Awesome job on passing your check ride Steve! And thanks for taking us along for the ride. This video really came through and I could certainly feel the emotion. Good job and keep doing what you obviously love doing! You got a new patreon subscriber. Cheers
Imagine what it would have even like to see your grandfather flying, on film. Now realize, YOUR grandchildren WILL be able to see you doing just that. The legacy you have continued is truly amazing. You’re a true spirt of the skies. Well done Steve. We are very proud you and thank to your family for your grandfathers service.
I can only imaging the feeling, My grandpa passed away before i was born but he was a pilot in the navy and trained on the T-28. Ive been able to track down the specific plane he trained on, and one of my long term goals is to learn to fly, purchase said plane and have it restored.
Congratulations on soloing the Harvard MK 4! They are wonderful birds, I owned three of them in years past, really enjoyed them. The MK 4 was license built by Canadian Car and Foundry in the early to mid 1950z, the last of the T-6 aircraft, and the most advanced, with a full time automatic hydraulic system and other improvements. The backwards.mixture control takes a bit of getting used to, and constant vigilance. A very honest airplane, great in the air, just remember there is 6000 lbs of airplane trying to pass itself on the runway! Enjoy your time in it, your grandfather would be proud of you.
James Nelson have to ask: having had the Harvard / Texan experience....what r you flying now?? can I venture a guess?? T-28 or a T 34?!?! and do you need a hangar rat?? LOL
No, currently flying a 1959 Cessna 310C. Faster, also has its own challenging aspects (even after 20 years of ownership), just a slightly different kind of fun, but a bit more practical. I've flown other military aircraft over the years, including a Stearman, T-28A, T-28B, and several P-51s. Actually flew 51s before I had the T-6s. All we're good flying birds. Oh yeah, also two T-34s back when I worked for the FAA at Edwards AFB, nice airplanes, but really a two place Bonanza, but a bit slower. Of course, as my late brother would say, the T-28 and T-34 have the tail wheel at the writing end. There are a few drawbacks to flying a T-6, though - limited baggage space, if you drop something, like a pen, it goes to the belly of the beast, you burn lots of fuel, and there is no such thing as a quick turn, everyone on the field comes out to see and pet it (always fun, but adds a lot of time to any trips).
My grandfather was an USAAF instructor pilot at Warner Robbins Airfield beginning in March of 1942 and I completely understand how special this flight was. Congrats and keep going. Btw, he flew the same aircraft but he called it the Texan. One of my grandmother's favorite stories about his flying days was when he snuck her onto the airbase and she got into the front seat in the hangar so no one would see her get in. Imagine our families suprise when Pearl Harbor came out. My Grandfather was killed in a tractor accident when my Father was 12 and sadly I never met him, but from what I hear he was one hell of a guy and I apparently take after him a bunch. My father received his Commercial in 1968 and became an instructor that year. He stopped flying in the early 80's but my brother and nephew have carried on the family tradition of flying and I hope to soon start my training for private. Funny side note, my grandfather learned how to fly as a teenager in the 20's when a barnstormer was forced to put down on our hay field and they worked out a deal where the barnstormer could have room and board if he taught me grandfather to fly. My Grandfather was in his early 30's when the war started and joined up in Dec of 1941 after Pearl Harbor but was deemed to old to go fight and was asked to train the kids who would.
The thought crossed my mind that you are one lucky SOB. But then I realized that doesn't give you the credit you deserve. You earned the hell out of not only these flights but everything that got you to this point. Yes, I envy you. But I also respect the hell out of you and what you have accomplished. Well done sir. Keep up the good work.
HighFlight2k2 i second this and want to say to ste he was my inspiration to move and go to flight school i owe credit and gratitude for ste and his words of support to me as i thought it over and sought funding help
Dude I was crying by the start of your solo! That is your Heritage, and your Destiny. A WARBIRD PILOT. Your Grandfather would've been proud! Thank You!
As a truck driver of several decades, I love the “funnel” to add engine oil. There is great value in a cut-off oil jug that has just the right shape and size for the job, especially one that allows you use both hands for pouring.
Well done. My late Father learned to fly on a T-6, he was scared to death of the airplane and didn't think he would ever make a pilot. His flight instructor one day told him: "Make one touch and go, then go around and land, come to a full stop. He did. The instructor got out, leaned over into the front pit and told my dad "Cadet, you do the same thing again, I will be sitting over there by the runway, come back and pick me up once you have solo'ed, we aren't going back to the base until you do, that is an order". My dad did as ordered. At the end, the instructor go up, walked over to the aircraft, shook his hand, and got in the rear pit and said "Okay pilot, take us home". My dad kept flying, retired 28 years later as a Lt. Col rated a flight instructor on C-130s.
