The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast

Part two is here, y'all! Mike is an exceptionally talented and fascinating individual. In addition to being an airline pilot, he and his brother Stefan run a cartoon series called Chicken Wings—featuring chickens that fly, though not in the way you'd expect. Mike also operates a retail store selling Chicken Wings merchandise and a variety of aviator-related items, such as patches, airplane models, and gifts. Join us, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!ABOUT MIKEMike's fascination with aviation dates back to his earliest memories. Every spare moment was devoted to building model aircraft, flying RC planes, or working part-time at the local airport, where he washed, fixed, and fueled aircraft. After completing an engineering degree in Electronics, he promptly pursued his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. He began with motor gliders and single-engine planes before discovering his passion for helicopters. This led to a 20-year career in Wildland Firefighting Helicopters, where he flew everything from a Bell Ranger to a massive Boeing Chinook.After what he describes as "having had a good run," Mike transitioned to flying for the airlines and is now a captain of a regional jet. His flying adventures have taken him around the globe. While he has forgotten most of what he learned about electronics, he has collected numerous stories and ideas for his aviation-themed cartoon, "Chicken Wings Comics," which he creates with his brother Stefan whenever he's not flying.www.chickenwingscomics.comwww.aviatorwebsite.comInstagram: mikeystrasser | chickenwingscomicsContact: info@chickenwingscomics.comREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Mike and I were sim partners during our upgrade training at SkyWest Airlines. His awesome Austrian accent and diverse background led to many captivating stories during training. Today, sit back and meet Mike as we catch up after training and jump into his aviation journey, beginning with helicopters and firefighting. ABOUT MIKEMike's fascination with aviation dates back to his earliest memories. Every spare moment was devoted to building model aircraft, flying RC planes, or working part-time at the local airport, where he washed, fixed, and fueled aircraft. After completing an engineering degree in Electronics, he promptly pursued his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. He began with motor gliders and single-engine planes before discovering his passion for helicopters. This led to a 20-year career in Wildland Firefighting Helicopters, where he flew everything from a Bell Ranger to a massive Boeing Chinook.After what he describes as "having had a good run," Mike transitioned to flying for the airlines and is now a captain of a regional jet. His flying adventures have taken him around the globe. While he has forgotten most of what he learned about electronics, he has collected numerous stories and ideas for his aviation-themed cartoon, "Chicken Wings Comics," which he creates with his brother Stefan whenever he's not flying.www.chickenwingscomics.comInstagram: mikeystrasser | chickenwingscomicsContact: info@chickenwingscomics.comEPISODE REFERENCESSkyWest AirlinesLogTen ProREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

In today's episode, I climb back on my soapbox to discuss an important issue: money. Stop wasting your money! While it's easier said than done, many Americans live far beyond their means in a futile attempt to maintain appearances and project a superficial image of success. Stop! It's not about making more money; if you have an unhealthy relationship with money, no amount will bring you financial freedom. Let's go!!REACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Welcome back! This is the grand finale. We close out our conversation talking about non-rev travel, Vanessa's icks with pilots which turns into a full blown conversations about Crew Resource Management (CRM) Let's go! ABOUT VANESSAVanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMiniContact: veemontano@gmail.comREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Wow! Can I say I performed at the Sydney Opera House? Probably not, huh? Had me a little vacation in Australia and I can't wait for you to listen to today's episode. I catch up on some emails and reviews, which by the way, thank you thank you so much. What are you still doing reading this?? Go and download today's episode and while you're at it, download all of the episodes! EPISODE REFERENCESTurbulence induced death: Singapore Airlines SQ321REACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Welcome back, nerds! Thank you for joining me today. In this episode, we talk about the differences between Part 61 and Part 141 schools to help you make the best choice for your needs. We also discuss the ethical dilemma of compromising values for career advancement, sharing our perspectives on integrity in the workplace. In our fast-paced industry, timing is crucial, but maintaining resilience is key. And finally, join me as I quiz Vee on some FAA private pilot questions—test your knowledge alongside her!ABOUT VANESSAVanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMiniContact: veemontano@gmail.comEPISODE REFERENCESBook: Going Pro The Deliberate Practice of Professionalism by Tony KernREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

