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In-ear headsets are the perfect option if you want the lightest and least amount of clamping your head. Say goodbye to the compression headaches after a long day of flights. It’ll take some time to get used to the feeling of something in your ear. But, many pilots still find them more comfortable.
We know if you’re opting for in-ear, you don’t want to sacrifice quality, audio clarity, hearing protection and strength that many over-the-ear offer. Rest assured, all those we’ve reviewed here are up to the task.
Bose Proflight Series 2 Aviation Headset with Bluetooth Connectivity, Dual Plug Cable, Black
The Bose Proflight Series 2 is impressive and loaded with features. The newer model is much improved with alighter weight and more freedom of movement, thanks to a thinner, lighter cable. The “talk-through” feature allows for quick communications outside the intercom, by double tapping either ear bud. No more pushing half your headset awkwardly behind your ear to speak to your passengers or crew. Furthermore, with 3 levels of choosable active noise cancellation, you can optimize sounds for your cockpit.
The Bluetooth version has the same mix/mute option as the A20, for music or EFB audio. The carrying case is improved with a simpler inside, less bulky design but still protective. Users report them as very comfortable. In fact, they even forget they are there over time. Finally, the headset comes with three different sizes of earbuds. There is no intercom volume control on the control, only bluetooth.
Features:
Very lightweight at 4.5 ounces
Powered by 2 AA batteries: 45 hours of use, 25 hours use with continuous bluetooth
Unique tap control for talk-through comms
3 levels of active noise cancelling
Auto Off feature to save battery life
Side-swappable boom mic
TSO certified
3 year warranty
Clarity Aloft Stereo Aviation PRO PLUS Headset (TSO-Certified)
The Clarity Aloft Stereo Pro Plus is another comfortable, capable in-ear headset that does not need batteries. The design uses tested, superior audio technology from advanced hearing aids to professional stage performers.
Patented foam tips made of soft viscoelastic foam boast 35-45 dB full spectrum noise reduction. Significantly, this is more than some active noise cancelling headsets. The components of the earpiece, transducer, and foam tips are tested to military standards to ensure durability and strength. The lightweight headband emphasizes balance and comfort, the same one worn and proven by professional stage performers over the globe. There is no bluetooth, but there is an auxiliary 1/8” port for external audio. Owners love the noise cancelling and lightweight feel. The case is bulkier then some would like, however.
Clarity Aloft also offers a bluetooth and non-TSO version at a lower price.
Features:
Extremely lightweight at less than 2 ounces
No batteries required
35-45 Passive noise reduction
Hygienic, replaceable, form-fitting foam tips
Noise cancelling electret condenser microphone
TSO Certified
3 Year warranty
Faro Air Lightweight In-Ear Pilot Headset - Fixed Wing
The Faro Air is another well-liked challenger. Users report them to be comfortable for long hours at a time. Moreover, it is the most budget friendly on our list, with similar performance. However, it is not TSO certified. It comes with a variety of sizes of foam plugs to ensure fit and greatest noise cancellation. Additionally, it has an external audio input and is stereo/mono switchable. Again, the only major drawback is that it is not TSO certified, which is important if required by your airline or employer.
ACARS stands for Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System. It is a digital communication system that allows aircraft to send and receive short messages with ground stations via radio or satellite links.
ACARS is used for a variety of purposes, including sending and receiving flight plans, weather updates, maintenance messages, and other operational data. The system also allows for the monitoring of aircraft systems and performance, which can help identify potential issues before they become critical.
The ACARS system operates on a VHF frequency of 131.550 MHz, which is reserved for aeronautical use. Messages are sent using a protocol known as ARINC 618, which formats the data and transmits it between the aircraft and the ground station.
In modern aircraft, ACARS messages are sent and received through satellite links, which provide global coverage and allow for real-time communication between the aircraft and ground stations. This is particularly useful for long-haul flights, where the aircraft may be out of range of traditional VHF radio links for extended periods of time.
How is ACARS different than CPDLC?
CPDLC (Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications) and ACARS (Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System) are both digital communication systems used in aviation, but they serve different purposes and operate in different ways.
