How ironic!! Today was my last flight -42 years as a pilot, but 80 years has caught up to me, and it is time to leave my piloting behind me. I have no regrets, and wish I could fly forever. But that is only emotions talking. Thank you Aviation for the great ride✌🏻
Knew a 90 year old man at a flying community he knew he was no longer safe to fly alone. He put a sign out in his front yard asking for pilots to fly with him as a safety pilot. He flew that plane for years every day with a safety pilot then at 93 he decided to fly with angels. Lots of young guys got hours with him it was very cool.
As a CFI and flew safety pilot for fun with some older gentlemen. It was some of the greatest flying I have done. It was like flying and hanging out with my dad as he passed so many years ago first to Alzheimer than his final journey home. I sure miss my dad.
When I was in for my last medical, the guy who was in the appointment before me was 94 and still flying. Amazing. What we put in our mouths over a lifetime makes a big difference.
Bryan, this was such a nice tribute to 25MV, your father's experience as a pilot, and your relationship with him. I hope you both enjoy many more years of fun flights in the Comanche!
My dad passed when I was 5, he was training to be a pilot. His dad passed when I was 11, he was a pilot. At 33, I'm finally at a place in life where I've started flight training. I've always felt a connection to them through my love of aviation. This video was a rollercoaster. I spent the first part seeing myself in you, thinking about how cool it would be to have the opportunity to be a part of my dad's last flight if he were still around. Then, at some point of listening to your banter, I sort of shifted to sitting in your dad's seat. Thinking about how cool it will be, one day, to share my last flight with one of my children. I'm not sure what the point in saying all that was. But I appreciate you sharing this with us. Was cool to experience it through both of your eyes.
Awesome video and wise words - the ultimate no-go judgment call. My dad (and CFI) was still flying as he approached 90. It was becoming clear that conversation was approaching, and I would be the one who would have to tell him to stop flying. Fortunately (for me) FAA Aeromedical did that for me. He’s still upset he can’t fly at 96, even though he clearly would not be safe doing so, but at least he’s not mad at me. As a result of seeing he would be out of the game, I made the decision to become a CFI. Some our last flights together were on commercial maneuvers and then transition to right seat. Being a CFI is one of the most rewarding things I have done and a tribute to his legacy. My first student was the son of my dad’s last student.
Please get him in front of a camera and get him talking. Someone who can do interviews please sit down with this national treasure and get our history on video.
That's the two things we pilots fear most: Having to give it up and fearing not finding the right time to do so. The time will come for every pilot unfortunately. What probably helped him might be that he still could go flying with you if the itch is becoming too big. (keep the logo - it's fun! Nobody (except me) wants to see a comanche on floats) 😂
Just met a gentleman here in the Tulsa area flying a BC-12 Taylorcraft. He was solo and he said "sometimes people don't want to fly in a 75 year old plane with an 88 year old pilot". When she feels like it, his wife puts her walker behind the seat and flies with him. He rebuilt the plane himself. He was an instructor in that plane when he was 18 or 19 and then quit flying for 50 years...found the plane and rebuilt it. If he doesn't make the coffee and donuts at Haskell airport on Saturdays he says "it's below 40 degrees and my starter doesn't work that cold"! He hand props it. I only hope that the Lord allows me to fly until that age.
Thank you, for sharing! Arriving at that point at 71 and over 50 years of flying military, SWA, and my own planes. Praying my last flight is with my son who has followed in my footsteps! I share your dad’s thoughts and feeling!
I'm glad you got to take his last flight with him and document that flight. Thank you for sharing this and driving this discussion about a decision everybody will eventually face about something. A great reminder how we all have to be honest with ourselves about when it's time to stop vs risking pushing past the point it makes sense.
Beautiful video, thank you for sharing with us. For me I had no idea my “lasts” would be lasts. What gets me about it is the solo flights. There is something so special about being solo; just you and the plane. While my mind is pretty mixed up these days; every once in a while I still get so saddened over not being able to fly alone. I try to make a point to remember the feeling of me and “my” dear 152 together exploring the skies. I don’t ever want to forget that feeling.
I just want to thank the two of you for allowing us to come along on your flight. I wish my dad and I could have had such an experience together. This was an absolutly awesome video. Again thanks.
Geez Brian, first the sunset flight with your daughter, now the final flight with your pops as PIC.? I’m not crying, you’re crying. Seriously, as always, nicely done.
