We’re absolutely smitten by this couple, who have been learning to fly together at High Flight Academy. JP and Cindy decided to take their love of traveling to the next level by getting their private pilot certificates.
It’s been an honor to help them learn and grow together. We asked them to share a little bit about their unique experience.
What made you two decide to get your certificates?
One of the most compelling reasons to get our private pilot license was because we love to travel and fly to various destinations. We enjoy the challenge of learning and accomplishing lifelong goals. Another reason is both of our fathers were in the Airforce of the United States, which motivated us towards this accomplishment.
How does studying together help more than individual training?
To have another person, in the same household, studying alongside you is a huge benefit! Each one has their forte, therefore, when one of us doesn’t have an answer, the one does. We can question each other, while the other one answers.
Whose idea was it to get your certificates?
Definitely, JP’s! He has been the catalyst, but Cindy has been there right along supporting and enjoying completing the milestones to become a pilot.
Do either of you have additional plans to further your aviation after you get your private?
Absolutely! We are planning on getting our instrument, commercial – and after that, the sky is the limit!
Who’s a better pilot? Do you two compete to do better?
JP! He is more confident in his flying. No, we do not compete. Safety is always number one. We both have our strengths and weaknesses, that’s why a team makes it advantageous for us.
Do your children support your goals of becoming pilots?
Oh my yes! They are anticipating telling others that their parents are pilots! They have accompanied us on flights, as we have been learning!
Where do you want to go for your first trip together as pilots?
Italy! Lol! We have potentially discussed Niagara Falls.
We have enjoyed our training at High Flight Academy with their professionalism and Carrie, as our flight instructor. Flying together allows you to be able to discuss and relate to each other. When JP soloed, and then I did, I knew EXACTLY the WOW factor in that I FLEW A PLANE!! When you have never experienced that, you try and relay that feeling, it is just not possible. We have always been a team from day one, October 21, 1995, and this is another team goal that we are endeavoring to accomplish.