CPDLC is a data link system that allows air traffic controllers and pilots to communicate directly via text messages, rather than using voice communication. CPDLC is primarily used for en-route communication, such as giving clearances, making route changes, and providing other instructions to the aircraft.
While ACARS messages are usually sent automatically and require little interaction from the pilots, CPDLC messages require active input from the pilots. Pilots must respond to each message from the controller by selecting pre-defined response options on their cockpit display.
Another key difference between CPDLC and ACARS is that CPDLC uses a different protocol (ATN/IPS) and operates on a different frequency (136.975 MHz) than ACARS. CPDLC messages are also typically sent and received through satellite links, which provide global coverage and allow for real-time communication between the aircraft and air traffic control.
Overall, both CPDLC and ACARS are important tools for aircraft communications.
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As long-time owners of the Bose A20 headset, it has been a great investment. It may be the best aviation headset on the market. Bose recently debuted the A30’s, and we wondered how Bose improved upon its predecessor. Moreover, is it worth the upgrade? Here are the main differences between the two.
The Headband
Bose redesigned the headband on the A30s. They have a bigger gap at the top of the hinge, so there is less clamping force on the head. The 2 pads are also different, with the A30s using more of a soft padded cushion. The A20’s have a small cable between the earcups and the band, but on the A30s, the cable is internal, so there is no risk of catching it on something. Bose also moved the CG of the headset lower, to reduce neck fatigue on long flights.
Noise Cancellation
Another major difference is the noise cancellation. The A20’s use analog noise cancellation, while the A30s use digital noise cancellation. The A30s have 3 selectable levels on the control, low medium and high. High might be used for piston aircraft, while medium might be better in turboprops or jets. Low might be used when you don’t want to cut out much noise at all. Digital noise cancellation is superior at reducing lower frequency sounds.
The Cord
The cord on the A30 is longer and thinner. Like the A20, there are still 2 plug options for the headset. If you have ANR in your aircraft, the LEMO plug can power the headset. The GA or 2-pin connector still requires batteries for noise cancellation. The control unit has a hook on the top of so it can be hung.
The Microphone
Swapping the side the microphone is on is much easier on the A30. There are 2 clips on either side of the microphone base. Unclip both sides, pull out the microphone, and swap it over to the other side. (After unclipping the other spacer on the other side). There are no screws involved or tools needed. The A20s had small screws that held the microphone base, and overtightening could even damage the unit.
The Cost
Finally, the cost. New A20’s retail at $1120, while a new A30 will cost you $1249
The Verdict:
The verdict: We have not tried the A30s yet, but our peers confirm feeling the lighter clamping force. They also like the sound of the audio and new digital ANR, with selectable levels. However, if you are happy with your A20s, there is no need to upgrade right away. If you’re shopping for a new headset, though, for a little over $100 more, go for the newer A30s.
Pilot Side Hustles: Financial Tailwinds and Good Alternates
“Due to current unforeseen business circumstances beyond our control, the Company has made the difficult decision to cease all operations. As a result, you will be placed on a mandatory furlough. This furlough is expected to be permanent, and we do not anticipate you to be recalled from this furlough.” While not a surprise, the first paragraph of the furlough letter hit hard. The remaining little hope vanished. Even worse than a standard furlough, there wasn’t hope of getting called back. The company was shutting down for good. We were not alone. Covid-19 shut down 3 US airlines in Spring of 2021. Other airlines and charter operators were furloughing thousands. Many pilots now faced the unexpected threat of job loss. Uncertain futures. Financial stress. Aviation and the airline industry has always had ups and downs, some severe. 9/11 and financial collapse of 2008 caused the “lost decade”. Passenger demand dropped, there were significant job cuts, bankruptcies and financial losses. The years that followed, though, were encouraging. Airlines recorded profits and passenger loads were are all time highs. The looming pilot-shortage meant job security. Or so we thought. Covid-19 proved there is no such thing as job security, no matter how good the industry looks. It was a wake up call for everyone. So, we made a decision that day. We would continue our path to career pilot, but find a side hustle to diversify and strengthen our position in life. A side hustle is job or business you can run outside of your primary job’s hours. It is beneficial for many reasons. It helps protect us and our families with an additional income stream. It is a personal investment, and can be a financial investment as well. Side hustles can set you up for a better retirement, and sometimes even turn into future career.
