I'm a senior in high school and I'm interested in becoming a commercial pilot and after watching your videos, it inspires me to keep pushing forward and following my dreams to become a pilot
That’s great Trent! The long term outlook is great in aviation. Keep up the hard work! Just remember to cherish every moment of your journey. It’s easy to get lost in the chase to the airlines. All the best to you! Cheers!
@@FlyingwithBigErn Thanks I have a quick question, I plan on going to a 4 year University and getting my bachelors in aviation after I graduate and get all of my license for flying can I go right into the airlines or do I have to get more training?
@@TrentDDixon If you're still wondering, uni gives u about 250hrs total flight time and u need 1500. So you would get another a job as a flight instructor or something until 1500hrs then apply for regional or corporate airlines. Then after about 2-5 years there, u go to major carriers.
Love the KC-135. My father was Navy retired. He always took me to the airshows. I too would run out the door watching everything from F-4 Phantoms to now the F-18 Hornet. Thank you for your service 🙏.
Thanks Ronnie! It was an honor to fly the KC-135, which was the same airframe my dad worked on in the Air Force! And I’m ready for a good airshow too. Can’t wait until we can get back to those! Cheers!
@@FlyingwithBigErn Never flew the KC-135, was a P-3guy, but did spend some time in the right seat of the 707. From steam gauges to LCDs and lots of computers. Keep up the good work on your vids. Nice that SWA lets you Film like you do.
Ernie, sage advice to anyone looking to follow your footsteps. 4 year degree plus getting your flight ratings should be the backbone of any future career Pilot's education. This opens up multiple pathways to the end goal. Military/ANG/ Regional airlines/ Corporate flying now become multiple pathways to achieving a spot with a Major carrier. I will look for that Lime green sr22 next time I'm at Volanti's
1:04 me too!!! I have a friend who went to UND to become an Air Traffic Controller! I'm not sure what he's doing rn. I try to see what type of planes are flying overhead, but I can DEFINITELY tell what airlines are flying over.
I really enjoy the personal videos on how pilots achieved their dream. From all the videos that I have watched, you have to pay your dues before you are ready to fly commercial or charter. I agree that with commercial airlines, college has almost become a MUST have ticket item on your resume. I like the idea of AF ROTC to defray some of your training costs and build the flight hours needed to transition to the airlines.. 1,500 flight hours for your ATPL is hard to obtain but flying for the AF Reserve or Air National Guard is a great way to go. You did everything right Ernie and you should be commended for your accomplishments. I am sure your parents are proud of all that you have accomplished. I wish you continued good health and success in your flying career.
Wonderful video ERNIE. I am really blessed to watch your videos and learn from you. I am an Arizona Wildcat and it is so good to have you as a friend and a Sun Devil besides. I did take courses at ASU AND NAU as well. I also spent 25 years with the third largest insurance company in the United States as well as working for a plaintiffs law firm. I enjoy airplanes like you spent time in the Air Force and ARIZONA AIR NATIONAL GUARD here in Tucson. I also have a friend who flies with Netjets on the challenget
I love watching your videos not because I’m looking to become a pilot but because I’m obsessed with airplanes! Ever since I was little. My dad said I looked at the sky and said look that airplane is scratching the sky! And I was so excited! I come by it naturally because my dad worked at the TWA overhaul base in KC! And I passed it on to my son who is in the Air Force reserves and is a crew chief on a c 130
I was just going to comment on the "blackout" book and saw someone else did too. Oh, don't worry picked up a lot of info too...thx...going to order that book now. Great vid. Keys to the jet...like that segment
Ha! Thanks Q for all your feedback and help! Appreciate it brother! Lovin’ your channel too! It’s motivating me to get some of these home projects done! Cheers!
Degree in criminal justice in 2019. Policed until the end of 2023. Starting a 141 flight school in March of 2024 while also accepted into Destination 225°. I have a wife and three kids. One thing I found out going through life this far is that you can talk yourself into and out of anything you want to. It’s out there, go get it!
That's awesome Christopher! Land of the heavies out there. I really miss my time there, such a good location with great people. The 301AS was the best! Cheers!
What squadron did you fly in at Travis? I flew in the 3rd at Dover, instructed in the 56th at Altus and then back to the 3rd as assistant ops officer. I commanded the 31st Squadron at Dover. Today we fly a P-35 Bonanza out of MRY, Monterey, CA. Enjoying your videos. I did 3 years in Minot AFB as an ACE (accelerated copilot enrichment) IP in the T-38, so I know about cold weather. Regards, Col John Scherer, USAF ret ATP/CFII.
Just came across your channel and binge watching them now. Thanks for the info and advice, I myself hoping to start flight training later this year. BTW, I noticed the "Blackout" book by Candace Owens as I own a copy as well, I'm definitely a fan of hers.
