Navigating Career Changes: Tips From a 17-Year Airline Pilot
Darren Byrd nearly talked himself out of flying. Nearly two decades later, he shares what he learned, including surviving a furlough.
Darren Byrd loved flight simulators as a kid but talked himself out of flying, doubting his math skills and eyesight. His wife encouraged him to go for it. In this episode he looks back on nearly two decades as an airline pilot.
- 01Overcoming self-doubt to start training
- 02The financial and emotional strain of flight school
- 03Being furloughed in the late-2000s downturn
- 04Why networking and proactive career management pay off
- 05Professionalism as an aviation influencer
Starting late
With his wife’s encouragement, Darren began training and made real sacrifices to get through flight school.
A furlough
As a junior pilot during the late-2000s downturn, he was furloughed and had to stay hopeful in an unstable industry.
Online and on the job
He talks about networking and the responsibility of being honest and professional as an aviation influencer.
Frequently asked questions
What should pilots do during a furlough?
Darren Byrd stresses networking, proactive career management and relationships in the aviation community.
Can you become a pilot if you’re worried about math?
Darren doubted his math skills and eyesight but went on to a nearly 20-year airline career.
