Becoming an air traffic controller is a rewarding profession that plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of our airspace. If you're curious about the journey to becoming a controller, don't miss this episode featuring the FAA’s Jose Castellanos, a controller at the San Juan tower in Puerto Rico. Jose shares how he discovered his passion for aviation after being accepted into the FAA's Minority Serving Institutions internship program. He discusses his top safety priorities,...

A good mentor can point you in the right direction and a great mentor can change your life. When Bobbie Kahklen started working for the FAA, she never imagined she would end up working in a tower as an air traffic controller.  Growing up as a member of the Native Alaskan Tlingit tribe, Bobbie persevered through many challenges. Aviation was not something that was talked about in her community and it certainly wasn’t on Bobbie’s radar as a career option. By chance, she stumbled across an...

There is power in mentorship! In this special podcast episode, 13-year-old Isabella from Rising Aviation High School and FAA aerospace engineer Karen Perez engage in an insightful discussion about aspirations, mentorship, diversity, and the limitless possibilities in aerospace. How did we get here? Isabella wrote a letter to us to share what her school does to attract students to various fields in aviation and how she hopes to inspire more women, especially Hispanic and Latina girls, to...

What if your career not only fulfilled your ambitions but launched them into orbit? That’s what happened to our guest, Rachita Puri, an aerospace engineer in the FAA's Office of Commercial Space Transportation. In this episode, Rachita shares how a job fair at her university led her to the FAA, where she enjoys a rewarding career ensuring public safety during human space flights, rocket launches and reentries. She details how her position affords her out-of-this-world experiences, including...

From being a first-generation college student to becoming a pilot and certified flight instructor, Zakiya Percy, navigated uncharted territories, propelling herself on an incredible aerospace journey. In this episode, Zakiya shares what inspired her to become a pilot, and sheds light on the sacrifices and challenges she encountered along the way. She tells the story of how an inquiry to revive an inactive Organization of Black Aviation Professional’s (OBAP) collegiate chapter quickly elevated...

The FAA provides boundless career opportunities within the aviation sector for people of all backgrounds. In this episode, Migdalia Gonzalez, the Hispanic Employment Program Manager in the FAA’s Office of Civil Rights provides insight on the importance of representation and outreach to attract talent from underrepresented communities. Tune in to hear how the FAA's educational outreach initiatives empower students to pursue aviation careers. Plus, be inspired by Migdalia's personal journey and...

Do you have a need for speed? Then this is the episode for you! Tune in and discover the innovative science behind the Drone Racing League, a high-speed competition that is using first person view flight to create a new era in sports. Chief Operating Officer Ashley Ellefson joins us to share insights about the intricate technology and engineering that propels the drone racing competitions into a futuristic league of their own.  Get to know why millions of people gather worldwide to witness...

In the world of aviation, a diverse crew doesn't just enhance the view; it transforms the entire horizon. Join us on a flight to explore the dynamic world of aviation through the lens of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In this episode, we connect with two guests from Hampton University, the first HBCU that is an FAA approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative School. Dylan Halsey, a Hampton University alumnus, shares his journey to becoming an air traffic...

Did you know that airplanes have two black boxes and they are actually orange? Or that airplanes have closets? Or that one of the tools used to fix an airplane’s auxiliary power unit is referred to as a fishing rod?  In this episode we’re talking with Max, aka Airplane Facts With Max, an aircraft mechanic who hosts social media videos that cleverly blend airplane fact with fantasy fiction. Tune in as Max shares his favorite airplane facts and takes us behind the scenes of his career as an...

In a world where diversity is taking flight, representation becomes the compass guiding many toward the unexplored skies of possibility. As a young person, there’s power in seeing someone from your own roots engaged in aerospace. It ignites fresh curiosities and can be the gateway to opportunities in the industry. In this podcast episode, we connected with Clarence Garden, Vice President of Fly For The Culture, a nonprofit on a mission to bring more diversity to aviation. Clarence shares his...

You've heard “crawl before you walk,” but how about “fly before you drive”? Join us in redefining the journey to new heights in our latest podcast episode, “Gliding the Skies Before She Could Drive”. Get to know Ishitha who, at the age of 16, earned her private pilot certificate with a glider rating before she earned her license to drive. Hear her inspiring story, from her start in aviation upon moving to the United States to how she created innovative youth aviation clubs and outreach...

It’s true that not all superheroes wear capes. In fact, there are some that take flight in the thrilling realm of drones. In our latest podcast episode, we teleport to Neurodiversity Works, a non-profit organization that equips neurodiverse students for a career in the drone industry. Tune in as we embark on a fascinating mission with the co-founder, Jason San Souci.   In the episode, Jason introduces us to a community of superheroes with an incredible superpower – neurodiversity!...

