What really happens after the jet parks at the gate? In Episode 29 of the Black Box Aviation Podcast, we bring back the “Day in the Life” series — but this time we go beyond the cockpit and deep into hotel layovers, crew routines, unexpected travel perks (like free bacon!), and the realities of life on the road as an airline pilot.
Tom & Mike open up about:
✈️ Navigating FAA Part 117 rest rules
🥓 Free bacon and late-night pizza
🏊 Swimming laps at Ala Moana in Hawaii
🏁 NASCAR’s ARCA Menards Series in Dover
🧑✈️ Layovers from Minot to Paris
💤 Pilot sleep strategies & workout routines
😳 The Air India flight where the captain shut down both engines
📊 Airline passenger disturbances and rage — are they increasing?
📆 Involuntary trip extensions up to 84 hours and how to mentally prepare
Plus, stories of:
🍕 Pizza buffets in Buffalo
🍺 $2 Labatt drafts
📱 Convincing a crew member to call in sick for safety’s sake
👟 Ironman training and marathon runs while on layovers
We explore how lifestyle, fitness, and mental wellness intersect with the job — and how good crews look out for one another on the road.
📩 Connect with Us:
🌐 Website: www.theblackboxaviationpodcast.com
📧 Email: theblackbox01@yahoo.com
📸 Instagram & X: @the_black_box01
📲 Hotline/Text Line: (203) 699-6792 — Leave your name and a story or question!
🔍 #PilotLife #AirlinePodcast #LayoverLife #AviationLifestyle #FreeBacon #PilotFitness #AirIndia #HotelLayovers #AirRage #PodcastClips #BlackBoxAviation #AviationHumor #TravelStories
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