Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above!

Stefan Lorenz & Jürgen Reis
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Take off with us into the vast world of aviation – from cockpits to control towers, and from real pilot life to behind-the-scenes stories of those who keep aviation running. Hosted by passionate aviation enthusiasts Stefan Lorenz and Jürgen Reis, Aviation‑Quest.cc – Stories from Above is your gateway to inspiring conversations, expert insights, and untold aviation journeys. Whether you're a student pilot, seasoned professional, sim enthusiast, or simply aviation-curious – our podcast covers it all: • Flight training & pilot careers • ATC communication & safety topics • Aircraft maintenance & engineering • Flight simulation, aviation media, and more Jürgen, a long-time sports podcaster and former glider/motor-glider pilot, teams up with Stefan, an active Airbus A320 pilot and flight sim creator, to bring authentic, unfiltered conversations straight from the world above the clouds. Tune in, learn, laugh — and share the passion for flight. 🌐 Learn more about the podcast, the hosts, and exclusive aviation coaching opportunities at www.Aviation-Quest.cc

  1. 6d ago

    From Flight Student to Airline Cadet – The Journey of Pablo Padrón Sanz

    Episode 45 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Pablo Padrón Sanz, commercial pilot, former theoretical knowledge instructor, and one of the youngest guests ever featured on the podcast. The conversation begins with Pablo's current situation as he prepares for the next phase of his professional aviation journey after successfully completing the assessment process for a major European airline. Looking ahead to airline training, he reflects on the steps that brought him to this point at only 21 years of age. The discussion then traces his aviation journey back to the beginning. Pablo shares how a fascination with aircraft started during early childhood and gradually developed into a clear career goal. He discusses his ATPL training, the subjects he found most challenging, and the strategies that helped him overcome difficult phases along the way. A particularly interesting part of the conversation focuses on his experience as a theoretical knowledge instructor. Pablo explains how the opportunity arose, what he learned from teaching others, and why instructing helped strengthen his own understanding as a pilot. Together, they discuss: • Developing a passion for aviation at a young age • Choosing the ATPL training route • Overcoming challenges during flight training • Receiving the Commercial Pilot Licence • Teaching aviation theory to future pilots • Lessons learned from instructing others • Advice for student pilots and teenagers entering aviation Throughout the episode, Pablo shares practical advice, personal experiences, and a strong enthusiasm for aviation that has guided his development from student pilot to future airline pilot. The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an active airline pilot's perspective. This episode is designed for aspiring pilots, student pilots, and young aviation enthusiasts looking for practical insights into modern flight training, professional development, and building a successful aviation career from the ground up. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🛫 Want to follow Pablo's aviation journey? Find him on Instagram: @pablo.pdrn 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  2. Sep 6

    Adil Tagnaout – Aircraft Maintenance from the Inside

    Episode 44 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above welcomes Adil Tagnaout, a 28-year-old aircraft maintenance engineer from Morocco and the first African guest on the podcast. Recorded in early June 2026, host Jürgen Reis speaks with Adil about his current work in aircraft maintenance, his professional development, and the responsibilities that come with helping keep commercial aircraft safe and airworthy. The conversation begins with a look at Adil's current week and working environment, offering listeners an authentic glimpse into the realities of shift work and day-to-day operations in modern aircraft maintenance. Together, they discuss: - A typical week in the life of an aircraft maintenance engineer - Adil's path into aviation and why he chose maintenance - His continuing interest in becoming a pilot one day - How newcomers can enter the profession in 2026 - The training and qualifications required - The skills needed for long-term success in aircraft maintenance - The differences between line maintenance and base maintenance - The unique challenges of both environments - The responsibility that comes with signing off maintenance work - Professional standards, safety culture, and attention to detail - Personal motivation, future goals, and career development - Practical advice for young aviation enthusiasts considering the field The main interview is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an airline pilot's perspective to the discussion. This episode offers an informative and honest look behind the scenes of commercial aviation. While pilots are often the visible face of the industry, Adil highlights the highly skilled professionals who ensure that aircraft are ready to fly safely every day. His story demonstrates how dedication, continuous learning, and a strong sense of responsibility can open the door to a rewarding aviation career. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  3. Aug 30