I am glad you got the chance to share a great activity with your pops. Both of you will never forget that, or regret that. Your Dad is a smart guy... and seems healthy with a long life still ahead... I am sure he will be in the air, perhaps not as PIC... but lots of flying adventures still to come.
Great video, Bryan!! You, your dad, and family are blessed, that he knew it was time to "pull the mixture". I've heard all my life that bullshit saying... "He died doing what he loved." Well... I love flying airplanes, and love riding fast motorcycles... but I don't want to die doing neither one!!😅😂
Dang it Bryan, I started tearing up before the Gold Seal logo come on 52 seconds in! Great video and a really special time with your Dad. (You two are way too much alike!)
It is wonderful you were able to document this final flight with your pops. Hopefully you and your family can look back to this video for years to come and smile. Very awesome and touching stuff Bryan.
Excellent video Bryan, I also remembered when I came to the decision to hang up the headsets. The decision came a couple years before I actually did though, we enjoy a special freedom having the ability to fly as we do. It is hard to explain when the converging lines between the fun of it and the risk of this freedom cross, and you just know it is time. Thanks to you and our many pilot friends that still welcome this old pilot to partake in your adventures as well. You need to drag your dad up to 6Y9 some year, would love to meet him.
Love your Dads stories and tidbits. Can’t believe one day we’ll have to hang up our wings, but kudos to your dad for realizing that time had come. The good thing is he will be able to keep experiencing flying through his son :).
What a great video!! Loved watching the interaction and how well you and your dad get along. Takes me back to the days I could still do things with my dad and all of us can relate to that! I loved the comedic breakups they were all so natural and just show what kind of great human beings you are. I'm like you in wanting to have this kind of a video record for, and of your family. Your mom will love being able to watch this. Thanks for putting it out there for the world too! Your dad really did grease that landing! Have to add, the 5 years I lived in Texas from early 1971 to late 75, I missed the snow too!!! Blue skys and thanks for putting this out!
Another great video, Bryan! Not every video subject needs to be "silly". Very meaningful and instructive...a topic pilots like me in their late 60's need to take to heart (for future reference). I'm glad you could have that special trip with your Dad. I have a feeling you'll cherish this video in years to come.
Touching video…thank you for sharing…hard to see a man hang up his wings but his wisdom trumped his ego…and we should all tip our hats and follow his lead. Love the father/son dynamic! Well done!
Bryan, I really enjoyed your video and I watched every minute! So heartfelt and well-done. My Father was a private pilot before I was born and unfortunately he died before I started my piloting career. I would LOVE to have a flight like that with him but no sadness here. I’m so happy for you and your father. What an elegant way to wrap it up with a bow. I hope we see each other at Osh this year. Safe travels!
I didn't think I'd be patient enough to watch you talk for that long, but I enjoyed the whole thing. I didn't get to make my last flight decision, my body and my doctor (AME) did it for me. On a rare occasion, I've flown with somebody else being the pilot in command. Then I get all the fun and no responsibility.
Two veteran pilots struggling to spot the airport reminds me of failing my PP check ride in 1976 because I could not find the tiny airport I’d been told to divert to. No navaids in that old C 150 to make it easy. I felt stupid and a little embarrassed at the time, so seeing this so many years later made me feel better 😊. Sold my share of an RV12 a few years back, mostly because I had no place to go. Now, 6 years into retirement I can’t help but fantasize about an ultralight that I can trailer to and from the airport and just be able to go UP and tootle around the countryside now and then at minimal expense. Great video.
Great video Bryan. As someone who took the responsibility of telling a dear friend that it was time to give up flying, I wish every pilot could see this video. Telling my friend that it was time for them to quit flying was probably the most difficult conversation that I've ever had. Thank you for sharing the experience with us.
Thank you. Great video. I'm not a pilot but I had a dad. Your love for him is abundantly obvious. In your father's case the apple didn't fall far from the tree. Two great people being honest - and with a great sense of humour, the most treasured of human traits. Give your dad a huge hug from the whole community.
This is by far the bet video you've ever created. Brings tears to my eyes thinking of me and my son as pilot and copilot. While I am still young, 52, that time will come. Thank you so much for this!
Great video! Congrats to your dad! This is an issue that all of us have to face eventually and the difficulty of that decision depends greatly on how much aviation and being a pilot makes up who you are or have become. I started flying when I was 13 working at a small airport mowing grass, washing and gassing airplanes in exchange for flying lessons. that eventually turned into 41 years with a major airline with the FAA making my decision to leave that great career at 65 and this year I will turn 70. While I still own 2 airplanes and fly well over 125 hours a year, I think the key to this decision is to start facing the eventuality of when you need to step away early so, like your dad, the decision can be yours not someone else's. I am very fortunate, like your dad to have a son who now has a career in aviation so he can be PIC and I can keep telling what he's doing wrong! Thanks again for such a great video!