Our Guide to Choosing a Side Hustle
Skills Think about what you’re good at. Consider your strengths at your current job. What do people come to you for at work, and at home? Of course, if you’re good at your business, you’ll be more motivated. Passion Its also important to enjoy your side hustle. You’ll need motivation, especially during the beginning and slow periods. If you’re passionate about your work, you’ll be much more successful long term. Initial Costs Determine how much money you can afford to use for your new startup. Research industry specific costs and time investment. You may need a new license or certification. Use social media, YouTube, and podcasts to get an idea of what you will need. Continuing Costs Once your business is going, will there be ongoing expenses? You may need to pay for equipment, technology subscriptions, material, software, or advertising. Plan accordingly. When and Where It is important for full time pilots to be able to work remotely. Some gigs will only require a phone, computer and WiFi. You’ll be able to work by the hotel pool or during a long sit in the terminal or FBO. Others may need more time and effort at home, or local travel on your days off. Don’t Forget About Taxes More income means more taxes. You can set aside self-employment taxes throughout the year to prevent a large tax bill come tax season. You may have to pay estimated taxes quarterly if your income exceeds a certain amount. If you have large expense to write off, make sure to save the receipts in your records. If you’re running a business, taxes can get complicated fast. Consider consulting a tax advisor. Expectations Have realistic expectations for your new undertaking. It won’t get you rich quick. Starting any project or business is very difficult, and many fail. Be proud for trying. Enjoy the process and the new skills you’ll learn. You’ll connect with a variety of people and build new relationships. Choosing a side hustle is the first step. After Covid, many pilots found the same motivation and began their side hustles. Pilotmood has networked and researched a variety of side hustles that have proven to work well for pilots. Below are brief descriptions and some pros and cons of each.
The Side Hustles
Mortgage Loan Originator
A loan originator takes home loan and refinance applications. They guide clients through the process, while advising and educating about loan products that fit their clients’ financial situation. Each state has different laws, but they can work independently, or with brokers and lenders. They are usually paid a percentage commission on the loan amount. There are several online learning providers that can get you a license.
Can be difficult generating leads, very much a sales job
Licensing test is difficult
Some concern that in the future the process will be automated
Virtual Bookkeeping
Many businesses dread bookkeeping work and will outsource it. Depending on client needs, virtual bookkeepers might classify transactions, reconcile statements, or enter receipts into records. You might provide balance sheets, income statements or cash flow documents. You should enjoy working with numbers, computers and have attention to detail. You can either start your own business, or be a freelancer.
Effort required for marketing and finding own clients
Need to meet deadlines
Responsible for data security
Real Estate Agent
A Real Estate Agent or Realtor helps people buy and sell real estate. They ensure real estate transactions flow smoothly. They are independent contractors who earn commission checks. Income potential is unlimited, but you are responsible for your own expenses. Many real estate licensing courses can be completed online.
Also, check out Associate Agents at Redfin. It is an independent contractor role, that involves attending field events, like showing homes, attending open houses or final walkthroughs. You have full control over your schedule. There is no sales pressure, and you are paid per event. However, you will still need a real estate license.
There are several companies and types of rideshare driving today. You can do food deliveries with DoorDash or Instacart. Or, you can drive passengers with well known Uber or Lyft. This could be a great gig if you like driving. Research the companies and reach out to other drivers. Make sure the company either provides you commercial insurance or you have your own policy.
Pros:
No training or special equipment required – only need a car.
