Flight Tales

A DPE's Best Flying Stories After 28,000 Hours 09.07.2026 47λ

What was flying like before GPS, ForeFlight, glass cockpits, and even transponders?In this episode of Flight Tales, host Ryan Owens sits down with legendary Louisiana pilot, former Designated Pilot Examiner Cliff Rice, whose aviation career spans more than 65 years and over 28,000 flight hours.Cliff shares incredible firsthand stories from aviation's golden era, including:Learning to fly in 1958Flying Louisiana governors for decadesOperating the original Learjet 23, King Airs, Aero Commanders, and helicoptersGiving checkrides as a DPE beginning in 1968Flying before GPS, ADS-B, DME, and modern avionicsHow pilots navigated using only paper charts, wind triangles, and dead reckoningFunny and unforgettable passenger storiesLessons learned from emergency situationsWhy today's pilots have incredible technology—but still need strong fundamentalsWhether you're a student pilot, flight instructor, airline pilot, or aviation enthusiast, this episode offers a fascinating look at how aviation has evolved and the timeless lessons that never change.If you have any questions or suggestions for future episodes of Flight Tales, leave them in the comments below or message us at owensflighttrainingyt@gmail.com

Practice Approaches with an Air Traffic Controller 18.06.2026 1ώ 13λ

In this episode of Flight Tales, host Ryan Owens sits down with Air Traffic Controller Nick Jeffers to talk about practice approaches and IFR training flights to weather decisions, missed approaches, traffic sequencing, and pilot communication, Nick shares valuable insights that can make every pilot safer and more effective in the air.Whether you're a student pilot, instrument student, CFI, or experienced aviator, this conversation provides a rare look at what controllers are thinking when they're working your flight.In This Episode:How to properly request multiple practice approachesWhen pilots should file IFR instead of staying VFRCommon communication mistakes student pilots makeWhat ATC needs to know before your flightWhy practice approaches sometimes get delayedWeather decision-making from the controller's perspectiveMissed approaches, alternates, and fuel planningHow controllers sequence training aircraft with airline trafficWhy ATC wants you talking to them—even when you don't have toBehind-the-scenes stories from the radar roomNick also explains how controllers balance safety, efficiency, and training operations while managing everything from Cessnas to regional jets and military aircraft.If you've ever wondered what the person on the other side of the radio is thinking, this episode is for you.Flight Tales brings pilots, instructors, examiners, controllers, and aviation professionals together to share real-world lessons from the cockpit and beyond.Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

DPE Reveals Checkride Mistakes Pilots Make w/ Peyton Enloe 11.06.2026 49λ

What is the difference between a Forward Slip to a Landing and a Power-Off 180? When should pilots go around? What are the most common mistakes Designated Pilot Examiners see during checkrides?In this episode of Flight Tales, host Ryan Owens sits down with Peyton Enloe, an experienced Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), to discuss practical flying techniques, checkride expectations, and the safety habits every pilot should develop.Topics include:Forward Slip vs. Power-Off 180When a go-around is the right decisionStable approach concepts and FAA emphasis areasCommon checkride mistakes applicants makeCrosswind landing proficiency and training tipsWhy professional pilots are monitored for unstable approachesHow pilot training standards have evolved over the yearsFlying internationally, including operations in Russia and EuropeThe importance of clearing turns and collision avoidanceHabits that separate safe pilots from unsafe onesWhether you're a student pilot preparing for your first checkride, a flight instructor, or an experienced aviator looking to sharpen your skills, this episode is packed with practical knowledge from the examiner's seat.Flight Tales brings real-world aviation stories, training advice, and conversations with pilots, instructors, examiners, mechanics, and industry professionals.Like, Subscribe, and leave a comment with topics you'd like covered in future episodes.Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttrainingYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@OwensFlightTraining

