The Air Up There

Federal Aviation Administration
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The Air Up There

Curious about aerospace? This podcast is for you! Tune in to hear inspiring stories from professionals in the field. Learn new concepts and more about the FAA's role in keeping our airspace safe. Find out about careers, programs, and organizations that can help you in your journey. We hope this podcast ignites your enthusiasm – because aerospace is for everyone! More Ways to ListenSpotifyApple PodcastsRSS FeedYouTubeTo receive updates about new episodes, subscribe to our newsletter.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Remix: Flying Feet First

    Meet Jessica Cox, a sport pilot born without arms who mastered flying an airplane with her feet. In this inspiring re-released episode, Jessica shares the journey that led to her Guinness World Record, the safety measures taken during her certification, and her ongoing mission to design a custom, foot-controlled airplane. She encourages everyone, especially those with disabilities, to consider the limitless possibilities in aviation.    Aerospace is for everyone! Ready to start your own journey? Visit the FAA’s Pilot's Portal for resources on certification, training, and safety standards.    Thanks for sticking around as we take a break for the offseason. It's the perfect opportunity to catch up on episodes you might have missed or revisit your favorites. During this time, we'll be re-releasing standout episodes like this one as we gear up for the second half of Season 7, launching this spring.   Meet Our Guest  Jessica Cox was born without arms and uses her feet the way most people use their hands. In 2008, she earned her sport pilot certificate, becoming the first woman to fly an airplane with only their feet. Jessica is a Goodwill Ambassador for the Flight School Association of North America and writes a monthly article for Flying Magazine. Jessica plans to build The Impossible Airplane, a 200 mph four-seat RV-10, the first solely foot-controlled airplane in history.   Disclaimer: Reference in this podcast to any specific commercial product, process, service, manufacturer, company, or trademark does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the U.S. government, Department of Transportation, or Federal Aviation Administration. As an agency of the U.S. government, the FAA cannot endorse or appear to endorse any specific product or service.

    11 min
  2. Fan Favorite Remix: Ready, Set, Drone Racing!

    NOV 20

    Fan Favorite Remix: Ready, Set, Drone Racing!

    Original air date: December 13, 2023 Elite drone pilots, custom-built high-speed drones, and groundbreaking technology come together in this fan-favorite episode featuring the Drone Racing League (DRL). Discover how DRL has revolutionized drone racing—transforming the sport into an immersive, high-stakes experience that seamlessly blends the virtual and physical worlds for an unmatched thrill. Chief Operating Officer Ashley Ellefson takes us behind the scenes, sharing the cutting-edge technology and engineering driving this new era of sports, while also revealing how aspiring pilots can get involved. Ashley also discusses the collaboration between the FAA and drone industry partners like DRL to safely integrate drone events into the national airspace system. If you missed this episode the first time, now is your chance to experience the rush and share it with fellow fans of aerospace and high-tech sports! Thanks for sticking around as we take a break for the off-season. It's the perfect opportunity to catch up on episodes you might have missed or revisit your favorites. During this time, we'll be re-releasing standout episodes like this one as we gear up for the second half of Season 7, launching this spring. Meet Our Guest:    Ashley Ellefson is the Chief Operating Officer at the Drone Racing League, the world’s premier, professional drone racing property, where she oversees the event production, technology and media teams. Honored as a Leaders Under 40 member, Cynopsis Top Women in Sports member and Connect Sports Game Changer, Ashley has helped DRL create a new era of sport through cutting-edge technology, world-class media, and event production, bringing high-speed drone racing across real-life and virtual courses. Prior to DRL, she served as the Vice President of New Event Development at Tough Mudder, where she developed and codified all of their event operation standards including health and safety, vendor management, and live event onsite operations.   Disclaimer: Reference in this podcast to any specific commercial product, process, service, manufacturer, company, or trademark does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the U.S. government, Department of Transportation, or Federal Aviation Administration. As an agency of the U.S. government, the FAA cannot endorse or appear to endorse any specific product or service.

