Pyjama Pilots

Join us on a remarkable journey through the skies with Royce Hooker, a distinguished 91-year-old (recorded 2023) aviation pioneer whose career spans the golden era of flight. From his early days as an aircraft mechanic in the RNZAF to his adventures topdressing Cessnas to the iconic FU-24 Fletcher, Royce has witnessed and shaped pivotal moments in aviation history. In this podcast, he shares stories from the industry's infancy, offering a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of those who paved the runway for future generations. Tune in to hear the untold tales of dedication, skill, and passion from a true veteran of the skies. Once again big ups to Chris Hoffman for sponsoring this Episode- You're a legend!

I'm flying solo again as we welcome Hallett Griffin, a luminary in the agricultural aviation industry with over six decades of experience. Starting his career in 1963, Hallett founded Griffin Ag-Air Ltd in 1981 with his wife Gloria, growing it into a respected family-run business. Join us as we yarn about Hallett and his amazing career as an Ag pilot. Another thanks to the Chris Hoffman, who helped fund this trip. What a legend.

In this episode I'm flying solo, having a sit down with Neville Worsley, a celebrated agricultural pilot whose distinguished career has made a significant mark in the skies of New Zealand. Neville, known for his exceptional skill in flying the DC-3 on single-pilot operations, shares fascinating insights and thrilling experiences from his time topdressing throughout New Zealand's beautiful landscape. For those eager to dive deeper into Neville's story, his book "Tiger Moths to Topdressing DC-3s" is a must-read. It's a treasure trove of aviation history, personal anecdotes, and insights into the world of agricultural flying. To purchase, email Neville directly at dh822dc3@gmail.com We also extend our gratitude to Chris Hoffman for sponsoring this trip to meet Neville. You're the man, Chris!

Chris is a legend! Today we tackle the age old debate: Where do we land in an engine failure? That and several other topics we wander off into: Standard Overhead Rejoins, Hawkes Bay Floods, and several others, on our journey of aviation tangents. We hope you enjoy!

Join us in this high-flying episode as our trio of aviators navigate through the swirling intricacies of weather and wind patterns in aerial topdressing. Learn how pilots tackle unexpected weather challenges and harness the power of the wind to ensure successful operations. Buckle up as we soar through the skies and delve into the atmospheric elements that shape the world of aerial topdressing.

In this powerful episode, we delve into the life-changing story of our very own co-host Pete, who experienced firsthand the impacts of trauma and mental health struggles. After witnessing a horrific incident that deeply affected him, Pete began his own arduous journey towards healing and recovery. Through his experiences, he has become a passionate advocate for mental health awareness in the aviation sector. Join us as we explore the challenges he faced, the stigma he encountered, and the steps he took to reclaim his life. Pete's story illuminates the critical need for mental health support in high-stress professions and offers hope to those who might be dealing with similar issues. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion about resilience, recovery, and the power of speaking out about mental health. His TVNZ Episode is available to NZ viewers here: https://www.tvnz.co.nz/shows/i-am/episodes/s4-e2 Pete's Vector article: https://www.aviation.govt.nz/assets/publications/vector/vector-article-archive/health-and-human-factors/vector-article-2021-4-to-hell-and-back.pdf PEER ASSISTANCE NETWORK Feel like you need a helping hand to get through the day? Work pressures, relationship issues or just overwhelmed? Visit pan.org.nz to request a confidential conversation with a trained peer, or call 0800 PAN 100 (0800 726 100). WOMEN’S ASSISTANCE FORUM Providing support and information to any woman who may be dealing with the challenges of working in aviation, from work/life balance to sexual harassment. Visit pan.org.nz > about-us > woman’s-assistanceforum to connect with a female PAN co-ordinator. Or phone on the PAN number above. NATIONAL HELP NUMBER Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor or go to 1737.org.nz

In this thought-provoking episode of our podcast, we tackle the often underestimated but critical issue of pilot fatigue. Delving deep into the aviation world, we explore how fatigue impacts pilots' performance, decision-making, and overall safety in the skies. Hear from seasoned pilots as they share real-life experiences and shed light on the causes, effects, and potential solutions to this pervasive problem. Tune in to understand why a well-rested pilot isn't just an option, but a necessity for safer air travel. For our NZ based listeners- here is the link to the TV Show Pedro will be featuring on: https://www.tvnz.co.nz/shows/i-am If we can find a link to watch this internationally, we will add it asap!

What is better: The PAC750XL or the Cresco? Spraying in Australia, what's it like? We discuss these and a few other Q and A's you kind folk have sent in! Enjoy!

Welcome aboard our next episode of Pyjama Pilots. Today we discuss airstrips and dive into the things we've learnt, and the experiences we had to endure while learning them. Some fun, some funny, and others getting a little hair raising to say the least!

Our first guest!! This fine gentleman has worked in several countries around the world. From bush flying in the Outback Australia, to the cool temperatures of Canada, and flying up and down Nepal's Himalayan mountain range. Join us as we catch up with his adventures. **WARNING** there's a bit of poo chat in here, if that puts you off you may like to consider listening while not eating.

It's been a couple of weeks since our last catch up, so we spent our time catching up! Talking our usual pilot bambles, with a bit of banter to boot.

All three of the Pyjama Pilots have done survey flying around the world. For us, a good chunk of it was in the continent of Africa. We talk a bit about our time there, amongst other things...

The Pyjama Pilots attempt to answer the question: "what does it take to become a successful Ag pilot?". We're still unsure if we answered it...

How do you get into Ag flying? What does it take to become an Ag pilot? These were the questions we were supposed to tackle in todays episode... ~The Pyjama Pilots are three Kiwi Ag pilots who yarn about any and everything aviation while telling tales of their flying in New Zealand and all over the world~

Ahoy there podders, poddians, poddites?! We are the Pyjama Pilots! Pete, Jimbo, and Sam - PJs. Get it?! Three good Kiwi mates keen to talk anything aviation, with a key focus on Ag flying. This episode was intended to introduce ourselves. Debateable whether we actually did... Get in touch if you have something you want us to talk about!