Like many CFIs I began my teaching career as a ground instructor. My first client was a private pilot who needed a knowledge refresher before doing his flight review. It had been years since he had flown. The experience was special to me for two reasons: Number one, he was my first client. Number 2: He paid me with a check that had a Star Trek design on it—the original series. I didn’t think anything would top that until one December day in 2012 when I was called upon to provide ground instruction for you know who, the man, the myth—I mean, of course, Santa Claus.
It was a Saturday and the FBO was holding its annual holiday event. Customers filled the place, and candy canes and chocolate were being handed out. My coworkers were dressed as elves and kids were taking turns sitting on Santa’s lap making their toy requests.