    12 min

  3. NOV 6

    Bonus: 3 Stories of Aviation’s Trailblazing Women at EAA AirVenture

    Each year, hundreds of thousands of aviation enthusiasts come together for EAA AirVenture, a world-renowned annual airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. FAA air traffic controllers play a critical role at this event helping thousands of planes fly safely in and out of Wittman Regional Airport. Additionally, the FAA’s Safety Center hangar hosts safety briefings, hypoxia training sessions, and Aviation Medical Examiners who answer questions about medical certification. These are just some of the ways that the FAA educates the general aviation community to improve safety culture.     While at AirVenture, we spoke with three remarkable women making waves in aviation: Kay Hall (Fly With Kay), Christine Russell (Plane Lady), and Stephanie Goetz (Jet Girl Stephanie). With their shared love for aviation, each had a unique journey. In this special episode, hear about the pivotal moments that launched their aviation interests and get advice on finding your pathway into aerospace. Share this episode with friends, family, and colleagues. It’s a great listen for those curious about aviation, new to the field, or even seasoned flyers.      Thinking about becoming a pilot? Start your flight journey with the FAA’s Pilot Portal which has everything from study guides to information on certifications at www.faa.gov/pilots.      If you’re interested in pursuing a hands-on career beyond the flight deck, aviation mechanics are in high demand and the skills are highly transferable. Learn more about this well-paid opportunity at https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become.      Meet Our Guests   Christine Russell   Wanting to encourage and inspire other women and girls in the area of experimental aviation, Christine Russell created “Plane Lady” where she documents her experiences building a Van's RV-10 in her garage with her husband as well as other fun aviation adventures. Christine is part of the “What’s in Your Garage?” exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum and one of Flyer Magazine's 20 Favorite Aviation YouTubers.     Stephanie Goetz   Stephanie Goetz is an L-39 instructor pilot and flies the Bombardier Global 6000 for the world’s largest private jet company. She’s also an award-winning former news and sports anchor for NBC, CBS and ABC; a businesswoman; executive communication and leadership coach; philanthropist and TEDx speaker.     Kay Hall   Kay Hall is a certificated private pilot, former flight instructor and social media content creator for "FlyWithKay." She has earned the attention of millions of viewers documenting her travels in her airplane, "MystiK," a 1981 Piper Seneca III.

    7 min
  4. Be ATC REMIX: A Fulfilling Career in Air Traffic Control

    OCT 30

    Be ATC REMIX: A Fulfilling Career in Air Traffic Control

    Original air date: April 17, 2024 Flying safely to our destination is something we don’t take for granted, but have you ever thought about the intricate logistics that make it all possible? Air traffic controllers are among the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring the safety and efficiency of our airspace, and we need more of them! Air traffic control is a challenging career, but for those with the right skills and determination, it’s incredibly rewarding. In this episode from Season 6, we hear firsthand from FAA’s Jose Castellanos, a controller at the San Juan tower in Puerto Rico. Jose shares his journey into the field, which began with his acceptance into the FAA's Minority Serving Institutions internship program.  If you’re curious about becoming an air traffic controller and want to learn more, tune in to hear Jose share his top safety priorities, continuous learning strategies, and valuable advice for aspiring controllers. He also demonstrates interesting concepts like "phraseology," the specialized language used by controllers to communicate with pilots. A career in air traffic control offers advanced training, the opportunity to make a real impact, and professional fulfillment. If you're ready to take on this specialized and skilled profession we’re now accepting applications through November 4, 2024. Visit www.faa.gov/be-atc to learn more about the application process.  Share this episode with your network – you never know who might find inspiration to explore a fulfilling career path they hadn't considered before. Thanks for sticking around as we take a break for the off-season. It's the perfect opportunity to catch up on episodes you might have missed or revisit your favorites. During this time, we'll be re-releasing standout episodes like this one as we gear up for the second half of Season 7, launching this spring. Meet Our Guest:   Jose Castellanos is a Certified Professional Controller at the San Juan Tower in Puerto Rico and formerly an intern with the Minority Serving Institutions internship program.   Disclaimer: Reference in this podcast to any specific commercial product, process, service, manufacturer, company, or trademark does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the U.S. government, Department of Transportation, or Federal Aviation Administration. As an agency of the U.S. government, the FAA cannot endorse or appear to endorse any specific product or service.

