• 24 million square miles of managed airspace covering the U.S. and oceanic areas.

• Evolving with GPS-based NextGen technology for more efficient, direct routing.

• NAS serves over 1 billion passengers annually, supported by thousands of aviation professionals.

• Special airspaces (prohibited, restricted, MOAs) are crucial for safety and security.

• Over 170 scholarships available, ranging from $500 to $25,000+.

• Opportunities exist for pilots, mechanics, engineers, air traffic controllers, and aviation managers.

• Top programs include:

  • EAA Flight Training and Post-Secondary Scholarships

  • Aero Club of New England (ACONE)

  • Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) Scholarships

  • Epic Flight Academy Scholarships

  • University Aviation Association (UAA) Scholarships

• Application success tips:

  • Research each organization's mission.

  • Personalize essays with your aviation story and goals.

  • Apply widely, focusing also on local and regional scholarships.

• Scholarships offer financial aid plus networking, mentorship, and career connections.

• Historic milestone: NASA’s unmanned MQ-9 Predator successfully flew through public airspace without a chase plane in 2018.

• Marks the evolution of integrating unmanned aircraft into the National Airspace System — a key step toward future innovations like air taxis and delivery drones.

• Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA): www.eaa.org
• Aero Club of New England (ACONE): www.acone.org
• Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA): www.aea.net
• Epic Flight Academy: www.epicflightacademy.com
• University Aviation Association (UAA): www.uaa.aero
• Pathways to Aviation: www.pathwaystoaviation.org

Summary

This Episode explores the journey of Levil Aviation, a company founded by the León family, who sought to make aviation more affordable and accessible. It delves into their innovative approach to avionics, the importance of safety in aviation, and the future of affordable flight. The discussion emphasizes the significance of community in aviation and encourages aspiring aviators to pursue their dreams.

PLUS--AviNation Reporter Jordan Peed tells us about 5 MUST WATCH Aviation YouTube Channels and we explore drone technology in our first ever DroneZone segment.

Takeaways

• The dream of flight often collides with the reality of cost. • Levil Aviation was born out of necessity, not market research. • Family involvement in aviation provides unique insights into product development. • Using consumer technology like iPads can revolutionize aviation displays. • Safety and reliability are paramount in aviation technology. • The experimental aircraft category allows for rapid innovation. • The future of aviation is leaning towards affordability and accessibility. • Community plays a crucial role in encouraging new aviators. • Drones are creating new career paths in various industries. • The aviation industry is evolving with new technologies and opportunities.

Summary

The Future in Flight podcast, live from Sun and Fun 51, explores various themes in aviation, including the excitement of air shows, the journey of new aviators, and the importance of community and mentorship in the industry. The conversation features insights from pyrotechnics experts, flight instructors, and enthusiastic volunteers, all contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the event. This conversation covers various aspects of the Sun and Fun Aerospace Expo, highlighting the importance of community, innovation, and inspiring the next generation of aviators. The speakers discuss the exciting events, technological advancements in aviation, and the significance of storytelling in connecting with the audience. They emphasize the need for engagement and collaboration within the aviation community to foster growth and opportunities.

Key Takeaways

⦁ This is the first ever live edition of the Future in Flight podcast. ⦁ The night show features a lot of fun pyrotechnics. ⦁ Brooke is excited to inspire the next generation of pilots. ⦁ Dom emphasizes the importance of talking to people at events. ⦁ The night show is a sensory overload with fireworks and music. ⦁ Aviation is about pushing the envelope forward. ⦁ The Future in Flight podcast aims to educate and inspire. ⦁ Volunteering at Sun and Fun provides valuable experiences. ⦁ The younger generation has access to more information than ever. ⦁ Community support is crucial for the future of aviation. Maximize your time at aviation events like Sun and Fun. ⦁ Preferred seating offers a great experience during air shows. ⦁ Exciting events and entertainment enhance the overall experience. ⦁ Innovation in aviation technology is rapidly advancing. ⦁ Inspiring youth is crucial for the future of aviation. ⦁ Building connections in the aviation community is essential. ⦁ Storytelling can impact and inspire future aviators. ⦁ There are endless opportunities in aviation careers. ⦁ Engagement in aviation can lead to unexpected friendships and mentorships. ⦁ The night show at Sun and Fun is a highlight not to be missed.

Summary

This conversation explores the intersection of filmmaking and aviation through the story of Kyle Newsom, who found purpose in capturing the beauty of flight. It delves into the future of supersonic travel with Boom Supersonic's innovative technology that allows for boomless cruise, and concludes with an educational segment on the science of lift, explaining how aircraft defy gravity.

Takeaways

• Kyle Newsom's journey began on a mountain in Nepal. • His films connect the human element to aviation. • Aviation is about community and shared passion. • Miss Virginia serves as a bridge between past and future. • Boom Supersonic is pioneering boomless cruise technology. • Sonic booms have historically limited supersonic flight over land. • Boomless cruise could revolutionize air travel efficiency. • Lift is generated by the shape of airplane wings. • Understanding lift opens doors to STEM careers in aviation. • The future of aviation is intertwined with sustainability.