I understand completely. I was late to the game, getting my ticket at 54. Now I’m 73 with 1880 hours and I’m starting to think about hanging it up. I’m thinking the 2000 hour mark would be a good one.
This was really touching and causes us to think about the enivitable decision we are all hoping that we are around long enough to make. God Bless your old man.
I was going to say it anyway, but your ending summed it up perfectly. This video was for you and your dad that happened to also be shared with us. Memories are why I film, too. Hopefully someday my kids will watch them and it will rekindle fond memories
Really enjoyed your video and listening in on the conversation between you and your father! My father had been a pilot but stopped flying before I was born! I eventually became a pilot and was able to take him flying a few times in his final years. Good memories!
Thank you to both of you for sharing this video Time is our greatest enemy I’m 58 and I started this just a few years ago As I was buying my first plane (2021) my A&P asked me if I had the finances to do this, at this point my greatest flying lesson began I began to learn that everything in a pilots life/career is based on time - literally Blue skies, David
Been soo much fun watching this journey .. the entire journey. Love the flights with your dad and family comments. Extremely relatable. Kudos to your dad for his awareness and decision. He is setting an amazing example. Well done! Best wishes to the new owners of 25MV. She's a fantastic platform and love that she is going to an aviation family again.
Interesting thoughts at the end. I didn't get my PPL until I was in my 6th decade. I hope to enjoy it a little longer. I'm also glad to see that I'm not the only one that has difficulty spotting airports! Thank you to you both for sharing.
Hey thanks for sharing. Like your Dad, I came to aviation late. Really wish my parents were around to see me get my ticket. I know my Dad would've teared up on our first flight together. Your old man is one cool Dad (like mine).
This past month I made 51 years flying, I'm going to be 70 in August. 3 years ago my doctor said he couldn't renew my 2nd class medical, he gave me a 3 rd class and said the FAA will probably reject it. I thought that day that my flying career was over and you couldn't have told me I was dying in a week, that's how I felt. Luckily the FAA approved it, I then got the basic med. I can tell you it will hurt my heart the day I have to give it up, but I'm smart enough to know that I will have to make that decision someday.
Wish my father was around to see me fly and fly with him... I'm sure you'll all have allot more adventures flying with the birds and backing one another up.
The first hint you are getting older…. Your insurance company says they won’t insure you anymore… for no other reason than your birthday. Some people wait for their retirement to start flying… There is an interesting video of a WWII veteran flying his Mooney M20C solo, on his 100th birthday… just because he could. Get started earlier! (Use your son as a safety pilot if needed!) 😃
Fantastic video and discussion, Bryan. Kudos to your dad, and to you for raising such an important topic. My dad wasn’t a pilot, but with both him and my father in law, we got to the point of talking about whether it was time to take away their drivers licenses. For us pilots, I imagine it’s an even harder decision, because it’s such a huge part of who we are and what defines us. It makes me want to almost create an IMSAFE checklist for that final go/no go call.
Thanks for posting this video; that was a very special flight with your dad. My father decided to give up flying at around age 80 when he found himself starting to forget a few things and make some errors (even though he was - and still is - quite sharp). I'm sure it was a tough decision, as a former military pilot and someone who loved flying and was rated in practically everything except balloons and helicopters, but it was wise. I just hope I can keep flying at least as long as that - and I still need to give him a ride now that I'm a pilot. :)
Didn’t know you had a Socata back in the day. My first plane (and the plane that I trained on to get my private) was a TB20. Great plane, shoulda stuck with it!
I'm not saying anything the previous 172 comments have said, but.. thank you for this. This is a great video and a good bookend to his flying life. There's something about flying that makes me aware that there's a lifespan on my flying career, more than there is a lifespan on my life. IDK, maybe these are just standard midlife thoughts. as the kids would say, that destination airport is sus. 25:30 I'm glad it's a scrapbook too. favorite stories: "duct taped plane" alternator and "yellow light" travolta's neighbor's airplane
Pretty cool video. My dad had his last flight last year. He crashed. Thats how we knew it was time. Edit: I should probably mention he walked away uninjured.
