EP 13 - Special Guest: Jeb Brooks + Analysis of the Viral B777 Horseshoe Bay Low-Pass Video

EP 12 - Behind the scenes of "Big Yellow", + Dr Powell Returns to Discuss Job Loss and Mental Health

May 29, 20261h 24mSummary

In this episode of Cockpit Casual: The Podcast, hosts Steve and Bob reflect on the overwhelming response to their recent video documenting the final days of Spirit Airlines. With over a million views, the hosts discuss the emotional weight of the project, the complexities of the production process—including the frantic last-minute addition of a poignant song by an airline employee—and the surprisingly intense reactions from their audience. Beyond the recap of recent aviation events, the episode transitions into a meaningful conversation regarding the mental health challenges associated with job loss in the aviation industry. Bob reconnects with Dr. Abigail Powell, known as The Aviation Therapist, to explore the deep psychological impact of losing one’s career. They discuss how a profession in aviation often becomes intertwined with a person’s identity, making the loss of a company or a role feel far more significant than a standard career change. The hosts also offer a glimpse into the future, sharing updates on their upcoming projects, including the delivery of new aircraft to Nigeria, and their plans to feature the next generation of pilots on the show.

EP 11 - Inside the Massive Spirit Airlines Repo Operation

May 12, 20261h 12mSummary

In this episode of Cockpit Casual, hosts Steve Gardano and Bob Allen provide an inside look at the intense, high-stakes logistics involved in the recent mass repossession of Spirit Airlines aircraft. Following a week they describe as the busiest in their professional history, the duo details how they mobilized a global network of pilots and ground crews to relocate dozens of jets on extremely short notice. The discussion highlights the complexities of scaling a boutique ferry operation to handle a sudden, massive project, including the coordination of flight crews in various cities and navigating the logistical hurdles of airport access and ground handling services. The hosts share gripping behind-the-scenes stories, such as calling pilots mid-trip to inform them of their company’s closure and the challenges of sourcing maintenance data and support for the repossessed fleet. They also emphasize the importance of maintaining safety and standardization by utilizing a common pilot group during chaotic operations. Ultimately, the episode serves as a unique case study on industry adaptability, teamwork under pressure, and the human side of major aviation industry shifts, all while managing the demanding, real-time nature of ferrying complex aircraft.