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Soaring Beyond the Sky: Life Lessons Learned in the Cockpit

Soaring Beyond the Sky: Life Lessons Learned in the Cockpit

Introduction:

The life of a pilot is one that transcends the boundaries of ordinary existence. As they navigate the vast expanse of the sky, pilots encounter challenges, triumphs, and moments of profound reflection. Beyond the technical skills and aeronautical knowledge, the cockpit becomes a classroom where valuable lessons about life are learned. In this essay, we will explore the profound insights and wisdom that pilots gain throughout their careers, delving into the realms of courage, discipline, adaptability, and mindfulness.

1. Courage in the Face of Adversity:

Pilots are constantly exposed to situations that demand unwavering courage. They learn to manage fear and remain composed during critical moments, knowing that their actions can determine the safety and well-being of passengers and crew. Through extensive training and experience, pilots discover that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it. This crucial lesson extends beyond the cockpit, teaching pilots to face challenges in life with resilience and fortitude.

2. Discipline and Attention to Detail:

Safety is paramount in aviation, and pilots understand the importance of discipline and attention to detail. They meticulously follow checklists, adhere to regulations, and perform thorough pre-flight inspections. This level of discipline instills a mindset of excellence and precision. Pilots recognize that even the smallest oversight can have significant consequences. Transferring this lesson to life, they understand that success often hinges on discipline, attention to detail, and the willingness to go the extra mile.

3. Adaptability in a Dynamic Environment:

The skies are an ever-changing canvas, and pilots must adapt swiftly to varying conditions. From weather changes to mechanical issues, they are trained to assess situations, make quick decisions, and adjust their flight plans accordingly. The ability to remain flexible and adaptable serves as a valuable lesson in life as well. Pilots understand that unexpected circumstances are inevitable, and embracing change is key to navigating the unpredictable currents of existence.

4. Effective Communication and Teamwork:

Pilots are part of a broader aviation ecosystem, where effective communication and teamwork are vital. They collaborate with air traffic controllers, crew members, and ground personnel to ensure safe and efficient operations. Pilots learn the significance of clear, concise communication and the value of listening actively. These lessons extend to their personal lives, teaching them to communicate effectively with loved ones, colleagues, and friends, fostering stronger relationships and minimizing misunderstandings.

5. Risk Assessment and Decision-Making:

The cockpit is a dynamic environment where pilots face constant decision-making scenarios. They evaluate risks, analyze available information, and make split-second choices that impact the trajectory of their flights. Pilots learn to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and ensuring safety. This skill translates to life’s challenges, enabling them to make informed decisions and assess potential risks in various aspects of their personal and professional lives.

6. Humility and Continuous Learning:

Pilots understand that learning is a lifelong journey. They remain humble, acknowledging that no matter how experienced they become, there is always more to discover. Pilots embrace ongoing training, seek mentorship, and study aviation advancements to stay at the forefront of their field. This humility translates into their attitude toward life, as they recognize that personal growth requires a willingness to learn, adapt, and remain open-minded.

7. Mindfulness and Appreciation for the Present:

Amidst the exhilaration of flight, pilots experience moments of tranquility and serenity. As they soar above the world, they gain a profound sense of mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment. Pilots learn to savor the beauty of nature, the majesty of the skies, and the awe-inspiring perspective of the world below. This awareness of the present carries over into their daily lives

2023 Scholarship Recipients

2023 Scholarship RecipientsThe Lyons Aviation Foundation is proud to announce the 2023 aviation scholarship winners.  The foundation was able to award a total of 5 scholarships this year!  Five aspiring pilots from across the United States were selected:

 

Sarah Giyer, 19, of Buda, TX. a scholarship amount of $3000 to support her in completing the requirements for a private pilot certificate

Calvin Maynard, 16, of Williamson, NY a scholarship amount of $1500 towards his flight training.

Makayla Galler, 17, of Northglenn, CO- a scholarship amount of $1500 towards her flight training.

Ryson Garcia, 17, of Waipahu, HI, a scholarship amount of $1500 towards his flight training

Gabriel Dimas, 21, of Highland, CA – a scholarship amount of $1500 towards his flight training.

 

 

 

 

Topics Covered on FAA Ground School

FAA ground school, also known as private pilot ground school, is an essential component of pilot training in the United States. It is a comprehensive course designed to provide aspiring pilots with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the FAA written exam and ultimately become a licensed pilot.

