In this episode, Dylan and Max sit down with Casey Murray, President of the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA), to discuss the challenges and triumphs of leading 10,000 pilots. From contract negotiations to managing pilot expectations, Casey sheds light on what it takes to keep a union strong and independent. Plus, we dive into the flexibility pilots enjoy at Southwest and what’s next for the airline. Show Notes 0:00 Intro 2:12 Union Basics 10:26 Professional Standards & Negotiations 26:56 Contract Cycle & Ending Negotiations 41:05 Pilot Flexibility & Looking Ahead 54:58 ..read more

In this episode, Dylan and Max dive into the surprising results from the 2024 AIN product survey, revealing a major shake-up in aircraft rankings—Bombardier is on top, while Gulfstream slips. The mailbag features a listener sharing their experiences with tricky aircraft maintenance, sparking a hilarious yet insightful discussion on handling service centers.  In the Flight Advice segment, Dylan and Max advise a low-time CFI feeling overwhelmed by professional pilot knowledge. They suggest starting with basics like turbine engine systems and crew resource management, reassuring them that it ..read more

In this episode, Dylan and Max sit down with financial guru Timothy P. Pope to navigate the complexities of financial planning for pilots. From managing retirement funds during an election year to deciding whether to pay back a hefty retention bonus, Tim offers sage advice tailored to the unique needs of aviation professionals. If you've ever wondered how to make the most of your airline's financial programs or whether to stay the course in a volatile market, this episode is a must-listen. Show Notes 0:00 Intro 3:08 Handling Election Years 9:17 Unexpected Stalls & Other Situations 18:23 Bo ..read more

They guys catch up on their latest adventures. Book Club: Hard Landing Chapter 7. In this episode’s mailbag, they discuss listener feedback on braking roll-aboards and tough non-rev adventures. Finally, in Flight Advice, they dig into the dilemma of choosing between a tough commute at a struggling ULCC or trying out the cargo life, all while aiming for that elusive legacy carrier job. Show Notes 0:00 Intro & Story Time with Max 16:29 Hard Landing Book Club: Chapter 7 27:10 Reviews 29:45 Mailbag 41:16 Flight Advice - Be sure to subscribe to 21Five's Youtube Channel to see our upcoming ..read more

In this episode, Dylan and Max are joined by Greg from Advanced Air Crew Academy to discuss the latest updates in international operations. They dive into changes in oceanic clearance procedures, the impact of GPS spoofing, and essential tips for flying internationally. Check out Advanced Aircrew Academy's International Training Modules. OpsGroup GPS Spoofing Working Group Show Notes 0:00 Intro 3:46 International Clearance Procedures 11:51 GPS Spoofing 20:27 Electronic Plotting & SAFA Inspections 28:59 Mexico, Canada, and More 37:47 Greg’s Funny Story Be sure to subscribe to 21Five's ..read more

In this episode, Dylan and Max dive into the bizarre trend of passengers "raw dogging" flights and wonder what the pilot equivalent would be. Then the guys dive into Chapter 6 of Hard Landing. The Mailbag segment features listener reviews and heartfelt stories, while Flight Advice tackles a career decision about flying the 747 versus staying at a regional airline.  Show Notes 0:00 Intro & Raw Dogging Flights 10:59 Hard Landing Book Club: Chapter 6 23:50 Reviews and Comments 26:04 Mailbag & Furlough Flute Remix 41:42 Flight Advice - Be sure to subscribe to 21Five's Youtube Cha ..read more

In this episode, Dylan and Max dive deep into the topic of airline training contracts with industry expert James Onieal from Raven Careers. They explore the pros and cons, legal considerations, and long-term career impacts of signing such agreements. Whether you're a Gen Z pilot or a seasoned aviator, this discussion will help you make an informed decision. Plus Flight Advice with James: Should a 5 year SWA pilot leave for UAL? Get in touch with James Onieal (and tell him you heard him on the 21Five Show!) Show Notes 4:00 Predatory Training Contracts 17:30 Contract Stipulations 21:15 Pilot Lev ..read more

Dylan and Max dive into their recent Father's Day cold plunge experience and its benefits for muscle recovery, then talk about recent trips to DC, Aspen, and Havana. They read listener emails about the best luggage for pilots. In the Flight Advice segment, they tackle the challenge of balancing a pilot career with impending fatherhood, offering tips on how to stay present in your kids' lives while working the skies. Episode Outline [00:00:00] - Introduction [00:00:19] - Father's Day Cold Plunge Experience [00:03:53] - Max goes to Havana and Aspen, Dylan goes to DC [00:19:20] - Book Club: Hard ..read more

Dylan and Max delve into the unexpected challenges of flying during the Cicada Fiasco of 2024, sharing firsthand accounts and tips for dealing with these pesky insects. They then transition to a deep dive into the history and impact of airline deregulation, discussing how it has shaped the modern aviation industry and what it means for today's pilots. Listener emails spark lively discussions on pilot shirt preferences and the ongoing debate between long sleeve and short sleeve uniforms, while the luggage review series continues with a focus on the Strong Bags Helix. In the flight advice segmen ..read more

In this episode, hosts Dylan and Max interview Dr. Chris Broyhill, the creator of the AirComp Calculator, to discuss the current state of pilot compensation in business aviation. Dr. Broyhill shares insights on market trends, noting the ongoing high demand for qualified pilots and the increasing importance of comprehensive benefits packages. The discussion highlights the advantages of business aviation roles, such as better work-life balance, despite competitive airline salaries. Dr. Broyhill also emphasizes the value of reliable compensation data for pilots and employers, provided by tools li ..read more