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Flying Changes the Way We See the World
One of the most remarkable things about aviation is how it reshapes our understanding of distance. A place that once felt far suddenly becomes an easy Saturday morning trip. A region you’ve driven through dozens of times becomes unrecognizable from 5,000 feet. Routes that look simple on a sectional chart reveal hidden landscapes and textures the moment your wheels leave the runway. Flying doesn’t just take us from point A to point B — it transforms how we experience the spac

John Stikes
3 hours ago2 min read


The Human Side of Flying
When most people think of aviation, they picture airplanes cutting through open skies. But every pilot knows the truth: the magic of aviation isn’t just in the machines — it’s in the people. General aviation is powered by a network of passionate individuals who show up day after day to keep aircraft safe, airports running, and pilots supported. They are the heartbeat of every flight, the invisible hands behind every successful takeoff and landing. This post celebrates them —

John Stikes
5 days ago3 min read


Aviation: The Closest Thing We Have to a Time Machine
✈️ The Magic of Flight Every pilot knows that moment—the soft click of the canopy latch, the hum of the engine coming alive, and the feeling that everything outside the cockpit suddenly fades away. In those moments, flying becomes more than travel. It’s time travel. When you take off, you leave behind the noise of modern life. You rise into the same sky that aviators from every generation have flown before you. In the cockpit, you’re connected across decades—to barnstormers,

John Stikes
Nov 222 min read


Flying with Family: Making Aviation a Shared Experience
Aviation as a Family Affair One of the most rewarding aspects of owning or flying a general aviation aircraft is the ability to share it with the people you love. Family flying turns aviation from a solo pursuit into a shared adventure—one that builds memories, teaches lessons, and strengthens bonds. Whether it’s a short hop for breakfast or a cross-country vacation, flying with family offers a special kind of freedom that few experiences can match. This is one of my favorite

John Stikes
Nov 132 min read


Weekend Wings: Best Short Trips from Atlanta
The Joy of Weekend Flying One of the greatest perks of owning or having access to a personal aircraft is the freedom to take off on your own schedule and explore new places. For pilots based in the Atlanta area, a short flight can turn an ordinary weekend into a memorable adventure. Here are some of the best destinations within an hour or two of Spalding County Airport (6A2) that make for perfect weekend getaways. 1. Blue Ridge, Georgia — Mountain Views and Rustic Charm Nestl

John Stikes
Nov 53 min read


Hangar Talk — The Real Cost of Keeping Your Plane
The Dream vs. The Reality Owning your own airplane is one of the most rewarding experiences in aviation — freedom, flexibility, and pride all rolled into one. But after the excitement of purchasing your first aircraft comes an important reality: keeping it ready to fly safely and efficiently costs money. Understanding these ongoing expenses is key to stress-free ownership and smart financial planning. Hangar or Tie-Down? Choosing Where Your Aircraft Lives One of the biggest d

John Stikes
Oct 312 min read


Why Fall Is a Great Time to Buy or Sell an Aircraft
There is something about taking off into the crisp fall air. Seasonal Shifts in the Market In general aviation, timing matters—and fall...

John Stikes
Oct 142 min read


Fall Fly-Ins and Aviation Events You Won’t Want to Miss
There is not much more fun than when you get a bunch of aviation enthusiasts together. Why Fall Is Perfect for Aviation Events Fall...

John Stikes
Oct 62 min read


Fall Flight Checks: Preparing Your Aircraft for Cooler Weather
Why Seasonal Prep Matters As summer gives way to autumn, flying conditions improve in many ways—smoother air, cooler temps, and stunning...

John Stikes
Sep 302 min read


Flying Into Fall: Why Autumn Is the Best Season for General Aviation Pilots
A Season Made for Flying Every season offers something special to pilots, but fall has a unique magic all its own. Crisp, cool air boosts...

John Stikes
Sep 232 min read


Ready-to-Fly vs. Kit Build: Which Is Right for You?
Building takes time and dedication. As many have said... if you want to fly... fly if you want to build... build. Introduction Every...

John Stikes
Sep 172 min read


How to Buy Your First Airplane: A Step-by-Step Guide
Test flights are fun! Why Buying Your First Airplane Is Different For many pilots, owning an aircraft is the ultimate dream. When I...

John Stikes
Sep 82 min read


What the FAA’s MOSAIC Rules Mean for Aircraft Owners and Buyers
Great flights start with great preflights A Historic Shift in Aviation General aviation is entering a new era thanks to the FAA’s MOSAIC...

John Stikes
Aug 262 min read


Garmin Pilot vs. ForeFlight vs. 8flight: How EFBs Are Transforming IFR Flight
These days, the cockpit no longer needs paper stacks and binders. Instead, many IFR pilots rely on powerful Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs)...

John Stikes
Aug 262 min read


General Aviation’s Next Chapter: Why Now Is the Best Time to Own an Airplane
Sling TSI is a great choice for personal aviation The aviation world is buzzing with anticipation, and for good reason. The FAA’s...

John Stikes
Aug 252 min read


The Role of General Aviation in Business: How Private Flying Saves Time and Money
Sometimes when you fly in you get to park with the jets For business professionals, time is money, and efficiency is everything. In...

John Stikes
Mar 154 min read


Understanding the General Aviation Aircraft Sales Process
Buying or selling a general aviation (GA) aircraft is a significant transaction that requires careful planning, industry knowledge, and...

John Stikes
Mar 63 min read


Kids Light Up in the Cockpit: Falling in Love with Flying - Stikes Aviation
Excited to see the world passing by under the wing There’s something magical about watching your kids light up when they step into the...

John Stikes
Feb 83 min read


Taking Flight: A Guide to Building Your Own Experimental Aircraft
For aviation enthusiasts, few experiences are as rewarding as building and flying an aircraft of their own design. Building and flying...

John Stikes
Feb 43 min read


Something Peaceful About Flying: Clearing Your Mind & Finding Center in Aviation
Something Peaceful about just cruising There’s something almost magical about stepping into the cockpit of an aircraft, closing the door,...

John Stikes
Jan 173 min read
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