In this episode, we dive into the often overlooked art of takeoff from the pilot’s perspective. I break down how an airplane truly gains flight, explore the key V-speeds that shape every departure, and unpack the critical decision points that define this high-energy phase of flight. And as always, we close with a bit of wisdom—this time on how steady study and consistent effort can carry you exactly where you want to go.

Find some of the sources here:
Aviation Safety Magazine – Briefing the Takeoff
FAA Safety – P-8740-44: Takeoff Safety
Flight Safety Foundation – Takeoff Risks (PDF)
Airbus Safety First – Control Your Speed at Takeoff
FAA – Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Ch. 5 (PDF)
Aviation Safety Magazine – Takeoff Planning

💌 Get in touch on Instagram @flywithnell

🎧 Intro credits go out to my friend Fabian Valentini

💘 Big thanks to my copilot V for always uploading the episodes to Spotify and bravely handling all the technical chaos

💫 If you enjoyed this episode, I’d really appreciate your support by following or rating the podcast

👩🏼‍✈️ As always, stay curious, stay kind — Nell

In this episode, we explore self-doubt and imposter syndrome in aviation, and how they quietly affect confidence and skills.

We’ll explore how these factors potentially influence your performance, decision-making and communication in the cockpit.

This episode offers four thoughtful ways to ease these feelings and support your well-being as a pilot.

💌 Get in touch on Instagram @flywithnell
🎧 Intro credits go out to my friend Fabian Valentini
💫 If you enjoyed this episode, I’d really appreciate your support by following or rating the podcast
👩🏼‍✈️ As always, stay curious, stay kind — Nell

The information was gathered from these trusted sources:

• Levine, D. (2022). Neuroscience of Emotion, Cognition, and Decision Making: A Review
• The Psychological Aspects of Flying — Pilot Institute
• Biological Psychiatry: The Impact of Cognitive Factors on Emotional Regulation
• How to Overcome Self-Doubt — Psychology Compass

In this episode, take a deep dive into pilot licenses, recent industry developments such as Electronic Personnel Licensing and Extendend Minimum Crew Operations. We reflect on the curiosity challenge—how preconceptions can limit true understanding and even be painful when they’re hidden in the questions we ask.

Find some of the sources here:
Aviation Authorities' Research Agenda 2025
EMCO-SIPO Extended Minimum Crew Operations / Single Pilot Operations Safety Risk
EASA Pauses Single-Pilot Research – Flying Magazine
Flight Crew Licensing Update: EASA’s Pilot Training Paradigm
Easy Access Rules: Flight Crew Licencing (Part-FCL)

💌 Get in touch on Instagram @flywithnell
🎧 Intro credits go out to my friend Fabian Valentini
💫 If you enjoyed this episode, I’d really appreciate your support by following or rating the podcast
👩🏼‍✈️ As always, stay curious, stay kind — Nell