Pilot that's afraid of flying?

Get $15 off your first order and an extra 5% off everything if you become a member at crowdcow.com/T...
Be my wing man and join in the adventure: goo.gl/sW5J5o
Songs:
Song 1: Thunderbird - Ryan Taubert
Song 2: Why Not - Utah
Song 3: New Day - Josh Garrels
Song 4: This Is It - Oh The Larceny
All Music Licensed by Music Bed
Get a free trial of the best music for your videos: share.mscbd.fm/...
Grab our new STOL shirt and more at: www.TrentPalme...
Get the brand new RC FreedomFox here: store.ftstem.c...
For more of my adventures follow me on instagram: / trentonpalmer
Facebook: / pilottrentpalmer
#Pilot #BushPlane #kitfox

[@jamesbruzgis9476]

I have 9000 hours as an airline pilot. I returned to GA this summer for the first time in 14 years. It was literally frightening! Not bc the airplane was small or had a single engine or whatever, it was simply not what I was used to anymore. I think you mind sometimes reverts back to when you were not comfortable in the aircraft you fly now n that “fear” resurfaces. I also think it’s good, every flight is a series of thousands of calculated risks and it certainly isnt normal for a human to be up there! Fly safe boys, love the channel!

[@kobrapromotions]

Thats awesome man, im only a cpl h student, youre atpl

[@drfilhobarreiros]

*smirks* how does it feels having to work again to keep straight and level?

[@maleficentcop2752]

@@drfilhobarreiros LOL...👍

[@thomasaltruda]

I find flying RC much scarier than flying GA.. don’t you JB? ;-)

[@imontime77]

Try strapping 21,000 pounds of bombs under your wings and imagine the pure desire to get rid of them before you land.

[@coreymalhiot2796]

“A little bit of fear of flying is healthy, It’s the ones without fear that you gotta worry about” So true

[@SwedishVFR]

I remember one time where after i started it felt just like playing DCS in VR. The air was super smooth and it felt a little bit unreal. It was actually a little bit scary, because it's real life, and i forced myself to be a little bit afraid. It's more healthy that way. And fun. I love flying.

[@drfilhobarreiros]

old and bold pilots

[@stellar1620]

30 years and it still catches me from time to time

[@renof2505]

Ty? Jonas?

[@meals24u]

@@renof2505 I think we know which one... 🤣🤣

[@Cowracer67]

1:25 The plane rotates (yaws). Camera is on plane and rotates too. Pans camera opposite rotation to keep mountains in the distance steady. Phenomenal shot, and I just wanted to acknowledge that I appreciate the effort to do that.

[@meals24u]

Yesssss!!! Came and looked for this comment..

[@rpmcitycruiser]

I think that camera is really a 360 camera, and the pan was done in software.

[@meals24u]

@@rpmcitycruiser oh yes! Of course! 360 and Post Edits is where it’s at...

[@Cowracer67]

@@rpmcitycruiser But still, he had to actually do it. In-camera or in-post, it still required Trent to think, "ya know what would look cool..." and then to make it happen. I simply wanted to say that I noticed it. All too often, those little touches do not get the recognition they deserve, no matter how it was done.

[@helldemituz]

so nice so some1 in the comments who can appreciate his editing skills aswell. i thought the last 2 videos are so great edits its crazy. its like he put more time and effort into them

[@CLdriver1960]

No worries Trent, what you’re feeling is normal. 47 years and one career in flying, and I still get that once in awhile. Great videos!

[@amywhite375]

Funny part is, I never had as much fear when I was training, but now sometimes I can look straight down and get those heebie-jeebies. I have more of those days now that feel like, "I'm not up for this." I've found the cure is training, and continuing to put in the hours. If I can fly a LOT, like doing a 5 or 10+ hour ferry flight, I feel as comfortable as I do driving my car by the end of it. If I fly once or twice in a month for a grand total of 1.5 hours or so, I might end up anxious as hell when I go. It never goes away, but we can mitigate it with practice and putting in the hours. Thank you for bringing this topic up. It's a really intriguing conversation-- one that no pilot wants to talk about, but many struggle with!

[@TheChickeneer]

I can’t tell you enough how much I needed to hear you guys talk about fear and flying. I’m flying a jump plane in Oregon just pushing 400 hours and still getting the “heebe jeebies” up there every so often. Glad to hear I’m not the only one!