    Dave Samson – Leadership, Professional Standards & Four Decades of Aviation Experience

    Episode 43 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Captain Dave Samson, G650 Captain, former Chief Pilot, and aviation professional with more than 44 years of experience in both military and corporate aviation. The conversation begins with a look at Captain Samson's current role and what a typical flying week involves today, both inside and outside the cockpit. He reflects on what continues to motivate him after more than four decades in aviation and how his perspective has evolved throughout his career. The discussion then traces his path from military aviation into the corporate aviation world. Drawing on extensive international experience, Captain Samson shares lessons learned from operating across different regions, cultures, and operational environments, as well as the insights that only years of practical experience can provide. A central theme of the episode is leadership. Having served as both Captain and Chief Pilot, he discusses how leadership responsibilities influenced his decision-making, professional standards, and approach to working with others. Together, they discuss: • The realities of professional flying today • Lessons from military and corporate aviation • International operations and global experience • Leadership in the cockpit and beyond • Risk management and professional decision-making • Industry changes over four decades • The future of corporate aviation • Advice for younger pilots building a long-term career Throughout the conversation, Captain Samson offers a calm and experience-driven perspective on professionalism, continuous learning, and maintaining high standards throughout an aviation career. The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an active airline pilot's perspective. This episode is designed for aspiring pilots, student pilots, and aviation professionals seeking practical insights from a career defined by experience, consistency, and long-term commitment to the profession. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  4. Aug 23

    From Airport Fence to Offshore Captain – Falko Baguhl’s Aviation Journey

    Episode 42 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above Recorded in May 2026, this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above welcomes helicopter pilot, line training captain, instructor, and examiner Falko Baguhl for a broad and highly personal look at his journey through professional aviation. Host Jürgen Reis begins where the story started: on short final to runway 23 at Hamburg Airport, where Falko grew up surrounded by aircraft, aviation noise, and the unmistakable smell of Jet A-1. What began as childhood fascination gradually evolved into a clear professional goal. The conversation explores Falko's early years in gliding, the important foundations sailplane flying provided, and his determination to pursue a career in helicopters. He openly discusses a major setback early in that journey when, despite successfully passing the selection process, the German Air Force had no demand for new helicopter pilots due to funding cuts. Rather than ending his aviation ambitions, the experience ultimately became a stepping stone toward a different path. The discussion then follows Falko's move to the United States, where he completed his helicopter training at Hillsboro Aviation in Oregon. He reflects on the differences between the FAA and European training environments, the challenges of intensive study, and the effort required to bridge operational and theoretical differences between the two systems. From there, the episode traces his first professional flying positions and the key career steps that eventually led him into offshore helicopter operations, instructional roles, and examiner responsibilities. Together, they discuss: - Growing up next to Hamburg Airport and developing an early aviation passion - Lessons learned from gliding and sailplane flying - The German Air Force selection process and an unexpected setback - Helicopter training in the United States - Differences between FAA and European aviation environments - Early professional flying experiences - Offshore helicopter operations and their unique demands - IFR flying in the helicopter world - Hoisting operations and the teamwork behind them - What line training teaches about people and performance - Attitude versus pure technical skill - How younger generations of pilots may differ from previous ones - Advice for young aviation enthusiasts considering a career in aviation Throughout the conversation, Falko provides a realistic and experience-driven perspective on aviation. While helicopter operations often appear spectacular from the outside, he emphasizes the professionalism, preparation, teamwork, and personal discipline that make such operations possible. The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an active airline pilot's perspective. This episode is recommended for aspiring pilots, student pilots, helicopter enthusiasts, and aviation professionals interested in the human side of building a career in flight operations—especially when the path to the cockpit does not always unfold as originally planned. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  5. Aug 16