Flying the Challenger to Aspen, the Virgin Islands & Beyond 05.03.2026 33λ

From one-way departures in Aspen to island-hopping across the Virgin Islands, this episode of Flight Tales is packed with real-world corporate jet stories, mountain flying challenges, and unforgettable charter trips.We dive into what it’s really like flying a Bombardier Challenger 600 series into high terrain, including the infamous Aspen/Pitkin County Airport approach — 3,000 feet above the runway, terrain warnings blaring, and zero room for error. One-way in, one-way out.We also talk about:✈️ Flying to Saint Thomas, Tortola, Antigua, Nassau, and Saint Lucia✈️ The chaos (and comedy) of arguing airport identifiers at a beach bar✈️ Caribbean ATC without radar✈️ Mountain departures with traffic passing just below you✈️ Flying college football charters (including Michigan’s staff)✈️ Getting “thank you for your service” while wearing a pilot uniform✈️ The light-switch system that helps prevent approach clearance mistakes✈️ When flying jets becomes “just a job”… and how to keep the excitement aliveIf you're a student pilot, corporate pilot, or just love behind-the-scenes aviation stories, this episode gives you the real, unfiltered look at life in the right seat — and what it takes to level up to Captain.

From Seaplanes to Annuals: Inside the Mind of an Aircraft Mechanic 05.02.2026 50λ

In this episode of Flight Tales, host Ryan Owens sits down with A&P/IA mechanic and seaplane pilot Vernon Knowles to talk about what really keeps your airplane safe, legal, and running strong. From backcountry-style seaplane flying on the Red River to the gritty reality of annuals, 100-hour inspections, and burnt valves, this one is pure gold for owners, students, and working pilots.Vernon breaks down:How to become an A&P mechanic (school vs. on-the-job experience) and what an IA actually doesThe real difference between annuals and 100-hour inspections—and why sitting airplanes often cost more to maintain than hard-working flight school birdsEngine health 101: compression tests vs. borescope, oil analysis, leaning, and why turbocharged engines love to burn valvesWhy owners should show up for their annuals, learn what they’re looking at, and stop fighting their mechanicCorrosion, ADs, lav service horror stories, airline vs. GA maintenance culture, and what “treat it like it’s your airplane” really meansIf you own an airplane, want to buy one, or are thinking about becoming a mechanic, this conversation will change how you look at maintenance forever.Have questions or ideas for future episodes? Drop a comment below and we might cover it on a future Flight Tales!

You Can’t Cram a Checkride: Real Talk from Flight Instructors 29.01.2026 24λ

What does it really take to get a student pilot ready for a checkride?In this episode of Flight Tales, we sit down with Chaun to talk candidly about preparing students for FAA checkrides—from private and commercial training to instrument fundamentals.We cover what separates students who pass from those who struggle, why you can’t cram a checkride, and how preparation, immersion, and attitude play a massive role in success. From simulator use and chair flying to managing nerves and avoiding over-control, this episode dives into the realities CFIs see every day.If you’re a student pilot, CFI, or someone thinking about flight training, this episode is packed with real-world lessons you won’t find in a textbook.✈️ In this episode, we discuss:How CFIs know when a student isn’t preparedWhy checkrides are about learning, not memorizingThe role simulators play in building confidence and controlCommon mistakes students make before checkridesWhy immersion in aviation speeds up trainingHelping students break mental blocks and training plateausThe mindset shift from “studying” to truly learningWhether you’re working toward your first solo, prepping for a checkride, or learning how to teach others, this episode reinforces one key takeaway:Don’t just study—learn.

