Future Pilot Billy

Kowalkowski passes Stage 1 and navigates to Stage 2 in pilot training

Senior Billy Kowalkowski has been working toward his pilot license since last summer and is quickly working toward qualifying to a fully licensed pilot. For a long time, Billy has seen a career in aviation as a blend of everything that has meant something to him: "Pursuing a career as a pilot has always felt like a perfect fit for me. I've always loved to travel, meet new people, and create my own schedule. And, let's be honest, finding a job that offers all of that while avoiding long hours is rare. For me, aviation was the answer."

He took his first step toward becoming a pilot by enrolling at High Flight Academy last summer. He started his training in a Cessna 172, one of the most common training aircraft, and quickly fell in love with the process. Since then, he has logged 35 hours in the air and recently passed has first stage check.

Stage checks are important milestones in flight training. They are evaluations where an instructor assesses skills and knowledge to ensure that a pilot is ready for the next training step. Billy's first stage check covered a wide range of maneuvers, ensuring he had mastered the basics of flying and was prepared for solo flight. After successfully completing that stage check, he was cleared for his most significant challenge yet: His first solo flight. Billy's solo flight consisted of three take-offs and landings without an instructor in the plane—just him and the aircraft. It was a "thrilling, nerve-wracking, but incredibly rewarding experience, " Billy commented.

Currently, he is on Stage 2 of his training, preparing for his second solo flight. This time, he will be flying on his own again, but he will have more freedom to choose the maneuvers. He plans on practicing often to be ready: "Every flight is an opportunity to build my skills, and I’m excited to continue progressing".

Looking ahead, He has committed to Utah State University, where he will continue to build flight hours and work toward his ultimate goal: qualifying for a position with an airline or cargo company. The road to becoming a professional pilot is long, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling. 

Writing Contributor: Gabby Guido

Photography Contributor: Billy Kowalkowski