Flying For Money

A year and a half ago, it dawned on me that what I most enjoyed about my previouscareer as a science communications consultant was when I got to commute to visit clients in my faithful Cessna 180. With some 1500 hours in my logbook-accumulated primarily on those business trips-I sent out my rsum to two area commercial operators. In response, I got two job offers. Wow. What a game-changer for me. I jumped into the Part 135 world with both feet and left my previous career behind. Now, with more than a year under my belt flying for money, I have been reflecting on how profoundly the move from Part 91 to Part 135 has affected my risk management experiences and choices.

Key Takeaways:

• The transition to Part 135 operations dramatically improved the author's piloting proficiency, weather competence, and ATC communication skills due to significantly increased flight hours and diverse operational demands.
• Rigorous Part 135 training, frequent check rides, and flying varied aircraft instilled greater self-discipline, meticulous checklist adherence, and enhanced preparedness for emergencies.
• Despite increased competence, daily commercial flying inherently led to greater exposure to aviation hazards and a critical awareness of the constant battle against complacency.
• The experience highlighted aviation as a field of continuous learning, emphasizing humility and the ongoing need for deliberate risk management, even for highly experienced pilots.

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