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Webinars, Cherry Bombs, and Flying Schools

Martha in 1972 running Midwest Flight Center (aka Miss Martha’s Flying School). Courtesy Martha Lunken
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author reflects on the complexities of Southern California airspace, triggering memories of her extensive aviation career from a student pilot to an FAA inspector.
  • She recounts her early, unconventional path as a flight instructor, including a humorous anecdote from her pre-CFI days and the creation of a successful "Flight Instructor Oral Examination Guide."
  • The author established her own Part 141 flight school, "Midwest Flight Center," benefiting from an expedited FAA approval process partly driven by the agency's desire for "points."
  • Her unique experiences and identity eventually led her to a 28-year career as an FAA inspector, despite initial reluctance due to personal circumstances.
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OK, this is a little out of character, but last night, I “joined” (I think that’s the term) an aviation webinar—mostly because it was presented by the son of my friend Barry Schiff but also because the subject was intriguing.

Martha Lunken

Martha Lunken is a lifelong pilot, former FAA inspector and defrocked pilot examiner. She flies a Cessna 180 and anything with a tailwheel, from Cubs to DC-3s.

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