It’s true that not all superheroes wear capes. In fact, there are some that take flight in the thrilling realm of drones. In our latest podcast episode, we teleport to Neurodiversity Works, a non-profit organization that equips neurodiverse students for a career in the drone industry. Tune in as we embark on a fascinating mission with the co-founder, Jason San Souci.   In the episode, Jason introduces us to a community of superheroes with an incredible superpower – neurodiversity!...

Three, two, one, lift off! Season 6 is go for launch! Imagine one day you’re a typical 18-year-old, then you wake up the next day as the youngest woman to venture into the cosmos. That is the reality for Anastatia Mayers, whose curiosity for aerospace led her to an opportunity that was literally out of this world.  So, how did Ana find herself aboard Virgin Galactic's “Galactic 02” commercial spaceflight? We floated this question and more to Ana, and she left no asteroid unturned. If you...

Flying can be an exciting adventure, but for many, it comes with an unwelcome companion – stress. Whether it's a fear of flying or the anxiety of navigating busy airports, managing stress is a very real part of air travel. In our latest podcast episode, "Zen Traveler: Tips for Mastering Air Travel Stress," we spoke with Tampa International Airport’s CJ Johnson, who shares helpful tips for navigating stress at the airport. For example, did you know that many airports offer guided tours in...

Watts all this talk about lithium batteries and why are they such a hot topic when it comes to flying? You might be shocked to learn that everyday items you pack in your travel bags contain lithium batteries that can cause cabin fires. Your cell phone, laptop, tablet, and smart watch all have lithium batteries and can be potential fire hazards. On the positive side, you have the power to reduce these risks. Now that we’ve sparked your interest, listen to our latest podcast episode, “Fly Safe...

Your alarm clock just went off and you’re rushing out the door to catch your flight. You check the weather and the flying conditions are perfect where you are – it’s about to be a great day. Yet, you check your airline reservation and… your flight is delayed? Why? Tune into our latest podcast episode, “It’s Sunny. Why is My Flight Delayed?” to discover why your flight might be delayed at your departure airport even when the weather seems fine. Plus, learn what rights you have as an airline...

Hello. Bonjour. Hola. Ciao. Nǐ hǎo. Now that you’ve learned how to say hello in multiple languages, you’re ready for international travel! Wait – maybe not just yet. Do you have a passport? How long does it take to get a passport? What are the security and entry requirements for international travel? Do you know about the programs that can make your journey through the airport and into other countries seamless? If you’re up in the air about any of these questions, tune in to this podcast...

Riddle us this! You’re a family of 4 (including a child under 2) planning to travel by plane. How many tickets should you purchase to ensure everyone’s safety? We won’t make you think too hard, the answer is 4. Your lap, though cost-saving, is not the ideal or safest place for your child on an airplane.  From hangry children to unexpected clear air turbulence, a number of things can impact the mood and safety of your travel experience with kids. Mary Garton, a mom, flight attendant and...

Making plans to fly with your kids? Do you know what to pack, how to pack it, and how to get through the security line seamlessly? Check in first with the Transportation Security Administration and Federal Aviation Administration by listening to our latest ‘The Air Up There’ podcast episode. TSA – The Suitcase Advisors? Actually, we have a lot in common with TSA’s Emily Bonilla-Pieton and Lisa Farbstein: we’re parents, love air travel, safety and security. They joined us for our “Flying With...

Air travel can be challenging, especially when you add your kids in the mix. You can do this! How do you get them through security, navigate the airport and then quickly carry them, your bags AND their car seat down the plane aisle to get to your seats? Do you know the safest way for a child under 2 to fly? How do you prepare your little ones to know what to expect so you can, hopefully, prevent a meltdown on the plane? These are all valid questions, and we’ve got answers. Tune into our...

The average person probably has no idea what the FAA’s Technical Operations, or Tech Ops, employees do or what an adventure the profession can be. And by adventure, we mean wild beasts, volcanoes, and camping in the middle of nowhere! In the latest ‘The Air Up There’ podcast episode, “Adventures in Safety,” we talk about the extreme nature of Tech Ops and the great lengths our technicians go to maintain the airspace infrastructure so  pilots can fly safely and air traffic controllers can...

Anyone who has ever had a goal is probably familiar with the phrase, "the sky's the limit." Ironically, that logic can be quite limiting because, for some, the sky is just the beginning. Take Sirisha Bandla, for example. Once upon a time, Sirisha was on a rooftop, gazing at the stars and wondering what it would be like to explore what's out there. Then, in 2021, she joined Virgin Galactic's Unity 22 suborbital flight and became the second India-born woman to fly to space! Curiosities can turn...

Anyone who has ever had a goal is probably familiar with the phrase, "the sky's the limit." Ironically, that logic can be quite limiting because, for some, the sky is just the beginning. Take Sirisha Bandla, for example. Once upon a time, Sirisha was on a rooftop, gazing at the stars and wondering what it would be like to explore what's out there. Then, in 2021, she joined Virgin Galactic's Unity 22 suborbital flight and became the second India-born woman to fly to...