In this episode, I open up about 4 personal flight training stories that shaped me as a pilot – and mistakes I hope you avoid:

1. My exhilarating (and hilarious) first solo at just 15 years old – the nerves, bumpy landing, perfect second try, and the mix-up that had my head instructor thinking I stole the plane!
2. The costly lesson of NOT researching regulations when switching from Canada to US flight training – how ignoring FAA vs Transport Canada differences set me back during instrument ground school.
3. How an unhealthy teenage relationship drained my energy and hurt my progress... until I learned the power of supportive, healthy relationships that accelerated my training.
4. The heart-pounding real engine failure during multi-engine climb – and how drilling emergency procedures saved the day with an automatic second nature response.

Whether you're a student pilot working on your PPL, instrument rating, multi-engine, or just dreaming of becoming a pilot, these stories deliver joy, tough lessons, and practical advice on preparation, mindset, relationships, and mastering emergencies.

Key takeaways for aspiring pilots:

• Always research regs before international training moves
• Protect your focus – toxic relationships can sabotage studies
• Practice emergency procedures until they're muscle memory

Free Resources: Check my Patreon for helpful flight training tools I used (linked below)!

If you're in flight school, considering pilot training in Canada or the US (Florida weather wins!), or love aviation stories – this episode is for you.

Chapters:
00:00 The Joy of First Solo Flight
03:03 Navigating International Flight Regulations
05:53 The Impact of Relationships on Training
09:11 Mastering Emergency Procedures

Subscribe for more pilot stories, flight training tips, aerospace insights, and aviation career advice. Like if these lessons hit home, comment your biggest training mistake below, and share with a fellow student pilot!

Learn more:
If you want to learn more about aviation or aerospace, reach out to Pilot Mercedes:
Follow on Instagram/TikTok: @skywardmercedes
Email: mercedes@skywardpodcast.com

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Patreon Community is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing aviation and aerospace enthusiasts like you, here’s your spot!
https://patreon.com/Skywardpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

🎙️ Hosted by Pilot Mercedes

With years of experience as a pilot, Pilot Mercedes brings you Skyward Podcast. Your go-to show for mastering flight training, building confidence, and exploring all the different layers of the aviation and aerospace industries. Learn the strategies that actually work from someone who’s been in the cockpit. Subscribe for bi-weekly aviation and aerospace stories and advice that help you soar to new heights!

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