The fact that you're alive after ASU in the 90's in a testament in its own right. I fell in love with a young lady there who was being stuffed in the back of a police car, and wanted me to call her dad for her. It ended with my innocent boy scout heart being broken. LOL You're not "junior" like you hint at being, I think we'd have to be parking 1/2 the fleet before you were to get furloughed. Just because of how much time that would take, the legal obligations to provide services to a lot of cities, and commitments to gate space. Factor in how much it would take to recover if an airline over shoots and then has to scramble for pilots tends to make furloughing pilots the last resort. You would be gaining seniority as these changes went down and progressing up the seniority ladder. You would have ben in the left seat a long time ago at many other airlines! Your training and flying experience involves a depth of ability and skill few ever receive or experience. The respect you deserve also carries over to a lot of "junior" FO's at our company. I've looked over and pondered how I' am flying with a total equal, I just get blamed more if something goes wrong. A lot of that is a tribute the the American "Majors".... We are good at what we do, and we get the best to do it. I could not even imagine getting into the cockpit with a 250-400 hr wobbly FO. The pucker factor of that would make this not worth while. I could go on due to the excitement of hearing from someone so close to home for me, but I'll shut up now. Thanks for posting man!
Ha! I wonder that sometimes too😁. Such a great time going there. Thanks for the kind words Tom! I’m just praying we get passed this soon. Too many of our airline brothers and sisters have been impacted. And I know what they’re going through, tough place to be. I appreciate your insights! Please keep them up. Very educational to those on here. Cheers!
What a great, positive video Ern. Like you, I'm well advanced in my career (Airbus PIC at an Asian legacy), but I know I would have loved something like this when I was starting out. Unfortunately the internet wasn't invented then :D
That’s crazy, I’m kind of doing the same route! One of my first SIC types was a CE500 and just got my hawker 800 PIC type last month. I also got lucky and got a pilot slot flying a C-5 for the 68th a few months ago. Hope to fly with you one day at SWA!
Hi BigErn, I love your story as there are some parallels with my own. I solo'd at PHX on 8/3/75 (16th birthday) on 08Land got my private on the same runway a year later. I used to ride my Schwinn 10 speed bike up 24th street to get to and from the airport. I ran track at ASU and earned an undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering (no desire to be an engineer though). Worked as a CFI at Superstition Air Service at Falcon Field (had a contract with ASU). But. I met a girl and we we got married so I needed to earn money. Hello IBM. It's been good though. We lived all over the world and raised two great kids. And my current ride is an Edge 540 (co-owned).
Wow no kidding?! Small world! Cool story beardelmar, love hearing those. Sound like you’ve had a great career at IBM with a great family! And an awesome ride in the 540 too! Hope to see you around the valley sometime in that machine! Cheers!
...such great stories ...with your outstanding service history and disciplined training...thanks for sharing Ern...love your upbeat attitude and enthusiasm... wishing you continued success...and stay tough...
Great stuff! Especially with the current Covid stuff. I like the if you hit rock bottom, you can only go up. As a Air Force guy that got hired by a couple majors but still not able to start due to Covid. It’s always good to have options. Also, don’t burn bridges. The bridge you burn today is the one you have to cross tomorrow! Keep up the stuff and can’t wait to start at the airlines whenever that may be!
Another great video Ern. Forgot to ask you whether you know Captain Keith Scoskie. He was my mentor while I was studying at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Really cool guy like yourself.
Great advise re the degree. I am lucky and fly as a Captain for a major South Pacific airline. I did not need a degree, but as a 43 year old I feel like I really missed out by not doing a degree for personal development etc. now with Covid, if the worst happened I would be stuck with no other skills. I think it also makes for a more rounded individual.
Hi Ian! Well if it who I think it is you are with a great airline. I flew them in September. Remember it’s never too late. Lots of good opportunities for online learning. I’m thinking of taking a class or two myself! Best of luck to you! Cheers!
One with a black rear fuselage? ;) I was lucky that I became a Training Captain which has added another string to my bow. I would certainly recommend to anyone now days to do a degree in anything they really want to. The airlines don’t care, it’s adds to a more rounded individual. I also recommend people go and do some travel before they go from regional to main line....get some world experience and good war stories!
Thanks for sharing with us your story . Is fascinating for me . I consider pilot as 'superman '.... Is amazing how a pilot has in his hands 400 human lives . Great job . God bless you ! Ps : idea for some videos -tell us some difficult moments while flying ,difficult landings ...
Thanks Ethan! It was really a great experience and I loved it. I just wish I would have cherish more of the experiences and people. I was so focused on making it to the airlines. Hopefully you don’t make my mistake. You’ll get to your goal, just enjoy the journey getting there. Best of luck to you! Cheers!