Schedule flexibility – drive when you want
Drive and work anywhere, if you move or are away from home
Cons:
Responsible for gas and car maintenance expenses
Some feel too little pay for amount of time required to be driving
Wear and tear on personal vehicle
Create Flight Simulator Add-Ons
It is possible for anyone to create scenery, aircraft, or other items for platforms like FSX, Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-plane. The user base of flight simulator platforms is in the millions. Countless users could be paying for your quality product. You are paid in royalties and vendors take a part of the profit. While you’ll need to learn certain software and some coding, everything can be found on YouTube.
Pros:
Can work anywhere, all you need is your computer
Once a produce is created and released, passive income
Royalties are taxed more favorably than standard income
Cons:
Need to learn combination of 3D modeling software, photoshop, and coding
Time consuming
Franchising
Franchising entails running a business that sells a product or service using an already established franchisor’s proprietary business knowledge, processes and trademarks. The “franchisee” pays the franchisor an initial start-up fee and annual licensing fees. Examples of franchise establishments include Dunkin’ Donuts, Taco Bell, Anytime Fitness, and Hampton by Hilton. Businesses like to partner with pilots because of their ability to follow SOPs and checklists. Pilots can continue to fly full time while owning and managing their franchises. Mentors and services are also available to help find a good fit.
Established brand recognition, products and services
Some franchisors offer training and financial planning
Cons:
High start up costs and ongoing royalty costs
Financing may be difficult to obtain
Lack control of over creativity with their business
Notary
The main job of a notary is to help prevent fraud by witnessing the signing of documents and verify their authenticity. A “common-law notary” is not a lawyer and does not give legal advice. Each state has different requirements to become a notary. You’d need to submit an application to your state, pass an exam and pay the licensing fees. Notaries can charge their clients directly and keep all revenue, but some states limit how much can be charged per signature.
Pros:
Easy to start with low costs and training
Set your own schedule
Notarial income is not subject to self-employment tax.
Cons:
Takes time to build network of contacts and clients, few long term clients
Limited income potential with slow periods
Digital Assets (Website Ownership)
Many people overlook income-generating websites as an investment. Marketplaces, like Flippa and Empire Flippers facilitate buying and selling of websites. They feature e-commerce, software as a service (SaaS), or affiliate marketing sites. You can buy the website and essentially “purchase the income”. Or, you can buy the site, improve it, and resell it for a profit. A significant amount of due diligence is required to understand the strengths and weaknesses of potential websites before making a purchase.
Websites are already built, do not need to start from scratch
Only need computer and internet
Cons:
Significant due diligence required before purchasing
Cost of websites can be high
Still should learn website building and managing skills, such as SEO (search engine optimization)
Kindle Direct Publishing
Anyone can begin writing or selling books online. You do not even need to write your own books. However, it’s crucial to find a good writer to be successful. Engaging and quality content is a must. Writers can be found on sites like Freelancer, Upwork or Guru. Furthermore, those who see the most income usually have made their own website around their topic for marketing and promotion. Books do not have to be long, and only average 15-20 pages.
Pros:
Can outsource the writing
Unlimited income potential, some make thousands per month.
You own your books for a lifetime
Cons:
Finding a good writer or editor can take time and money
You are responsible for marketing, which is required to successfully sell your book
Lots of competition
Art and Crafting
Online stores, like Etsy and Shopify, have made it much easier for artists and creators to sell their work to consumers. You can also design and sell from your own website. Sales are growing every year. Check out these pilot-owned art side-hustles for inspiration (and some amazing art).
Pros:
Low start up costs
High amount of personal independence
Creative control
Cons:
Due diligence required for certain marketplace licensing agreements
Responsible for own promotion and marketing
Learning required if launching own website
Freelance Writing
If you enjoy writing, consider selling your skills on freelance websites such as Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer or Guru. Projects may range from one article or blog, to years long contracts. Many business and websites are always looking for good writers and content and want to outsource it. There is a lot of competition and writers looking for work. Building a portfolio and samples to show potential employers is helpful.
