Episode Summary: Ep. 58: Pilot's Trifecta of Near-death Experiences & More
Release Date: May 29, 2025
Host: Jeff Hopeck
Guest: Kelly Fox, 747 Pilot
Introduction
In Episode 58 of the 🎙️ Interesting Humans Podcast, host Jeff Hopeck welcomes his good friend Kelly Fox, a seasoned 747 pilot, to delve into Kelly's remarkable career and the harrowing experiences he's encountered in the skies. This episode is particularly insightful for aspiring pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by real-life stories of resilience and expertise in high-stakes environments.
Kelly Fox's Aviation Journey
Early Aspirations and Setbacks
Kelly recounts his childhood inspiration, sparked by his grandfather's involvement in an aviation club and early flights that ignited his passion for flying. However, Kelly faced a significant setback during middle school when he began wearing glasses, leading him to believe that a military career as a pilot was unattainable due to the strict medical standards of the time.
"When I got glasses in middle school, I just kind of lost the dream. I didn't necessarily think I could be a pilot because the military was very selective."
[09:22]
Discovering a New Path
A chance encounter with a fellow aviation enthusiast steered Kelly away from his initial path and toward civilian flight training. He emphasizes the importance of exploring different avenues and seeking mentorship in achieving one's goals.
"There's a thing called a Discovery flight, and I highly recommend people to go do that. Just ask questions and don't do it alone."
[09:24]
Navigating the Skies: Near-Death Experiences
Bird Strike Incident
Kelly shares a tense moment early in his career when his regional flight encountered a bird strike. Despite the alarming evidence—a bent fan blade in one of the engines—Kelly praises the resilience of modern aircraft engines.
"These engines are built to withstand a lot. Even after the bird strike, the engine did great."
[02:14]
Lightning Strike Encounter
On another flight, Kelly experienced a lightning strike that, while startling, did not compromise the aircraft's functionality. He highlights the robust engineering of commercial jets that ensures safety even under extreme conditions.
"When you get struck by lightning, it startles you, but fortunately, nothing happened."
[04:20]
Flap Failure Drama
The episode delves into a particularly harrowing experience where Kelly's aircraft suffered a flap failure mid-trip. This malfunction forced the plane to land at a significantly higher speed than usual, testing Kelly's composure and piloting skills.
"We landed at almost 200 miles an hour, which was about the max limit of the aircraft's tires. Luckily, we were in Atlanta with a long runway."
[05:06]
The Art and Science of Flying
Pilot Training and Experience
Kelly elaborates on the nuanced differences between various aircraft, such as the CRJ 200 and the 747, emphasizing the importance of feeling the airplane's responses to control inputs. He underscores that flying is as much an art as it is a science, requiring both technical knowledge and intuitive skill.
"Once you learn to fly an airplane, they all pretty much fly the same. It's just little nuances."
[19:43]
Crew Dynamics and Communication
Effective communication and harmonious crew dynamics are crucial for safe and efficient flights. Kelly shares anecdotes about both positive and challenging interactions with fellow crew members, highlighting the necessity of mutual respect and open dialogue.
"A good flight is when the crew are really getting along and we're working together."
[58:36]
Navigational Challenges and Airspace Management
Restricted Airspaces and Emergency Protocols
Kelly discusses the complexities of navigating restricted and temporary flight zones, especially over vast oceanic regions where radar coverage is limited. He explains the protocols pilots follow when encountering emergencies, such as declaring a mayday or pan-pan, to ensure prioritization by air traffic control.
"When you declare an emergency, you get priority. It's a testament to the aviation industry that these protocols are in place to manage such risks."
[74:47]
Storms and Weather Management
Encountering severe weather, such as massive storms in the southeastern United States, poses significant challenges. Kelly emphasizes the importance of proactive weather monitoring and avoidance strategies to maintain safety.
"Storms present an unknown because you don't know what's going to be in there. We try to avoid them to prevent surprises."
[42:00]
Advice for Aspiring Pilots
Exploring Non-Military Routes
Kelly provides valuable guidance for individuals aspiring to become pilots without pursuing a military career. He outlines various pathways, including part 61 and part 141 flight schools, and highlights the importance of persistence and continuous learning.
"If you have the desire and you put in the effort, you can do it. Don't be scared about the student loans; it's an investment in yourself."
[09:24]
Balancing Financial Considerations
Addressing the financial challenges of flight training, Kelly advises prospective pilots to view student loans as investments and encourages them to seek out schools that offer comprehensive support without excessive debt.
"Student loan debt is betting on yourself and investing in yourself. Don't be too scared about it."
[09:22]
Maintaining Passion and Resilience
Kelly underscores the importance of finding joy in the journey of becoming a pilot and remaining resilient through the inevitable ups and downs of training and career progression.
"Anything worthwhile is not always going to be easy. But if you find something you enjoy, it just happens to be aviation."
[91:22]
Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts
Throughout the episode, Kelly shares personal stories that reveal his dedication and passion for aviation. From surviving near-death experiences to building meaningful crew relationships, his experiences offer listeners a deep dive into the realities of being a commercial pilot.
"When you find something that you enjoy doing and you get someone to pay you to do it, you don't feel like you're working."
[92:31]
Kelly concludes by encouraging listeners to pursue their aviation dreams with determination and a willingness to overcome challenges, assuring them that the rewards of the profession are well worth the effort.
Notable Quotes
-
"Everything is different whether it's the weather, the weight of the aircraft. That makes a huge difference."
Kelly Fox, [15:15] -
"Air acts like liquid. It moves and floats like liquid. Think of it like being on a lake."
Kelly Fox, [41:14] -
"There's a healthy fear is necessary. Don't let anybody tell you it's wrong to have a fear."
Kelly Fox, [42:00] -
"As a pilot, you have to keep your ego in check. It's 99% sheer boredom with 1% just terror."
Kelly Fox, [43:25]
Conclusion
Episode 58 of the Interesting Humans Podcast offers an enthralling exploration of Kelly Fox's aviation career, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of piloting commercial jets. Jeff Hopeck skillfully navigates through Kelly's stories, providing listeners with both technical insights and personal reflections. This episode serves as an inspiring resource for those considering a career in aviation and celebrates the dedication of pilots who navigate the skies with skill and courage.
Thank you for reading the summary of Episode 58: Pilot's Trifecta of Near-death Experiences & More. For more fascinating stories and insights, tune into the Interesting Humans Podcast hosted by Jeff Hopeck.