I'm 35, and I still have a lot of flying ahead of me, but even thinking about making such a decision makes me sad. Thanks for sharing, he is still a great pilot, maybe instead of stopping flying he can always fly with a second pilot on the plane.
I really appreciate you making this video, about your dad and you flying. And his decision to stop flying his own plane. This demonstrates the responsible decisions that we have to make in our lives. We will all reach the point at which we have to make our own personal decisions about whether we continue, to drive or not drive, or any number of things. I'm sure you both will have many hours together in the cockpit in the future! I like your Avi, if it were me I would leave it the same. Thanks again
Hardest decision ever in a pilot's life! But it's great he could keep it up until 80. I see some people sadly hanging it up much earlier, too (medical, costs, lack of further development possibilities etc.)
I suspect this video will garner many comments - at 73 with more than 40 years active flying it is an important topic - while my goal is to make that choice as your dad did my spouse knows to watch for anything that may clue to my skills - our plane is a single engine complex fast plane and no parachute- kudos to your dad - well done sir - at least he can fly with you some and not go cold turkey - lost my dad very early - he never flew with me - life is a harsh teacher. Blue skies
Hey Bry, I watched EVERY SINGLE SECOND of this video. Dude, I envy your relationship with your dad. To have aviation as a common bond is awesome. Don't call your airplane a "junky ole comanche" I kinda like 420P (does the P stand for puff or pass?) One day I hope to fly it with you. After all, you got to ride my airplane.. On a serious note, I am in your footsteps in an similar story.. Uncle Steve has hung up the headset at 80. I think the deciding factor was medical advise and the last time we flew together, he really scared himself trying to stay 60 seconds ahead of the aircraft. I will always watch your content, keep those videos comin!!!
What I can't believe is why you haven't introduced your dad to the new 5flight app that comes with a stand alone Speak and Spell😆 Seriously though great video and its awesome to see you two still getting to spend quality time together. Take your dad flying as much as you can Bryan
Built a Kitfox - needed a tailwheel endorsement- find a instructor with a kitfox - 63 T/O and landings later - realized I'm not having fun, reflexes not the same, time to quit. 80 years old, 47 years flying. I'm happy and the wife is overjoyed as she would have never flown with me!
Well done, what a great tribute.
Thanks Jimmy.
How ironic!! Today was my last flight -42 years as a pilot, but 80 years has caught up to me, and it is time to leave my piloting behind me. I have no regrets, and wish I could fly forever. But that is only emotions talking. Thank you Aviation for the great ride✌🏻
Enjoy the memories
I’m sorry..but so happy that you’ve got the experience you did.
This is such a great video. Learning about your dad.... this whole video is so well done. Thanks for making it Bryan.
Knew a 90 year old man at a flying community he knew he was no longer safe to fly alone. He put a sign out in his front yard asking for pilots to fly with him as a safety pilot. He flew that plane for years every day with a safety pilot then at 93 he decided to fly with angels. Lots of young guys got hours with him it was very cool.
What a fantastic story, aviation is such an amazing community!
As a CFI and flew safety pilot for fun with some older gentlemen. It was some of the greatest flying I have done.
It was like flying and hanging out with my dad as he passed so many years ago first to Alzheimer than his final journey home. I sure miss my dad.
When I was in for my last medical, the guy who was in the appointment before me was 94 and still flying. Amazing. What we put in our mouths over a lifetime makes a big difference.
What a great father/son moment. You’ll treasure this memory forever. What a cool guy
Bryan, this was such a nice tribute to 25MV, your father's experience as a pilot, and your relationship with him. I hope you both enjoy many more years of fun flights in the Comanche!
This was a beautiful tribute to your dad. What a great relationship you have!
My dad passed when I was 5, he was training to be a pilot. His dad passed when I was 11, he was a pilot.
At 33, I'm finally at a place in life where I've started flight training. I've always felt a connection to them through my love of aviation.
This video was a rollercoaster. I spent the first part seeing myself in you, thinking about how cool it would be to have the opportunity to be a part of my dad's last flight if he were still around.
Then, at some point of listening to your banter, I sort of shifted to sitting in your dad's seat. Thinking about how cool it will be, one day, to share my last flight with one of my children.
I'm not sure what the point in saying all that was. But I appreciate you sharing this with us. Was cool to experience it through both of your eyes.
Bryan, this brings many slow tears. Thank you for sharing these stories. Story is one of the few common threads that knits us all together.