Those instructors were badass dudes. They had to let young kids make mistakes, potentially deadly ones, so they could learn exactly how it’s done, and they had to push them hard in stressful situations, sometimes screaming at them from the back seat, all in the name of hopefully keeping them alive as they went off to serve. It can’t have been easy to know in your heart how many might not come back, and wonder if you gave them everything they needed. Perspective is everything.
Congratulations !! My father was a T-6 pilot at the Brazilian Air Force and we are very much in love with this aircraft. I was thrilled with your soil and your grandfather, without a doubt, is very happy !!! Congratulations again
Great job and congratulations on your solo! I even got emotional myself, for you see, my own grandfather was a WWII flight instructor in the AT-6 Texan (as we call it in the US). My grandfather is now 97 but I was fortunate to go flying with him in a T6 about 25 years ago and loved every minute. Once we got in the air, he asked me "what do you want to do?" I replied, "you are the flight instructor so, give me your demonstration you would to a new student." And so he did. We did, barrel rolls, chandelles, yo-yos, and just about any other maneuver you can think of. It was fantastic and I will never forget it. When my grandfather got home that night, my grandmother asked him how the flight went, he told her that he could hear my excitement over all the sound in the cockpit, and you know how loud that is. She then said, "well, I guess you all had fun." Thanks for sharing.
I also had a grandfather that flew in WWII. He wasn't a pilot but was a crew member. It's why I fly as an air crew member with the Civil Air Patrol. I teared up when you talked about your grandfather. I know the feeling.
This is great; my dad trained on a Harvard in 1941 T Grosse Ile in 1941 as a RAF cadet along with a batch of about 50 young men that were sent for training. America was not in the war and they were issued with civilian suits! No one passed and he went onto train as a navigator in 267 Pegasus squadron.
My dad also flew the spitfire in north Africa and Italy 1944 with the US army air Corps. He later transitioned to the P51.He had a lot of interaction with the British and Canadian pilots. I get emotional when I think about it too.
Getting really dusty in here...great job Chops! I remember a few months ago when my Grandma told me for the first time that her dad, my great grandpa, had his own airplane back in the day, and how proud he would have been of my accomplishments. I never met my great grandpa, but that connection to him made me emotional as well.
It's mesmerizing and almost unbelievable how the quality of your videos not only doesn't drop, but never even as the same as the previous one. ALWAYS better than the one before. Ron's influence could be felt from here! Congratulations for the fabulous personal achievement.
So proud of you Steve......that would have been a tough one for you with Grampa in your corner.....This would be a stellar moment for him! Congratulations!!!
What an awesome accomplishment and a great tribute to your grandfather! Looking forward to the time you shut down a Spitfire and reflect on that accomplishment. Nicely done!
A nice tribute mate. My grandfather also inspired me in aviation and shortly I'll be heading from Australia to the U.S to finish my commercial. Sadly he wasn't able to see me complete my dream but he new I'd get there. Clear sky's.
@flightchops, i've watched a good many of your films while prepping for my return to the skies after life got in the way for nearly 20 years. this one really made me smile. Thanks for allowing us to come along.
This one really touches close to home for me. I'm starting to prep to get my PPL, also inspired completely by my grandpa, who flew in the Army Air Corp in WWII, and was a well-known instructor in his area. I would really love to do something like this in his honour.
damn... this vid hit me right in the feels. Awesome story, thanks for sharing it. And those were some awesome landings. I'll have a beer in your grandfather's memory tonight. cheers.
Welp... I’ve got a new Flight Chops video now. Beautiful job balancing the nerdy stuff w the personal. Fantastic job, and incredible job on the video. Congrats on such a milestone achievement on your way to the Spit!
As a third generation pilot and someone that has leaned on my Dad and Grandpa for aviation guidance, wisdom, and instruction, I fully felt the raw emotion in this video. Fantastic job, what a great accomplishment! I've enjoyed watching your journey through aviation and can only imagine how much higher you will go! Keep the great videos coming and as my Grandpa would always say, "Happy Landings."
Steve! Wonderful tribute to Grampa. My eyes watered over at the end with yours. Grampa was a fine looking young man. Ever notice that all of our WWII vets all seem to jump out at us in those old black and whites? I have my pop's photos from that time period (Pacific Theatre - WWII) in my office. I talk to him through them.
When I looked at your grandfathers picture I could see your grandfathers spirit in you. I don’t fly planes or anything I just admire your dedication and humility. The dedication a care you take in flying is truly inspiring. Wishing you love honour and respect. ✈️🧘♂️✈️🧘♂️✈️🧘♂️
I live in Thailand but last week I was visiting Detroit on Belle Isle and I heard it! I looked up and there was the T6 heading north up the Detroit river on the Windsor side. Can't believe I actually chanced to see it
Awesome job, and your grandpas is watching I believe that with all my heart. To him and all the others who served, Thank you for your service. God Bless.
