I am fortunate to have at my side some of the best professionals in the business. My copilots have pointed out the radio calls I’ve missed, the checklist items I’ve overlooked and the wrong taxiways I’ve almost turned onto, and in general, offered diplomatic suggestions to correct the errors of my ways. They have flown flawless approaches and taken command in my absence. But mostly, my first officers have been the locknut of the bolt that holds the cockpit together. And for the month of January, I had the honor of flying with a bona fide hero.
Jumpseat: Flying with a Hero
Key Takeaways:
- The article recounts the author's experience flying with copilot Kent Thorpe, an unsung hero who was instrumental in thwarting the infamous 2001 "shoe bomber" Richard Reid on Flight 63.
- During the incident, Thorpe, a relief copilot, assertively intervened in the cabin, personally subdued Reid, discovered the hidden explosives in his shoes, and expertly managed the in-flight crisis.
- Thorpe's decisive actions prevented a major terrorism tragedy, significantly informed airline security enhancements post-9/11, and earned him the deep admiration of the author and the airline industry.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