Awesome video and wise words - the ultimate no-go judgment call. My dad (and CFI) was still flying as he approached 90. It was becoming clear that conversation was approaching, and I would be the one who would have to tell him to stop flying. Fortunately (for me) FAA Aeromedical did that for me. He’s still upset he can’t fly at 96, even though he clearly would not be safe doing so, but at least he’s not mad at me. As a result of seeing he would be out of the game, I made the decision to become a CFI. Some our last flights together were on commercial maneuvers and then transition to right seat. Being a CFI is one of the most rewarding things I have done and a tribute to his legacy. My first student was the son of my dad’s last student.
It was still funny, Brian. Your Dad's quip about coming back to the racetrack if you needed it later, was priceless. What a great guy! 👌
FWIW, a friend of mine finally hung up his Comanche wings at 97! He flew P-51's and was in training for B-29's when the war ended.
Please get him in front of a camera and get him talking. Someone who can do interviews please sit down with this national treasure and get our history on video.
That's the two things we pilots fear most: Having to give it up and fearing not finding the right time to do so. The time will come for every pilot unfortunately.
What probably helped him might be that he still could go flying with you if the itch is becoming too big.
(keep the logo - it's fun! Nobody (except me) wants to see a comanche on floats) 😂
I am 73, and just had my last flight delivering my Mooney to the new owner after a 6 hour flight here in Australia, happy to let it go
Your dad is not only wise but also very fortunate to have a loving son he can fly with for many years to come. May God bless you both.
Just met a gentleman here in the Tulsa area flying a BC-12 Taylorcraft. He was solo and he said "sometimes people don't want to fly in a 75 year old plane with an 88 year old pilot". When she feels like it, his wife puts her walker behind the seat and flies with him. He rebuilt the plane himself. He was an instructor in that plane when he was 18 or 19 and then quit flying for 50 years...found the plane and rebuilt it. If he doesn't make the coffee and donuts at Haskell airport on Saturdays he says "it's below 40 degrees and my starter doesn't work that cold"! He hand props it. I only hope that the Lord allows me to fly until that age.
Thank you, for sharing! Arriving at that point at 71 and over 50 years of flying military, SWA, and my own planes. Praying my last flight is with my son who has followed in my footsteps! I share your dad’s thoughts and feeling!
Thank you Bryan (and your Dad) for a really well done, heartfelt, and moving video, story, and flight. God bless and sunny skies
I'm glad you got to take his last flight with him and document that flight.
Thank you for sharing this and driving this discussion about a decision everybody will eventually face about something.
A great reminder how we all have to be honest with ourselves about when it's time to stop vs risking pushing past the point it makes sense.
Beautiful video, thank you for sharing with us.
For me I had no idea my “lasts” would be lasts.
What gets me about it is the solo flights. There is something so special about being solo; just you and the plane. While my mind is pretty mixed up these days; every once in a while I still get so saddened over not being able to fly alone. I try to make a point to remember the feeling of me and “my” dear 152 together exploring the skies. I don’t ever want to forget that feeling.
I just want to thank the two of you for allowing us to come along on your flight. I wish my dad and I could have had such an experience together. This was an absolutly awesome video. Again thanks.
Geez Brian, first the sunset flight with your daughter, now the final flight with your pops as PIC.? I’m not crying, you’re crying.
Seriously, as always, nicely done.
I am glad you got the chance to share a great activity with your pops. Both of you will never forget that, or regret that. Your Dad is a smart guy... and seems healthy with a long life still ahead... I am sure he will be in the air, perhaps not as PIC... but lots of flying adventures still to come.
Great video, Bryan!! You, your dad, and family are blessed, that he knew it was time to "pull the mixture".
I've heard all my life that bullshit saying... "He died doing what he loved." Well... I love flying airplanes, and love riding fast motorcycles... but I don't want to die doing neither one!!😅😂
Dang it Bryan, I started tearing up before the Gold Seal logo come on 52 seconds in! Great video and a really special time with your Dad. (You two are way too much alike!)
It is wonderful you were able to document this final flight with your pops. Hopefully you and your family can look back to this video for years to come and smile. Very awesome and touching stuff Bryan.
Excellent video Bryan, I also remembered when I came to the decision to hang up the headsets. The decision came a couple years before I actually did though, we enjoy a special freedom having the ability to fly as we do. It is hard to explain when the converging lines between the fun of it and the risk of this freedom cross, and you just know it is time. Thanks to you and our many pilot friends that still welcome this old pilot to partake in your adventures as well. You need to drag your dad up to 6Y9 some year, would love to meet him.