Pros:
Can work anywhere and enjoy different settings
Schedule flexibility
Lots of job opportunities in a variety of subject areas
Cons:
Competitive
Discipline required to meet deadlines and focus while working
Jobs are not always well compensated
Online T-Shirt Selling
If you’re an artist, creative, or frequently think of clever catchphrases, T-shirt selling may be the side hustle for you. There is a potential for a lot of income, and those who are the best can see six figures in a year. Usually with the help of advertising, like Facebook Ads. Teespring, Redbubble, Zazzle, Printful, Printify, and Threadless are a few places where users create and sell their own shirts. These sites do the hard work of printing shirts and shipping it to customers. The creator only needs to upload their design.
Can make shirts for many niches and target audiences
Cons:
Advertising required to be most successful
Trial and error process, many designs will fail
Lots of competition
Pet Services
If you love animals, there are ways to offer a variety of pet services for all the furry friends in your neighborhood. Pet owners happily pay for walks, dog boarding, drop-in visits, doggy daycare and daytime play dates. Every year, people spend more and more money on their pets. Many pet owners prefer putting their pet in a home rather than a kennel while they vacation. Get outside and more fit on walks, and enjoy meeting new people and a wide variety of dogs and cats. Check out Wag and Rover.
Pros:
No need to market own services – websites will take care of it
Set your own price and availability
Lots of demand for pet care
Cons:
Strict vetting process to qualify
Need to be home for periods of time and have family collaboration (for boarding)
Have to have a house and yard (for boarding)
Day Trading
Mobile apps, like Webull and Robinhood, have 0$ trading fees. Trading stocks is easier, more accessible, and potentially more lucrative. There are no account minimums. Interfaces are streamlined and easy to learn. Execute trades in seconds right from your phone. While buying and selling stocks is usually a more long term play, learning options can be a more steady source of income. It requires math and discipline. They may seem complicated at first, but there is plenty of free resources to learn the math and strategies. Join using the links above and you’ll even get a free stock!
Have an idea for an invention? Go for it, and make it a reality. Simples ideas can be very successful. Websites like Shopify can do a lot of the heavy lifting to create your online store. Check out some pilot created products for inspiration: Bumruk Backpack, PilotSocks, The Clippy Thingy
Pros:
Creative control over your product
Can work at your own pace
Cons:
Market research required
Can be a long time before seeing return on investment
If patenting, process for applying for a patent can be complex and long
Teachers Pay Teachers
Teachers Pay Teachers describes itself as “the world’s most popular online marketplace for original educational resources.” Here people sell digital resources to other teachers. While geared toward educators, you do not need to be a teacher to sell. There is demand for clip art, worksheets, templates, and more.
Pros:
Low costs to subscribe
Supportive community and can build relationships with other users
Lots of flexibility
Cons:
Will have to set up store with good name, logo, and description
At the online shops below you’ll be able to find special gifts for the pilot or aviation enthusiast in your life. There are perfect gifts for pilots in training, all the way to customized pilot retirement gifts.
Cleared to Create
We love this unique home decor. Made by a full time pilot, these painted wood airport diagrams are perfect for pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. Commemorate a first solo, new certificate, first airline home base or retirement. Additionally, the artist, Karyn, is very responsive. She is willing to work with you for any custom ideas. There are several size and wood background options. We have one for KLAX and love it in our home.
Stealth Steel Designs
You may not think of steel when it comes to art. The laser – engraved artwork and products at Stealth Steel will ensure you do. Browse the credit card bottle openers, ornaments, luggage tags, signs and other hanging metalwork. We love the silhouetted aircraft inside the bottle openers and ornaments. For something even more bold and beautiful, the American flag hanging wall art will catch everyone’s eye. Also, you can even create a personalized career map.
Schwoopenhausen Aviation Art
Created by a former fighter pilot, here you’ll find original aviation art, perfect for gifts or unique decoration. Especially for military pilots or fighter-jet lovers. Choose from canvas, posters, or shirts. They have stickers and drink wear that feature their unique designs, too. All the wall art can even be modified at your request to include callsign, squadron patch, flag, or insignia.