    9 min

  5. OCT 23

    Habitat for Aviation’s All-Women Airplane Build

    When you think of women working with rivet guns, you might picture a woman with her hair wrapped up in a red polka-dot bandana, flexed muscles and the famous words, “We Can Do It.” Just as Rosie the Riveter inspired countless women to take on roles in industries traditionally dominated by men during World War II, Habitat for Aviation aims to ignite the same spirit of courage and innovation in women aspiring to enter the aviation field. “We really take a lot of inspiration from our World War II Rosie the Riveters, who stepped into these factories when the men went off to war,” says Habitat for Aviation’s founder Beth White. The group’s multi-generational, all-women team of “Modern Rosie’s” are currently building a Rans S-21 airplane. Beth’s journey into aviation began with a memoir that sparked her curiosity and inspired her to take a discovery flight. In this episode, Beth reveals how an unfortunate life-changing event led her to create Habitat for Aviation, a nonprofit that’s preparing the next generation of airplane mechanics, pilots, and avionics specialists. Plus, you’ll hear from some of the young women participating in the airplane build.  Beth provides insights into Habitat for Aviation programs and discusses resources, such as EAA’s Young Eagles, which offers free discovery flights to youth. She also gives practical advice for anyone interested in getting a pilot certificate.  Share this episode with your friends, family, and colleagues. They may be the future airplane mechanics, air traffic controllers, pilots, and other aviation professionals working to keep us safe.  Learn more about FAA job opportunities and how you can become an aviation mechanic. Meet Our Guests  Beth White is a certificated private pilot, an airplane mechanic apprentice, and the founder of Habitat for Aviation; a nonprofit that offers hands-on learning opportunities that align with the FAA’s apprenticeship certification track. In 2024, Habitat for Aviation launched its Women Build Planes program, where an all-female team of “Modern Day Rosies” is building an airplane at Franklin County Airport. Beth has worked in public schools, including The Met, a Big Picture Learning flagship public high school and she earned a PhD in educational leadership and policy studies from University of Vermont. Aubrianna Mayette has completed over 130 hours with the Women Build Planes program at Habitat for Aviation. She is a Harbor Freight Fellowship scholarship recipient who plans to enter the U.S. Airforce through the Vermont National Air Guard to pursue an aviation mechanic career. Zoë Brosky is a photographer and part of the ground crew at Habitat for Aviation. She has a BS in accounting from Cumberland University and is working towards her private pilot’s license.  Abby Demar is the recipient of an EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship who is working towards her private pilot certificate and participating in the airplane build with Habitat for Aviation. Ashwil Bell is a student of mathematics and science participating in the Women Build Planes program at Habitat for Aviation.

    12 min
  6. Kamora Freeland: One of the Youngest African American Female Pilots in the U.S.

    OCT 16

    Kamora Freeland: One of the Youngest African American Female Pilots in the U.S.

    Meet Kamora Freeland, an FAA-certificated private pilot who, at the age of 17, became one of the youngest African American female pilots in the United States. Hear how Kamora—who had never even seen a pilot who looked like her—achieved her dream at no cost to her family. Kamora’s advice? “Look into scholarships, because there are a lot of them out there that people do not know about,” she says. To get started, check out our list of organizations across the country that offer aviation-related scholarships. In this episode, you'll gain insight into the pivotal role parents play in helping children discover and nurture their purpose, the hard work and dedication required to become a safety-conscious pilot, and the resources available for those on a similar path—like the Red-Tailed Hawks Fly program.  You'll also hear how Kamora prepared for the final test to earn her pilot certificate—the checkride. Checkrides test a pilot’s knowledge, skills, and judgement. It’s a hands-on flying test that aviators must pass to earn their pilot certificate from the FAA.  Learn about training at faa.gov/pilots. Share this incredible story of determination, sacrifice, and overcoming challenges with your friends, family, and colleagues. Even more curious about aviation after this episode? See how you can get involved with the FAA’s Airport Design Challenge. K-12 students learn STEM skills while designing virtual airports in Minecraft, guided by FAA aerospace and engineering experts. Meet Our Guest  Kamora Freeland became an FAA-certificated private pilot in February 2024, making her one of the youngest African American female pilots in the United States. She was a dual-enrolled student, a member of the National Honor Society at Kingsborough Early College Secondary School and made the Dean’s List at Kingsborough Community College. Kamora graduated high school a year early and earned a Presidential Scholarship to attend Spelman College.

    11 min
  7. How Do You Become a Hot Air Balloon Pilot?

    OCT 9

    How Do You Become a Hot Air Balloon Pilot?