Thanks Big Ern! This video actually answered and addressed some questions I had asked you the other month. Great video! Much appreciated. And love the Candace Owen book 👍🏾.
Thanks Robert! Glad the video answered your questions. If you have more feel free to ask them hear and I’ll put it on my list of video ideas. You guys help with the content and I appreciate that🙏🏽. Cheers!
Super cool to hear about your back round outside the airlines! Question for you: What are your thoughts on hour building jobs outside of being a cfi (like Ariel tours, banner towing, etc.) while the CFI jobs are in short supply? Do airlines like to see a variety in the type of flying you do for hire? Thanks!
Hey Matt! Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed the video! I think anything that involves flying is valuable. It doesn’t have to be instructing. All those jobs require unique skill sets to do them well. You’ll learn a ton whatever you decide to do. And yes variety is good to see. Shows diversity in your background. Hope that helps! Cheers!
Hi Ern, loving the vids! Would you say your diverse flying experience helped with getting your current job with an airline? I'm sure the experience of flying to less travelled airports and the challenges that come from that has helped in situational challenges in the big birds :p
Hi Dabbinstein! I do believe that helped. It’s just having a broad background and an appreciation for others doing the support jobs. It’s easy to just turn left into the cockpit and worry about the “flying”, but having that appreciation for what the entire team has to do to get that plane in the air is important. Thank you for your support! Cheers!
Enjoying all your videos. Just started my voyage and am wondering what your opinion is about some of the career track programs the majors are putting together. Is it worth it or does it limit options?
Hi Paul! Well it depends on several things. It’s a good topic and I’ll put that on the front of the list to talk about in an upcoming video. Thanks for the idea and hopefully you’ll get some answers from it. Cheers!
Absolutely Aaron! This is not the first time our industry has taken a hit. And unfortunately it won’t be the last. If this is truly what you want to do then go all in. Just know you will have your setbacks and challenges. I have to say it has been very rewarding though. I wish you all the best!👍🏽
I'm curious, you had such a long career flying pretty much everything. Just in your last airline you've been flying for almost 10 years. Why don't they give you a captain position? Does it take more than 20 years to become a captain at a majors?
So started controlling 1991. Southwest was not in northeast. They had a niche with airports not used by majors. So last 15 yrs or so never had one complaint with southwest!! You guys are the best.
Working on my Commercial right now. Honestly, it's the best feeling in the world to fly. Once I pay off my flight school loans, I'd be far happier though 😂
It depends on the plane. One type could cover multiple planes with differences training. An example would be my CE-500 type. It covers the Citation I up to the Citation V. Good question!
Hi, just found you tonight, been watching your videos for the last hour or so. I have a question, if a runway were a highway, how many lanes would it be? I know they are wide for the wing span but would be nice to know
I’m 31, married with 2 kids. 4 year degree is not really in the cards, but a 2 year aviation degree at a local community college is in the cards. Is it possible to be successful in the aviation industry with a 2 year aviation degree?
Absolutely Paul! I Have a personal friend who has a 2 year degree flying for us. It’s tough to juggle a family with pursuing an aviation career but many have done it. And if they can do it you certainly can! Best of luck to you Paul! Cheers!
For the degree part, if you decide not to get one you will face the reality of not having one eventually. They will devalue your hourly wage because you are perceived as uneducated labor versus someone who has a 4-year degree who has the possibility of leaving at any moment for a much more valuable occupation. And the norm today is getting some basic business or maybe an advanced stem degree and getting a job in an unrelated field because you need a job and they need a competent educated worker. Even if a 4-year degree is not required, the majority of the time the one with the 4-year degree or higher will be selected.
Thanks for the idea Daniel! ATC is kinda on lockdown nowadays. I remember we could call them up and get a tour for our students. I guess all that is gone now. I’ll think of something though! Cheers!
Hi. Man I want to be a fighter jet pilot and i have some questions that need to be answered. If there’s a way to connect online so I can ask some questions pls tell me. Thank you!
Hi Gutema! No worries but put your question on here. I’m sure somebody has the same ones and it could stir up some good conversation. Lots of people on her have good insights too. I’ll compile them and make a video on it.
@@MB-gw7os yes for fighter pilots, what I mean by that is everything is paid for you if you serve in the army for a minimum of 10 years in America that’s how it works
Big Ern would be the better adviser here, I did 26 years total in the Marine Corps, including 6 years as an enlisted reservist Marine, One little bit of advice I'd love to give is that the ANG is one of the best opportunities out there. You have to get hired by that unit, but you'll fly the aircraft they have in garrison, so you know what you'll end up flying, after going through training, and you can't end up being the OIC of culinary operations somewhere should you flunk out of a flying job. They simply send you home.
