Pilot Success Story

Travis L.
Wheels Up Private Jets

Travis began his aviation journey to become a commercial pilot several years ago. He earned his commercial license in 2017 and worked in aerial survey, medevac, as well as flight instructing at TFT. He began flying for Wheels Up Private Jets in September 2021.

Travis’s story:

Several years ago I began my aviation journey to become a commercial pilot. Previously I’d spent so much time thinking about how much I’d rather be flying that I finally took the plunge. After my first flight intro/discovery flight I was hooked. There’s nothing quite like leaving the ground for the first time and controlling an airplane. It’s just exhilarating, and there’s nothing quite like it. I knew 100% this was something that I wanted to pursue. I also knew this was going to take a lot of effort, time, and money.

I chose TFT for a number of reasons. Their instructors are the most professional and knowledgeable that I’ve ever encountered. They were able to coordinate lessons around my busy work schedule. We created a timeline for when I wanted to achieve each rating and certificate. Out of all the other flight schools, TFT has an accessible selection of Cessna and Piper airplanes to choose from. Another benefit at TFT is they have a location at Nashville International Airport. This is excellent for really learning how to communicate with ATC, as well as understanding how the system operates.

I earned my commercial license in 2017. I built flight hours and experience by working aerial survey, medevac, as well as flight instructing at TFT. Once I had my 1,500 hours for the ATP certificate I chose to go into the part 135/charter sector of aviation. I began flying for Wheels Up Private Jets in September 2021. My current schedule is an 8 day rotation, followed by 6 consecutive days off. What I enjoy about this type of flying is that every day is different. One day I’m in the Bahamas and the next I could be in the Northeast area of the country dealing with snow. I fly into some of the busiest airports in the country as well as some of the most remote locations. The schedule can change rapidly and every day is an adventure.

The best advice I can give for anyone wanting to pursue this field is #1, you’ve got to put in the work. It’s not just about flying the airplane, there’s also a tremendous amount of reading and book work that comes along with it. #2, trust the process. There will be challenges and learning hurdles along the way. Stick with it, home in on those particular challenges and you’ll overcome them. #3, keep your health in check so that you’ll be able to maintain a current medical certificate. It’s a privilege to be able to do this as a career, never take it for granted.