Passing the CFII Checkride: Holds, Nerves, and Teaching IFR 15.01.2026 26λ

What’s it really like to take a CFII (Instrument Instructor) checkride?In this episode of Flight Tales, we sit down with Chaun Kraus fresh off passing his CFII checkride to break down the full experience — from the oral exam to the flight, the mistakes, the nerves, and the lessons learned along the way.We talk about:The big gap between an instrument rating and a CFII checkrideWhy teaching instrument flying forces you to truly understand itIFR holds, wind correction, and why they trip up so many pilotsHow examiners catch teaching errors — and why wording mattersManaging checkride nerves, snowballing mistakes, and self-doubtExplaining complex IFR concepts in a simple, student-friendly wayCommon regulation traps (alternates, approaches, and scenario questions)Why thinking out loud can save you on a checkrideLessons CFII candidates can apply before their own checkrideThis episode is packed with real-world CFII advice, honest reflections, and practical teaching insights for:Instrument studentsCFII applicantsFlight instructorsAnyone preparing for an FAA checkrideIf you’re working toward your CFII, struggling with holds, or wondering how to teach IFR more effectively, this one’s for you.

“Looks Fine Outside” Is a Trap: How Smart Pilots Plan Weather & Make Better Decisions 08.01.2026 43λ

On this episode of Flight Tales, we get real about weather planning and aeronautical decision-making (ADM)—from using AviationWeather.gov and understanding winds aloft, to why TAFs can flip fast, and how personal minimums keep new pilots out of trouble. We talk about the stuff that actually matters when you stop flying local training blocks and start doing real cross-countries:✈️ How to plan weather days ahead (trend watching) vs. just checking the departure METAR🌫️ Fog season, temperature/dew point spread, and why forecasts can change overnight💨 Cold fronts, “clear sky = windy day” traps, and seasonal patterns that catch new pilots🧭 Commercial long cross-country planning: different terrain, different systems, different risks🟣 Using in-flight tools (ADS-B/ForeFlight/ATC/ASOS) to re-evaluate and divert early🧠 “Wild West Part 91” decisions (just because you can doesn’t mean you should)🎯 Why actual IMC feels nothing like hood time—and how that affects proficiency🤖 Autopilot: helpful safety tool… until it becomes a crutchBottom line: Plan on the ground, build margins, have a Plan B (and C), and don’t let external pressure make the decision for you.👇 Drop your questions or episode ideas in the comments—we’ll answer what we can.Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

Why Every Student Pilot MUST Learn Paper Nav Logs (Before Trusting ForeFlight!) 11.12.2025 24λ

In this episode of Flight Tales, we dive deep into one of the most overlooked skills in private pilot training—mastering the paper navigation log.New pilots often jump straight into ForeFlight and other advanced EFBs, but without understanding how those numbers are calculated, you’re setting yourself up for trouble on cross-countries, diversions, and your private pilot checkride.🎙 What we cover in this episode:Why every student pilot should learn paper nav logs before relying on automationHow understanding wind correction, dead reckoning, and pilotage builds real situational awarenessWhy ForeFlight can help you—but also cripple you if it’s all you knowHow to prepare for scenario-based private pilot checkridesWeight & balance calculations during multi-leg cross-country scenariosWhy paper sectionals still matter (and what happens when technology fails)Real-world stories and examples from training without GPS or ForeFlightThe importance of preflight planning, aviationweather.gov, and 1800wxbriefTips for navigating at night and avoiding common student pilot mistakes✈️ Key takeaway:Automation is an amazing tool—but it should be a luxury, not a crutch. Understanding the fundamentals makes you safer, more confident, and better prepared for anything a flight throws at you.