Hi Kevin! That would be a good video to do, I’ll put that on the list for sure! In short you have to go out to the unit and meet the pilots (and other crew members if it’s a multi crew plane). The best time to do that is their weekend drill. That’s when most of the squadron will be there. Tell them you’d like the opportunity to fly for them and have a resume ready. They’ll be more paperwork but this is your first meeting and trust me first impressions are critical, so be ready. Dress the part and bring that shinny smile. I’ll put out a video because trust me there is a lot more after the initial meeting. Cheers!
The university is excellent, particularly law and architecture. The engineering school (and the flight program is part of that) is also excellent. But it depends what your goal is. If all you want to do is be a pilot I would suggest Embry Riddle. But you have to decide what you want to do with your education.
@@beardelmar Yeah I've applied to Embry Riddle also. ASU is my back up but I just wanted to know more about its flight program since it isn't advertised that much.
Hi Matt! Well I don’t have personal knowledge of the flight program but I have heard it is. Plus the weather is perfect for training with very little cancellations. The college itself is excellent and that I can vouch for as a graduate. And it’s only gotten better. I think you’ll be very happy with your choice to go there. Good luck! Cheers!
The more education you can get the better you will be. BUT people watching this in Europe you don’t need higher education to get into flying. I left school at 18 and was flying an A320 at 21 with 1500 hours on type.
That's amazing man! Well done. But the only problem if you get straight into flying is you have no plan B. For example, if you get furloughed, or have a medical problem, you can always fall back on your degree.
Hey James! Well there is only “One” I glorify I have to tell you. And I hope you got more from the video than my book collection brother. And as an independent thinker and black man myself, let’s keep the discussion on helping people come to aviation.😉. Cheers!
![[DRIP] ‘Woke Up In Tokyo (RUKA & ASA)’ PREVIEW](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QN44lcR_VkI/mqdefault.jpg)
I got to admit it, I’m binge watching all these videos. Love them and keep em coming!
Thanks for watching Garrett! I appreciate that! Cheers!
My first jet was the Citation II, then the V/Ultra, then the Citation III, and now I fly the X. Kinda neat we’ve flown some of the same metal.
I'm a senior in high school and I'm interested in becoming a commercial pilot and after watching your videos, it inspires me to keep pushing forward and following my dreams to become a pilot
That’s great Trent! The long term outlook is great in aviation. Keep up the hard work! Just remember to cherish every moment of your journey. It’s easy to get lost in the chase to the airlines. All the best to you! Cheers!
@@FlyingwithBigErn Thanks I have a quick question, I plan on going to a 4 year University and getting my bachelors in aviation after I graduate and get all of my license for flying can I go right into the airlines or do I have to get more training?
@@TrentDDixon If you're still wondering, uni gives u about 250hrs total flight time and u need 1500. So you would get another a job as a flight instructor or something until 1500hrs then apply for regional or corporate airlines. Then after about 2-5 years there, u go to major carriers.
You’ve got such a great positive attitude to life. Thanks for making these videos!
I appreciate that albert611! Cheers!
Watching this and seeing you mention being close to 1,600 subscribers. Now you’re coming up on 50K 😮
I See that beautiful 301AS stein back there!! Fly safe!!
Love the KC-135. My father was Navy retired. He always took me to the airshows. I too would run out the door watching everything from F-4 Phantoms to now the F-18 Hornet. Thank you for your service 🙏.
Thanks Ronnie! It was an honor to fly the KC-135, which was the same airframe my dad worked on in the Air Force! And I’m ready for a good airshow too. Can’t wait until we can get back to those! Cheers!
@@FlyingwithBigErn Never flew the KC-135, was a P-3guy, but did spend some time in the right seat of the 707. From steam gauges to LCDs and lots of computers. Keep up the good work on your vids. Nice that SWA lets you Film like you do.
Ernie, sage advice to anyone looking to follow your footsteps. 4 year degree plus getting your flight ratings should be the backbone of any future career Pilot's education. This opens up multiple pathways to the end goal. Military/ANG/ Regional airlines/ Corporate flying now become multiple pathways to achieving a spot with a Major carrier. I will look for that Lime green sr22 next time I'm at Volanti's
Wow, never knew you had kids at home, when you bought it you guys must’ve invested heavily in soundproofing. Keep being informative as usual 👍🏾
😁 I cut most of the loud parts out. I should leave some in for fun! Thanks X X! Cheers!
1:04 me too!!! I have a friend who went to UND to become an Air Traffic Controller! I'm not sure what he's doing rn. I try to see what type of planes are flying overhead, but I can DEFINITELY tell what airlines are flying over.