RadarContact
Aviation sectionals are unique maps. Radarcontact.com has mastered putting them on leggings, apparel, home decor, and accessories. We especially like the inverted color options. We own a Los Angeles legging sectional and can attest they are quality material, look as-advertised and hold up in the washing machine. They have artwork for every vintage airline you could think of on mugs, shirts, and stickers. You can also create custom airspace products with your favorite airport, sectional, chart, or anything else you want.
Pilot Life: Staying Healthy On The Road and Over the Years
Life in the Skies: Not Always “Living the Dream”
Most pilots love their job. We are also known to complain a lot. Usually it’s the latest call from crew scheduling, the outdated hotel in Albuquerque, or next week’s low hour, inefficient 4-day trip. A more valid complaint, that is not discussed as much during cruise, are the difficulties in maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the road.
Airline and corporate pilots face unique, but significant, health challenges over the course of their flying careers. They live in hotels, cross time zones, and deal with ever-changing schedules. Exposure to high altitude radiation and the elevated sound levels of aircraft engines can take a serious toll over time. Cancer studies on airline pilots show increased incidences of skin cancer, prostate cancer, and brain cancer. Concerns about health risks may increase as pilots get older and near retirement.
Many studies illustrate that pilots are under significant work-related stress. At the same time, there is a general lack of awareness and understanding about wellbeing and mental health issues that pilots face. Along with staying physically healthy over the course of a career, pilots must work to stay mentally healthy. Mental well-being plays a major role in being able to stay physically healthy. For pilots, dealing with mental health can be tricky, as a diagnosis of a mental health disorder like depression can mean grounding. Tests and treatment would be required before medically certified to fly again.
Many pilots feel bouncing around the country from one airport hotel to another, year after year, is lonely and isolating. While this lifestyle is cheekily called “living the dream,” being on the road constantly can also take a toll on relationships. Pilots spend lots of time away from their spouses and families, which present unique challenges. Even if a spouse is okay with it at first, over time, they may grow to resent the time away, spending holidays alone, and uneven distribution of household responsibilities. Although airline pilots have great flight benefits, when they are not working, they may have no desire to pack a suitcase again and travel with their families.
Balancing Diet, Exercise, and Sleep: Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Many pilots struggle to maintain a healthy weight. According to Harvard doctors, maintaining a healthy weight lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and many cancers. Airline pilots may eat too much airport fast food, and corporate pilots may be provided endless high-calorie crew meals while sitting in FBOs for hours at a time. Eating healthy – and not overeating – while traveling is a major issue. Arriving at a hotel at midnight can mean only typical fast-food options are available, so planning meals ahead is critical.
Dehydration also presents increased risks for pilots. Symptoms are amplified due to crew members operating in the dry environment of high altitudes, including headache, fatigue, cramps, sleepiness, and dizziness. Lack of scheduled breaks, short turn-around times, and lack of available private restrooms can cause pilots to neglect drinking enough water.
Sleep-deprived people may be too tired to exercise
People who sleep less are awake longer and have more awake hours to eat
Sleep deprivation can disrupt key hormones, causing people to be hungrier during the day, resulting in higher calorie intake.
Pilots who go back and forth from coast to coast may find it challenging to find a consistent sleep or meal schedule. If you are struggling with diet, exercise, and getting sleep, talk to your health care provider about ways to improve your diet and routines.
Staying Healthy On The Road and Over the Years
There are known and unknown risks being near loud engines, huge quantities of fuel, and at high altitudes. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has identified a list of working environment and health concerns that aircrews may encounter, including:
Cabin air quality
Cancer
Circadian rhythm disruption (jet lag)
Communicable diseases
Cosmic ionizing radiation
Job stress
Musculoskeletal disorders
Noise/hearing loss
Pesticides
Reproductive health
Respiratory symptoms and diseases.
Some health concerns may be lessened with protective measures. Always wear ear protection, sunscreen on your face and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin, and maintain a healthy weight.
Pilot Problems With Substance Abuse
Pilots are subject to regular, random testing for controlled substances. Nevertheless, many pilots struggle with substance abuse and chemical dependencies. Problems with alcohol are common. Even if drinking never reaches a level of requiring intervention, moderate drinking can disrupt sleep patterns and make it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Over time, the CDC says moderate to excessive drinking can lead to mental health struggles like depression and anxiety. Also, it contributes to heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, and digestive problems.
