
Q: Do you talk by radio with pilots flying the same route ahead of you to get information on weather conditions, turbulence, etc.?
Malcolm Rogge, Toronto
When flying the busy air routes, we communicate solely with air traffic control and relay flight information through them. We also monitor an international emergency frequency on our second radio. Over sparsely settled areas, such as the Arctic and the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, pilots communicate to each other on a specific frequency. We pass on flight and weather conditions and, occasionally, the latest sports scores.
Q: What advice would you give to a young person who would like to become a pilot?
Jessie Dodsworth North Saanich, B.C.
I mentor many future pilots, and my advice has not waivered. Go for it! True, we are going through some trying times, but the industry is still forecasting growth over the next 20 years. The path is through flying clubs, flight colleges (as well some universities) and Canada’s Armed Forces. James Ball’s book, So, You Want to Be a Pilot, Eh?, is a great read for those pining for the skies.