Well done. One of my all time favorite Aircraft is the Harvard as we called them in South Africa. Unmistakable roar from that engine and prop tips breaking the sound barrier as they roll and loop etc. I am sure grandpa was sitting in the back seat with your solo smiling.
I know this is some time ago now but congratulations and nice job. What a feeling that must have been. I remember my first solo in a 152 and that was an incredible feeling but in Harvard, very envious. I am certain your Grandpa would be VERY proud of you.
I think this is now my favourite video on this channel. Congratulations on this milestone you achieved. MAD respect for the work you and organizations like ch2a do to keep this pieces of history flying high. Cheers!
What an amazing video! Definitely appreciate how real you are with us to let us in on your experience. I'm sure your grandfather is proud of you. He was riding along in the backseat the whole time🙏
That is so awesome, you have no idea how blessed you are to be able to experience flying the T-6 solo, something most of us can only dream of... thanks so much for sharing, I am sure your Gran Pa is very proud of you. Great job Steve. Well done.
Yeah man, all the feels. You totally nailed that flight. And i'd be a liar if i didn't half join you with a small teary eye. Frickin so well deserved, and a lovely reverent way of acknowledging your grand fathers service.
This is awesome. I'm getting ready for my private pilot checkride, and it's really cool seeing someone with all the time flying that you have still experiencing the same emotions with a new challenge that I'm feeling now! Awesome job.
Like the Hammond Aviation pilots log book Steve lol. Spend many an hour on those books working with the Hammonds. Congrats on the checkout Steve and adding another milestone type to the license!
FlightChops as soon as you mentioned him he was with you the solo was NOT alone steve your grandad was back seat with you i know as a medium and learner pilot
I can relate. My Gramp was a Squadron leader in the RAF, earned the distinguished flying cross from the Queen, met Winston Churchill and flew Vulcans in the Cold War and various other aircraft in WW2, as well as flying Sunderlands in Canada I think. He passed away 2 years ago and I’d very much like to get my PPL to at least experience what he loved so much.
Your Grand-pa, as so many, was so Young! Just about the age I joined the RCAF in 1967 ( I was 17 yod), gush I wish I could I stated flying at that time instead of at 58.
Great job man... got tears on my eyes. It has been an emotional journey that you have shared with us and I feel that we all have been in there with you. Congratulations, man!
I have full confidence that your grandpa was in the back seat. The little extra light in the cabin you might have noticed, was the shine off his great big smile. Great job, and very inspirational.
Well done..! Can't thank you enough for documenting your journey for others to learn from. The impact of FlightChops videos makes on kids would be tough to measure but very important. Quite an education. Makes one really appreciate the dedication it takes not only to be a pilot but all the different ratings to earn & maintain along the way. Best wishes in your continued flying career!
From the UK Steve, very well done! The part at the end, where you're thinking about your Grandpa, bought a real lump to my throat. My very own grandpa was 8th AAF (he had a fling with my English Ambulance driving grandma) but failed to return from one too many daylight trips. Your moment really made me think of him - Larry! God bless.
Great accomplishment Steve and a fantastic way to honour your grandfather. Those that know Ron know his quiet confidence and leadership. Things that speak to who he is as a person and the overwhelming experience he has as a pilot and teacher. Not a pilot myself but having had the honour of flying with Ron in the back seat, Ron introduced me to some basic aerobatics in the Harvard. Feeling quite green but not willing to admit it back on the ground, Ron quipped “I hope you enjoyed the flight. And, you know, I took it easy on you”. Needless to say, I enjoyed the flight immensely, knew very well he had my comfort in mind the whole flight, and, was very glad that he took it easy on me!!! Clear skies Steve and I look forward to seeing you fly the Harvard at our next Kids in Flight event at YQG.
Congratulations, Steve. What a wonderful way to honor your Grampa. Emotions tend to run higher when first soloing a significantly higher performance/difficulty plane than ever before. Felt that way when first soloing my RV-8. I'm grateful just to be back safely on the ground. Love your videos. Keep up the great work.
Fantastic! I’m really happy for you and truly understand and appreciate the tie to your grandpa. I’m sitting here having morning coffee before I head out to my own flight training and I’ll be thinking about my father who was a B24 pilot in WWII.
Congratulations. Its awesome to have you as part of our flight community at the CH2A. You are truly inspiring the next generation of aviators. Almost all of the new ground school class at the WFC has been watching your videos. You are having a profound impact on this and the next generation. Lead the way my friend I start chipmunk training in 20 more hours. See you around the hanger.
Congratulations man! I'll be honest, there were some tears running from my eyes at the end of the video. Another great video! You could see that this meant a lot to you. Once again, congratulations!
Congratulations Steve, what a great video and a fantastic achievement. My dad learned to fly in the RAF in the Harvard (actually starting off in a Tiger Moth) and we have photos of him flying in formation with other Harvards over Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). It was pretty emotional watching your video and imagining how he felt around this time. Thanks for some excellent content. Keep up the good work!