Love your Dads stories and tidbits. Can’t believe one day we’ll have to hang up our wings, but kudos to your dad for realizing that time had come. The good thing is he will be able to keep experiencing flying through his son :).
What a great video!! Loved watching the interaction and how well you and your dad get along. Takes me back to the days I could still do things with my dad and all of us can relate to that!
I loved the comedic breakups they were all so natural and just show what kind of great human beings you are.
I'm like you in wanting to have this kind of a video record for, and of your family. Your mom will love being able to watch this. Thanks for putting it out there for the world too!
Your dad really did grease that landing! Have to add, the 5 years I lived in Texas from early 1971 to late 75, I missed the snow too!!! Blue skys and thanks for putting this out!
Another great video, Bryan! Not every video subject needs to be "silly". Very meaningful and instructive...a topic pilots like me in their late 60's need to take to heart (for future reference). I'm glad you could have that special trip with your Dad. I have a feeling you'll cherish this video in years to come.
I will for sure. Thank you.
Touching video…thank you for sharing…hard to see a man hang up his wings but his wisdom trumped his ego…and we should all tip our hats and follow his lead. Love the father/son dynamic! Well done!
Bryan, I really enjoyed your video and I watched every minute! So heartfelt and well-done. My Father was a private pilot before I was born and unfortunately he died before I started my piloting career. I would LOVE to have a flight like that with him but no sadness here. I’m so happy for you and your father. What an elegant way to wrap it up with a bow. I hope we see each other at Osh this year. Safe travels!
I didn't think I'd be patient enough to watch you talk for that long, but I enjoyed the whole thing. I didn't get to make my last flight decision, my body and my doctor (AME) did it for me. On a rare occasion, I've flown with somebody else being the pilot in command. Then I get all the fun and no responsibility.
Thank you for capturing and sharing this flight. What an experience.
Two veteran pilots struggling to spot the airport reminds me of failing my PP check ride in 1976 because I could not find the tiny airport I’d been told to divert to. No navaids in that old C 150 to make it easy. I felt stupid and a little embarrassed at the time, so seeing this so many years later made me feel better 😊. Sold my share of an RV12 a few years back, mostly because I had no place to go. Now, 6 years into retirement I can’t help but fantasize about an ultralight that I can trailer to and from the airport and just be able to go UP and tootle around the countryside now and then at minimal expense. Great video.
I loved giving both of you instrument lessons! 25MV will always have a special place in my logbook (and in my heart ❤).
Great video Bryan. As someone who took the responsibility of telling a dear friend that it was time to give up flying, I wish every pilot could see this video. Telling my friend that it was time for them to quit flying was probably the most difficult conversation that I've ever had. Thank you for sharing the experience with us.
I'm 77, planning to stop at 80 years old. My son will let me know, too. Thanks for this story!
Thank you. Great video. I'm not a pilot but I had a dad. Your love for him is abundantly obvious. In your father's case the apple didn't fall far from the tree. Two great people being honest - and with a great sense of humour, the most treasured of human traits. Give your dad a huge hug from the whole community.
This is by far the bet video you've ever created. Brings tears to my eyes thinking of me and my son as pilot and copilot. While I am still young, 52, that time will come. Thank you so much for this!
Keep the logo as a tribute to your dad! Amazing video, you will remember this flight forever Bryan. Thanks for sharing!
Great video! Congrats to your dad! This is an issue that all of us have to face eventually and the difficulty of that decision depends greatly on how much aviation and being a pilot makes up who you are or have become. I started flying when I was 13 working at a small airport mowing grass, washing and gassing airplanes in exchange for flying lessons. that eventually turned into 41 years with a major airline with the FAA making my decision to leave that great career at 65 and this year I will turn 70. While I still own 2 airplanes and fly well over 125 hours a year, I think the key to this decision is to start facing the eventuality of when you need to step away early so, like your dad, the decision can be yours not someone else's. I am very fortunate, like your dad to have a son who now has a career in aviation so he can be PIC and I can keep telling what he's doing wrong! Thanks again for such a great video!
I understand completely. I was late to the game, getting my ticket at 54. Now I’m 73 with 1880 hours and I’m starting to think about hanging it up. I’m thinking the 2000 hour mark would be a good one.
Dude. Excellent in so many ways. So much respect for your dad. And for you, and your families. You guys do it right.
I fly a Socata Tobago TB10 now. Love that plane
They are great. We almost bought a 21 but the Cirrus won out. I liked the TB9 but it was pretty slow and didn't haul much.