    From First Flight to 3,000 Hours – James Parks on Building an Aviation Career

    Episode 41 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes James Parks, a 36-year-old professional pilot with more than 3,000 flight hours who is currently pursuing the next chapter of his aviation career. Recorded on July 7th, 2026, the conversation follows James' path from his first introduction to aviation through Caravan operations, cargo flying, skydiving flying, and even movie work. Along the way, he shares lessons learned from challenging years in aviation, demanding flying jobs, wind drops, professional decision-making, and the experiences that shaped him as a pilot. The discussion also explores networking within the aviation industry, what employers are looking for beyond flying skills, living lean while pursuing a professional career, the influence of faith, and the advice James would give both aspiring pilots and his own 250-hour self. Together, they discuss: - The journey to more than 3,000 flight hours - Caravan, cargo, skydiving, and movie flying - Wind drops and lessons from real-world operations - Networking and today's aviation hiring environment - Living lean while pursuing a flying career - Faith, motivation, and advice for young pilots The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. This episode is especially recommended for student pilots, flight instructors, commercial pilots, and anyone preparing for the next step in an aviation career. James shares a remarkable amount of practical experience and career advice, making this conversation well worth listening to more than once. --- ✈️ Connect with James Parks 📧 Email: Cfijamesparks@gmail.com 💼 LinkedIn: James Parks 📸 Instagram: @Endoviator ▶️ YouTube: @cfijamesparks5018 ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated "aviation-quest-podcast" section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience—from the first minute to the last.

  6. Aug 9

    A Lifetime of Precision Flying – In Conversation with Patty Wagstaff

    Episode 40 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above welcomes Patty Wagstaff, one of the most respected names in aerobatic aviation, multiple-time U.S. National Aerobatic Champion, airshow performer, flight instructor, and advocate for advanced pilot training. Recorded on June 10, 2026, host Jürgen Reis sits down with Patty for a thoughtful conversation about aviation, airmanship, and the lessons learned from decades spent flying at the highest levels of precision. Together, they discuss: - How aviation evolved from an early fascination into a lifelong profession and passion - Why she chose a very different path from the traditional airline career route - The unique appeal and discipline of aerobatic flying - How aerobatics shaped her understanding of aircraft control and airmanship - Why strong stick-and-rudder skills remain essential in modern aviation - The value of upset recovery training and its contribution to pilot safety - Managing pressure, maintaining precision, and performing consistently in competition - What continues to inspire her after decades in the cockpit - Her perspective on preserving the culture, values, and spirit of flying for future generations The main conversation is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an airline perspective to a discussion centered on fundamental flying skills and lifelong aviation learning. This episode offers a rare opportunity to hear one of aviation's most accomplished aerobatic pilots reflect not only on competition and training, but also on the deeper principles that continue to make flying meaningful after a lifetime in the air. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🌐 Interested in learning more about Patty Wagstaff's flight school, upset recovery training, and aviation programs? Visit www.pattywagstaff.com for further information. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  7. Aug 2

    John Pipkin – Classic Jets, FAA Leadership & Flying Beyond 80

    Episode 39 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above brings John Pipkin back into the “podcast cockpit” for a deeper follow-up conversation — recorded on May 9, 2026. Now 82 years old and still flying almost daily for a Sheriff’s Department in South Carolina, John once again shares the perspective of a pilot whose aviation life spans more than 30,000 flight hours across mission flying, airline operations, corporate aviation, FAA leadership, and law-enforcement work. Following the strong listener response to Episode 29, co-host and A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz listened closely to the original interview and forwarded a detailed set of follow-up topics to host Jürgen Reis — focusing especially on classic jetliners, cockpit evolution, FAA responsibilities, and operational flying. In this second telephone interview, John reflects on: • What made aircraft like the Boeing 727 and MD-80 so special from the pilot’s seat • What those classic airliners demanded from pilots in an era before modern glass cockpits and advanced flight management systems • How airline flying — and cockpit culture — changed across the decades • How T-tail aircraft and deep-stall awareness were approached in training and operational practice • His detailed responsibilities and experiences within the FAA • What his operational background taught him about aviation leadership and safety • Why fixed-wing aircraft still play an important role in modern Sheriff’s Department operations • The advantages airplanes can offer over helicopters in specific law-enforcement missions • How the German book “Traumberuf Pilot – Das unglaubliche Fliegerleben des John Pipkin” by Christoph Barszczewski came to life between Austria and South Carolina • What aviation still means to him today — after everything it has given and demanded over a lifetime in the air More than a technical discussion, this episode becomes a reflection on professionalism, responsibility, and enduring passion for flight. Intro and outro commentary by Jürgen Reis and co-host Stefan Lorenz (A320 First Officer). --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🌐 German book about John Pipkin's life in aviation by Christoph Barszczewski: https://buschpilot.at 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  8. Jul 26