I'm thrilled about today's episode! Get ready for an intense showdown between United and SouthWest Airlines in an all-out jumpseat war. I'll dive into the gripping story of a FedEx crew's daring landing of a 767 in Turkey without its nose gear. Plus, a listener seeks advice on navigating the challenges of airline training. And don't miss out on my expert tips for acing your airline check ride, also known as a Line Oriented Evaluation (LOE). Tune in for all this excitement and more in today's episode!REACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Welcome to The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast! In today's episode, we explore how minority families can unknowingly impact our aspirations. Vanessa shares insights into the SkyWest Pathway program, offering a unique opportunity for non-pilot employees to ascend into the flight deck. Plus, we discuss the vital task of selecting the right flight instructor, uncovering the financial and personal costs of choosing poorly or sticking with the wrong match for too long. Join us as we navigate through the intricate dynamics of familial influence, career aspirations, and the pivotal role of the right flight instructor in achieving our goals.ABOUT VANESSAVanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMiniContact: veemontano@gmail.comREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Hey there, feeling like life's got you in a rut? Well, let me tell you something – you've got way more power over your life than you give yourself credit for. In today's discussion, I'll dig into a couple of real-life scenarios that might resonate with you. First up, imagine missing out on that big interview with United. Ouch, right? But here's the thing: it's not just bad luck or fate at play here. Your actions, your decisions, they play a crucial role in shaping your path. Sure, setbacks sting, but they can also be pivotal moments for growth and change.Then there's the SkyWest situation. Facing the prospect of upgrading to the CRJ might not sound too appealing. But hey, think of it as an opportunity to step up, to challenge yourself, to expand your skills and horizons.So, here's the takeaway – take control of your life, own your choices, and embrace the setbacks as stepping stones to something greater. It's all about perspective, determination, and seizing those moments of uncertainty to leap forward into a brighter tomorrow.Let's goooo!REACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

What are some of Micah's icks? Oh.. he'll tell you alright. Once again, we talk about the Spirit furloughs and rumors surrounding the news. Which do you like better the 737 or the A320? Apparently I'm old… which is why I think the 737 is a better looking plane. I encourage my friend Victor to continue on his aviation journey despite his age and I finally reveal the reason Micah is my favorite spotter of all time! This and more in today's episode.  Let's go!About Micah:Micah, a ramp lead for Alaska Airlines in Salt Lake City, UT, caught the aviation bug early on. As a kid in California, he'd gaze up at the sky, dreaming of piloting "family-sized planes" whenever those little Cessnas zoomed overhead. His love for planes soared even higher around 2016 when he discovered flight simulator videos – and let's just say, he hasn't landed since! When Micah got his driver's license, his dad gave him the classic "get a job" talk. So, naturally, Micah took off (pun intended) to the airport for work. Starting off with Prospect, where he rolled with wheelchair service, Micah's journey eventually led him to the Alaska Airlines ramp gig in late 2022. Sure, he's not a big shot mainline employee, but Micah's loving every moment of his job. From wrangling planes to juggling bags, chatting with pilots, and maybe even moving a jet bridge or two, there's never a dull moment. Plus, bonding with coworkers over card games adds an extra bit of fun to his day. Micah's grateful to be living his dream and is always ready to take flight into another awesome workday!Follow Micah!Instagram: kslc_aviatorREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Hold off on the crucifixions! I tip, I swear, but spare me the Mr. Pink nickname, alright? Today, buckle up for a riveting episode where I dive into the latest news, including hair-raising near-misses at three major airports. I'll arm you with crucial mitigation tactics to keep you off the danger radar. Plus, I'm dishing out advice to aspiring aviators and unraveling the mystery behind SkyWest's reluctance to snag those sleek 175 E2s. Stay tuned for all this and more—let's goooo!!EPISODE REFERENCESReservoir Dogs | Mr. Pink Doesn't TipFAA investigating after Rockies coach plays pilot on United charter flightPratt & Whitney Engine Woes could cost U.S. Airlines $150 MillionScope Clause: The Regional Airlines' Capacity Cap ExplainedContour Airlines Pilot Pathway ProgramREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

In today's episode, I explore the current trend of airlines slowing their hiring processes and discuss why the challenges faced by some carriers won't necessarily impact the entire aviation industry. But if you're facing a furlough, what's your best course of action? Should you rely on unemployment benefits until your airline recalls you, or should you actively seek alternative employment? Do you find yourself envious of peers progressing while you feel stagnant in your career? Is it worth considering a career change, even if it means compromising your values? Are you willing to prioritize personal advancement, even if it means disadvantaging others?REACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

