They say that if you can’t see it, you can’t be it and that certainly seems to be the case with getting more women into aviation. The recently released documentary Touch the Sky seeks to help encourage more women to consider flying for fun and/or employment, particularly looking at the “soft” (aka “human”) issues that are part of the answer to the question: “Why are there so few female pilots?”
We also take a look at drone racing which was featured at the recent Avalon Airshow back in March. The Australian Defence Force is running racing events to encourage more young people to consider doing STEM training and also the potential for a career in Defence.
This episode consists of:
- 1:22 Stephen Limkin is the director of Touch the Sky while Erin Douglas is one of the ladies appearing in the documentary. They talk to us about their experiences in aviation, the inspiration behind the film and what it was like making the film. Erin also talks about over coming her fears and self doubt to not only fly, but also become a flight instructor with RA-Aus.
- 27:50 WGCDR Keirin Joyce steps us through the benefits and opportunities that drone racing brings the Australian Defence Force.
- 36:49 PTE Hamish Glover steps us through the experience of drone racing and the equipment they’re using.
Credits:
Image by: Light Studios
Voiceovers: Terry Daniel from Your Voice Over
Thanks to Australian Defence Magazine for allowing us to include the two drone racing interviews in this episode.
Howdy Steve and Grant,
Great show on drones and drone racing! Flying uncrewed aircraft is a great way to introduce prospective aviators to flying. Drones are a great first lilypad jump for those who want to fly on a tight budget. Because the cost to learning to fly is so small with a drone, it’s a great way to attract the next generation of flightdeck crewmembers.
Keep ’em flying Downunder!
Cheers from Texas,
Dave
You’re right, Dave, drones do make a good jumping point for those wanting to get into aviation. Much as control line & remote control aircraft were the stepping stones for many in the past, drones & RC aircraft are the way today. The benefit I’ve found with drones is that with so many having automated balance & coordination, you can focus on the mission as opposed to how to fly the actual platform itself.
Of course, if you want real fun, First Person View and drone racing really up the ante :)
Thanks for being with us :)
Cheers,
Grant