I really enjoy the personal videos on how pilots achieved their dream. From all the videos that I have watched, you have to pay your dues before you are ready to fly commercial or charter. I agree that with commercial airlines, college has almost become a MUST have ticket item on your resume. I like the idea of AF ROTC to defray some of your training costs and build the flight hours needed to transition to the airlines.. 1,500 flight hours for your ATPL is hard to obtain but flying for the AF Reserve or Air National Guard is a great way to go. You did everything right Ernie and you should be commended for your accomplishments. I am sure your parents are proud of all that you have accomplished. I wish you continued good health and success in your flying career.
Wonderful video ERNIE. I am really blessed to watch your videos and learn from you. I am an Arizona Wildcat and it is so good to have you as a friend and a Sun Devil besides. I did take courses at ASU AND NAU as well. I also spent 25 years with the third largest insurance company in the United States as well as working for a plaintiffs law firm. I enjoy airplanes like you spent time in the Air Force and ARIZONA AIR NATIONAL GUARD here in Tucson. I also have a friend who flies with Netjets on the challenget
I love watching your videos not because I’m looking to become a pilot but because I’m obsessed with airplanes! Ever since I was little. My dad said I looked at the sky and said look that airplane is scratching the sky! And I was so excited! I come by it naturally because my dad worked at the TWA overhaul base in KC! And I passed it on to my son who is in the Air Force reserves and is a crew chief on a c 130
Awesome! I’m sure you’re very proud of him. Thanks for the kind words👍🏽
I was just going to comment on the "blackout" book and saw someone else did too. Oh, don't worry picked up a lot of info too...thx...going to order that book now. Great vid. Keys to the jet...like that segment
Ha! Thanks Q for all your feedback and help! Appreciate it brother! Lovin’ your channel too! It’s motivating me to get some of these home projects done! Cheers!
Degree in criminal justice in 2019. Policed until the end of 2023. Starting a 141 flight school in March of 2024 while also accepted into Destination 225°. I have a wife and three kids. One thing I found out going through life this far is that you can talk yourself into and out of anything you want to. It’s out there, go get it!
Awesome to know you were at Travis! Spent 10 years there as a Kc-10 crew chief. Love the channel and content!
That's awesome Christopher! Land of the heavies out there. I really miss my time there, such a good location with great people. The 301AS was the best! Cheers!
What squadron did you fly in at Travis? I flew in the 3rd at Dover, instructed in the 56th at Altus and then back to the 3rd as assistant ops officer. I commanded the 31st Squadron at Dover. Today we fly a P-35 Bonanza out of MRY, Monterey, CA. Enjoying your videos. I did 3 years in Minot AFB as an ACE (accelerated copilot enrichment) IP in the T-38, so I know about cold weather. Regards, Col John Scherer, USAF ret ATP/CFII.
I like how real you are, I’m doing ROTC as well, hopefully I’ll received my rated boards results!
Ex Travis C-5 Jet Mech and retired Corporate Pilot here. Enjoying your videos…Great advice!
I really appreciate you guys Steve. Such a big machine to keep in the air. Cheers to you👍🏽
@@FlyingwithBigErn Thanks Ernie! Fly Safe, shiny side up!
Just came across your channel and binge watching them now. Thanks for the info and advice, I myself hoping to start flight training later this year. BTW, I noticed the "Blackout" book by Candace Owens as I own a copy as well, I'm definitely a fan of hers.
Great background really enjoy your story telling, you clearly are a great pilot, the kind we could trust flying
Thank you kindly Miguel! Cheers!
The fact that you're alive after ASU in the 90's in a testament in its own right. I fell in love with a young lady there who was being stuffed in the back of a police car, and wanted me to call her dad for her. It ended with my innocent boy scout heart being broken. LOL
You're not "junior" like you hint at being, I think we'd have to be parking 1/2 the fleet before you were to get furloughed. Just because of how much time that would take, the legal obligations to provide services to a lot of cities, and commitments to gate space. Factor in how much it would take to recover if an airline over shoots and then has to scramble for pilots tends to make furloughing pilots the last resort. You would be gaining seniority as these changes went down and progressing up the seniority ladder.
You would have ben in the left seat a long time ago at many other airlines! Your training and flying experience involves a depth of ability and skill few ever receive or experience. The respect you deserve also carries over to a lot of "junior" FO's at our company. I've looked over and pondered how I' am flying with a total equal, I just get blamed more if something goes wrong. A lot of that is a tribute the the American "Majors".... We are good at what we do, and we get the best to do it. I could not even imagine getting into the cockpit with a 250-400 hr wobbly FO. The pucker factor of that would make this not worth while.
I could go on due to the excitement of hearing from someone so close to home for me, but I'll shut up now.
Thanks for posting man!
Ha! I wonder that sometimes too😁. Such a great time going there.
