This spring, I celebrated three major milestones: 10 years at my current “airline,” 20 years as an airline pilot, and 30 years since starting flight lessons. I’ve been a pilot for nearly three-quarters of my life, and it’s hard to remember a time when the surly bonds could not be slipped.
I recently caught up my logbook in preparation for a New Zealand PPL validation, and I’m closing in on 16,000 hours. The country’s authorities also wanted to know my solo time—e.g., sole occupant of the aircraft. The number was surprisingly small, most from way back when I was a Part 135 freight dog. These days, all my work flying is multipilot, but even when puttering around in my Stinson 108, I’m usually accompanied by my wife or friends. I don’t mind flying alone, per say, but I do find it more rewarding when there’s someone with whom to share the experience.
