My long cross country flights are typically at altitudes requiring oxygen. Happy St. Patrick’s Day

[@markbrown4442]

Fantastic as usual, Niko. That's an awesome shot from the wingtip extension root! Keep yourself and your family safe, mate. All the best from your friends in Australia.

[@vanallen9453]

...as a long-time subscriber...always enjoy your interesting , entertaining and informative videos...thanks again Niko...and safe flying...with knuckle bumps out to you and your beautiful family...

[@CharleyAlphaAviation]

We may not have the speed of the big boys, but it is almost always faster for us door to door.... Plus the fun and flexibility. Though for us, taking our equipment places justifies it more. Nice video, always on the lookout for you when we fly. The home base is central Florida.

[@NikosWings]

You said it perfect. You can’t pay me enough to take the airlines, especially now. The fun, the adventure, the flexibility, the freedom far surpass what the airlines have to offer.

[@Shaneepe1]

Great flight, great scenery and awesome editing. I appreciate every last one of your vids!

[@Randy-vk7pj]

Great Videos Niko! I'm not a pilot, but your video's make me want to fly!

[@PedroPepeDk]

Mahalo ! Always very enjoyable to follow you , good pilot + good plane = loads of FUN ! Have a good one Niko 🥇👏🤙

[@jamesrose9114]

Another great video. Your event captures, editing and explanations are fantastic, especially for someone like me who only dreams of flying. Peace and Safety to you and your family.

[@Shorebreak_]

I always look forward to your uploads Niko. I wish you and your family good health.

[@kongazizi6870]

Thanks so much for this lovely video and what a great flight at 20.000ft cruising and awaiting for your next flight on this channel again soon . Regards.

[@js207802]

Great video as always Niko! Must be awesome sometimes flying single engine prop at FL200 and just cruising right along. Stay Healthy!

[@tyler_russell]

Another great one niko. Trying to catch up with you. Building my fuel tanks today for a RV-10.

[@VenturiLife]

So awesome watching these flights, thanks for sharing!

[@edoedo8686]

Always interesting. I love the music on this--would be great for my Old Man Workout...

[@billwood4182]

You do great videos, always entertaining and the audio and video quality is also very good.

[@Menelik.videos]

I just love your videos.

[@mjotd8670]

Great video Nico, with the new oxygen mask, so reminded of the WW2 film "The Dam Busters" lol

[@vanallen9453]

...12 O'Clock High..."Messerschmidts on my Right ...and Left"....really enjoy your cool professional style and manner

[@Jimbo898]

You want to see a collection of airplanes and everything flying, go to the National Museum of the Air Force in Dayton Ohio. Give it many hours, there's ton's there to see.

[@SmittySmithsonite]

Looks like you had some fantastic weather on the trip home there. Beautiful shots as always, Niko! 👍🍻

[@karlkascha1261]

I could spend days at the air and space museum at the Smithsonian, and have. Lol. You have probably covered it in a previous video, but how many flight hours do you have? What do you do for work that you are traveling so much? Again wonderful flying and great radio skills. You always make your trips look effortless and I'm sure that it isn't just good editing. Thanks again Niko for the ride along.

[@NikosWings]

Roughly 1600 hours, I’m the CEO of a software company, thx for the comment.

[@karlkascha1261]

@@NikosWings Thanks for the response Niko. I'm glad that I'm not the only one up at that hour. I like to get up before the wife and kids so that I have a little peace. Lol. When my grandmother was alive, she lived in Boca Raton. She had a condo in Boca Verde East. Used to be a nice area. Last time that I checked it out, that area was getting kinda rough. 36° currently here in Central New York state. Do you ever fly into Syracuse?

[@richtaylor6039]

Great vid. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe Niko

[@jjsifo1]

Good one Niko, stay safe !

[@andrewd6070]

Shorter uploads I love it!

[@Racer_o_the_Reaper]

I was part of Rolling Thunder for the last several years. Glad you got to experience it!

[@NikosWings]

Makes me want to jump on a motorcycle again and do it...

[@Racer_o_the_Reaper]

Largest peaceful demonstration in the country. ThenAir and Space museum is and has always been my favorite spot in all the Smithsonian ever since I was a kid. Safe travels sir.

[@slcarlsson7424]

You are living my dream of life, I only have because I watch your videos. 😅

[@romainpoyet75]

Good chilling flight Hello from France pilot !

[@PoleyB1]

Short but awesome vid. TYVM for sharing.

[@96chevydually6.5L]

Another great flight Niko!

[@marsgal42]

Nice flight. There's nothing like a little plane in an infinite sky. :-)

[@jasonbergeron6347]

Nice brother!! Well done!!

[@lucabaldoni8911]

nice flying...very inspirational

[@jkelly1701]

Really amazing

[@NW-yy3pz]

FL200 🤩, you broke all records man ! Cirrus should reward you for this , awesome . Now, A newbie pilot and learning a lot from your videos and wandering why you picked fl200 when flying overland and no particular wxr conditions?

[@NikosWings]

Hahaha funny.... tailwind

[@NW-yy3pz]

@@NikosWings must feel like flying an F-16 👍 grateful for sharing your awesome videos, they are the best on youtube !

[@NikosWings]

I wouldn’t go that far... lol

[@garydell2023]

Hi Niko. Flying, Back when things were normal before this virus mess. Enjoyed the video. Now, how are you & your family in these trying times? Hope your all well. Stay healthy.

[@datruth9872]

That was excellent ! Later.

[@brianb5594]

Flight Levels, love it Niko! Cool flight down the east coast! Thanks as always for putting these together and sharing. I have done a few video and it's a lot of time and work with the editing. BTW, what was your ground speed? Didn't see it in the video.