I had so much fun talking with my friend Micah.  In this first part we catch up, talk about Micah's student pilot journey and the differences between Part 61 and 141 flight training. We also have a little fun with aviation hot takes provided by one of our listeners! About Micah:Micah, a ramp lead for Alaska Airlines in Salt Lake City, UT, caught the aviation bug early on. As a kid in California, he'd gaze up at the sky, dreaming of piloting "family-sized planes" whenever those little Cessnas zoomed overhead. His love for planes soared even higher around 2016 when he discovered flight simulator videos – and let's just say, he hasn't landed since! When Micah got his driver's license, his dad gave him the classic "get a job" talk. So, naturally, Micah took off (pun intended) to the airport for work. Starting off with Prospect, where he rolled with wheelchair service, Micah's journey eventually led him to the Alaska Airlines ramp gig in late 2022. Sure, he's not a big shot mainline employee, but Micah's loving every moment of his job. From wrangling planes to juggling bags, chatting with pilots, and maybe even moving a jet bridge or two, there's never a dull moment. Plus, bonding with coworkers over card games adds an extra bit of fun to his day. Micah's grateful to be living his dream and is always ready to take flight into another awesome workday!Follow Micah!Instagram: kslc_aviatorREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

In today's episode I answer one of my fellow Army Soldier's questions.  He wants to make the right choice for his family so I give him some advice in picking the right airlines for them. Also, I tell you what my favorite mode of descent is in the E175 and finally I share some of my favorite overnights and… am I a “slam-clicker?” Come on in and find out! REACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Welcome to this special Eclipse episode; Manny's in trouble with the Chief! Join me as I bring you up to speed on my latest adventures and take you backstage on a repo flight. Plus, I offer advice for those contemplating a career switch to aviation, covering the good, the bad, and the ugly. Don't miss out – come join the conversation! Oh… and yeah… I'll tell you why I got in trouble at work. (Sigh) Let's get it on!REACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates  (00:00) - Episode 23

Welcome to today's podcast episode, where I'll be tackling your questions, including strategies for dealing with a challenging captain. Additionally, I'll be offering an exclusive glimpse into my Upgrade Initial Operating Experience (UIOE) trips. We'll dive into why United Airlines opted to divert to Stewart International in New Jersey instead of its intended destination, Newark, amidst windy conditions. Stay tuned as I share my insights and theories on this interesting scenario. LINKS:  The “gas station burger” restaurant in Gunnison, CO: PowerstopUnited flight diverts to Stewart International due to winds: United Flight 85 from Tel AvivREACH OUT!Submit your questions or aviation stories to the showContact: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Welcome to the grand finale! It's time to delve into the technical aspects and witness Patrick's expertise in air traffic control. He details his use of equipment and tools at TRACON to ensure aircraft safety. We also explore controller training, staying current, and Patrick's role as an instructor guiding new hires through their initial experiences. Join us for this and more!About Patrick:Patrick, an aviation enthusiast, photographer, and Air Traffic Controller, boasts nearly 17 years of experience in the field. He has worked in two different facilities throughout his career: the Honolulu Control Facility and the Salt Lake TRACON. Originally from Utah, Patrick's love for aviation began in childhood, traveling with his family. At the age of 4, he realized his passion for becoming a controller, a journey he pursued through education at Salt Lake Community College and the University of North Dakota.Outside of work, Patrick treasures spending time with his family, relishing his roles as a husband and father. His hobbies include skiing, paddle boarding, traveling, camping, engaging in flight simulator sessions with friends, and pursuing aviation photography. He lives by the motto “never stop learning,” recognizing the vast knowledge within the aviation industry and cherishing the friendships he has forged along the way.Follow Patrick!Instagram: Patrick “PD”REACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

What an incredible journey it's been! In this episode, I dive into topics that truly ignite my excitement. Overflowing with enthusiasm, I couldn't resist recording this episode using my iPhone. I address listener questions, share encouraging reviews, and invite others to submit their own. For those eager to maximize their non-revenue benefits, this episode is a must-listen. Additionally, I offer my personal take on the current state of airline hiring as a fellow regional pilot eagerly eyeing a position at Delta.  Listen to my guest episode!Ep126: Skywest Airlines: Elevating your Aviation Career at this FANTASTIC Airline!Ready 4 Pushback Podcast with Nik FialkaLINKS: Apple Store: StaffTravelerGoogle Play Store: StaffTravelerREACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