Thanks for the kind words Tom! I’m just praying we get passed this soon. Too many of our airline brothers and sisters have been impacted. And I know what they’re going through, tough place to be.
I appreciate your insights! Please keep them up. Very educational to those on here. Cheers!
What a great, positive video Ern. Like you, I'm well advanced in my career (Airbus PIC at an Asian legacy), but I know I would have loved something like this when I was starting out. Unfortunately the internet wasn't invented then :D
That’s crazy, I’m kind of doing the same route! One of my first SIC types was a CE500 and just got my hawker 800 PIC type last month. I also got lucky and got a pilot slot flying a C-5 for the 68th a few months ago. Hope to fly with you one day at SWA!
Hi BigErn, I love your story as there are some parallels with my own. I solo'd at PHX on 8/3/75 (16th birthday) on 08Land got my private on the same runway a year later. I used to ride my Schwinn 10 speed bike up 24th street to get to and from the airport. I ran track at ASU and earned an undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering (no desire to be an engineer though). Worked as a CFI at Superstition Air Service at Falcon Field (had a contract with ASU). But. I met a girl and we we got married so I needed to earn money. Hello IBM. It's been good though. We lived all over the world and raised two great kids. And my current ride is an Edge 540 (co-owned).
Wow no kidding?! Small world! Cool story beardelmar, love hearing those. Sound like you’ve had a great career at IBM with a great family! And an awesome ride in the 540 too! Hope to see you around the valley sometime in that machine! Cheers!
...such great stories ...with your outstanding service history and disciplined training...thanks for sharing Ern...love your upbeat attitude and enthusiasm... wishing you continued success...and stay tough...
Thank you LR for the kind words! All those keep me motivated to make more videos so thank you. Cheers!
Great stuff! Especially with the current Covid stuff. I like the if you hit rock bottom, you can only go up. As a Air Force guy that got hired by a couple majors but still not able to start due to Covid. It’s always good to have options. Also, don’t burn bridges. The bridge you burn today is the one you have to cross tomorrow! Keep up the stuff and can’t wait to start at the airlines whenever that may be!
Very true Doug! Hang in there my friend, this will get better. Cheers!
Another great video Ern. Forgot to ask you whether you know Captain Keith Scoskie. He was my mentor while I was studying at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Really cool guy like yourself.
Hey Anthony! Don’t think so but I’m sure we’ve crossed paths in the system. Great school by the way. Cheers!
Great advise re the degree. I am lucky and fly as a Captain for a major South Pacific airline. I did not need a degree, but as a 43 year old I feel like I really missed out by not doing a degree for personal development etc. now with Covid, if the worst happened I would be stuck with no other skills. I think it also makes for a more rounded individual.
Hi Ian! Well if it who I think it is you are with a great airline. I flew them in September. Remember it’s never too late. Lots of good opportunities for online learning. I’m thinking of taking a class or two myself! Best of luck to you! Cheers!
One with a black rear fuselage? ;) I was lucky that I became a Training Captain which has added another string to my bow. I would certainly recommend to anyone now days to do a degree in anything they really want to. The airlines don’t care, it’s adds to a more rounded individual. I also recommend people go and do some travel before they go from regional to main line....get some world experience and good war stories!
You are my favorite ernie!!
Appreciate that Daniel! Thanks for supporting the channel! Cheers!
Thanks for sharing with us your story . Is fascinating for me . I consider pilot as 'superman '.... Is amazing how a pilot has in his hands 400 human lives . Great job . God bless you ! Ps : idea for some videos -tell us some difficult moments while flying ,difficult landings ...
Thank you Angela! Don’t tell us that, our heads might explode from getting too big😁. Good ideas thank you. I’ve got a list going for content. Cheers!
This is an awesome video! Thank you Capt. Ern!
Hello. Found your channel recently and have watched several of your videos. Excellent content and delivery. Super personality. Subscribed.
Thank you Reale and welcome aboard! I appreciate your sub! Cheers!
Very inspiring story, sir! I currently fly corporate, with the long term goal of SWA! Thank you for your service and keep creating great content!
Thanks Ethan! It was really a great experience and I loved it. I just wish I would have cherish more of the experiences and people. I was so focused on making it to the airlines. Hopefully you don’t make my mistake. You’ll get to your goal, just enjoy the journey getting there. Best of luck to you! Cheers!
Yess, been waiting for this vid🙌
Thanks Big Ern! This video actually answered and addressed some questions I had asked you the other month. Great video! Much appreciated. And love the Candace Owen book 👍🏾.
Thanks Robert! Glad the video answered your questions. If you have more feel free to ask them hear and I’ll put it on my list of video ideas. You guys help with the content and I appreciate that🙏🏽. Cheers!