From a $20 Rice Festival Helicopter Ride to CFI 20.11.2025 22λ

On this episode of Flight Tales, we sit down with newly-minted CFI Alex Foreman to talk about his unconventional path into aviation. Alex grew up in Crowley, Louisiana, took his very first helicopter ride at the Rice Festival, and still never imagined flying could be a real career. That changed years later after a simple conversation about discovery flights flipped a switch and sent him down the path to becoming a pilot.Alex shares how he dropped out of college, joined the National Guard as a 25H (IT and communications), and seriously considered a 10-year Guard contract to fly helicopters before deciding it was not the right move for his future. Instead, he found Owens Flight Training, took a discovery flight in an airplane, and instantly knew he had found his thing. From there, he pushed through private, instrument, and commercial in about a year while balancing work, Guard duties, and an IT internship.Now a CFI, Alex talks about getting his first students, including one who skipped the discovery flight and went straight into training, how different it feels flying from the right seat, why landings are so hard to teach, and how instructing exposes both your strengths and your bad habits as a pilot. If you are a student pilot, thinking about becoming a CFI, or wondering whether to go the military route or civilian flight school, this episode is packed with real-world insight.For more aviation stories, training tips, and behind-the-scenes flight school life, explore the rest of the Flight Tales episodes on the Owens Flight Training YouTube channel. To learn more about becoming a safe, knowledgeable, and confident pilot, visit our website at OwensFlightTraining.com.Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

Leave Grandma Behind: The Truth About Density Altitude 13.11.2025 19λ

In this episode of Flight Tales, we break down one of the most misunderstood topics in aviation: density altitude what it is, why it matters, and how it can turn your “plenty of runway” into “we might not make it over that mountain.”We talk through real-world examples from Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and even hot Louisiana days where the air gets thin enough to ruin your takeoff distance, climb performance, and yes even your grandma’s chances of riding along.What we cover in this episode:• Why density altitude affects everything: engine power, lift, and climb rate• How temperature, humidity, and elevation combine to wreck aircraft performance• Why your takeoff roll doubles at airports like Centennial or Driggs• The checkride trick: sea-level vs. high-elevation takeoff distance comparison• True airspeed vs. indicated airspeed and why mountain approaches feel terrifyingly fast• Weight & balance decisions including whether grandma makes the cut• Turbochargers, fuel management, and safe departure planning• Emergency briefing considerations for mountainous terrain• Multi-engine performance traps at high elevations• Why fields are better than trees. Always.If you’ve ever wondered why your plane climbs like a champ at sea level but turns into a tired lawnmower in Denver, this episode will make everything click.Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

Flight Following: Why ATC Wants You On Radar (Real Stories from Lafayette Tower) 06.11.2025 51λ

Ever flown “under the shelf” to avoid talking to ATC? In this Flight Tales episode, we sit down with a Lafayette controller to unpack why flight following is your best friend from faster SAR response and easier handoffs to smoother sequencing around weather. We also nerd out on ADS-B coverage, VFR flight plans vs. flight following, digital/remote towers, RNAV vs. old VOR procedures, and swap stories about C-130s, KC-135s, F/A-18s, the B-17 walkthrough, Airwolf, and Wings Over Houston.What you’ll learn:How flight following actually works and why it’s safer and simpler than you thinkWhen centers say “unable” (workload realities) and what to do nextWhy filing a VFR flight plan + getting radar services is a power comboADS-B coverage improvements (even over water) & remaining radar gapsRNAV approaches, runway flips, and how ATC sequences during stormsThe future: digital/remote towers and datalink clearancesChapters:0:00 Intro & local fly-ins1:20 Airwolf, airshows & Blue Angels3:48 Heavies at regional fields (C-130s, KC-135s, F/A-18s)6:40 Vietnam-style UH-1 ride story9:41 Pyro, Pearl Harbor reenactments, B-17 walk-through12:50 Flight following—why ATC wants you talking17:05 “Under the shelf” vs. calling approach21:22 VFR flight plans + SAR timeline explained24:10 Radar gaps, center workload, “unable” moments27:10 Flight service stations today (what they still do)30:55 Call sign/code “stealing” & timing tricks33:20 When/why ATC helps file or amend36:05 Sequencing around storms—real-world case41:45 Digital/remote towers & camera grids44:40 RNAV beats legacy VORs (and why)46:50 Runway switch & long-runway ops49:35 Datalink vs. “paper strips” (the tech gap)50:54 Wrap: “Why wouldn’t you get flight following?”Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

Flying the G5: Corporate Pilot on Bonaire Runs, Customs Curveballs & Talking to ATC 30.10.2025 32λ

