Autopilot On Podcast

Scott and John

A Professional Aviation podcast hosted by Scott and John. We discuss varied topics within our industry and current events/news related to aviation.

  1. 12/19/2025

    Ep 23: Jose

    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 along the way. The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of the airline industry, focusing on how airlines are adapting their business models in response to market changes and the increasing demand for premium travel experiences. They explore the significance of credit card programs in airline profitability and the impact of wealth transfer from boomers on travel trends. The episode concludes with insights into the future of aviation and the importance of meeting customer expectations. This conversation delves into the evolving landscape of the airline industry, focusing on the challenges faced by low-cost carriers, particularly Spirit Airlines, and the transformation of Southwest Airlines. The discussion highlights the impact of customer expectations, economic downturns, and competitive dynamics in the market, especially in relation to gate allocations in Chicago. The speakers also explore the future of ultra-low-cost carriers and the cyclical nature of the airline business, emphasizing the need for adaptability in a changing economic environment. Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors. Contact us: www.autopiloton.com autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com Follow on Instagram: @autopilotonpodcast Follow on X: https://x.com/Autopilotonpod Follow on TikTok: @autopilotonpodcast Notes/links: Airshow link on gate allocation: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1bfEVCfB14qjQ8PwLa41oz?si=49d1de46ca5f44e8 Link to Spirit selling Gates to AA for 30 mil: https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/spirit-airlines-transfers-chicago-airport-gates-american-airlines-30-million-2025-12-08/ Chapters: 00:00 Jose's Aviation Journey and Career Progression 06:40 Operational Differences Between Aircraft Types 17:21 The Evolution of Airline Business Models 32:37 The Transition of Low-Cost Carriers 44:45 Spirit Airlines: Current Challenges and Future Outlook 58:39 The Future of Spirit Airlines: Survival or Piecemeal Sale? 01:08:26 The Role of Low-Cost Carriers in a Changing Market

    1h 21m
  2. 11/04/2025

    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 acquisition by Frontier. They also delve into the impact of the government shutdown on air traffic control operations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the realities of the aviation industry. The hosts share personal experiences related to time management and the challenges of balancing work and life in aviation. Additionally, they explore various career paths for new pilots and introduce the Ford Method as a tool for building connections in the cockpit. Recorded 10/13/2025 Disclaimer: Any opinions and advice given are our own. We do not represent any company, airline, or organization. We are not licensed career or financial advisors. Contact us: www.autopiloton.com autopilotonpodcast@gmail.com Follow on Instagram: @autopilotonpodcast Follow on X: https://x.com/Autopilotonpod IG: @autopilotonpodcast TikTok: @autopilotonpodcast Notes: FORD method https://careerservices.fas.harvard.edu/blog/2024/01/22/learn-the-ford-method-and-youll-never-struggle-to-make-small-talk-again/ Cranky flier article on spirit https://crankyflier.com/2025/10/06/spirit-shrinks-by-more-than-half-may-have-hope-of-survival/ *The 150 million in cash to spirit was cut in a deal between the airline and AerCap, in exchange for returns on 27 leased aircraft, and letting Spirit out of 36 aircraft that have not been delivered. AerCap also gets a a large BK claim over $635 million from NK. Yahoo article on Spirit https://finance.yahoo.com/news/spirit-airlines-wins-475-million-195846986.html FAA Staffing Problem Articles https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/29112/chapter/14#24 https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/afn/offices/finance/offices/office-financial-labor-analysis/plans/controller-workforce.pdf Living the Dream! By balroc12 https://youtu.be/rNxz2hhSXuY?si=po220ZYvYld-A8fD Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:17 Spirit Airlines Update 12:43 Future of Spirit Airlines 21:12 Understanding Air Traffic Control During Government Shutdowns 34:19 Time Management and Life Balance in Aviation 41:07 Career Paths for New Commercial Pilots 49:53 Connecting with Colleagues: The Ford Method

    54 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

A Professional Aviation podcast hosted by Scott and John. We discuss varied topics within our industry and current events/news related to aviation.

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