In this episode we continue the conversation from part 1. Patrick highlights the importance of perseverance. He also mentions how dynamic hiring and duty station placement is.  After all was said and done, Patrick ends up working in the most unlikely place, but falls deeply in love with his new duty station before eventually making it back to his native state of Utah. This and more in Part 2.  Let's go!About Patrick:Patrick, an aviation enthusiast, photographer, and Air Traffic Controller, boasts nearly 17 years of experience in the field. He has worked in two different facilities throughout his career: the Honolulu Control Facility and the Salt Lake TRACON. Originally from Utah, Patrick's love for aviation began in childhood, traveling with his family. At the age of 4, he realized his passion for becoming a controller, a journey he pursued through education at Salt Lake Community College and the University of North Dakota.Outside of work, Patrick treasures spending time with his family, relishing his roles as a husband and father. His hobbies include skiing, paddle boarding, traveling, camping, engaging in flight simulator sessions with friends, and pursuing aviation photography. He lives by the motto “never stop learning,” recognizing the vast knowledge within the aviation industry and cherishing the friendships he has forged along the way.Follow Patrick!Instagram: Patrick “PD”REACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Pushing Tin! If you haven't seen the movie, you gotta go watch it. Patrick never runs out of things to talk about. In this episode we start digging at the surface to get to know how Patrick got to where he is now. You want to find out how to become an air traffic controller? Then stay tuned!About Patrick:Patrick, an aviation enthusiast, photographer, and Air Traffic Controller, boasts nearly 17 years of experience in the field. He has worked in two different facilities throughout his career: the Honolulu Control Facility and the Salt Lake TRACON. Originally from Utah, Patrick's love for aviation began in childhood, traveling with his family. At the age of 4, he realized his passion for becoming a controller, a journey he pursued through education at Salt Lake Community College and the University of North Dakota.Outside of work, Patrick treasures spending time with his family, relishing his roles as a husband and father. His hobbies include skiing, paddle boarding, traveling, camping, engaging in flight simulator sessions with friends, and pursuing aviation photography. He lives by the motto “never stop learning,” recognizing the vast knowledge within the aviation industry and cherishing the friendships he has forged along the way.Follow Patrick!Instagram: Patrick “PD”REACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

The Grand Finale with Rachel Mason.Rachel and I met serendipitously while I was on a long sit in Denver. I knew her as “Dolly Parkin” as she was a ramp controller in Denver.  When we finally met in person, I was starstruck! Listen to this series to learn about her story!About Rachel:Aviation fell into her lap, starting with Alaska Airlines. After about a year with AS, she craved more and applied to every major airline at STL. One of the big ones called her first and she took the job. With STL being a line station, she rarely got anything larger than a 73 or Airbus. She wanted more, so she knew transferring out was her best choice. She has done almost everything: ramp, customer service, gates, trainer, supervisor, MLB and NHL charters, mail, cargo, ramp tower, BSO, security clearance for WOW. She wasn't mainline as she was with G2, which she's beyond grateful for because she got to do so much with one company.She spent many nights sleeping in her car because she would work 18 and 20-hour days, so a quick nap was necessary, whether in her car, bag cart, or office.She is a self-proclaimed avgeek. Her love for the 747 makes her speechless and Big Poppa (Boeing 777).She has many, many, many nicknames: Ray Ray, Pothole, Ramp Tower Queen, Dolly Parkin, Sweet Tea, just to name a few.She is a runway model.Mental health advocate.Tequila Connoisseur. Loves to travel and hiking.Follow Rachel!Instagram: rwyrachelREACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

This is part two of a three part series with Rachel Mason.Rachel and I met serendipitously while I was on a long sit in Denver. I knew her as “Dolly Parkin” as she was a ramp controller in Denver.  When we finally met in person, I was starstruck! Listen to this series to learn about her story!About Rachel:Aviation fell into her lap, starting with Alaska Airlines. After about a year with AS, she craved more and applied to every major airline at STL. One of the big ones called her first and she took the job. With STL being a line station, she rarely got anything larger than a 73 or Airbus. She wanted more, so she knew transferring out was her best choice. She has done almost everything: ramp, customer service, gates, trainer, supervisor, MLB and NHL charters, mail, cargo, ramp tower, BSO, security clearance for WOW. She wasn't mainline as she was with G2, which she's beyond grateful for because she got to do so much with one company.She spent many nights sleeping in her car because she would work 18 and 20-hour days, so a quick nap was necessary, whether in her car, bag cart, or office.She is a self-proclaimed avgeek. Her love for the 747 makes her speechless and Big Poppa (Boeing 777).She has many, many, many nicknames: Ray Ray, Pothole, Ramp Tower Queen, Dolly Parkin, Sweet Tea, just to name a few.She is a runway model.Mental health advocate.Tequila Connoisseur. Loves to travel and hiking.Follow Rachel!Instagram: rwyrachelREACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

