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Precision Flying Is Key to Being a Ferry Pilot

Abingdon Welch takes a deep breath (and a selfie) at altitude on the California to Hawaii leg ferrying a Cirrus. The high frequency (HF) radio sits on top of the aluminum fuel tank that allows the airplane the range it needs to get to Hawaii (more than 2,000 miles) nonstop. Abingdon Welch
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Ferry piloting involves delivering light aircraft over vast distances, including transoceanic flights, requiring extensive modifications such as auxiliary fuel tanks and in-flight oil systems.
  • This highly specialized profession demands precision flying, mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting, and rigorous training, often under experienced mentors like Fred Sorenson, to manage the inherent risks of long, overweight flights.
  • While challenging and requiring significant pilot experience (e.g., commercial ratings, 1000+ hours), ferry piloting offers substantial financial rewards and unique opportunities to fly diverse aircraft to remote global locations.
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There are pilots who enjoy the long cross-country flight. I’m certainly in that category. I’ve flown my airplane from Florida to Maine to Seattle, San Diego and back, crisscrossing the country more than a dozen times. With that considered, Abingdon Welch has me beat by a long shot.

Amy Laboda

Amy Laboda began flying in 1978 and is a flight instructor, with credentials that range from a gyroplane rating to an airline transport pilot certificate.

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