    NOAA Hurricane Hunters with Commander Joshua Rannenberg – Research Aviation, Mission & Public Service

    In this 38th episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Commander Joshua Rannenberg, Hurricane Aircraft Commander and Instructor Pilot at the NOAA Aircraft Operations Center. Recorded in April 2026, this conversation provides a structured and professional overview of one of the most unique operational environments in aviation: airborne hurricane research missions in direct support of forecasting models and public safety. Commander Rannenberg begins by outlining the mission and role of the Aircraft Operations Center and how its crews contribute to the broader system of atmospheric data collection. A key distinction throughout the discussion is the role of NOAA aircraft in research-focused operations, where collected data is assimilated into advanced forecast models, improving not only the understanding of the current storm but also future forecasting accuracy. The discussion then moves into the operational aviation perspective, including the role of the Lockheed WP-3D Orion as NOAA’s primary hurricane research platform and how missions are conducted within a multi-disciplinary crew environment involving both pilots and onboard scientists. A central part of the episode focuses on professional development and training. Drawing on his background as a US Navy aviator and instructor pilot, Commander Rannenberg explains the transition into NOAA operations and the structured preparation required for this highly specialized form of flying. Together, they discuss: - The mission and research-focused role of NOAA’s Hurricane Hunters - How airborne data contributes to forecasting models and long-term prediction accuracy - The role of the WP-3D in hurricane research missions - Coordination between flight crew and scientific personnel onboard - The transition from military aviation into NOAA operations - Training standards and the role of instructor pilots - Responsibility and decision-making as an Aircraft Commander - Professional qualities required for this operational environment - Leadership, discipline, and consistency across demanding missions - Alternative aviation career paths beyond the airline sector - Personal reflections on contributing to a public-service mission Throughout the conversation, the focus remains clear: this is a mission-driven form of aviation where scientific contribution, professionalism, and operational discipline are central to every aspect of the operation. The main part of the podcast is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an active airline pilot’s perspective. This episode is designed for aspiring pilots, aviation professionals, and listeners interested in understanding how aviation expertise can be applied beyond traditional airline careers—within a highly specialized, research-driven, and public-service-focused environment. -- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🌪️ Learn More About NOAA Hurricane Hunters Official NOAA Hurricane Hunters: https://www.omao.noaa.gov/aircraft-operations/noaa-hurricane-hunters 🎥 Companion Video by Stefan Lorenz (FSClips): An Insight into the Hurricane Hunters – Coming to Our Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOVAObv3b_I This companion video includes original footage kindly provided by NOAA and offers an excellent visual introduction to the mission discussed in this episode. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions.

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About

Take off with us into the vast world of aviation – from cockpits to control towers, and from real pilot life to behind-the-scenes stories of those who keep aviation running. Hosted by passionate aviation enthusiasts Stefan Lorenz and Jürgen Reis, Aviation‑Quest.cc – Stories from Above is your gateway to inspiring conversations, expert insights, and untold aviation journeys. Whether you're a student pilot, seasoned professional, sim enthusiast, or simply aviation-curious – our podcast covers it all: • Flight training & pilot careers • ATC communication & safety topics • Aircraft maintenance & engineering • Flight simulation, aviation media, and more Jürgen, a long-time sports podcaster and former glider/motor-glider pilot, teams up with Stefan, an active Airbus A320 pilot and flight sim creator, to bring authentic, unfiltered conversations straight from the world above the clouds. Tune in, learn, laugh — and share the passion for flight. 🌐 Learn more about the podcast, the hosts, and exclusive aviation coaching opportunities at www.Aviation-Quest.cc

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