Among the various fascinating denizens of the air sharing our friendly skies, there are a great many creatures of habit — but perhaps none quite to the degree of the common airline pilot. This species, to which I belong, takes great pride and comfort in its everyday routines, the highly scripted rituals of flight and furrow, heavens and hearth. Which explains why I am feeling distinctly out of place as I enter the Boeing 757’s expansive cockpit (newly clean-shaven, polyester uniform a bit too pressed and starched) after a six-week absence.
Taking Wing: Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
Key Takeaways:
- The author, an airline pilot, describes the initial awkwardness and eventual comfort of returning to the cockpit after extended absences for his "sea-gypsy" life of sailing.
- He emphasizes the importance of maintaining flight currency and competence beyond legal minimums, detailing personal routines like reviewing manuals and "chair-flying" to stay sharp.
- The article highlights the author's intentional lifestyle design, leveraging seasonal airline demand to balance his passions for professional flying and long-term sailing adventures.
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