βοΈ Aviation Journey
From dreaming about the skies to earning my wings - follow my path to becoming a pilot.
My Path to the Skies
Aviation has been a lifelong dream. Growing up watching planes in North Dakota, I always knew I'd find my way into the cockpit someday. Now, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, I'm actively pursuing my Private Pilot License (PPL).
Young Eagles Program
I'm proud to have participated in the EAA Young Eagles program, which gives young people ages 8-17 their first free ride in an airplane. This program sparked my passion for aviation and showed me that flying is accessible to everyone.
What is Young Eagles?
- Free introductory flights for youth ages 8-17
- Conducted by EAA volunteer pilots
- Over 2.3 million young people flown since 1992
- Includes ground instruction and hands-on experience
Flight Training Journey
Training at a local flight school in San Mateo County, I'm learning the fundamentals of aviation including:
Ground School
Weather, navigation, regulations, aerodynamics, and aircraft systems.
Flight Training
Takeoffs, landings, maneuvers, cross-country navigation, and emergency procedures.
Radio Communications
ATC communications, reading back clearances, and radio phraseology.
Navigation
VOR, GPS, pilotage, dead reckoning, and flight planning.
Aircraft I'm Training In
Currently training in Cessna 172 Skyhawk - one of the most popular training aircraft in the world.
- Engine: Lycoming IO-360-L2A (180 HP)
- Cruise Speed: 122 knots
- Range: 640 nautical miles
- Service Ceiling: 14,000 feet
Aviation Resources
Helpful resources for aspiring pilots:
- EAA Young Eagles - Free flights for youth
- FAA Pilot Resources - Official FAA information
- AOPA - Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
- My Radio Scanning Page - Listen to aviation frequencies