Fantastic video!!!! Best yet, I’m in the process of obtaining my CFI and you give me a lot of motivation to keep going 👍🏼
I’m glad to hear that Flynmc! Best of luck in your training! Cheers!
ASU does have a flight program now. I got my degree in flight and all my CFIs through ASU!
How old were you when you first got hired on at an airline?
Love this channel btw
Super cool to hear about your back round outside the airlines! Question for you: What are your thoughts on hour building jobs outside of being a cfi (like Ariel tours, banner towing, etc.) while the CFI jobs are in short supply? Do airlines like to see a variety in the type of flying you do for hire? Thanks!
Hey Matt! Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed the video! I think anything that involves flying is valuable. It doesn’t have to be instructing. All those jobs require unique skill sets to do them well. You’ll learn a ton whatever you decide to do. And yes variety is good to see. Shows diversity in your background. Hope that helps! Cheers!
Nice video and awesome life story man.
Thanks Aldrei! I admit it’s a little tough talking about myself but I’m glad you enjoyed it. Cheers!
Yessss love your videos! As always, amazing! Keep doing this :D Would love to learn more about your family hehe
Hi Ern, loving the vids! Would you say your diverse flying experience helped with getting your current job with an airline? I'm sure the experience of flying to less travelled airports and the challenges that come from that has helped in situational challenges in the big birds :p
Hi Dabbinstein! I do believe that helped. It’s just having a broad background and an appreciation for others doing the support jobs. It’s easy to just turn left into the cockpit and worry about the “flying”, but having that appreciation for what the entire team has to do to get that plane in the air is important. Thank you for your support! Cheers!
Inspiring video. Thank you!
Great job man!
Enjoying all your videos. Just started my voyage and am wondering what your opinion is about some of the career track programs the majors are putting together. Is it worth it or does it limit options?
Hi Paul! Well it depends on several things. It’s a good topic and I’ll put that on the front of the list to talk about in an upcoming video. Thanks for the idea and hopefully you’ll get some answers from it. Cheers!
With the current state of aviation because of COVID, would you recommend pilot training and flying as a career?
Absolutely Aaron! This is not the first time our industry has taken a hit. And unfortunately it won’t be the last. If this is truly what you want to do then go all in. Just know you will have your setbacks and challenges. I have to say it has been very rewarding though. I wish you all the best!👍🏽
I'm curious, you had such a long career flying pretty much everything. Just in your last airline you've been flying for almost 10 years. Why don't they give you a captain position? Does it take more than 20 years to become a captain at a majors?
Love your vids!
Thank you Brandon!
Great Videos! Retired from Boston Center in June and thinking of getting into different side of aviation. Do have my PPL.
Go chase it Robert! Cheers!
So started controlling 1991. Southwest was not in northeast. They had a niche with airports not used by majors. So last 15 yrs or so never had one complaint with southwest!! You guys are the best.
Working on my Commercial right now. Honestly, it's the best feeling in the world to fly. Once I pay off my flight school loans, I'd be far happier though 😂
Thanks awesome Mark! Keep up that hustle!👍🏽
You said your daughter is at UND, I just got accepted to their flight program does she like it do they have a good program?
Yes it’s a great program! One of the best out there for sure. Congrats on being accepted! Great school, people and community. Cheers and good luck!
Another great post!
Thanks Dan! Appreciate you support of the channel! Cheers!
Great video!!
Thanks Michael! Glad you enjoyed it! Cheers!
When flying charter/corporate jets and the multitudes of makes/models, does the "one-type rating" still apply?
It depends on the plane. One type could cover multiple planes with differences training. An example would be my CE-500 type. It covers the Citation I up to the Citation V. Good question!
Hi, just found you tonight, been watching your videos for the last hour or so. I have a question, if a runway were a highway, how many lanes would it be? I know they are wide for the wing span but would be nice to know
About 12 lanes. Many major airport runways are 150 feet wide.
I’m 31, married with 2 kids. 4 year degree is not really in the cards, but a 2 year aviation degree at a local community college is in the cards. Is it possible to be successful in the aviation industry with a 2 year aviation degree?
Absolutely Paul! I
Have a personal friend who has a 2 year degree flying for us. It’s tough to juggle a family with pursuing an aviation career but many have done it. And if they can do it you certainly can! Best of luck to you Paul! Cheers!
He laughed when he said “Kansas” and now I want to leave this state more than ever. 😂
For the degree part, if you decide not to get one you will face the reality of not having one eventually. They will devalue your hourly wage because you are perceived as uneducated labor versus someone who has a 4-year degree who has the possibility of leaving at any moment for a much more valuable occupation. And the norm today is getting some basic business or maybe an advanced stem degree and getting a job in an unrelated field because you need a job and they need a competent educated worker.
Even if a 4-year degree is not required, the majority of the time the one with the 4-year degree or higher will be selected.