[@benc1103]

24,000 hrs. GA, Air Force, Airlines, Movie Flying, Instructing Aerobatics and Formation flying. Soaring and Sailplane cross country racing. Yes, Ive seen it all. Yes, there were times I've had to use more of my skill than I was planning on having to use.Yes, I've been scared. No, I'm not scared of flying. But I do have a healthy respect for flying and all it entails. Don't confuse the two. Don't be scared. Have respect for the risks and do all you can to mitigate them. If it doesn't feel right, don't do it. Go-arounds are good. Make sure your plane and equipment are 100%. Wear a helmet if you're about to land on some iffy terrain in a taildragger. Wear a parachute: aerobatics, sailplanes, formation flying, single-engine over mountains, single engine over mountains at night (now that's scary). It's nice to have an ace up your sleeve. Always expect an engine failure. It's fun looking for places to land when flying (a glider flying habit). Have an escape plan over mountains (be able to glide downhill to a valley or meadow). Have fun. It's about living, not how long you can merely stay alive.

[@chrisbjohannsen]

I like @thefinerpoints idea of 3 strikes, if I have three things go sideways before I start the engine I'll call it. A few weeks back I put that in practice after I 1) left the hangar keys at house, 2) ran a red light on the way to the airport, 3) forgot to lock the hangar and had to shut down to jump out and do so... It was disappointing to call it but my head just wasn't in the game that day.

[@f2air]

I like that advice

[@vibrolax]

I have a similar principle I call "Power On Self Test" (POST), named after a computer's boot-up diagnostics. I take any oopsies that happen in my morning routine as a sign that I need to reconsider my plans for any mentally or physically demanding activity that day.

[@dennismoss5622]

I've been flying since 1968. I've got over 8000 hours logged, probably another 500 that I never bothered to log and over 6900 hours as a CFI. I still get that occasional case of the heebie-jeebies.

[@maleficentcop2752]

Humans have a sixth sense... It's that gut feeling, nagging at the back of your mind, women's intuition, impending doom, what ever you call it if you feel like something is wrong you're probably right. Get out walk-around, get your head right.... If that doesn't happen consider the task, you may want to shelf it for later or not & just get it done.... unfortunately time & experience is how you learn to listen to this sixth sense ....👍👍👍

[@DunnDifferent]

I don’t think it’s a coincidence that Trent made this video talking about healthy fears just a week after Jonas wrecked his Capella.

[@WJSpies]

Yep.

[@KPalmAir]

Oddly enough it is a coincidence... Weston told us about that video the day we filmed this one.

[@geraldmartsy2165]

@@KPalmAir I believe you. Jonas's crash was a long time coming - could have happened any day. Was only a matter of time before he planted one.

[@jimmyoverly3512]

@@geraldmartsy2165 Jonas is like all the hazardous attitudes wrapped up in one human. He's a case study waiting to happen. Really sad dude.

[@daleschaffter1787]

I totally understand what you mean about the fear. I started rock climbing a couple years ago and I am still terrified when lead climbing some routes, but after I make it safely to the top I realize that small degree of fear is part of what makes it enjoyable for me. Btw I've been watching you, Kevin, Corey's videos for awhile and about 6 months ago had my discovery flight. It was amazing and I am currently trying to work a pilot's license into my budget.

[@acrobaticfish]

Never felt more exposed than at the top of multi-pitch trad climb that didn’t top out. You can intellectually know everything is strapped in and only an act of god will get you, but it doesn’t matter: humans aren’t wired to be in these places...but we’re wired to check it out anyways.

[@archimedesCNC]

@@acrobaticfish amazing to witness the broad interest ( & the quality) of Trent's viewership. seems the quest for the details in these vids has gained a really interesting group of consistent audience members interested in living life well. i say this as an avid ice climber (sport & trad too) & for the first time i feel comfortable in this human fabric of participation. thanks to Trent for these vids & the living stuff they bring on.

[@michaelpayne8770]

@@acrobaticfish "humans aren't wired to be in these places...be we're wired to check them out". Nailed it. You have the basis for a Doctoral paper.

[@gliderpilot8882]

Want to see wings bend? Fly a fibre glass glider in 45 to 60 degree turns in a thermal !!! And all landings are precision landings with no go-a-rounds!!! Cross country soaring is the ultimate 3D chess game with weather.

[@FSTRNU24]

“I wanna see how close this fire got to my house.” “Wow 3/4 of a mile or so!” Drives to airport, flies plane, lands, all to be 3/4 of a mile from house. Too awesome haha

[@josiatokirina1788]

"Fear is the mind killer", Quote from Dune the book/movie. Fear can heighten your senses, but it can also control them. That is why practice, skill, efficiency with equipment, and experience are needed for any challenging endeavor, especially flying. My dad, a pilot of 65 years always reminded me, "Never trust the weather or wind, and learn and practice, so you can do your best and can trust your ability"!

[@AmericanPiddler]

I'm 7 hrs into my ppl and it definitely keeps you humble!