The topics covered in FAA ground school can vary slightly depending on the specific program and the level of certification being sought. However, some of the most common topics covered in FAA ground school include:

  1. Aerodynamics: This topic covers the principles of flight, including the four forces of flight, lift, drag, thrust, and weight.
  2. Aircraft systems: Students learn about the various components of an aircraft, including engines, electrical systems, and avionics.
  3. Navigation: Students learn how to use navigation tools such as charts, maps, and GPS to plan and execute flights.
  4. Weather: Weather plays a crucial role in aviation, and students learn about the different types of weather conditions that can affect flight operations.
  5. Regulations: FAA ground school covers the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), which are a set of rules governing aviation operations in the United States.
  6. Communications: Students learn about radio communications procedures, including the use of the phonetic alphabet and other standard communication protocols.
  7. Human factors: Human factors, such as stress, fatigue, and situational awareness, can impact pilot performance. FAA ground school covers these topics to help students become safer and more effective pilots.
  8. Emergency procedures: In the event of an emergency, pilots must know how to react quickly and effectively. FAA ground school covers emergency procedures and how to handle various types of emergencies.

Overall, FAA ground school provides a comprehensive education in the theory and practice of aviation, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to become safe and competent pilots.Tpoics covered on FAA Ground School

Mission Accomplished- Luna Mattke

February 1st will always be a day to remember for Luna Mattke, the Lyons Aviation Foundation’s top scholarship recipient of 2022. With Luna’s drive, dedication and determination, and financial support from our foundation, she successfully and skillfully met the requirements mandated by the FAA for obtaining a Private Pilot certificate.

What an accomplishment she is extremely proud of! This is the first step into the profession of aviation. From here, she will be able to build more flight time and flight experience, which will only serve to hone her skill of being an aviator.

This path can lead to a lifelong relationship with aviation. This first accomplishment is only the beginning of many more milestones to come in the world of aviation.

We at The Lyons Aviation Foundation are very proud of her, and her accomplishment. And we are ecstatic that we could be a small part in her story about becoming a pilot.

As Luna moves on to her next aviation endeavor, we wish her clear skies and smooth air.

“Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards.” – Leonardo Da Vinci

 

About The Lyons Aviation Foundation:

The Lyons Aviation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non profit private foundation that exists to support and encourage the next generation of pilots and aviators through offering financial scholarships to deserving young persons who are pursuing their Private Pilot Certificate. The Lyons family has been involved in and maintained a history of aviation-related careers for over 66 years.  The Lyons Aviation Foundation story started with Rolf C. Lyons, when he entered military service at the age of 17, enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1955, with his sons later following in his footsteps. This foundation was born out of a desire to give back to the aviation community and the future pilots, mechanics, and engineers working in the field by providing an opportunity to those that might not otherwise have the means to pursue aviation as a career path.  This foundation is a living tribute to a family story and its ties to aviation, military service, and one another.  More information can be found at www.lyonsaviation.org.

“A Helping Hand on the Road to Wings”

 

Third-Class Medical Certificate Information

Third-Class Medical Certificate Information

One of the requirements, if chosen for our scholarship, is the ability to obtain a Third-class medical certificate.

What is a Third-class medical certificate exactly?

Medical certificates are designated as First-class, Second-class, or Third-class. Generally, First-class is designed for the airline transport pilot; Second-class for the commercial pilot; and Third-class for the student, recreational and private pilot.

A Third-class medical certificate is appropriate for student pilots, recreational pilots, and private pilots who fly for pleasure or personal business (but not for hire). A Third-class medical is valid for 60 months for pilots under age 40, and 24 months for applicants who are age 40 or older.

When do I need a medical certificate?

You need a medical certificate before flying solo in an airplane, helicopter, gyroplane, or airship. We suggest you get your medical certificate before beginning flight training. This will alert you to any condition that would prevent you from becoming a pilot before you pay for lessons.  If you are going to pilot a balloon or glider, you don’t need a medical certificate. All you need to do is write a statement certifying that you have no medical defect that would make you unable to pilot a balloon or glider.

When required, what class of medical certificate must a student pilot have?

Third-class, although any class will suffice. Medical certificates are designated as first-class, second-class, or third-class. Generally, first-class is designed for the airline transport pilot; second-class for the commercial pilot; and third-class for the student, recreational and private pilot.

How do I get a FAA Third-class medical certificate?

