A Guide to Showing Support for a New Pilot in Your Family

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It’s exciting to see a family member following their dreams and pursuing a career in aviation. Whether your loved one is just starting as a pilot or has been flying for years, it’s important to let them know that you support them in their new role. As with any new job, finding the right way to show your support for your loved one cannot be easy. However, you can show your support in various ways that will make a difference in their life and career.

1. Create A Care Package

New pilots are usually very busy as they work on building their flight time and getting their logbooks filled. While they may not have time to go shopping, they may appreciate having a few of their favorite things on hand during their training. A care package of food items and other goodies they enjoy can be a great gift to help them through those busy times. If you know your loved one is headed to a training program far from home, a care package can be a special gift to help them feel connected and loved while away.

You can put together a care package of things that remind your loved one of the people and places most important to them.

2. Celebrate Their Successes

As your loved one progresses in their career, there will likely be times when they face challenges and difficult situations. It’s important to remember to celebrate their successes, even when times are hard. When your loved one completes a flight and gets their license, graduates from flight school, or any other major accomplishment, it’s a great time to celebrate and show your support.

You can surprise them with pilot gifts such as aviation-themed jewelry from a pilot shop, organize a party with family and friends or host a celebratory meal to celebrate their accomplishment.

3. Give an Honest Review About Their Flying Skills

If your loved one is starting as a pilot, you may have some thoughts and feedback about their flying skills. While it can be difficult to give constructive feedback, it is an important part of your loved one’s growth as a pilot. By giving your loved ones an honest review of their flying skills, you can help them become a better, safer pilot in the future. When giving feedback on your loved one’s flying skills, it’s important to be thoughtful.

While your loved one may be eager to get their first review and know what they’re doing well and what they need to improve, it’s important to give thoughtful feedback and not be too critical. Positive, helpful feedback will help them improve and gain confidence in their skills.

4. Help Them Build a Network

Pilots often rely on their network for support, advice and encouragement. If your loved one is new to the industry, they may not yet have a strong network around them. You can help your loved one build their network by introducing them to other aviation industry members. You can also help your loved ones find online communities they can be a part of.

You can also help your loved one find mentors to help them navigate their new career. Mentors can provide guidance and feedback as your loved one builds their skills and learns more.

5. Provide Support During Hard Times

Every pilot experiences challenges and difficult times as they work their way through training and building their flying career. While your loved one will likely have a network of people they can lean on for support, you need to be there for them. Show support for your loved one by providing a listening ear, helpful advice, or any other support they might need during hard times.

You can provide a special type of support by letting your loved ones know that you’re there for them and that you’re available to talk when they need it. When your loved one is struggling with challenges in their training, keep in mind that they may need space to work through those challenges.

Conclusion

When someone in your family starts a new career as a pilot, you must show them that you support their dreams and new path. These tips will show that you are proud of your loved one and support their new career path.