• The cost of flight training can be as high as $120,000.
• Stratus Financial offers innovative financing solutions for aspiring pilots.
• Young pilots can potentially earn six figures within three years of training.
• Curanda Airport is a unique aviation sanctuary in Illinois.
• The spirit of aviation thrives in small, community-focused airports.
• Milestones in aviation history inspire future generations of pilots.
• The Wright Brothers' patent laid the foundation for modern aviation.
• Captain Barry's parachute jump proved pilots could escape emergencies.
• The Concorde revolutionized passenger travel with supersonic speeds.

Featured Guest: Claire Maher Pilot, Founder of Fly Girl Aircraft Detailing, Director of Administration at FlyBright Pilot Academy

Episode Summary Claire Maher shares her journey from reluctant teen to aviation entrepreneur with Fly Girl Aircraft Detailing, alongside insights into electric aircraft advancements and a review of the Bob Hoover documentary, Flying the Feathered Edge.

Segment 1: Claire Maher - Aviation Entrepreneur

• First flight at 14 via Young Eagles; soloed at 16 during COVID.
• Moved to Florida at 18 for better weather, now pursuing instrument rating.
• Founded Fly Girl Aircraft Detailing, employing student pilots to fund training.
• Advice: Network, join groups, and persist—“1% better is better than nothing.”

Segment 2: Electric Aircraft - The Future Takes Flight

• Key Players: Joby Aviation ($700M, Toyota-backed), Archer (United Airlines partner), Beta Technologies (46 charging sites by 2024).
• Challenges: Infrastructure gaps, limited range for short hops, financial risks (e.g., Lilium setbacks).
• Progress: NASA’s NEAT tests systems for 180-passenger planes; airlines invest big.

Segment 3: At the Movies - Flying the Feathered Edge

• 2014 film on Bob Hoover, WWII pilot, test flyer (F-86, F-100), and air show icon.
• Highlights: Escaped POW in stolen plane, mastered energy management demos.
• Legacy: Advanced safety, inspired pilots; a must-see for aviation fans.

Key Takeaways

• Persistence trumps speed in aviation success (Claire, Hoover).
• Electric flight innovates despite hurdles, promising cleaner skies.
• Community and mentorship fuel aviation’s future.

Future in Flight Podcast: Episode Notes

Featured Guest: Josh Cook

Flight Test Director, Founder/Owner Legendary Aviation Coffee Company

Episode Summary

This episode features Josh Cook, a flight test engineer who combined his aviation passion with specialty coffee to create Legendary Aviation Coffee Company, plus segments on aviation careers and pilot jargon.

• Former Flight Test Director for Northrop Grumman
• Managed UAV programs including Global Hawk and Triton
• Role involves testing aircraft systems and ensuring flight safety

• Founded Legendary Aviation Coffee Company in 2019
• Uses air roasting technique (used by top 5% of roasters)
• Coffee blends feature historic aircraft:
  • B-52 bomber (heavy, full-bodied coffee)
  • P-51 Mustang and V-Tail Bonanza

• Official coffee provider for Sun & Fun Aerospace Expo
• Donates portions of sales to Sun & Fun's youth aviation initiatives
• Supports six aviation and veteran-focused nonprofits

• Wildlife Management - "Bird men" who prevent bird-aircraft collisions
• Wingwalkers - Performers who do stunts on biplane wings
• Aircraft Rescue Firefighters - Specialists trained for aviation emergencies
• UAS Pilots - Drone operators for commercial and research applications
• Aviation Environmental Engineers - Develop sustainable aviation solutions
• Aircraft Interior Designers - Create efficient, functional cabin spaces
• Flight Simulator Developers - Build virtual training environments

Operations: "George is flying" (autopilot), "Bingo fuel" (low fuel), "Souls on board" (total people count)

Location Terms: "Feet wet" (over water), "Feet dry" (over land)

Time Reference: "Zulu time" (GMT/UTC)

Communication: "Roger" (understood), "Mayday" (distress), "Pan Pan" (urgency)

Summary

The journey from aviation outsider to industry pioneer takes center stage as Vanzell Jenkins shares his story of breaking barriers in the world of flight. From his beginnings on Chicago's South Side with no aviation connections to becoming an educator, experimental aircraft builder, and aspiring airshow pilot, Jenkins exemplifies how determination and consistency can open doors in aviation. The episode also explores the science of aircraft cleanliness and delves into the fascinating world of supersonic and hypersonic flight technology, highlighting the continued evolution of air travel.

Produced in partnership with AviNation, The Future in Flight Podcast aims to educate, empower and inspire the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• Vanzell Jenkins pioneered aviation from his community, having no prior connections to the industry before college.
• Despite starting with limited knowledge compared to peers, Jenkins persevered through challenges with his mother's unwavering support.
• After completing his training, Jenkins chose to become an aviation educator rather than an airline pilot to inspire minority youth.
• Jenkins has created a "lineage" of instructors who were once his students, extending his impact across generations.
• Building an experimental aircraft offers financial advantages through the kit-building process, allowing purchases to be spread out over time.
• The aviation industry offers diverse career opportunities beyond piloting, with thousands of people making each flight possible.
• Free online resources make aviation knowledge accessible to anyone curious enough to follow their interests.
• Consistency and commitment are essential to achieving aviation dreams: "Without commitment, you'll never start, but without consistency, you'll never finish."
• Airlines employ various cleaning procedures, from quick turnaround cleaning to deep cleaning, with practices enhanced post-COVID.
• Supersonic flight occurs beyond Mach 1 (767 mph), while hypersonic flight exceeds Mach 5, presenting unique engineering challenges including extreme heat and complex shock waves.