To obtain a medical certificate you must be examined by an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). As the airman you should follow these steps to apply for and obtain your medical certificate:

At your scheduled appointment, the AME will complete your medical examination and the remainder of the FAA application form. If you meet the required medical standards, the AME will issue you a medical certificate.

Where do I get my medical certificate?

From any FAA-authorized aviation medical examiner. There are approximately 6,000 of them in the U.S.

Where can I get a list of FAA-authorized aviation medical examiners?

The FAA publishes a directory that lists them by name and address. You can get a copy from any FAA Flight Standards District Office, air traffic control facility, or flight service station. Airport managers and some aviation businesses (flight schools) may also be able to supply this information. Locate an Aviation Medical Examiner.

If I have a physical disability, can I get a medical certificate?

Yes. Medical certificates can be issued in many cases where physical disabilities are involved. Depending on the nature of the disability, you may have some operating limitations. If you have any questions, contact an FAA-authorized aviation medical examiner before beginning flight training.

Must I carry my medical certificate when I am flying solo?

Yes.

Milestones Reached- Emily Gardner

Milestones Reached!

Emily Gardner, a 2022 LAF scholarship recipient, recently reached a few milestones on her way to obtain her private pilot certificate.
She accomplished her first solo flight along with her solo cross country flight. All necessary to satisfy the requirements to obtain a FAA private pilot certificate.  She shared with the foundation this great news on her Road to Wings.

In the aviation industry there are a handful of milestones that every pilot looks forward to. Once you begin flight training, the first one of these is your first solo flight. But how do you celebrate such a big accomplishment?

There are two main ways of celebrating a pilot’s first solo flight in the industry. One tradition includes cutting the back of the pilot’s shirt off to symbolize cutting the end of the student “riding the instructor’s coattails.”

In the early days of flying, there were no high-tech radios, microphones, it was common practice for instructors to pull on a student’s shirttails to get their attention. Once the student was aware of this, the instructor would then be able to shout commands and advice in their ear, reducing the chance for crucial information to be misheard or overlooked.

To mark a successful first solo flight, instructors would thus remove the shirttails of a student upon completion of their first solo. This symbolic gesture indicated to everyone that the student is able to fly without any hands-on instruction, hence they no longer have any need for their shirttails.

 

Another tradition is to being “dunked”.  In Emily’s case the Aviate Academy used their pool to dunk her.  You can she she’s soaked in the following picture.    This is a very visually symbolic way to celebrate, and it leaves the pilot with a keepsake to look at in the future.  Ironically, the traditional 1st Solo Dunking Tradition into the pool was conducted one at a time for safety purposes.  (so history says). Additionally, history says this tradition was often practiced in the UK.  It involves a bucket of cold water being thrown over a new solo pilot, soaking them and signifying their baptism into the world of independent flying.

The sky’s the limit!  Always follow your dreams!

About The Lyons Aviation Foundation:

The Lyons Aviation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non profit private foundation that exists to support and encourage the next generation of pilots and aviators through offering financial scholarships to deserving young persons who are pursuing their Private Pilot Certificate. The Lyons family has been involved in and maintained a history of aviation-related careers for over 65 years.  The Lyons Aviation Foundation story started with Rolf C. Lyons, when he entered military service at the age of 17, enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1955, with his sons later following in his footsteps. This foundation was born out of a desire to give back to the aviation community and the future pilots, mechanics, and engineers working in the field by providing an opportunity to those that might not otherwise have the means to pursue aviation as a career path.  This foundation is a living tribute to a family story and its ties to aviation, military service, and one another.  More information can be found at www.lyonsaviation.org.

“A Helping Hand on the Road to Wings”

 

Milestone Reached- Luna Mattke

The Lyons Aviation Foundation’s  2022 top recipient, Luna Mattke, reached an important milestone recently:

Completing her first solo flight.  The flight took place at Felts Field (KSFF).  Her instructor joined her at the start of the flight, to complete a few landings. He then stepped out of the cockpit and allowed Luna to solo, accomplishing a stop and go, a go around, and a full stop!  Solo flights build so much confidence on the Road to Wings. Luna very much appreciates the support from all those who donated to The Lyons Aviation Foundation, which directly is supporting her financially in her flight training and in her pursuit of of her private pilot certificate.