Fortunately, for pilots needing help, resources are available. The Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) program is an industry program that treats pilots with substance abuse issues and includes a pathway back to flying. More than 4,500 professional pilots have been successfully rehabilitated and returned to the cockpit. Since its start, nearly every airline has adopted the HIMS program. If you need help, you must be proactive and take steps to protect yourself and your career.
Our Solutions to Staying Healthy - Wherever You Are
There are strategies to hedge against these health concerns. Adopt as many as possible, so you can keep the complaining to the inoperative APU or a long sit an FBO.
Invest in some tech
Technology is on your side. You can watch your calorie burn, steps taken, heart rate, and blood pressure using wearable devices and smartwatches. Measure your health, so you can manage it. In these times of teledoc appointments and zoom calls, you can schedule a doctor visit anywhere. There are apps to track nutrition, measure your sleep, and even track your water intake.
Meal Prep
Pack food so you’re not at the mercy of terminal restaurants, leftover passenger meals or the hotel grab-and-go. It’s a lot of work, but the benefits go beyond saving money. It’ll save your health. Of course, for long trips or nights out with the crew, you’ll want to buy a tasty meal. But if you’ve been eating some home cooked meals, you’ve earned it.
Exercise
Take advantage of the hotel gym. If it’s closed or you don’t want to leave the room, you can do a live workout on your iPad. (Tip: Be a kind hotel neighbor – ask the front desk for a ground floor room if you’re going to be doing jumping jacks). The Department of Health and American Heart Association recommend at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Or, 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity. Use a combination of both spread throughout the week.
Sleep as much as you can
It would be unrealistic to expect to always get 8 hours of sleep in hotel room with late arrivals and early shows. Give yourself the best opportunity to sleep by creating a dark and cool environment. If you expect any issues with the room or noise neighbors, request a new room as soon as you can, before you unpack. Take advantage of deadheads, airport sits, and crew rest rooms as well, with a neck pillow that works best for you (Hint: It may not be the standard c-collar travel pillow).
Wellness Shots, Vitamins and Supplements
Talk to your doctor about what vitamins or supplements would benefit your specific health situation. “Wellness Shots” have become popular, offering immunity boosts and anti-inflammatory effects. While they won’t provide miracles, nutritionists agree they can benefit your health and body. Look for tumeric, ginger, lemon & cayenne, and wheatgrass. They aren’t cheap, and be warned, the taste might make you cringe for a second.
Stay Hydrated
The Federal Air Surgeon recommends 2 quarts, about four 16oz bottles, every 24 hours. Drink when you’re not thirsty. Be mindful of alcohol and caffeine consumption, which are diuretics that cause increase urination and water loss. Water is usually enough, but sports drinks or electrolyte mixes are also an option to rehydrate, especially if the cause of dehydration is heat.
Protect Your Ears
Make sure your headset it providing adequate noise cancellation. Carry earplugs in your flight bag for walk-arounds next to loud APUs.
Protect Your Skin
Consult this study or dig up your aircraft windscreen module and see how it measures up against UVA radiation. Most will provide protection, but not all, and higher altitudes can reduce that protection. For your eyes, choose sunglasses that feature UVA protection. Even some contact lenses offer 90% UVA protection. If you’re high risk for skin cancer, consider long sleeve shirts.
Use Your Time at Home Wisely
As mentioned above, the time away from home can cause many stresses in a pilot’s life. However, with several consecutive days off, and no work to think about, there should be ample opportunity for quality time with family and friends. Catch up on rest, and enjoy entire days with loved ones. You may have to fix the things that broke while you were gone, but make an effort for recreation. Many pilots feel while time at home may be less, it can be more quality time than someone with a 9-5 job. You can do more than put the children to sleep and see them off to school in the morning.
ACARS stands for Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System. It is a digital communication system that allows aircraft to send and receive short messages with ground stations via radio or satellite links.