Congratulations and what wonderful videos you are presenting us! July 6, 2019 I had my first flight in the Harvard B182 of the KLuHV (Koninklijke Luchtmacht Historische Vlucht / Royal Airforce Historical Flight), Gilse Rijen Airfield, The Netherlands. Being no pilot it was a dream come true. Hoping you will inspire others to preserve the old birds and if possible keep them flying.
You are such a good pilot, and a great film-maker. Those landings were brilliant, and I can totally relate to the effect of a mistake on everything going forward. And it was a joy to watch you going solo sir...particularly the second check of the prop! Very proud of you Steve. You've worked really hard on this.
Good for you man. Sincerely. My Grandpa flew those in the war training new pilots for the RCAF with the RAF in London and Scotland during occupation. As a 26 year old, his nickname was “old man” . Wish I could follow in his footsteps but unfortunately being born colour blind grounded me before I could even become aware of such a dream.
This is my favorite of all your episodes -- ever ! Congratulations on your fantastic achievement dedicated to Grandpa. Your emotion is contagious. I felt it throughout. Loved the shot where you turned the Harvard at the beginning of your solo taxi. Hats off to your production team as well, for a superb job telling this story.
Congrats Steve, that is obviously up there with the best and certainly most emotional flying you have done. Thank you kindly for sharing it. Another milestone along the way to your ultimate goal. One that a bunch of us share but you are living. Cheers Jards
Congrats on your T6 Solo Chops!!! You really buttered the bread on your solo landing. Your Grampa was an inspiration not only for you but for all of us. Cheers:)
Unexpressed gratitude conveys the opposite. Your love and honor for your Grandpa shows. Fly your best for him!! Awesome video and even better "human-ness" on display. BRAVO!
Thanks for another great video and congratulations! I feel you. I just saw my Grandfather Christmas day, 2018. He is 101 years old. He took my flying in his C170 when I was around 3 years old. He inspired me to fly. He was a B-17 gunner instructor out of Nevada during WW2
Thank you so much for showing us amazing videos constantly of you flying! It's amazing to see you so passionate about something like flying and following through with your love for the sky! Your grandpa is proud.
Awesome job on passing your check ride Steve! And thanks for taking us along for the ride. This video really came through and I could certainly feel the emotion.
Good job and keep doing what you obviously love doing!
You got a new patreon subscriber.
Cheers
Thanks - it was a tough balance to maintain the usual level of “nerdy avgeek immersion” while also telling such a deeply personal story.
FlightChops well you nailed it.
I forgot to mention that I have no doubt in my mind that you will fly a Spitfire one day.
I got tears in my eyes Steve when you said „alright grandpa“ ! So emotional! LOVE IT!!!!
Me too
Imagine what it would have even like to see your grandfather flying, on film. Now realize, YOUR grandchildren WILL be able to see you doing just that. The legacy you have continued is truly amazing. You’re a true spirt of the skies. Well done Steve. We are very proud you and thank to your family for your grandfathers service.
Amazing insight there - I had not thought of that - the legacy will live on!
I can only imaging the feeling, My grandpa passed away before i was born but he was a pilot in the navy and trained on the T-28. Ive been able to track down the specific plane he trained on, and one of my long term goals is to learn to fly, purchase said plane and have it restored.
I recently saw a t28 such an iconic warbird🙂👍👍👍
Sounds so beautiful to hear that good ol piston popper
Congratulations on soloing the Harvard MK 4! They are wonderful birds, I owned three of them in years past, really enjoyed them. The MK 4 was license built by Canadian Car and Foundry in the early to mid 1950z, the last of the T-6 aircraft, and the most advanced, with a full time automatic hydraulic system and other improvements. The backwards.mixture control takes a bit of getting used to, and constant vigilance. A very honest airplane, great in the air, just remember there is 6000 lbs of airplane trying to pass itself on the runway! Enjoy your time in it, your grandfather would be proud of you.
James Nelson
have to ask: having had the Harvard / Texan experience....what r you flying now?? can I venture a guess??
T-28 or a T 34?!?!
and do you need a hangar rat?? LOL
No, currently flying a 1959 Cessna 310C. Faster, also has its own challenging aspects (even after 20 years of ownership), just a slightly different kind of fun, but a bit more practical. I've flown other military aircraft over the years, including a Stearman, T-28A, T-28B, and several P-51s. Actually flew 51s before I had the T-6s. All we're good flying birds. Oh yeah, also two T-34s back when I worked for the FAA at Edwards AFB, nice airplanes, but really a two place Bonanza, but a bit slower. Of course, as my late brother would say, the T-28 and T-34 have the tail wheel at the writing end. There are a few drawbacks to flying a T-6, though - limited baggage space, if you drop something, like a pen, it goes to the belly of the beast, you burn lots of fuel, and there is no such thing as a quick turn, everyone on the field comes out to see and pet it (always fun, but adds a lot of time to any trips).