Corporate aviation isn’t all champagne and leather seats—sometimes it’s customs phone calls, international ATC accents, and learning to love uncertainty. In this episode of Flight Tales, Trey (back on a Gulfstream V/G5) breaks down real life in corporate flying: why owners move, how that can flip a pilot’s world, what it’s like hopping to Bonaire and across Europe, and his #1 tip for new pilots who freeze on the radio—just ask.Key takeaways:Corporate flying = incredible access & variety, but owners’ lives = your schedule.International ATC is workable—expect different accents, cadence, and procedures.Don’t be shy on the mic. Controllers can’t help with the question you didn’t ask.If you enjoyed this, hit Like and Subscribe. Drop your questions below for Trey or suggest where we should take Flight Tales next.

Challenger Jet Training, ATP Checkride, Sim ‘Gotchas’ & First Month as a Charter Pilot 23.10.2025 53λ

Brennan walked in straight from a charter - uniform, socks and all - and breaks down what it’s really like to earn a Challenger type rating at CAE and jump right into line flying. We cover the grind of 12-hour ground school days, touchscreen IPT flows, full-motion sim surprises (engine relights, control jams, high-altitude descents), the ATP oral, CRM with a seasoned captain, and real-world ops like CPDLC, Miami frequency chaos, and keeping a jet under 250 KIAS off a 2,000’ level-off. If you’re eyeing your first jet type or getting ready for recurrent, this one’s packed with practical nuggets.Highlights:CAE training cadence: ground IPT flows full-motion simsSim traps & lessons: engine flameout relight, emergency descent, single-engine workATP/Type oral focus: systems, limits, practical scenarios (not just regs)First month flying charter: 43,000 ft cruise, reroutes, CPDLC workflowJet habits that start in GA: flows, “scoreboard” verification, checklists, radio chopsCRM & dividing tasks so the airplane never “gets ahead” of youOwens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

FAA Inspector Laennec Ratard on Storms, Cargo Runs & Part 141 Secrets 16.10.2025 58λ

FAA Aviation Safety Inspector Laennec Ratard joins Flight Tales to unpack a decades-long journey—from childhood island hops in BN-2 Islanders to night freight in C210s and Barons, Caravan UPS feeder routes, F-27 operations in South America, corporate flying, and ultimately the FAA. He breaks down what really happens during ramp checks, enroute cockpit inspections, DPE oversight, and exactly what flight schools need to pass Part 141 faster.In this episode:Island beginnings (BN-2 Islander)Marines to civilian training at New Orleans LakefrontNight freight: canceled checks, no-autopilot IFR, Saint Elmo’s fireThe storm that changed his risk calculus (and left a shoulder-harness bruise)Caravans, overload runs, and standby lifeChoosing cargo over a low-paid regional FO pathInside the FAA: POI duties, ramp & enroute inspections, corrective actionsACS vs PTS—what’s actually measured on checkridesDPE surveillance—how examiners are observed and evaluatedPart 141 playbook—manuals, facilities, aircraft, chief instructor demo, common pitfalls

Flight Following Explained: The #1 Safety Tool Pilots Shouldn't Skip 09.10.2025 21λ

Ever wondered what flight following actually does — and why every pilot should be using it? In this episode of Flight Tales, the crew dives into the ins and outs of VFR flight following: what it is, how to request it, and why it’s one of the smartest (and safest) habits you can build as a pilot.We break down:✈️ How flight following keeps you visible on radar🗣️ Why new pilots often skip it (and why they shouldn’t)📡 How ATC uses your transponder code to track and assist⚠️ Real-world benefits during emergencies and busy airspace👨‍✈️ Instructor insights from training flights around LouisianaWhether you're a student pilot, instructor, or weekend flyer, this episode will change how you think about talking to ATC.