[@scoutworks]

You know its going to be a good Sunday wen we get a Trent Palmer video! Coffee and CubKiller!!

[@thempmgun0868]

Yess sir

[@weremodel]

I am playing too. Sitting in my office with my monitor on full screen watching Trent Palmer and friends take to the air and me getting squat done. Thanks a bunch. Keep the stick straight. or not.

[@marsstarlink3235]

I know about this one a little bit; so you're flying around, look down on the left window and get the vertigo or something, all of the sudden your heart races, feel light-headed and you're wishing to be on the ground. It's a scary thought because you need to learn to control it, or else you'll have it upgrade to runaway panic. -in this panic mode you're almost useless since logic is out the window. These symptoms are enhanced at higher altitudes/elevations because of mild hypoxia (less oxygen up there), mix that with lack of sleep last night and a lack/poor meal and you've got the recipe. Harden these areas 'thoroughly', don't take unnecessary risks, stay in the game (logically talk out-loud your way back into the cockpit/instruments/navigation) and most importantly slow and control your breathing (this will help reduce your heart rate down and keep your CO2 levels in the normal range). Happy flying!!

[@stevespatrol]

Learning to fly back in 98. Was on my 1st Solo Nav and landed at a unfamiliar airport with some crosswind and almost damaged the plane. I gave up after that (I was18yrs old) and have regretted it ever since. Love watching your videos and never would have picked it with how much confidence you have. 👍👍

[@stubby4317]

PPL student at 62 and question my sanity frequently but still enjoy it. Glad to hear that the fear is normal, a respectful awe. Enjoyed the other comments pertaining to this as well.

[@WestCoastVisitor]

8:54 landing advice especially for Jonas.

[@donalddarbonne779]

As a commercial driver of hazmat loads, I understand totally about knowing when your head ain't right. I've been on tight schedules before and had to delay an early start due to my head not being right.

[@RobertTheFriscoSchmid]

OMG I so resonate with this. Got my license last year Oct, so a year ago, and now at 160 hours in 2 planes I own yet it still doesn't feel like driving car. THANKS FOR BEING REAL!!!

[@jimshaw899]

More years ago than you are old, Trent, my private CFI (in a 172) taught a flying philosophy called "doubting confidence." What he meant was to doubt everything before flying, then proceed confidently. And when something goes wrong in the air, be confident in everything else but the thing that's wrong. In that way, your confidence doesn't avalanche into total distrust. But, contrary to one item you expressed, I was taught that altitude is generally your best friend. It gives time to think rationally about a course of action before committing to it. I will never forget one of his lessons: We took off to the north from our home field (VPZ), which was about 15 miles south of Lake Michigan. He instructed me to continue and climb to 2000 ft. AGL. He chattered on about something forgettable, saying occasionally "just keep on course." Before too long, we were several miles out over the water. Abruptly, he pulled on carb heat and brought the engine back to idle. "Now, what are you going to do?" Me: "Establish best glide speed and turn back toward land." Him: "Fine, but you can't make it from here. What are going to do?" Me: "Glide as close to land as possible, then we're gonna ditch." Him (loudly): "You can't ditch this plane. It will flip onto its back, sink, and we'll both drown." Me: "It's my only choice!" By this time, we were gliding closer to the water. Him: (quieter now) "Then why did you bring me here?"

[@gwwchem]

"The fears we don't face become our limits." Robin Sharma. I've never had a fear of flying but I didn't realize how bad my fear of heights really was until I started private pilot instruction. Got my license at age 40. Never had another dream about falling to my death after my solo. Started sky diving at age 58 to eliminate that last little nagging fear of heights. It was still there after 120 jumps. Talked with an instructor with 4000+ jumps, he still has a small amount of fear. I packed my chute and put it a place where I see it every day. Fear is a natural part of what keeps us alive.

[@pauljenson8042]

Thanks for one of your best flying videos yet. The scenery is awesome and the flying makes my heart yearn to be doing the same as you and your buddies.

[@jan3195]

I really needed this video, Trent - thank you for your honesty.

[@SwedishVFR]

You need to respect the flying, if I get to comfortable I try to get my mind back to it!

[@pieterpretorius1014]

batter to respect the machine than be afraid of it.

[@tomwright5292]

Been flying since 1976 finally got a kit fox. The hardest decision I ever have to make is when not to fly. Respect Mother Nature!

[@Myfivestarsuccess]

Was flying my (new to me) RV6A yesterday out of KAWO and landing in a 12 mile direct crosswind. I was nervous.

[@tomcoryell]

Five Star Management Crosswinds have to be scary!

