Guys and girls,
Whilst I'm quite sure Bug's post is predominately 'in jest', the seriously worrying thing is how many pilots (not just helicopter pilots) actually get sucked into the hype of it all.
The thing about flying is there is a certain amount of mystique associated with it as far as much of the general public is concerned. What I can't quite get over is how some (not all!) pilots actually buy into it when they know what's really involved.
The qualities involved in being a good pilot are pretty simple for the most part...
1. A good sense of spatial awareness.
2. An ability to handle lots of simple bits of info and prioritise accordingly.
3. Some basic hand, eye, foot coord.
4. The drive to handle responsibility.
4. Lots of persistence and hard work.
5. An ability to plan your career rather than have it plan you.
There are I'm sure other attributes but I believe they are the main ones.
Where we (the public) got the idea that somehow pilots had other worldly attributes I have no idea but having said that, I have never objected to the kudos that comes with the position. I just try and keep it in perspective.
Not hard to do when many of my friends are doctors, lawyers (okay maybe not the lawyers) and other professional types.
Papa68