My grandfather was an USAAF instructor pilot at Warner Robbins Airfield beginning in March of 1942 and I completely understand how special this flight was. Congrats and keep going. Btw, he flew the same aircraft but he called it the Texan. One of my grandmother's favorite stories about his flying days was when he snuck her onto the airbase and she got into the front seat in the hangar so no one would see her get in. Imagine our families suprise when Pearl Harbor came out. My Grandfather was killed in a tractor accident when my Father was 12 and sadly I never met him, but from what I hear he was one hell of a guy and I apparently take after him a bunch. My father received his Commercial in 1968 and became an instructor that year. He stopped flying in the early 80's but my brother and nephew have carried on the family tradition of flying and I hope to soon start my training for private.
Funny side note, my grandfather learned how to fly as a teenager in the 20's when a barnstormer was forced to put down on our hay field and they worked out a deal where the barnstormer could have room and board if he taught me grandfather to fly. My Grandfather was in his early 30's when the war started and joined up in Dec of 1941 after Pearl Harbor but was deemed to old to go fight and was asked to train the kids who would.
The thought crossed my mind that you are one lucky SOB. But then I realized that doesn't give you the credit you deserve. You earned the hell out of not only these flights but everything that got you to this point. Yes, I envy you. But I also respect the hell out of you and what you have accomplished. Well done sir. Keep up the good work.
I really appreciate this feed back. I definitely feel lucky, but no doubt it has been a lot of work maintaining the constant “grind” to get here
HighFlight2k2 i second this and want to say to ste he was my inspiration to move and go to flight school i owe credit and gratitude for ste and his words of support to me as i thought it over and sought funding help
who else got teary eyed when he talked about his grandpa at the end
Thanks for sharing your journey, Steve. You did Grandpa proud.
Dude I was crying by the start of your solo! That is your Heritage, and your Destiny. A WARBIRD PILOT. Your Grandfather would've been proud! Thank You!
Thanks! This has been an amazing journey, and I am happy to share it
As a truck driver of several decades, I love the “funnel” to add engine oil. There is great value in a cut-off oil jug that has just the right shape and size for the job, especially one that allows you use both hands for pouring.
Well done. My late Father learned to fly on a T-6, he was scared to death of the airplane and didn't think he would ever make a pilot.
His flight instructor one day told him: "Make one touch and go, then go around and land, come to a full stop. He did. The instructor got out, leaned over into the front pit and told my dad "Cadet, you do the same thing again, I will be sitting over there by the runway, come back and pick me up once you have solo'ed, we aren't going back to the base until you do, that is an order".
My dad did as ordered. At the end, the instructor go up, walked over to the aircraft, shook his hand, and got in the rear pit and said "Okay pilot, take us home".
My dad kept flying, retired 28 years later as a Lt. Col rated a flight instructor on C-130s.
Great story - thanks for sharing
Those instructors were badass dudes. They had to let young kids make mistakes, potentially deadly ones, so they could learn exactly how it’s done, and they had to push them hard in stressful situations, sometimes screaming at them from the back seat, all in the name of hopefully keeping them alive as they went off to serve. It can’t have been easy to know in your heart how many might not come back, and wonder if you gave them everything they needed. Perspective is everything.
Epic Video! You and that T6 just seem to fit together. So cool to see you flying it all by yourself.
Thanks buddy!
The steves are the best at av vlogs!!
I'd love to watch you take Steveo up for a flight....
get steve in the harvard pls!!!!!!
@@kylehecker8970 yaasssss! Totally!!
Congratulations Steve, great job and an awesome achievement!! Your grandpa would be proud! Keep them coming and safe skies!
Congratulations !! My father was a T-6 pilot at the Brazilian Air Force and we are very much in love with this aircraft. I was thrilled with your soil and your grandfather, without a doubt, is very happy !!! Congratulations again
Great job and congratulations on your solo! I even got emotional myself, for you see, my own grandfather was a WWII flight instructor in the AT-6 Texan (as we call it in the US). My grandfather is now 97 but I was fortunate to go flying with him in a T6 about 25 years ago and loved every minute. Once we got in the air, he asked me "what do you want to do?" I replied, "you are the flight instructor so, give me your demonstration you would to a new student." And so he did. We did, barrel rolls, chandelles, yo-yos, and just about any other maneuver you can think of. It was fantastic and I will never forget it. When my grandfather got home that night, my grandmother asked him how the flight went, he told her that he could hear my excitement over all the sound in the cockpit, and you know how loud that is. She then said, "well, I guess you all had fun." Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for sharing your story - that’s a pretty awesome thing you got to do with your grandfather!
I also had a grandfather that flew in WWII. He wasn't a pilot but was a crew member. It's why I fly as an air crew member with the Civil Air Patrol. I teared up when you talked about your grandfather. I know the feeling.