Just disappointed that I couldn't give this video more than 1 like. Great memory for you and your Dad.
You are so lucky to have had these experiences with your Dad.
This was really touching and causes us to think about the enivitable decision we are all hoping that we are around long enough to make. God Bless your old man.
A topic relevant, to nearly all of us. Even if we only pilot a car.
Thanks for sharing.
🌿👋🏻
I was going to say it anyway, but your ending summed it up perfectly. This video was for you and your dad that happened to also be shared with us. Memories are why I film, too. Hopefully someday my kids will watch them and it will rekindle fond memories
“Here’s your airplane sir, I think you’re gonna need to get that repacked” 😅😅 I literally died 😂😂
Really enjoyed your video and listening in on the conversation between you and your father! My father had been a pilot but stopped flying before I was born! I eventually became a pilot and was able to take him flying a few times in his final years. Good memories!
Thank you to both of you for sharing this video
Time is our greatest enemy
I’m 58 and I started this just a few years ago
As I was buying my first plane (2021) my A&P asked me if I had the finances to do this, at this point my greatest flying lesson began
I began to learn that everything in a pilots life/career is based on time - literally
Blue skies,
David
I've listened to College Football on an ADF flying on a Saturday night
Been soo much fun watching this journey .. the entire journey. Love the flights with your dad and family comments. Extremely relatable. Kudos to your dad for his awareness and decision. He is setting an amazing example. Well done! Best wishes to the new owners of 25MV. She's a fantastic platform and love that she is going to an aviation family again.
My last flight was at age 76. Still had it, but a risk-management assessment led me to the correct decision - but still a tough one. Rick
Interesting thoughts at the end. I didn't get my PPL until I was in my 6th decade. I hope to enjoy it a little longer. I'm also glad to see that I'm not the only one that has difficulty spotting airports! Thank you to you both for sharing.
Hey thanks for sharing. Like your Dad, I came to aviation late. Really wish my parents were around to see me get my ticket. I know my Dad would've teared up on our first flight together. Your old man is one cool Dad (like mine).
Awesome story love y’all share the love of Avaiton. Thanks for sharing.
Very touching video Sir! Flying is my dad and I’s thing. Touches home. Thank you!
Whose cutting those onions. Thanks for sharing Bryan and Bryan sr.
@Just_Plane_Silly_YT. Ahhh man if only you were real, my dream would come true
Great, thanks for sharing Bryan.
This past month I made 51 years flying, I'm going to be 70 in August. 3 years ago my doctor said he couldn't renew my 2nd class medical, he gave me a 3 rd class and said the FAA will probably reject it. I thought that day that my flying career was over and you couldn't have told me I was dying in a week, that's how I felt. Luckily the FAA approved it, I then got the basic med. I can tell you it will hurt my heart the day I have to give it up, but I'm smart enough to know that I will have to make that decision someday.
Awesome video, all the way through. Thank you.
(I half-expected to see a Commanche on floats in the end, though)
Wish my father was around to see me fly and fly with him... I'm sure you'll all have allot more adventures flying with the birds and backing one another up.
Precious memories. Thanks for sharing.
The first hint you are getting older….
Your insurance company says they won’t insure you anymore… for no other reason than your birthday.
Some people wait for their retirement to start flying…
There is an interesting video of a WWII veteran flying his Mooney M20C solo, on his 100th birthday… just because he could.
Get started earlier! (Use your son as a safety pilot if needed!)
😃
Can't find the airport ... where have I heard that before ... oh, everytime it seems.
Thank you 25MV for starting this channel, i have laughed a lot because of you ;)
Can't lie, brought tears to my eyes. Thank you.
I'm surprised you didn't have a segment about putting old pilots out on the ice/snow to die as a joke of course. Great video.
Fantastic video and discussion, Bryan. Kudos to your dad, and to you for raising such an important topic. My dad wasn’t a pilot, but with both him and my father in law, we got to the point of talking about whether it was time to take away their drivers licenses. For us pilots, I imagine it’s an even harder decision, because it’s such a huge part of who we are and what defines us. It makes me want to almost create an IMSAFE checklist for that final go/no go call.
Thanks for sharing this flight!
Heavy stuff for a Saturday morning.
Well done.
Outstanding! Your Dad is awesome 👌 😊
This episode is full of wisdom and comradery. Thank you.