[@shoop4040]

Oh my gosh thank you for this , thank you very much. I am in my 50’s I love aviation however even when I fly commercial aircraft I get a bit nervous. I am thankful to know that others have the same feelings. May everyone have safe flights and have the time of your life .

[@oldgreenplane1428]

Man, the day I get 100% comfortable and confident in flying, that's when I'm going to stay home! Between weather, mechanical failure, other aircraft, my own mistakes... I'm always heads up and mentally preparing for anything that may come up. Great job Trent and keep creating man!

[@nwrain21]

I passed my private pilot checkride today. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@j.d.ensminger1710]

I've done some really stupid things in airplanes but have always walked away. I've had several friends who were'nt as fortunate and lost their life. Stay vigilant and current Amigo. Love your channel.

[@michaelyoung3337]

I once admitted to my CFI, a Naval Aviator with 20 years experience, that I was scared of landings. He stated that any good pilot is afraid of landing.

[@vracan]

Personally I LOVE landing its my favourite part....I guess that makes me a bad pilot lol

[@joshwold2000]

I really liked this one Trent. Seeing your communication between other pilots, and talking about what it normally feels like to fly was awesome. Nice job.

[@andrewcarlson8402]

Im a 9 hour student pilot ... just started and I'm more comfortable than at hour 2 ... its encouraging to hear that a healthy fear that lingers is normal. love your stuff keep it up. also build your hangar!! i cant wait for that. Cheers!

[@cwguy8960]

Love the videos - so glad to hear I'm not the only one who has that underlying fear to fly at times....maybe it's a (healthy) sense of respect for what you're doing. And yes, when some days things just seem a bit off - then save it for another day. You guys seem to have so much fun!!!

[@tonymarks4043]

Great video Trent!!! I’ve got to go flying in your backyard! Beautiful Back Country!!!!

[@JonMulveyGuitar]

I am a student now and have fear of heights and flying. Was 4x4ing yesterday on a road with room. But had about a 3000 feet edge to the right and was not having fun. Haha! But I am hooked on flying and want to live with this fear with a healthy respect. But not let it shut me down! So glad you posted this one Trent! Go TP Go!!

[@Sparrowwest]

Would love to see more of you flying with your brother :D

[@damienradford]

So glad to discover it’s not just me 😅 I’m up to about 150 hours now and still will just write off a day if I get the slightest odd feeling. I’d rather be in the hangar tinkering than stuck up in the air feeling like crap. I also still get the “whooah I can’t believe I’m up here” heebie jeebies. The next day I’ll go and fly and it will be the best feeling ever and that makes it all worth it.

[@felixtorres1895]

30,000+ hours I still respect I still fear.

[@fudogwhisperer3590]

That's some sweet editing on that 360 camera! Nice! That's a LOT of work! Just wanted to let you know its appreciated!

[@Homey-lu1mz]

For a while I've always enjoyed going on trips in planes but recently I started wanting to become a pilot and you and other pilots I watch like JP and Cory really inspired me to become a pilot. Whenever I watch one of your videos I always have smile on my face and I can watch the same video multiple times and still enjoy. I'm working with my dad who works on plane avionics to help me study and practice online for becoming a pilot. I just wanted to thank you and all of the Flying Cowboys for really inspiring me and making my life so much happier. It's my dream to maybe someday meet or fly with you. Thank you.

[@Paulman50]

I've done motorcycle riding, deep sea fishing and high level rigging. With all of these you need a mix of fear, concentration and due dilagence to keep you safe. Be happy you have that little bit of fear.

[@andreask9382]

I fear mid-air collisions the most. I try to reduce risk as much as possible, and accept the remaining risk (that either me or someone else effs up). Breaking wings - not an issue. Failing engines - bound to happen, if you fly enough, that’s why I don’t fly at night.

[@tomsmith3045]

Great topic, great video! A friend of mine was a lineman, now retired. I asked him once how he went up on those poles, where one false move can be fatal. He smiled and said "if I'm not a little bit afraid, I'm not going up". He'd lost friend who lost the respect, lost their focus, and got careless. On a different topic, don't you guys worry about having brush or sticks blow out your tires? I fly tailwheel as well, but little tires on grass and pavement, and yeah, love the grass.

[@robertjohnson7485]

Trent sorry for driving by in such a nosey truck yesterday morning. Had no idea you were doing the video. Back in 1976 on my private check ride, the examiner told me that if I ever got to where I was not nervous or was so comfortable of flying I did not think of the bad things that could happen, I need to stop flying. I have ALWAYS remembered that and to this day after 44 years of flying I'm afraid of flying!

