Episode 21: The teacher, The Snowbird, The Student: A life as a pilot in the RCAF - Blake
Aug 29, 2023
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Blake, an experienced pilot in the RCAF, discusses his time instructing future pilots, flying with the Snowbirds, and his transition to helicopter flying. Topics include the challenges of flying helicopters, admiration for SARS pilots, lessons learned in the Canadian Mission Control Center, and the role of a photo chase pilot in the RCAF.
Flying during sunsets or dawns creates a serene and magical atmosphere, providing awe and fulfillment.
Taking on a highly technical job without prior experience teaches the importance of refocusing on career development and creating a supportive work environment.
Being part of the Snowbirds aerobatic team is rewarding and fulfilling, inspiring aspiring pilots and making a lasting impression.
Deep dives
The Magic of Flying at Sunset or Dawn
One of the most memorable and rewarding experiences in the RCAF was flying during sunsets or dawns. The simplicity and beauty of these moments, where the sun sets over an overcast layer or the candy floss-like clouds cover the sky, create a serene and magical atmosphere. These flights often provided a sense of awe and fulfillment, especially when shared with fellow pilots, witnessing the breathtaking views from the cockpit.
Overcoming Challenges and Learning from Mistakes
One of the toughest situations in the RCAF was being assigned to a highly technical job at the Canadian Mission Control Center without prior experience. The steep learning curve and responsibilities of being in charge of reservists, civilians, and budget management posed significant challenges. However, the experience taught the importance of reducing focus and controlling the team's time. By refocusing on supporting their career development, postings, and well-being, a more rewarding and effective work environment was created.
The Rewarding Experience of Being on the Snowbirds
Wearing the iconic red flight suit and being part of the Snowbirds aerobatic team was the most rewarding experience in the RCAF. Flying in air shows across North America, meeting enthusiastic people, and experiencing the positive work environment every day were highlights. Despite the exhausting schedule, the opportunity to inspire and make a lasting impression on aspiring pilots, as seen in the number of bios mentioning the Snowbirds as an inspiration, added a significant sense of fulfillment.
The Challenges and Rewards of Flying Helicopters
Flying helicopters presents unique challenges, such as the need for constant situational awareness and sensory overload. Despite the difficulties, the speaker expresses their enjoyment and fascination with helicopter flying, even finding themselves looking for potential landing spots while driving. The speaker compares learning how to hover and fly formation with the snowbirds, highlighting the similarities and the importance of precision and minimal control inputs in helicopter flying.
Choosing Helicopters and Pursuing Search and Rescue
The speaker shares their decision to transition from fixed-wing aircraft to helicopters, driven by a desire for a more operational role and the appeal of search and rescue (SAR) missions. They express deep admiration for SAR personnel and their dedication to making tough calls and flying in challenging conditions. The speaker discusses their career goals and expresses enthusiasm for the potential to work in search and rescue, particularly with the Cormorant helicopter. They emphasize the rewarding nature of SAR and the importance of prioritizing personal goals and decision-making based on evolving priorities.
What does it feel like to instruct the next generation of RCAF pilots? What about flying on the Snowbirds? How can vulnerability lead to new learning opportunities? Blake has flown the CT-156 Harvard, the CT-155 Hawk, been an instructor at 2CFFTS, flew with the Snowbird demonstration team for several seasons and now recently completed his training on helicopters to go fly the CH-149 Cormorant.
Blake will talk about his methods for succeeding and thriving while you’re in flight training, his area of expertise. We’ll learn about how getting comfortable with being uncomfortable can help you deal with your mistakes and much more on this latest episode of The Pilot Project Podcast.
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