This is part one of a three part series with Rachel Mason.Rachel and I met serendipitously while I was on a long sit in Denver. I knew her as “Dolly Parkin” as she was a ramp controller in Denver.  When we finally met in person, I was starstruck! Listen to this series to learn about her story!About Rachel:Aviation fell into her lap, starting with Alaska Airlines. After about a year with AS, she craved more and applied to every major airline at STL. One of the big ones called her first and she took the job. With STL being a line station, she rarely got anything larger than a 73 or Airbus. She wanted more, so she knew transferring out was her best choice. She has done almost everything: ramp, customer service, gates, trainer, supervisor, MLB and NHL charters, mail, cargo, ramp tower, BSO, security clearance for WOW. She wasn't mainline as she was with G2, which she's beyond grateful for because she got to do so much with one company.She spent many nights sleeping in her car because she would work 18 and 20-hour days, so a quick nap was necessary, whether in her car, bag cart, or office.She is a self-proclaimed avgeek. Her love for the 747 makes her speechless and Big Poppa (Boeing 777).She has many, many, many nicknames: Ray Ray, Pothole, Ramp Tower Queen, Dolly Parkin, Sweet Tea, just to name a few.She is a runway model.Mental health advocate.Tequila Connoisseur. Loves to travel and hiking.Follow Rachel!Instagram: rwyrachelREACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Hey there, folks! You won't believe the crop of newbies we've got at SkyWest lately. They strut in with chips on their shoulders the size of airplanes! It's starting to mess with our training and putting a real dent in our sky-high culture. But fear not, because as an instructor, I'm here to guard the good vibes and give any culture-disturbers a friendly heads-up.Remember, it's all about humility, my friends! Embrace that and you'll soar through life with a smile. Oh, and guess what? I've got a fun surprise in store...for me, but I can't wait to spill the beans to y'all! Stay tuned!

A little early for a Día De Los Muertos celebration, but this guy is back from the dead with another fresh episode! Now I'm going live on Instagram so you can ask your questions live, so keep an eye out for that.  In this episode I'm jabbering about: Travel updatesFavorite overnightsContinuing Qualification (CQ) 2023Training ContractsNew United Airlines pay…. NOT I forgot to talk about it! LolInterviewing Airlines And other none-senseREACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

This podcast episode sheds light on the concerning rise of aviation incidents in recent months and highlights the importance of a collaborative approach towards finding a solution. Factors such as staffing shortages and technological drawbacks have been identified by the FAA during their investigations, but they are still analyzing a critical human factor component. Before the pandemic, the aviation industry was experiencing its safest period in history, but due to lack of investment in infrastructure and staffing, potential issues were masked, resulting in the increase of close calls and more notability the complete meltdown of Southwest Airlines during the 2022 holiday season. With mass layoffs and early retirement offers during the pandemic, the aviation industry has seen a loss of experienced employees, leading to challenges and increased hiring with only SOPs and policies to train new staff. The high turnover rate and lack of experience has made it nearly impossible to handle unusual or potentially hazardous situations efficiently, threatening safety in the skies. Therefore, addressing these issues is crucial for the industry to improve and ensure safety in the skies.REACH OUT!Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

Have you ever wondered what a “buddy pass” is? Well, they don't exist… hahahaha just kidding, but not really.  Today's episode is all about non-rev or what it is usually known as, Standby Travel. You'll learn how to ask your airline employee friend how to get on their benefits, how much it costs, and I give you full-disclosure on what it means to non-rev so you can determine if traveling standby is for you.APPS/SITES I USE FOR TRAVELUnited Airlines AppFlightviewGoogle FlightsFlightawareFlightradar24MINGLE WITH ME Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

This is a very special episode! My friend Daniel Sims joins me in Episode 6 of the show to share his experience as a future cargo pilot. In today's episode, we chat about the value of good training, the recent close calls and how the FAA plans on handling it. We also dive in on possible solutions of our own and how slowing down during flight operations can help mitigate our current lack of pilot experience at the airlines. Finally we talk about Frontier's new unlimited travel pass, is it a hard pass or worth the money? ABOUT DANIEL SIMSFollowing in the footsteps of his aviation loving grandmother, Daniel took his first flight in a small aircraft in the San Jose bay area and immediately fell in love. Since then, he has earned many different pilot certificates, graduated from San Jose State University with an Aviation degree, and flown across the country to compete against some of the best pilots in North America. With over five years of flying experience, he currently works as an airline transport pilot flying cargo worldwide. In his free time, Daniel enjoys hiking, snowboarding, travelling (duh!), and spending time with friends!LINK UP WITH DANIEL SIMS Website: www.cfidaniel.com Instagram: cfidaniel MINGLE WITH ME Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