 

Luna and CFII Curtis

 

About The Lyons Aviation Foundation:

The Lyons Aviation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non profit private foundation that exists to support and encourage the next generation of pilots and aviators through offering financial scholarships to deserving young persons who are pursuing their Private Pilot Certificate. The Lyons family has been involved in and maintained a history of aviation-related careers for over 65 years.  The Lyons Aviation Foundation story started with Rolf C. Lyons, when he entered military service at the age of 17, enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1955, with his sons later following in his footsteps. This foundation was born out of a desire to give back to the aviation community and the future pilots, mechanics, and engineers working in the field by providing an opportunity to those that might not otherwise have the means to pursue aviation as a career path.  This foundation is a living tribute to a family story and its ties to aviation, military service, and one another.  More information can be found at www.lyonsaviation.org.

“A Helping Hand on the Road to Wings”

 

2022 Scholarship Recipients

April 25, 2022 — The Lyons Aviation Foundation is proud to announce the 2022 aviation scholarship recipients.  The foundation awarded a total of 5 scholarships this year!

Luna Mattke, 16, of Otis Orchards, WA, a scholarship amount of $3000 to support her in completing the requirements for a private pilot certificate.

Preston Garibay, 16, of Redmond, OR, a scholarship amount of $1500 towards his flight training.

Emily Gardner, 21, of Middletown, MD, a scholarship amount of $1500 towards her flight training.

Ron Akers, 23, of Glendale, AZ, a scholarship amount of $1500 to start his flight training.

Marissa Hansen, 18, of Nampa, ID, a scholarship amount of $1500 towards her flight training

2021 Scholarship Recipients Update

In 2021, there were five scholarships that were awarded through the Lyons Aviation Foundation.  Over the holidays, we took a little time to catch up with our recipients and see how they are doing.  Mikey Doyle is a Junior at West Ashley High School in Charleston, SC.  He used the scholarship towards earning his private pilot license and did his Check Ride on December 11th.  In March, he’ll be applying to the Air Force Academy, and he’s working on building hours towards his instrument rating to soar through the clouds.  In 2022, he’s hoping that covid will disappear and that he can fly to at least 30 new places.

 

Philip Krzyszton is at Northwind Community Technical School and was able to finish getting his private pilot license this fall.  He is working on his ground schooling now and will do the flight training for his instrument license this coming summer.  Unlike some, Philip has said that covid actually helped him achieve his goals because there was more time to concentrate on flying and studying.

 

After graduating from high school, Collin Manning joined the United States Air Force, and is currently in California at linguistics school learning Farsi.

 

Veda Miles is a freshman at the University of North Dakota studying commercial aviation, and has just signed up for the Army ROTC program at her school.  She is hoping to complete her private pilot license next month, and eventually wants to use her skills in military aviation operations.

 

Finally, Levin So lives in Honolulu, and completed his private pilot license training in June before heading off to school at Perdue University in Indiana where he is studying to be a flight training professional and eventually wants to be a commercial airline pilot.  He doesn’t get as many opportunities to fly in Hawaii, but through his flight lab classes at school, he currently gets to fly two to three times a week.  In 2022, he’s looking forward to (hopefully) less restrictions due to covid and more flying opportunities.

 

The application window for 2022 scholarship applications is still open through 15 January, 2022, and scholarship recipients will be identified in April, 2022.  If you or someone you know is interested in applying for a Lyons Aviation Foundation Scholarship, please see our website for more information, the application process, and all applicable deadlines.

Scholarship Window Officially Open

The scholarship window has officially open.  Please visit the scholarship application page and download the instructions and application.

 

Eligibility:

* You must be between the ages of 16-24 on April 25th of the scholarship year you are applying for

* You must be a US citizen or legal permanent resident

* You must of good moral character (have no misdemeanor or felony convictions)

* You must be able to read, write, and speak English to FAA standards

* You must be able to obtain a FAA Third-Class Medical certificate (only requested if selected for scholarship)

* You must be able to complete training at nearest pilot training center within 6 months

Scholarship window will open on Sep 16, 2021.  

The deadline for applying is 15 January, 2022.  

More information can be found at: https://lyonsaviation.org/

The Lyons Aviation Foundation Scholarship Program is merit based.  The minimum scholarship amount is $1500.  The maximum amount is the full cost of a Private Pilots course.  (If funding is sufficient).   Each year the board determines the number of recipients (minimum of 1) and the value of each scholarship.  Funding available factors into these decisions.  

The Lyons family has long ties to aviation and we desire to give back.