Pilot Spotlight: Laine Apple
Follow Laine on Instagram @laine_apple
Current Status:
I work for NetJets as a first officer on the Phenom. I am currently in my initial training and I love it so far. I also still currently fly for fun and do occasional tailwheel endorsements and flight training in a Citabria.
Tell Us About Your Aviation Journey:
My parents really value education so going to college was not a question for me. I graduated from the university of Arkansas in 2019. During my summers in college my job was working as a lifeguard for Nags Head Ocean Rescue in Nags Head NC. Something really neat about the outer banks is that’s where the Wright Brothers had their first flights. There were air tours and banner towing going up and down the beach daily. Looking back that’s what inspired me was seeing the planes go by during my time working on the beach. After graduating college I was working remotely in tech sales and had time and money to work on my PPL with the banner tow company.
What have been the standout moments or achievements in your aviation career so far?
Towing banners and teaching aerobatics are my favorite things I have done so far in aviation. The friends I’ve made along the way are truly the best part. I have a group of people I worked with towing banners that i will be friends with for life.
Fun Aspects of Flying: What do you enjoy most about flying? Share your favorite moments or experiences in the air.
I like sharing it with people I love. Family and friends are what make flying such a special experience. A few of my friends and I flew a plane from Manteo NC to Ocracoke NC and spend the day on the beach and then flew home. Trips like that are what make the aviation world so special.
Aviation Organizations: Are you a member of any aviation organizations?
99s, WIA, EAA and IAC! getting involved is such great way to meet people and they always need volunteers.
Advice for Aspiring Pilots: What tips or advice would you give someone starting their flight training or aviation career?
Ask everyone you meet in the industry about their experience and what advice they can offer. It may not always been good or applicable advice but it’s a great networking technique and you can always learn something from someone new.
Favorite Aviation Tips and Tricks: Do you have a favorite aviation hack or tip that improves your flying experience?
The last three things I check every time before getting in the plane. Fuel caps, chocks, and oil door.
Follow Laine on instagram @laine_apple
〰️
Follow Laine on instagram @laine_apple 〰️
I’m on a mission to gather some incredible pilot stories to feature on the On Final blog. Whether you’re just beginning your flight training or you’ve been soaring through the skies for years, I want to hear from you!
Your experiences and stories can inspire others in the aviation community, and I’m excited to share them on the blog. If you’re up for it, please send me your story and some photos through the link below:
