Autopilot On Podcast

Ep 30: Spirit Airlines Fails

Emergency Podcast. Around 3am on May 2nd, 2026 Spirit Airlines officially ceased operations, becoming the first Major US Airline to fail in over 30 years. In this emergen

Ep 29: 1-Year Anniversary, featuring Connor

In this special anniversary episode, hosts John, Scott, and Connor pull back the curtain on recent industry moves—from Spirit’s furlough recalls to Delta’s bold refinery

Ep 28: Managing Stress and Emotions During Operational Challenges

In this episode we tackle how airline crew members can manage stress, emotions, and interpersonal challenges during operational delays and adverse weather conditions. It

EP27: Switch Airlines or Ride It Out?

Stay or Leave? Every airline pilot hits this crossroads: keep the seniority + quality of life you’ve earned… or jump to a new airline for higher pay and long-term upside

EP26: Elon Musk VS Ryanair - A Surprise Airline Merger plus Southwest Seating Changes

This week’s aviation news roundup: Elon Musk vs Ryanair over Starlink inflight Wi-Fi and the “2% fuel burn” claim, a surprise Allegiant–Sun Country deal ($1.5B) that sign

Ep 25: A Guide to Becoming a Part 91 and Contract Pilot

In the first episode of 2026, we engage in a lively discussion about the aviation industry, focusing on the experiences of Hugh Wade, a seasoned Part 91 pilot with a dive

Ep 24: Christmas Special with Connor

In this Christmas Special episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, Scott and Connor discuss various topics in aviation, including recent fatal accident data, the leadership c

Airlines Are Becoming Banks: Credit Cards, Loyalty, and Profit (w/ Jose) | Ep 23

In this episode, Scott and John welcome Jose. They discuss Jose's journey from flight instructing to flying for major airlines, including the challenges and experiences a

Ep 22: What Would Happen If Pilot Seniority Vanished Overnight?

In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, hosts John and Scott discuss their Thanksgiving experiences, including travel challenges and holiday traditions. They delve i

Ep 21: Spirit Pilot Exodus: Where Are They Going? Connor Is Back!

In this episode, Scott and Connor discuss the current state of the aviation industry, focusing on pilot attrition at Spirit Airlines and the hiring trends across various

Thanksgiving Special

We wanted to put out a quick special episode on Thanksgiving. We are grateful to all our viewers and wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving! Disclaimer: Any opinions and adv

Ep 20: Spirit Bankruptcy Update

In this episode, Scott and John discuss the latest developments surrounding Spirit Airlines, focusing on their bankruptcy proceedings, pilot concessions, and financial pe

Ep 19: Spirit Merger Predictions, ATC and the Shutdown, Balancing work-life, and more.

In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, Scott and John discuss the latest developments surrounding Spirit Airlines, including its financial struggles and potential a

Corporate Vs Airlines? with Guest Connor | Autopilot Podcast EP 18

In this episode, we welcome back Connor to discuss the differences between airline and corporate flying, exploring the unique challenges and benefits of each career path.

Ep 17 Vince, Social Media and the Aviation Industry, Spirit Bankruptcy

Vince is back by popular demand! In this conversation, the we discuss the challenges and responsibilities faced by Professional Aviators, emphasizing the importance of mo

Ep 16: Hiring Trends, Regionals, and Spirit Back in BK

In this episode, John and Scott discuss the current state of the aviation industry, focusing on pilot hiring trends, the challenges faced by regional airlines, and the re

Ep 15: Kora the Aviation Therapist

In this episode of the Autopilot On Podcast, Scott and John welcome Kora, the Aviation Therapist, to discuss the critical intersection of mental health and aviation. Kora

Ep 14: Coffee and Pretzels

In this engaging conversation, Greg Kaley, writer of Coffee and Pretzels, shares his journey as a Comic Artist and Airline Pilot, discussing the challenges and changes in

Ep 13: Fernando Contreras

In this episode, we welcome Fernando Contreras @captaincontreras, creator of Fit Aviators Club. We discuss the intersection of fitness and aviation, sharing personal jour

Ep 12: Connor

Autopilot On: An Aviation Podcast. Connor is back! In this episode we talk about Connor's experiences flying to exotic locations and the challenges of commuting for pilot