From Flight Attendant to U.S. Pilot: Mohamed Zuhairi’s Immigrant Journey 02.10.2025 44λ

Mohamed Zahairi was born in Saudi Arabia to Egyptian parents, learned three languages, worked across 20+ countries, became a flight attendant—and is now chasing the dream of becoming a professional pilot in America. In this episode of Flight Tales, we talk about language barriers in training, TSA/AFSP hurdles for foreign students, picking the right flight school, why community matters, and the day he became a U.S. citizen. If you’re an international student or a late bloomer wondering “Can I really do this?”—this one’s for you.Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

Mr. Rockin’ on the Runway: Warbirds, Grass Strips & the Wild Life of Shannon Elliott 25.09.2025 1ώ 2λ

Step onto the grass strip and into the cockpit with Shannon Elliott—better known as “Mr. Rockin’ on the Runway!” In this episode of Flight Tales, we dive deep into Shannon’s lifelong passion for aviation, from his first flight lessons to building a legendary fleet of vintage warbirds, hosting epic airshows, and creating one of the most unique private runways in Louisiana.What you’ll hear in this episode:How Shannon got hooked on flying and started collecting classic planesThe wild story behind “Rockin’ on the Runway”—the annual aviation party that draws thousandsWhat it’s really like to own and operate a grass strip at homeTales of restoring military jeeps, hosting legendary skywriting events, and flying everything from Bonanzas to P-51 MustangsReal talk about pilot training, old-school instruction, and what makes grassroots aviation specialThe joy of introducing kids and families to the magic of flightWhether you’re a pilot, an aviation fan, or just love a great Louisiana story, this episode is for you.✈️ Don’t forget to subscribe for more true stories from the world of flight!👇 Tell us your favorite moment or share your own flight tale in the comments!Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

Life at 1900 Hours: King Air Sim, Charter Pilot. & Brennan’s Aviation Upgrade 18.09.2025 28λ

What’s life really like for a pilot at 1,900 hours? In this episode of Flight Tales, Brennan spills the unfiltered truth about climbing the aviation ladder, surviving King Air sim emergencies, and making the leap to charter and corporate flying.You’ll hear:The 1,900-Hour Reality: Why hitting the magic number isn’t always a straight shot to your dream job (and how networking changes everything)King Air Sim Training: Wild simulator emergencies, system failures, and what happens when instructors decide to “turn up the chaos”Charter Pilot Life: The difference between flying people and flying chickens, and why Part 91 vs. 135 isn’t just about paperworkChecklist Confessions & Tech Tales: When automation is your best friend… until it isn’tPressurization Nightmares, Sim Mishaps, and Honest Lessons for every pilot working toward the next levelIf you want real-world insight, behind-the-scenes training stories, and the laughs (and struggles) that come with leveling up as a pilot, this episode is for you.Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining

From Barnstorming to Airshows: Bryan Regan’s Journey with the Titan Aerobatic Team 04.09.2025 1ώ 26λ

What does it take to go from chasing rides at a rural airport to performing jaw-dropping formation aerobatics with the Titan Aerobatic Team? Meet Bryan Regan—right wing #2, longtime Stearman pilot, and veteran of some of the wildest, most demanding airshow circuits in America.In this episode of Flight Tales, Bryan sits down with us to share his incredible aviation journey—from humble beginnings without a family aviation connection, to finding his way into the world of crop dusters, barnstorming with the Red Baron Squadron, and ultimately joining the elite Titan Aerobatic Team.You’ll hear:How Bryan got hooked on flying (and nearly spent his college money chasing it)Life behind the scenes of the Red Baron and Titan teams—including intense training, flying 80-year-old Stearmans, and racking up 1,200+ formation rides a yearWhat it’s really like to perform precision aerobatics inches from your teammates… sometimes in the dark!Hair-raising stories of cross-country trips, Gulf crossings, and close callsInside advice for anyone dreaming of a career in airshows or aerobatics—including where to get started, what it really takes, and why muscle memory (and nerves of steel) are the name of the game