[@NikosWings]

About 200-210

[@si6thnova238]

Another one for the books Niko perfecto !!!!

[@Mr3dplanes]

Nice work Niko's, keep the video's coming! 🙂

[@Jaden48108]

Nice flight Niko.

[@mrslyslyf]

😎 That's a life!!!

[@yoshidis4]

Great video Niko oraios!

[@stevenovi7093]

Hello Niko loved and learned a lot from your videos enjoyed them all I’m here in Michigan also a former neighbor in the old country (Macedonia ) going for my check ride very soon I am terrified and nervous any suggestions

[@NikosWings]

So you are Greek?

[@stevenovi7093]

Niko's Wings from Skopje originally born in tetovo

[@ajc3185]

Loved this video Niko! Do you ever consider upgrading to a Vision Jet?

[@NikosWings]

Yes too expensive

[@tonypriest8455]

You are possibly the coolest person on KZbin/earth....just saying!

[@NikosWings]

Wow, now I’ll have to keep my uncool side a secret lol 😂

[@davefrommelbourne1237]

You mentioned Greensboro NC a place I’ve travelled to before 👍

[@georges4562]

Great video ! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@tompinnef6331]

Looked like a great flight - enjoyed the video. May the family and you be safe in these trying times. Take care, be safe. "spin"

[@rodeosound]

Nikko loves that O2

[@NikosWings]

O2 is good for you, helps you live

[@bradmottishaw467]

Is your plane a Cirrus, and if so, which model if I may ask? I really enjoy your videos, thanks for sharing.

[@NikosWings]

SR22T G6

[@josecastillo991]

Good Morning Niko, LOVE the videos. I wanted to ask you @ what age did you get your pilot's license ? What plane did you learn on ? And how many hours did it take?. I'm starting the process to get mine now. Safe travels and God Bless

[@NikosWings]

I started at 38 and finished at 39, I learned in an old Cessna 152, and it took me almost 80 hours. Enjoy your flight training!

[@michaelsideris8799]

Another awesome video Niko, are you by any chance planning an around the world trip like Stefan is, especially in that amazing machine of yours.

[@NikosWings]

I will leave that to Stefan when he is ready again

[@milk-it]

You've got cross country flying down!

[@48Ballen]

I want to caution you about the "bends". In an unpressurized aircraft, the devolved nitrogen in your blood will come out of solution as you climb. In WWII the crews were required to breather 100% oxygen before takeoff for at least 30 Min. to reduce the nitrogen in the blood prior experiencing reduced pressures. A good friend of mine experienced 2 bouts of the bends in his mooney at 23,000 and was really in trouble....

[@NikosWings]

Thanks for the info.

[@f-16guy30]

Another great video of a great flight at FL 200. As a former airline pilot, we never cancelled IFR for obvious reasons. I'm curious why you want to cancel IFR so early in the descent? Why not let ATC continue to manage traffic separation, etc? As always, fly safe !

[@NikosWings]

For flexibility on routes and altitudes, and to shorten the flight a bit. I never cancel flight following though for traffic alerts.

[@BretAllenStudios]

Smooth! Like a flying stick of butter...with oxygen of course! 😁

[@lock152]

What camera are you using? The colors are amazing. Do you boost them with a program? 🔥🔥🔥🙌🏾

[@NikosWings]

GoPro’s. No color enhancing, just using ND filters which open the shutter a bit more

[@Cerveau_Lent]

Wonderful...

[@succesfuldeals]

Pretty cool at 7:18 to see that commercial jet fly by.

[@grayeddolls]

Hi, Niko. Yet another major-league enjoyable video. Thank you for the time and effort! It really is appreciated far and wide! Could I please bore you with a "moron-level" question? When you're directing the aircraft on the ground, is that largely throttle plus differential braking or is it more throttle and tail? Maybe neither is the case. Sorry if that's irritating and/or tedious to be asked but the whole A to Z is fascinating to me and I'd really like to understand more about it. Thank you! G

[@NikosWings]

Not irritating at all. This airplane has a free castering nose wheel and it needs a combination of full rudder deflection and diff braking. Once speed has build up on the ground the rudder becomes more effective.

[@grayeddolls]

@@NikosWings Thanks very much, Niko :o) I knew about the castering nose wheel and the additional stuff you've just kindly clarified for me is kind of what I'd figured out but it's far more valuable to have things confirmed by someone such as you - someone who knows the facts and isn't working on hunches like I am!..... If I ever find myself having to do a "Doug White" (I feel quite certain that you know the story to which I'm referring) , then knowing these kinds of things could make all the difference ;o) .....It's unlikely, of course .... but who knows? ;o) Have a splendid evening and all the best to you and yours :o)

[@tardisrider25]

Beautiful flight. I wish I could get a cirrus. The beginning of the video makes me wonder. Do you ride motorcycles at all? Weather is about right and I'm getting my bike ready.

[@NikosWings]

I used to ride a big motorcycle for years in Chicago until Zoe was born

[@tardisrider25]

@@NikosWings Nice. I bet it didn't compare to the cirrus though.

[@rikspector]

Niko, From 20K you can glide forever:) Beautiful day, I like that oxygen mask. Cheers, Rik Spector

[@chrisalley9718]

Curious as to what TAS you were seeing at 20k.

[@NikosWings]

It was around 195

[@chriholt]

Great trip! I have to ask what/how does the wing mounted camera pan around? It's a very cool effect!

[@NikosWings]

It doesn’t, it’s a 360 degree GoPro Fusion

[@chriholt]

@@NikosWings Awesome to know, thanks!

[@mauricejones8114]

Niko, what was your GS at FL 200? Nice vid keep up the good work.

[@NikosWings]

It was about 200 - 210 on this trip