This is a very special episode! My friend Daniel Sims joins me in Episode 6 of the show to share his experience as a future cargo pilot. In today's episode, we chat about our favorite airplanes and what Daniel's experience was going through his first airline pilot training at SkyWest Airlines.ABOUT DANIEL SIMSFollowing in the footsteps of his aviation loving grandmother, Daniel took his first flight in a small aircraft in the San Jose bay area and immediately fell in love. Since then, he has earned many different pilot certificates, graduated from San Jose State University with an Aviation degree, and flown across the country to compete against some of the best pilots in North America. With over five years of flying experience, he currently works as an airline transport pilot flying cargo worldwide. In his free time, Daniel enjoys hiking, snowboarding, travelling (duh!), and spending time with friends!CONNECT WITH DANIEL SIMS Website: www.cfidaniel.com Instagram: cfidaniel CONNECT WITH ME Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvxBOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOWInterview availability dates 

This is a very special episode! My friend Daniel Sims joins me in Episode 6 of the show to share his experience as a future cargo pilot. In today's episode, you'll find out how Daniel and I met as we chat about his time at San Jose State University's precision flight team.ABOUT DANIEL SIMSFollowing in the footsteps of his aviation loving grandmother, Daniel took his first flight in a small aircraft in the San Jose bay area and immediately fell in love. Since then, he has earned many different pilot certificates, graduated from San Jose State University with an Aviation degree, and flown across the country to compete against some of the best pilots in North America. With over five years of flying experience, he currently works as an airline transport pilot flying cargo worldwide. In his free time, Daniel enjoys hiking, snowboarding, travelling (duh!), and spending time with friends!CONNECT WITH DANIEL SIMS Website: www.cfidaniel.com Instagram: cfidaniel CONNECT WITH ME Email me at: mannythecfi@gmail.comInstagram: climbvx

In today's episode you'll find out what happened at Austin-Bergstrom International airport in Austin Texas! Too soon, folks too soon and too close! I also talk about stabilized approach criteria and what makes pilots “go-around” or go “missed”Want to suggest topics for future episodes, want to be a guest on the show or just want to reach out with feed back? You can reach me here:MANNYTHECFI@GMAIL.COMFind me on Instagram here: ClimbVxListen to the full ATC recording thanks to VASAviationNear Collision between FedEx and Southwest | Foggy Weather

Deconstructing JFK Runway IncursionExpectation BiasNew Procedures at AmericanBreakdown in CRMPilot Training to prevent incidents (Briefings)Pilot pacing Examples of personal accounts of distractionsNTSB and FAA investigatingAggressive MediocrityObservation at CostcoCommon theme of the show to inspire a new generation of professional pilotsNew information about metering at mainline partnersMainline partners: are they slowing down hiring from regionals?Is it still a good idea to go to an ULCCHow to get a tour of a cockpitAsk the lead flight attendantBe niceBring treatsWait until the end of your flight

History of the regional modelPay scales, experience and the coltan crash in Feb 2009What's their purpose and how it's changed over the years Point to point and mainline for hubsHow have the regionals adapted?What's the future of the regional model? 200 SkyWest orders and the scope clause Since 2012, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines cap their regional airlines' jets at 76 seats and a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) at 86,000 lb (39 t)Regionals as a means to an end. What's your goal? Money and QOL? The holy trifecta (airframe, money and qol)Should you go to a ULLC or wait it out?As a general goal, most pilots want to go mainline ASAP Bottom line are you willing to lose seniority, pay and go on reserve for longer for a new life at the United's of the world?  Pilots are busy folk even when the autopilot is on!Why don't I post videos or pictures from inflight? 

Thank you for all the support and your subscriptions! I really appreciate it.  Subscribe, rate, leave feedback and comments on the podcast.The elephant in the room: Southwest AirlinesA disaster in the making. Herb Kelleher's airline is suffering because of profit hungry executives.  Southwest IT department hails from the 1990s and needs an extreme makeover!Aggressive Mediocrity: More and more people are ok with doing the bare minimum and are proudly mediocre. How is this affecting the industry? 

Thank you and welcome aboard The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast! In today's episode I introduce myself and give you a look at the future of this podcast.