[@chrisclark4191]

I had a real bad flight returning home from Alaska in 95 and had a horrible fear of flying ever since. Weird thing is I work on aircraft for a living. Decided to try and fix it this year, Oct 2023 since I was laid up from a surgery for 6 weeks and bored. Signed up for a discovery flight on Oct 20 and loved it, first actual lesson was the next day and now with all my requirements filled I'm just building on proficiency until my DPE sends me a date for check ride. It's funny that as long as I'm busy with maneuvers, working in the pattern or anything that keeps me really engaged, everythings fine but if I just kick back and look out at the wing or straight down to the ground, a little of that fear creeps back in. Love your channel, easily the best GA channel out there!

[@wynnfpv]

So good Trent! Would like to see more with your Bro! Good times with family🔥🔥

[@BrettMcNary]

When I first started flying, I researched how much a Cessna 182 can take before it can start breaking up. I was relieved to know 50% of the cessna max is 4.5 G's. Basically, you'll black out and break off engine mounts BEFORE the wings ever come off. I still look at the wing while flying and pretend what it would be like if the wing snapped off. It's a terrifying thought, but very irrational too. Fear keeps us safe. Thanks Trent for being humble enough to talk onthis.

[@ettiennemarcus5563]

Trent, I am a motorcyclist and rc pilot. The day that I am not nervous, I do not climb on my motorcycle. Neither do I fly model aeroplanes if I m not nervous. Those feelings keep your concentration at 110%.

[@KAPOSIALightWeight]

Hi Trent. I have just over 17000 hours. Flown Aerobatics, banner towing, bush flying in Angola, Burundi, Rwanda, DRC and Kenya. Most of my hours are in airliners(now made redundant). I experience the same fears and it’s probably what brings me back. Just like the other guys commenting, I think it normal and it’s a built-in safety device. Love your vids, enjoy the awesome flying!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@patrickbigham3619]

Man I can not relate to this enough! I call it more of a respect for what we do and how quickly things can change and if we are not prepared then well. I’ve wanted to be a pilot since I was about five and I was fearless at first, but from hearing stories and experiences have given me that healthy fear and respect for flight! My preflight routine starts and hour before I’m due to even inspect the aircraft, I like to mentally prepare myself and meditate in away to make sure I’m mentally ready and alert!

[@PilotDaveLI]

Your channel and some of the other well known channels are operating at such a high level right now. Between the camera work and your excellent use of music on this latest video, it's really exciting. As a NYC pilot with little access to true vistas like you fly into and through, your videos are becoming quite immersive and exciting. Keep it up.

[@BradySkye]

I get that exact fear feeling looking out at the wing sometimes too. To be a human flying through the air just isn't normal lol. We're doing something we weren't really meant to do and it's epic and addicting. I hope that little bit of fear never goes away because it's definitely humbling.

[@StuTheFarmer]

When I started my pilot licence, I was told “there is old pilots. And there are bold pilots. But there isn’t many old bold pilots.” Because they don’t last long.

[@wabuchanan]

Well, except for Bob Hoover and Chuck Yeager. They were the epitome of Old Bold pilots.

[@jbnwater2606]

I don't think I have ever met a pilot that said they never had that little voice telling them don't ever be afraid! You never know what is around the corner for you. Like what you hit on today lets keep everyone safe as possible.

[@MarcelHaldimann]

I got this feeling "up in the air wishing staying on the gound" which brought me to this saying myself - 30 years flying hangglider. desperate to fly in harsh wind condition. nearly flying backward. won't do it again. better to stay on the ground and wishing to be in the air! ;) nice vid as always!!!

[@UNO810]

Thanks for this video Trent. I have been dealing with anxiety for the last number of years thats have kept me away from flying. My fears are more health related but I want to use your attitude about just working through it. Keep the great videos coming!

[@bartneal8605]

I started my flight training when I was 14, 46 years ago. And after engine failures, engine fires, cockpit fires, bird strikes, deer strikes, brakes hydraulic locked, electrical failures I was never scared until I got back on the ground. To me flying is hours and hours of boredom with a few moments of fright, those few moments is what makes flying fun.......

[@vhostovich]

Probably your best flying video!!! Don't know if you select the background music but it certainly enhanced the experience watching. Thank You!

[@shanesteube1952]

Just turned the first page in my log book at 8.3 hours towards my ppl. Its actually comforting hearing you talk about the fear. Today was slip training, and I was not feeling it so went back to stable approach and landings. Glad I'm not the only one. Thanks Trent! Hope to fly along side you guys one day!

[@flyjohnnyair]

Wow, great shot of fuel venting at 3:20. Slipping in for landing I assume. Great video as always Trent.

