About us

We believe that by sharing personal experiences we gain insight and become better pilots. So we created this website where students, seasoned pilots, and everyone in-between can share their experiences with aviation in an easy to read, beautiful way. Our hope is that you will follow our site, read these heartfelt articles and continue to become the safest, most proficient pilot possible.

Jim Hoddenbach

Jim Hoddenbach has channeled his dual passion for aviation and photography into two successful businesses and a lifetime of amazing memories. As an A&P IA Mechanic with 30 years of experience, Jim has provided decades of dependable, professional, and quality work through Aero Services to his fellow aviators at the Skypark Airport. Jim also founded Canyon Air Photo with fellow pilot and friend Steve Durtschi, providing their keen eye and amazing aerial photography skills for hire. Jim's excellent photography is often on display along with his engaging articles. A Certified Flight Instructor, Multi Engine Instructor, fixed wing and rotorcraft pilot, and husband and father, Jim never stops working to improve his life, and the lives of those around him. Jim is a true Disciple of Flight.
Becoming an aviation mechanic

Becoming an Aviation Mechanic

An A&P IA Mechanic with 30 years of experience discusses the process ...

A Piper Cherokee 140 flying over the Great Salt Lake

Rescuing an Indian Part 2: Finishing the Cherokee 140 Restoration Work

Work on the Cherokee 140 is Finished The last few months have ...

A Cessna Skywagon at the Hidden Splendor Airstrip.

Hidden Splendor Airstrip Video

The Hidden Splendor airstrip provides access to a stunning wilderness area with rich ...

A Cessna 210 Centurion retracting its landing gears after take off

Cessna 210 Centurion

The Cessna 210 Centurion: Arguably the best high performance single ever produced ...

Jim Hoddenbach - Aircraft Engine Overhaul

Aircraft Engine Overhaul

An A & P IA Aircraft Mechanic Goes Through the Aircraft Engine Overhaul ...

TravelAir 4000 - San Diego part 3, Top 10 Articles of 2014

San Diego part 3

San Diego part 3 My grandfather was a professional photographer in the ...

Cessna 421B on the runway

Judgment and Experience in Aviation

Judgment and experience are of key importance in our world of aviation. ...

Mag Checks

Discussing Aircraft Magneto Checks Pilots take comfort in knowing the aircraft they ...

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff It was 30 degrees below zero outside ...

Beechcraft Bonanza - one of many high-performance airplanes

More Power: Transitioning to High-Performance Airplanes

Learning to fly basic versus high-performance airplanes. The majority of those who learn ...