When do you think you'll bid for a captain's seat?
Theres my favorite guy!!!
Hey ernie! Once again your awesome. You should do a video on how air traffic control works.
Thanks for the idea Daniel! ATC is kinda on lockdown nowadays. I remember we could call them up and get a tour for our students. I guess all that is gone now. I’ll think of something though! Cheers!
Cool story
Just out of curiosity, have you ever flown with Dave Peck?
Names sounds familiar but I don’t believe I’ve flown with him.
That was nice
Hi. Man I want to be a fighter jet pilot and i have some questions that need to be answered. If there’s a way to connect online so I can ask some questions pls tell me. Thank you!
Hi Gutema! No worries but put your question on here. I’m sure somebody has the same ones and it could stir up some good conversation. Lots of people on her have good insights too. I’ll compile them and make a video on it.
@@FlyingwithBigErn Ok. I personally want to be a fighter jet pilot. Which free payed college should I go to. I’m also sorry my English is bad.
Gutema Cupcake free payed college?
@@MB-gw7os yes for fighter pilots, what I mean by that is everything is paid for you if you serve in the army for a minimum of 10 years in America that’s how it works
Is your job at your airline right now the best flying job you’ve had so far?
Muito Gato ❤
tell us your tie journey
I believe his tie is part of his airline's uniform :p
Oh no you went to ASU…boo!! Bear Down!!
Thanks do much.
Hahaha. Thanks so nice. Sorry, typing with my big figures hitting small key letters on my cell phone.
Fly safe.
What is the way to get pilot slots in the air force reserve?
Big Ern would be the better adviser here, I did 26 years total in the Marine Corps, including 6 years as an enlisted reservist Marine, One little bit of advice I'd love to give is that the ANG is one of the best opportunities out there. You have to get hired by that unit, but you'll fly the aircraft they have in garrison, so you know what you'll end up flying, after going through training, and you can't end up being the OIC of culinary operations somewhere should you flunk out of a flying job. They simply send you home.
Hi Kevin! That would be a good video to do, I’ll put that on the list for sure! In short you have to go out to the unit and meet the pilots (and other crew members if it’s a multi crew plane). The best time to do that is their weekend drill. That’s when most of the squadron will be there. Tell them you’d like the opportunity to fly for them and have a resume ready. They’ll be more paperwork but this is your first meeting and trust me first impressions are critical, so be ready. Dress the part and bring that shinny smile. I’ll put out a video because trust me there is a lot more after the initial meeting. Cheers!
@@FlyingwithBigErn Thank you!! I am looking forward to it!!!
1600? Ha! It’s 16k now!
Really unbelievable to me Tom. So humbled to see that. Cheers!👍🏽
I got accepted to ASU for the flight program...can anyone vouch that its a good college?
The university is excellent, particularly law and architecture. The engineering school (and the flight program is part of that) is also excellent. But it depends what your goal is. If all you want to do is be a pilot I would suggest Embry Riddle. But you have to decide what you want to do with your education.
@@beardelmar Yeah I've applied to Embry Riddle also. ASU is my back up but I just wanted to know more about its flight program since it isn't advertised that much.
Hi Matt! Well I don’t have personal knowledge of the flight program but I have heard it is. Plus the weather is perfect for training with very little cancellations. The college itself is excellent and that I can vouch for as a graduate. And it’s only gotten better. I think you’ll be very happy with your choice to go there. Good luck! Cheers!
@@FlyingwithBigErn Thanks for the info!
Kids screaming? Homeschooling must suck..... LOL...
💋
The more education you can get the better you will be. BUT people watching this in Europe you don’t need higher education to get into flying. I left school at 18 and was flying an A320 at 21 with 1500 hours on type.
Good on you Richard and that’s a good point. I’m not very familiar with the pilot market in Europe, thanks for your insights! Cheers!
That's amazing man! Well done. But the only problem if you get straight into flying is you have no plan B. For example, if you get furloughed, or have a medical problem, you can always fall back on your degree.
@@rayanaltowayan9558 Totally agree the more education the better. Always have a plan B in the aviation industry that’s for sure. Very valid comment!
4'02 I'm sure you meant 2020
Travis AFB?
60MAW
The one and only! 301AS👍
@@FlyingwithBigErn I flew C-141’s waaaay back in the 80’s ......
Candace Ownens... Ugh. FYI...she doesn’t speak for black Americans. As an independent thinker and black man, I can tell you, she is no one to glorify.
Hey James! Well there is only “One” I glorify I have to tell you. And I hope you got more from the video than my book collection brother. And as an independent thinker and black man myself, let’s keep the discussion on helping people come to aviation.😉. Cheers!
👋🏻KSRQ ☀️🌴🇺🇸✈️