50 Years a Pilot

As I write this, Im looking at my Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award sitting near the window sill. Its the most prestigious award the FAA issues to pilots, according to the agency, and eligibility for it requires a minimum of 50 years to elapse since a pilots first solo flight. I originally dismissed this award as an overblown creation of the FAA or, worse, an old geezers award for longevity. I finally decided it would be a great bookend for a lifetime of flying, or a beginning of the next chapter. For those of you out there with 50 continuous years of flying without accident, incident or violation-or if you know someone who meets the minimum requirements-you can find details of the award and how to apply on the FAA website.

Robert Wright

Monday, August 22, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The author, a recipient of the prestigious Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award for 50+ years of safe flying, attributes his accident-free career to a systematic and disciplined approach to risk management.
He emphasizes that aviation safety is "as safe as you want to make it," achieved through careful planning, caution, flexibility, appropriate technology use, and strict discipline.
To enhance safety and flight utility, pilots are advised to seek out instructors proficient in risk management, engage in dedicated training courses, and actively practice risk identification and mitigation on every flight.

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As I write this, I’m looking at my Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award sitting near the window sill. It’s “the most prestigious award the FAA issues to pilots,” according to the agency, and eligibility for it requires a minimum of 50 years to elapse since a pilot’s first solo flight. I originally dismissed this award as an overblown creation of the FAA or, worse, an “old geezers” award for longevity. I finally decided it would be a great bookend for a lifetime of flying, or a beginning of the next chapter. For those of you out there with 50 continuous years of flying without accident, incident or violation—or if you know someone who meets the minimum requirements—you can find details of the award and how to apply on the FAA website.