[@kaihorstmann2783]

Irrational things like Wings breaking off or mid-airs? I cannot speak for bush-planes chances of wings breaking off, risk in gliders is virtually not existing, unless you push aerobatics too far. Mid-air collisions however: Total different story. I always considered it my highest risk when cross-country flying. And boom, last year I had one. The entire tail in my plane got ripped off, and it went immediately into an uncontrollable nose-dive due to the missing counter-weight in the tail, and control surfaces gone. Bailed out with the paracute, that got partially ripped when unfolding. I ended on a field with a broken disk in the spine, now some steel bolted into my back. The other one managed to land his gilder miraculously on our air field. He did not carry a chute. Both planes are total losses. It took me all this year to get my flying mojo back and overcome the anxieties. Hope next season gets back more to real fun. Mid-Airs are not as far-fetched as guessed by pedestrians given the sheer volume of the airspace. At places it gets crowded. Like under good cumulus clouds for gliders, flying formation, or flying over and around landmarks or otherwise popular spots, or just the pattern around a busy un-controlled airport.

[@TrentonPalmer]

Wow, that's my worst nightmare right there, I am glad you are here to tell the story!

[@kaihorstmann2783]

@@TrentonPalmer 21 July this year I celebrated my 1st birthday(b)

[@j.d.ensminger1710]

@@kaihorstmann2783 Have had a few close calls myself and one mid-air bump. (a 172 hit our 37 climbing out of AUS right after punching into IMC) scarry stuff.

[@Rtechmobile]

How many people have head on collisions with jetskis ? So much water and space but it happens all the time . It's like we are drawn to people doing the same activity .

[@alexandermenzies9954]

Indeed. I lost a friend that way. Very experienced, too (plus a real rocket scientist and a Ph.D.)

[@florianN132]

"its the ones that are fearless that you gotta worry about" - somehow I Immediately had to think about Jonas when he said that...

[@jimmyoverly3512]

Definitely Jonas.

[@florianN132]

@@jimmyoverly3512 let's just hope time will tell us wrong - I really Like Jonas and the wonderful Silvija, I really really don't want to hear about the bad news some day :/

[@JohnFSmitheugene]

Hey Trent, great video about a topic seldom discussed. I’ve been a GA pilot with about 5000 hours for almost 40 years. And that was after my time flying for Uncle Sam. Some flights, I’ll feel a little bit spooked for no reason at all. Some days when I might have flown, I found an excuse not to for the same reason. I think that fear is our instincts coming out to play. As someone else here observed, being airborne, whether as a pilot or passenger, is completely unnatural. Some fear is normal, even healthy, as you pointed out. And the best way to beat it is to get back into the cockpit and go fly: practice helps us to feel confident in our skills and that’s what really keeps fear at bay. Thanks Trent for this video. I always enjoy your content.

[@Marknumskull]

I'm a low hour pilot and yep I have this fear from time to time as well, glad I'm not the only one flying along and occasionally look at the wing and think "I hope that doesn't fall off"! Trent can you fit a BRS parachute to the KitFox, that could help with some of that, safety net there.

[@rudolfaeschlimann6959]

It would be a dream of mine to fly the way you do. Sadly I live in a country that does not have a lot of space in general and no places to fly like in the states or other big countries. I'm happy for you doing this great stuff and thank you for sharing the videos so people like me at least can be there virtually :-)

[@darrinburnett8350]

I was flying my kitfox yesterday morning, and I kept thinking about those pins that hold the wing from folding.

[@pittss2c601]

I have built 2 airplanes. I was the test pilot for the first flights. As I warmed the engine, I would look all over the airplane and think about every nut & bolt. I thought, I know I checked those dozens of times. But you still wonder and then take the risk as you hit the throttle. It's good living...when things go well.

[@davidrobins4025]

Love this video. No fear is DANGEROUS. Unmanaged fear will kill you.

[@henrikcarlsen1881]

So relevant to me. Had to do 15 years of pause to flying gliders and since then things has happened: I'm 15 years older and no longer feeling immortal, a parent to three teenagers and not feeling confident with the airplane when handed over the stick (thermals are clean misses, landings are best of ugly, really a mess). Although not comfortable in an airplane I do want to return to flying regularly - even though it also frightens me.

[@superbill9066]

Kevin's model 4 is lookin good! The tires look huge!

[@KPalmAir]

😎 29s on a IV look gooooood!

[@fpvflyby6855]

Trent, I really enjoyed your video. I am a newer Trike Pilot One year this November. The topic of fear and anxiety that comes with flying has been a question I have had since I have been flying on my own. (without CFI) Its reassuring to hear someone else say spot on what i feel. Thanks for the fly along!

