During my training to upgrade from L-1011 copilot to Boeing 727 Captain, one of my check captains said something that has stuck with me forever. He said, “You know the main difference you’re going to find between being a copilot and a captain? When you were a copilot and looked to your left, you saw another pilot. When you look left now, all you see is a window.” This blog is written for the most important person in aviation, the Pilot in command.
I am a retired airline pilot and aviation writer. I retired from ATA Airlines in September, 2006. I started at ATA in September, 1989, as an L-1011 First Officer. I upgraded to Captain on the B727 in 1991, and after that to the 1011 as Captain. I eventually became a Check Airman on the 1011, responsible for navigation and initial operational training and line checks. As the 1011’s were reduced from the fleet, I transitioned to the B757 for my last four years at ATA.
Prior to ATA I had worked for five years as an aviation writer, publishing Fly Like a Pro, The Aviator’s Guide to Navigation, The Aviator’s Guide to Flight Planning, and Improve Your Flying Skills. The Aviator’s Guide to Navigation is still in print, now in its fourth edition.
I began my career as a flight instructor at
I am married to Emmy Chamberlain Clausing and have two daughters, Nicole, a travel writer, and Hilary, a chef.
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