One of the most beautiful aviation pieces I've ever seen. Congratulations and tremendous respect. What a perfect way to honor your grandfather.
This is great; my dad trained on a Harvard in 1941 T Grosse Ile in 1941 as a RAF cadet along with a batch of about 50 young men that were sent for training. America was not in the war and they were issued with civilian suits! No one passed and he went onto train as a navigator in 267 Pegasus squadron.
My dad also flew the spitfire in north Africa and Italy 1944 with the US army air Corps. He later transitioned to the P51.He had a lot of interaction with the British and Canadian pilots. I get emotional when I think about it too.
Getting really dusty in here...great job Chops! I remember a few months ago when my Grandma told me for the first time that her dad, my great grandpa, had his own airplane back in the day, and how proud he would have been of my accomplishments. I never met my great grandpa, but that connection to him made me emotional as well.
It's mesmerizing and almost unbelievable how the quality of your videos not only doesn't drop, but never even as the same as the previous one. ALWAYS better than the one before.
Ron's influence could be felt from here! Congratulations for the fabulous personal achievement.
So proud of you Steve......that would have been a tough one for you with Grampa in your corner.....This would be a stellar moment for him! Congratulations!!!
What an awesome accomplishment and a great tribute to your grandfather! Looking forward to the time you shut down a Spitfire and reflect on that accomplishment. Nicely done!
A nice tribute mate. My grandfather also inspired me in aviation and shortly I'll be heading from
Australia to the U.S to finish my commercial. Sadly he wasn't able to see me complete my dream but he new
I'd get there. Clear sky's.
Amazing! Can't wait to see you solo the Spitfire!
@flightchops, i've watched a good many of your films while prepping for my return to the skies after life got in the way for nearly 20 years.
this one really made me smile. Thanks for allowing us to come along.
Bravo Steve! Thank you as always for sharing your adventure.
This one really touches close to home for me. I'm starting to prep to get my PPL, also inspired completely by my grandpa, who flew in the Army Air Corp in WWII, and was a well-known instructor in his area. I would really love to do something like this in his honour.
damn... this vid hit me right in the feels. Awesome story, thanks for sharing it. And those were some awesome landings. I'll have a beer in your grandfather's memory tonight. cheers.
Welp... I’ve got a new Flight Chops video now. Beautiful job balancing the nerdy stuff w the personal. Fantastic job, and incredible job on the video. Congrats on such a milestone achievement on your way to the Spit!
Congrats man you EARNED that with a little help from above!
As a third generation pilot and someone that has leaned on my Dad and Grandpa for aviation guidance, wisdom, and instruction, I fully felt the raw emotion in this video. Fantastic job, what a great accomplishment! I've enjoyed watching your journey through aviation and can only imagine how much higher you will go! Keep the great videos coming and as my Grandpa would always say, "Happy Landings."
Awesome - thanks
Absolutely fantastic. Congrats. I know you're Grandpa is proud of you.
Steve! Wonderful tribute to Grampa. My eyes watered over at the end with yours. Grampa was a fine looking young man. Ever notice that all of our WWII vets all seem to jump out at us in those old black and whites? I have my pop's photos from that time period (Pacific Theatre - WWII) in my office. I talk to him through them.
You the man Mr Chops.
You sir, are also the man! Can’t wait to compare notes on choppers - I am heading to that world soon.
@@FlightChops Whoa! Choppers? I will look forward to that bigtime.
Oh, wait. I see that comment was posted 3 years ago. Still, Choppers! :-)
I'm just starting this journey! Hopefully I get my private pilot and can take my grandpa up before he passes. I start class April 4th!
When I looked at your grandfathers picture I could see your grandfathers spirit in you.
I don’t fly planes or anything I just admire your dedication and humility.
The dedication a care you take in flying is truly inspiring.
Wishing you love honour and respect.
✈️🧘♂️✈️🧘♂️✈️🧘♂️
I live in Thailand but last week I was visiting Detroit on Belle Isle and I heard it! I looked up and there was the T6 heading north up the Detroit river on the Windsor side. Can't believe I actually chanced to see it
Awesome job, and your grandpas is watching I believe that with all my heart. To him and all the others who served, Thank you for your service. God Bless.
Awesome videos. Brought back my experiences in sequential checkouts and my emotional reactions with each. Thank you so much.
So beautiful! My grandpa is the only reason why i'm flying today, i know exactly how you're feeling.
Very emotional, well done, Grandpa would rightly be very proud of his Grandson.
I saw the T6 taxing back in that sunset with one pilot and it had to be you. Good job Steve glad you did it and cheers to Grandpa
Well done. One of my all time favorite Aircraft is the Harvard as we called them in South Africa. Unmistakable roar from that engine and prop tips breaking the sound barrier as they roll and loop etc. I am sure grandpa was sitting in the back seat with your solo smiling.