[@PDZ1122]

Very true about the dry lake practice. Until the first time I practiced at El Mirage, I had no idea how useful that is. In training you get a few seconds of that every landing, this way you get minutes.

[@tomtora9056]

I got my pilots license partly to deal with my fear of flying. Encouraging to hear this from someone who seems pretty fearless. I remember freaking out thinking I was going to have a panic attack on one of my first solo cross country flights as a student pilot. I thought I was going to have to throw in the towel. Got my license though!! Thanks for sharing!!

[@pittss2c601]

Heights scare me when looking over a railing or balcony. That gives me the heebie jeebies. A Pitts Special S1S can cause an adrenaline rush of fear just from the little wings. When you look out as you fly you feel as if you can touch the end of the wings. They are short. They seem to get shorter when flying high like 9,000 ft agl. That also gives me the heebie jeebies at times.

[@alexandermenzies9954]

Better not fly an F-104..

[@shannonwhitaker9630]

After the Gulf War (Desert Storm) some USAFR A-10 units transitioned to F-16's. Some pilots reported initially feeling very uneasy in the F-16 as if they were sitting out on the end of a lawn dart.

[@angelreading5098]

Another great bush pilots episode and a very interesting and 'safe' story,lack of fear can breed contempt,always fly within your personal limitations.

[@hollyfoxThe]

Student pilot and I always have a lot of anxiety before a lesson. It's nice to know that others have it to. Thanks for putting it in perspective. Maybe as I gain skills it will subside some. Gotta keep going to find out. One flight at a time.

[@bbt95762]

I would pray like crazy on every commercial take off...then lull myself to sleep, becoming a pilot helped but the fear is still there - and I respect it. Somedays...I just don't fly, typically I do - it's an amazing experience

[@spencerneilsen7047]

I relate to this so much! I’m a PPL student with 50 hours in check ride prep right now and when I started my training I felt a lot like Trent! It took me 25 hours to finally do my stalls and 15 flight hours before I could say I was actually starting to have fun! One other thing even at this point I’m not a huge fan of is turbulence up high. For some reason I feel much more comfortable in the bumps at 3000 AGL or lower. Even just in cruise I’m not a big fan of flying high. I also sometimes look down or at the wing and get the heebee jeebees lol I love flying but it scares me so bad some times 😂 I had a few heebee jeebee moments looking down on my solo cross countries!

[@muddytigeroutdoors4790]

I’m right there with you brother, I have 68 hrs.

[@spencerneilsen7047]

@@muddytigeroutdoors4790 glad you can relate! I am happy to report that I now have 200 hours and am feeling a lot more comfortable but still do not love bumps up high 🤣 best of luck on your flying!

[@jakebrodskype]

I used to climb water towers and communications towers. At first, I never bothered to think about what I was doing, and then I saw some incidents that made me think twice. After that I found myself keenly aware of what was going on around me. My mind was totally focused on the climb. Later, as I worked on my private pilot certificate, I went through the same process. I had a few scares, and I realized that I needed to be more careful. This is what keeps me on edge. It's not enough to keep me on the ground, but it is enough to look at things and decide if I need to divert or even turn around and go back where I came from. I don't call this fear. I call this caution and awareness. That's the hallmark of a good pilot. And when the time comes, it is also that little voice that says, don't push this any further. You have to practice it and learn when to say "that's far enough." And at every stage of flight, always have a plan B. That is what we should all strive for.

[@negrildoc]

I think it’s more respect than fear Trent...unlike another Cowboy pilot I would fly with you anytime

[@geraldmartsy2165]

Jonas isn't technically a flying cowboy - they won't let him in the club because of his toxic attitude. www.theflyingcowboys.com lists all the current members.

[@xargayo]

@@geraldmartsy2165 what toxic attitude? Only seen a couple clips of him.

[@geraldmartsy2165]

@@xargayo Are you familiar with aeronautical decision making and the hazardous attitudes?

[@xargayo]

@@geraldmartsy2165 not really, that is why I was asking. I see Jonas is all over the place emotionally, just wanted to know what specifics about his flying make him dangerous. Thx!

[@philconey11]

Finishing up my Commercial right now, picking up my CFI and Multi in January. Tailwheel in February. Kitfox in March, Stick and Rudder in April. Might see you in the air sometime soon. I still get super nervous during slow-flight. You should always ALWAYS have a tiny bit of fear when flying. Just don't let it overwhelm you and learn to be comfortable with that fear. It prevents you from doing excessively stupid things, and helps your judgement.

[@slamsshenanigans2296]

Kev is rockin the yellow fox today!

[@KPalmAir]

Little red is outta annual, need to find time to swap in more horsepower and a new panel! Spare kitfox keeps me flying!