    Did you know Ben Franklin witnessed the first human flight? No, he wasn't with the Wright Brothers in Kitty Hawk. In fact, it was 120 years earlier in 1783 when two aeronauts floated over Paris in a hot air balloon. Franklin described watching the balloon's majestic ascent in his journal. In the early days of ballooning, experiments with balloon fuels and designs occasionally had catastrophic results. Since then, the safety of flying a balloon has come a long way. Today, ballooning is one of the safest and most beautiful modes of human flight for aeronauts, passengers and people on the ground. In this episode, you’ll hear from Kim and Adam Magee, founders of The Balloon Training Academy and FAA Safety Team representatives. The Magees share how they got started in ballooning, the training process for balloon pilots (who are known as aeronauts) and advice for aspiring aeronauts. Learn how aeronauts communicate with their ground crew and other users of the national airspace, and about the technologies and tricks balloonists use to track wind patterns. Get a glimpse into the vibrant culture of ballooning, from creatively shaped balloons to unforgettable events with spectacular traditions—like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta where over 500 hot air balloons traverse the skies above New Mexico. Ballooning can be both safe and exciting. The FAA has rules for student, private and commercial aeronauts that help keep everyone safe. We require commercial aeronauts to hold medical certificates when flying paying passengers and work with the Balloon Federation of America on an accreditation program.  If you’re interested in learning more, go to FAASafety.gov and contact the Balloon Federation of America.   Meet Our Guests  Adam and Kimberly Magee are the Co-Founders of The Balloon Training Academy and FAA Safety Team Representatives. Adam, the Academy's President, is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Designated Pilot Examiner, the 2019 FAA Flight Instructor of the Year, and the 2021 FAA Safety Team Representative of the Year. Kimberly, the Academy's Vice President, holds 6 World Records and 9 National Records in hot air ballooning. She is the recipient of the Balloon Federation of America’s Shields-Trauger Award, the organization's highest honor.

    14 min

  8. OCT 2

    Tom and Erik Lake: Father-Son Commercial Co-Pilots

    For Tom and Erik Lake, the passion for aviation runs in the family. This extraordinary father and son team has logged almost 500 hours together on the flight deck. Tom was his son’s Captain when he took his first flight as a commercial airline pilot, and Erik was his dad’s First Officer on Tom’s last commercial flight. The experiences in between their career milestones created a captivating narrative of a real and rare family legacy on the flight deck. In this episode, Erik talks about his journey into aviation through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps and shares advice for aspiring aviators. Tom, who has trained countless aviators, imparts his wisdom after retiring from a rewarding career that spanned over three decades. Share this episode with friends, family, and colleagues. This story might just inspire a future family lineage of pilots. Are you interested in becoming a pilot? Check out the FAA's Pilots Portal to learn more about training and certification. Meet Our Guests  Tom Lake and Erik Lake are father and son commercial airline pilots who logged more than 500 hours flying together on two different aircraft over six years. Erik first learned to fly as a teenager when his dad taught him in tail-wheel airplanes. He started his aviation career as an Officer in the Air Force Reserves and flew the KC-135R and KC-46A air refueling aircraft conducting three deployments in his career so far. He later joined the airlines as a First Officer and the flew the MD-88, Boeing 737, and currently the A-320. On Instagram, Erik shares his life as a pilot as erik_cleared_for_takeoff. Tom retired in May 2024 after 34 years of service flying for a commercial airline. He served in the Air Force prior to the airlines as an active duty and reserve pilot over a fourteen-year period. He flew the C-141 Starlifter during that time and conducted special operations missions in various conflicts as well as during Desert Storm. In his airline career, Tom flew the Boeing 727, L-1011, Boeing 767, MD-88, and A-320. Both Tom and Erik still fly together in General Aviation aircraft today!

    14 min
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4.8
out of 5
68 Ratings

About

Curious about aerospace? This podcast is for you! Tune in to hear inspiring stories from professionals in the field. Learn new concepts and more about the FAA's role in keeping our airspace safe. Find out about careers, programs, and organizations that can help you in your journey. We hope this podcast ignites your enthusiasm – because aerospace is for everyone! More Ways to ListenSpotifyApple PodcastsRSS FeedYouTubeTo receive updates about new episodes, subscribe to our newsletter.

Information

  • Creator
    Federal Aviation Administration
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Air Up There

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