I know this is some time ago now but congratulations and nice job. What a feeling that must have been. I remember my first solo in a 152 and that was an incredible feeling but in Harvard, very envious. I am certain your Grandpa would be VERY proud of you.
Proud of you Steve.
Quite the adventure.
THANK-YOU for taking us along
HARVARD 👍
Absolutely amazing video Chops. Huge salute and respect to your grandfather, maybe you can even eventually fly a Spit like he did.
I think this is now my favourite video on this channel. Congratulations on this milestone you achieved. MAD respect for the work you and organizations like ch2a do to keep this pieces of history flying high.
Cheers!
Awesome job Steve, great vibes in the video. I could feel those emotions! Congratulations!
Chops, you made Grampa proud and made us cry with tears of happiness for you! Thank you for sharing this most personal and meaningful video to date.
What an amazing video! Definitely appreciate how real you are with us to let us in on your experience. I'm sure your grandfather is proud of you. He was riding along in the backseat the whole time🙏
Congratulations Steve. You are living the dream for many of us. Your grandpa would be proud.
Happy to share the process
That is so awesome, you have no idea how blessed you are to be able to experience flying the T-6 solo, something most of us can only dream of... thanks so much for sharing, I am sure your Gran Pa is very proud of you. Great job Steve. Well done.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Yeah man, all the feels. You totally nailed that flight. And i'd be a liar if i didn't half join you with a small teary eye. Frickin so well deserved, and a lovely reverent way of acknowledging your grand fathers service.
Thanks
This is awesome. I'm getting ready for my private pilot checkride, and it's really cool seeing someone with all the time flying that you have still experiencing the same emotions with a new challenge that I'm feeling now! Awesome job.
"Thumbs Up" doesn't even come close to describing my feelings about this... So cool... so proud... words fail.
Thanks my friend! See you at CH2A soon!
Hope so... I may have to make another phone call, or drop in and check on things.
Like the Hammond Aviation pilots log book Steve lol. Spend many an hour on those books working with the Hammonds. Congrats on the checkout Steve and adding another milestone type to the license!
Thanks David! Yeah, it is pretty surreal to have that airplane in the PIC column
So proud of your hard work & honoring your grandpa! Excellent!!
Congratulations! Thank you for inviting us on your journey to this awesome moment in your life.
Congrats Steve!! What an awesome achievement!! I know your grandfather is proud and was with you the whole time!!
I totally felt his presence, and I am not exactly a spiritual guy
FlightChops as soon as you mentioned him he was with you the solo was NOT alone steve your grandad was back seat with you i know as a medium and learner pilot
I can relate. My Gramp was a Squadron leader in the RAF, earned the distinguished flying cross from the Queen, met Winston Churchill and flew Vulcans in the Cold War and various other aircraft in WW2, as well as flying Sunderlands in Canada I think. He passed away 2 years ago and I’d very much like to get my PPL to at least experience what he loved so much.
This was easily one of my favorite videos of yours, Steve. Also the one I anticipated the most! Great job and you are an inspiration!
Happy to inspire :)
Congrats Steve! You did it. Grandpa would be very proud. Great video.
Hard to put into words how special this one is. Well done. Well done.🙏
Man that was amazing! Huge congratulations on this well deserved achievement, I can't wait to see what's next! (Also, great editing.)
I felt that emotion. My RAF flying instructor father flew a Harvard across Canada from Ganda to Calgary in 1940 to help teach flying.
Your Grand-pa, as so many, was so Young! Just about the age I joined the RCAF in 1967 ( I was 17 yod), gush I wish I could I stated flying at that time instead of at 58.
Great job man... got tears on my eyes. It has been an emotional journey that you have shared with us and I feel that we all have been in there with you.
Congratulations, man!
Congrats Steve! You worked hard for this, we're all proud of you. Great Job! Excited for what's to come!
I have full confidence that your grandpa was in the back seat. The little extra light in the cabin you might have noticed, was the shine off his great big smile. Great job, and very inspirational.
I appreciate your words here
That was awesome, just so insanely cool! Congrats man.
Thanks Matt
Well done..! Can't thank you enough for documenting your journey for others to learn from. The impact of FlightChops videos makes on kids would be tough to measure but very important. Quite an education. Makes one really appreciate the dedication it takes not only to be a pilot but all the different ratings to earn & maintain along the way. Best wishes in your continued flying career!
From the UK Steve, very well done! The part at the end, where you're thinking about your Grandpa, bought a real lump to my throat. My very own grandpa was 8th AAF (he had a fling with my English Ambulance driving grandma) but failed to return from one too many daylight trips. Your moment really made me think of him - Larry! God bless.