[@vfr-andy3133]

Great sideslipping there Trent. As a glider pilot this has saved me so many times.

[@Frankestein01nl]

Flying lessons helped me realise my inner ear loves simulators more than real life flying. ;) Great watching you guys have a ball out there!

[@philipkinney8361]

Trent, thanks for sharing your story. I’ve lived with a horrible fear of flying. In 2018, I took a discovery flight, then decided to try immersion therapy by taking flight lessons. It’s led to obtaining by PPL in 2019, buying a Cessna 172, and binge watching channels like yours.

[@SoloRenegade]

CFI-I Airplanes & Helicopters. I've had many moments where I was so afraid of flying I didn't want to get in the aircraft. Sometimes it would be irrational and just surprise me, other times the fear was very rational. I lean towards be more cautious, when in doubt, don't do it. I stick to my preflight procedures no matter what (flying solo for fun or professionally), I have my routine and I don't deviate even for a job (I don't allow anyone to pressure me to rush my routine). I always get to the airport early so I'm never rushed to get into the air, and have enough time to do my thing and deal with any unexpected issues. This way if I miss something, or something is out of place, my subconscious will alert me that something is wrong, and I won't fly until I figure out what I missed or what is wrong (sometimes that means starting all the checklists over again). Aviation IS dangerous, but it's safe overall because we (the pilots) have overall been taking steps to make it safe.

[@PARTner91]

Trent, you said what many pilots think (and sometimes won’t say). I’ve been flying since I was born, been thru a lot, and still have that fear on occasion. It’s healthy. It keeps you from being stupid.

[@WJSpies]

Great video on slow, low level, just above stall, flying, important skills & awareness.. love it! I think an occasional case of hee-bee-gee-bees, an occasional thought of 'what if' a catastrophic failure of the airframe structure is a good thing. It enforces your respect not any irrational fears. It's not true unrealistic & crippling fear of whatever, but a rational mental reminder of what & why you need to have respect for the inherent dangers associated w/ general aviation flying. It's not wrong or a bad thing; as long as it doesn't prevent you from having fun.

[@brianjoetaylor]

Great music and edit at 8:12 - 8:55. Really the whole ending. Always good stuff. Thanks for sharing!

[@gazebodp]

I would have to find it, but there is a great series about general aviation and accidents. It's all about bringing commercial training tactics to GA and recurring training and testing to GA. For example, setting an RTO point and practicing RTOs. So when you mention that the pilot is the most dangerous thing, it's all about mitigating that danger.

[@clintgosch2306]

I totally understand Trent! I scratch built my plane and I still occasionally find myself looking at all the rivets in the wing while in flight. It's still a little spooky, but I absolutely love flying! Ladders are a totally different story, I'll never be comfortable on those! Keep up the great work on these videos!

[@johnreed8872]

Hey Trent ! Great video , I'm a former skydiver and hold a PPL , I'm afraid of heights!!! Go figure! I can't even get up on my roof to clean gutters without a safety harness. Everyone thinks I'm nuts and they're probably right! Nobody has ever been hurt flying or falling , it's the abrupt landing that hurts! Thanks again.... Blue Skies!

[@JasonSchoeman]

I cannot even begin to dream how much I would love to do what you guys do. But I am very happy for you all because you made it happen. I think I will be starting gyrocopter lessons soon. Also you look like such nice decent people.

[@michaelroby6538]

Life is scary Trent. Flat out. But facing fear is a discipline. Only two types of pain in life; discipline and regret. Discipline is temporary, but regret is forever. You’ll never regret the boundaries you crossed when you used good sense in doing so. Not irrational fear, but discernment & judgment. I see that in your flying. You’re doing just fine.

[@TrentonPalmer]

Very well said

[@renevelez9444]

Pilot scared of flying is a perfect statement. Overcoming the fear and being a good pilot is why the after glow from a good flight is so rewarding. Flying is not relaxing for me, its a mental flush and work out. Fear is normal, but when flying you have to overcome it to be a better pilot. Never overcome it to be more reckless or take on unwarranted challenges. Respect the fear....., use common sense, use it as rails to make better decisions. For most GA pilots, the biggest fear comes from lack of monthly flight time. Or flying that rented.....unknown....aircraft. Stay safe!

[@bgpwrddy]

I thought I was the only one that felt/feel that way. I like to fly with someone else, I don't want to die alone. Once in the air I'm fine and can mitigate any problem that might arise and I'm confident in my ability to crash lightly with only minor injuries. I make sure I'm at an altitude that makes survival an after thought, that is, I won't have time to think about it. Have Fun!

[@derby9175]

That was some really good advice. I feel the same way on my motorcycle fear makes you safer