Thanks for posting this video; that was a very special flight with your dad. My father decided to give up flying at around age 80 when he found himself starting to forget a few things and make some errors (even though he was - and still is - quite sharp). I'm sure it was a tough decision, as a former military pilot and someone who loved flying and was rated in practically everything except balloons and helicopters, but it was wise. I just hope I can keep flying at least as long as that - and I still need to give him a ride now that I'm a pilot. :)
A very special video which has a wonderful message...shows your true serious love of flying and family...well done BrYan!
I probably flew that plane from Parks. I graduated from there in 96.
Glad to be part of your subs Brian
Didn’t know you had a Socata back in the day. My first plane (and the plane that I trained on to get my private) was a TB20. Great plane, shoulda stuck with it!
Great chemistry between the two of you. As they say, the acorn didn't fall far from the tree. Not that I am calling you a nut, but ...
This is something to consider thinking about one day
I'm not saying anything the previous 172 comments have said, but.. thank you for this. This is a great video and a good bookend to his flying life. There's something about flying that makes me aware that there's a lifespan on my flying career, more than there is a lifespan on my life. IDK, maybe these are just standard midlife thoughts.
as the kids would say, that destination airport is sus.
25:30 I'm glad it's a scrapbook too.
favorite stories:
"duct taped plane"
alternator and "yellow light"
travolta's neighbor's airplane
Excellent video, thanks for sharing.
Pretty cool video. My dad had his last flight last year. He crashed. Thats how we knew it was time. Edit: I should probably mention he walked away uninjured.
Very cool tribute to your dad. Bryan, I saw you today at KSLR. I was in the Cardinal. Nice L39’s, hopefully you caught a ride.
Cool. It was a great looking cardinal!
I did get a ride. I can't even describe how amazing it was.
@@JustPlaneSillyi saw the Comanche, but it didn’t click in my brain until we were taxiing by you that it was you.
Great topic to address. Thanks for being such a great example for everyone to emulate.
Did you edit out the barrel roll on final?
I'm 35, and I still have a lot of flying ahead of me, but even thinking about making such a decision makes me sad. Thanks for sharing, he is still a great pilot, maybe instead of stopping flying he can always fly with a second pilot on the plane.
I really appreciate you making this video, about your dad and you flying. And his decision to stop flying his own plane. This demonstrates
the responsible decisions that we have to make in our lives.
We will all reach the point at which we have to make our own personal decisions about whether we continue, to drive or not drive, or any number of things. I'm sure you both will have many hours together in the cockpit in the future!
I like your Avi, if it were me I would leave it the same. Thanks again
Thanks for sharing, what an emotional landing, nice work
Hardest decision ever in a pilot's life! But it's great he could keep it up until 80. I see some people sadly hanging it up much earlier, too (medical, costs, lack of further development possibilities etc.)
I suspect this video will garner many comments - at 73 with more than 40 years active flying it is an important topic - while my goal is to make that choice as your dad did my spouse knows to watch for anything that may clue to my skills - our plane is a single engine complex fast plane and no parachute- kudos to your dad - well done sir - at least he can fly with you some and not go cold turkey - lost my dad very early - he never flew with me - life is a harsh teacher. Blue skies
Hey Bry, I watched EVERY SINGLE SECOND of this video. Dude, I envy your relationship with your dad. To have aviation as a common bond is awesome. Don't call your airplane a "junky ole comanche" I kinda like 420P (does the P stand for puff or pass?) One day I hope to fly it with you. After all, you got to ride my airplane.. On a serious note, I am in your footsteps in an similar story.. Uncle Steve has hung up the headset at 80. I think the deciding factor was medical advise and the last time we flew together, he really scared himself trying to stay 60 seconds ahead of the aircraft. I will always watch your content, keep those videos comin!!!
It’s coming for all of us. But not today.
What I can't believe is why you haven't introduced your dad to the new 5flight app that comes with a stand alone Speak and Spell😆 Seriously though great video and its awesome to see you two still getting to spend quality time together. Take your dad flying as much as you can Bryan
Got a lump in my throat on your dad's last final. Enjoyed the entire video. Keep thechannel name. Thank you.
I got a lump in my throat too. It was the best flight and the hardest edit.
Awesome video! Salute to your dad
I'm not crying!! Your crying!!!!
Built a Kitfox - needed a tailwheel endorsement- find a instructor with a kitfox - 63 T/O and landings later - realized I'm not having fun, reflexes not the same, time to quit. 80 years old, 47 years flying. I'm happy and the wife is overjoyed as she would have never flown with me!