Great accomplishment Steve and a fantastic way to honour your grandfather. Those that know Ron know his quiet confidence and leadership. Things that speak to who he is as a person and the overwhelming experience he has as a pilot and teacher. Not a pilot myself but having had the honour of flying with Ron in the back seat, Ron introduced me to some basic aerobatics in the Harvard. Feeling quite green but not willing to admit it back on the ground, Ron quipped “I hope you enjoyed the flight. And, you know, I took it easy on you”. Needless to say, I enjoyed the flight immensely, knew very well he had my comfort in mind the whole flight, and, was very glad that he took it easy on me!!! Clear skies Steve and I look forward to seeing you fly the Harvard at our next Kids in Flight event at YQG.
Thanks for sharing your Ron story :). If I my schedule fits the next event I will definitely get there.
Congratulations! What an awesome achievement in a pilots experience. Loved the greased landing.
Congratulations, Steve. What a wonderful way to honor your Grampa. Emotions tend to run higher when first soloing a significantly higher performance/difficulty plane than ever before. Felt that way when first soloing my RV-8. I'm grateful just to be back safely on the ground. Love your videos. Keep up the great work.
Thanks! And the RV-8 is an awesome plane!
Fantastic! I’m really happy for you and truly understand and appreciate the tie to your grandpa. I’m sitting here having morning coffee before I head out to my own flight training and I’ll be thinking about my father who was a B24 pilot in WWII.
It’s lovely to see so many people who’s grandad is there inspiration. My grandad got my into Aviation and since then it’s been an obsession.
Congratulations. Its awesome to have you as part of our flight community at the CH2A. You are truly inspiring the next generation of aviators. Almost all of the new ground school class at the WFC has been watching your videos. You are having a profound impact on this and the next generation. Lead the way my friend I start chipmunk training in 20 more hours. See you around the hanger.
Awesome! It is cool to hear that! Looking forward to seeing more new yellow bird pilots!
That "feeling" is why I became a pilot. Keep it up!
Outstanding Steve on mastering the "Yellow Peril".
Congratulations man! I'll be honest, there were some tears running from my eyes at the end of the video. Another great video! You could see that this meant a lot to you. Once again, congratulations!
Congratulations Steve, what a great video and a fantastic achievement. My dad learned to fly in the RAF in the Harvard (actually starting off in a Tiger Moth) and we have photos of him flying in formation with other Harvards over Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). It was pretty emotional watching your video and imagining how he felt around this time. Thanks for some excellent content. Keep up the good work!
Great achievement - kudos. :)
R.I.P. for Grampa. A great salute to him.
Congratulations and what wonderful videos you are presenting us!
July 6, 2019 I had my first flight in the Harvard B182 of the KLuHV (Koninklijke Luchtmacht Historische Vlucht / Royal Airforce Historical Flight), Gilse Rijen Airfield, The Netherlands.
Being no pilot it was a dream come true. Hoping you will inspire others to preserve the old birds and if possible keep them flying.
That “good job flight chops” hit me right in the feels… wow.
You are such a good pilot, and a great film-maker. Those landings were brilliant, and I can totally relate to the effect of a mistake on everything going forward. And it was a joy to watch you going solo sir...particularly the second check of the prop! Very proud of you Steve. You've worked really hard on this.
I appreciate the positive feedback :)
Congratulations Steve! What a beautiful video! Good job!
That butter at 4:50!!! :D
Good for you man. Sincerely. My Grandpa flew those in the war training new pilots for the RCAF with the RAF in London and Scotland during occupation. As a 26 year old, his nickname was “old man” . Wish I could follow in his footsteps but unfortunately being born colour blind grounded me before I could even become aware of such a dream.
This is my favorite of all your episodes -- ever ! Congratulations on your fantastic achievement dedicated to Grandpa. Your emotion is contagious. I felt it throughout. Loved the shot where you turned the Harvard at the beginning of your solo taxi. Hats off to your production team as well, for a superb job telling this story.
Thanks - and yeah, JP did some great shooting for this one
Congrats Steve, that is obviously up there with the best and certainly most emotional flying you have done. Thank you kindly for sharing it. Another milestone along the way to your ultimate goal. One that a bunch of us share but you are living.
Cheers
Jards
Congrats on your T6 Solo Chops!!! You really buttered the bread on your solo landing. Your Grampa was an inspiration not only for you but for all of us. Cheers:)
Fantastic job Steve! Loved the series, keep 'em coming - the balance is perfect.
Unexpressed gratitude conveys the opposite. Your love and honor for your Grandpa shows. Fly your best for him!! Awesome video and even better "human-ness" on display. BRAVO!
Thanks for another great video and congratulations! I feel you. I just saw my Grandfather Christmas day, 2018. He is 101 years old. He took my flying in his C170 when I was around 3 years old. He inspired me to fly. He was a B-17 gunner instructor out of Nevada during WW2
Hands down the best Flight Chops episode ever. Thank you. ✈✈✈😊
Thank you so much for showing us amazing videos constantly of you flying! It's amazing to see you so passionate about something like flying and following through with your love for the sky! Your grandpa is proud.
Congratulations