I took my first flight before kindergarten. I still remember it vividly. The roar of the engines, lining up on the runway, and my dad jokingly asked if I could run that fast. I said yes, of course, but the second we lifted off, I realized we were in a different world. Looking out the window, everything below shrank, and it felt like magic.
What I also remember is the sadness when the flight was over. While most people get excited about arriving somewhere new, I didn’t want it to end. Looking back, it’s a funny lesson in life. You really do have to learn to enjoy the journey. It’s not just about the destination.
That feeling has stayed with me. Over the years, I’ve experienced flying a variety of aircraft. I have flown a Cessna 172, Cirrus SR22T, and Lancair Evolution. My love for flying also led me into helicopters, including the Robinson R44 and the classic Bell 206. Each one has its own personality. They all bring back that same sense of wonder I felt as a kid.
For me, aviation isn’t just about getting somewhere. It’s about freedom, perspective, and that incredible feeling of defying gravity.
