For 100 episodes, The Pilot Project Podcast has explored the world of military and mission aviation through the people who have lived it.

In Part 1 of our retrospective series, The Climb, we look back at the making of military aviators.

From the first moments that sparked the dream, to the grind of training, the edge of high-performance flying, and the toll service can take even in peacetime, this episode traces the journey behind the wings.

These are the moments that shaped them, and the reasons they kept going.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) Intro/Cold open
(00:01:31) Act 1: The Spark - Dan McWilliams - First Fighter Flight
(00:03:09) Bob Wade - The Wonder of the Golden Hawks
(00:03:46) Mike Houle - Hercs Over the Lake
(00:05:05) Vince C-Benoit - Wheat Fields in Afghanistan
(00:05:57) Rock Veilleux - Gliding with Air Cadets
(00:08:44) Act 2: The Grind - Mike Houle - The Firehose
(00:09:58) Dan Conway - First Real Doubts
(00:10:11) Brian Kilroy - The Pressure Cooker
(00:13:38) Pete Musters - P is for Pilot
(00:14:17) Dan McWilliams - Owning Mistakes
(00:14:45) Jeff Foreman - Scale Change
(00:15:09) Dan McWilliams - Fighter Dreams Derailed
(00:17:57) Dan Conway - 98% Awesome
(00:18:55) Act 3: The Edge - Skye Simpson - The Imposter
(00:20:10) Bryan Morrison - The Culture Shock
(00:20:54) Ian Wookey - Realizing You're Terrible at Flying Helicopters
(00:22:26) Rock Veilleux - Flying the Hawk
(00:24:40) Brian Kilroy - The Edge of Capability
(00:28:52) Skye Simpson - A Stick of Gum
(00:30:39) Rock Veilleux - The Ejection
(00:39:16) Act 4: The Toll - Dan McWilliams - Twisted Bits of Aluminum
(00:40:17) Duncan MacIsaac - How Many Lives Did They Save?
(00:41:48) Dan McWilliams - BAM! It Was Over.
(00:43:25) Bob Wade - The Weight of Instructing
(00:44:16) Rock Veilleux - The Road to Recovery
(00:48:34) CFMAP Information
(00:48:59) Act 5: Why We Fly - Blake McNaughton - Brothers and Sisters
(00:49:56) Rich MacDougall - Most Memorable Flight
(00:50:52) Jeff Foreman - This Is Your Captain Speaking
(00:51:28) Rich MacDougall - 25 Years Ago, That Was Me
(00:52:03) Blake McNaughton - A Gig Like Nothing Else

In Part 2 of this conversation, Maryse explains what Canadians do not see behind a Snowbirds performance, from months of training and preparation to the trust, discipline, teamwork, and safety culture required to fly nine aircraft in close formation. She also shares powerful stories about the team's impact, including how one airshow inspired a future Snowbirds pilot.

Drawing on her experience as both a Snowbirds pilot and former Commanding Officer, Maryse reflects on the team's legacy, the risks of losing hard-earned expertise, and what she hopes the next generation of Snowbirds pilots will inherit.

CHAPTERS
(00:00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:01:01) The Hidden Work Behind a Snowbirds Airshow
(00:06:13) Flying a First Snowbirds Show in Quebec City
(00:09:32) Common Misconceptions About the Snowbirds Demonstration Team
(00:12:26) Training for Emergencies in a Nine-Jet Snowbirds Formation
(00:14:16) How Snowbirds Prepare for Emergencies Before Every Flight
(00:15:00) The Snowbirds Mission: Inspiration, Recruitment, and Public Engagement
(00:16:04) Inspiring the Next Generation of Canadian Military Pilots
(00:17:01) Why the Snowbirds Still Matter After 55 Years
(00:17:56) What Makes a Great Snowbird Pilot?
(00:19:12) How Pilots Are Assigned Their Snowbirds Positions
(00:20:28) How Long It Takes to Build a Snowbird Pilot
(00:21:07) The Hardest Skills to Teach a Snowbird Pilot
(00:24:47) How Trust Is Built Inside the Snowbirds
(00:27:08) Balancing Safety and Spectacle in an Air Demonstration Team
(00:28:51) The Story Behind the Snowbirds Heart Maneuver
(00:29:44) What Keeps a Snowbirds Commanding Officer Awake at Night
(00:33:29) Why the CT-114 Tutor Was the Perfect Demonstration Aircraft
(00:34:31) Did Anyone Expect the CT-114 Tutor to Fly for 63 Years?
(00:35:38) Saying Goodbye to the CT-114 Tutor
(00:37:31) What Canadians Underestimate About the CT-157 Siskin Transition
(00:39:10) Lessons from the Red Arrows and Other Aerobatic Teams
(00:41:19) The Strongest Argument for a Snowbirds Pause
(00:43:25) What Canada Risks Losing During the Snowbirds Pause
(00:45:51) The Hardest Snowbirds Skills to Rebuild
(00:48:58) What Concerns Snowbirds Alumni Most
(00:49:33) What the Snowbirds Alumni Association Wants to See Happen
(00:54:24) What the Snowbirds Mean to Maryse Carmichael
(00:55:18) What Canadians Should See in Nine Red and White Aircraft
(00:55:38) The Legacy Maryse Carmichael Hopes the Next Snowbirds Inherit

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT
Maryse’s story begins in Part 1, where she discusses flying the CT-114 Tutor, becoming the first female jet demonstration pilot, and her path to the Snowbirds.
Snowbirds: The Pause Part 1: Flying the CT-114 Tutor and Becoming the First Female Jet Demonstration Pilot - Maryse Carmichael

Maryse mentioned our interview with Comd RCAF, Jamie Speiser-Blanchet
Command: The Future Force: Building a Fifth Generation Air Force - Jamie Speiser-Blanchet

Maryse also discusses the challenge of preserving specialized aviation expertise during transition, a theme we explored in our SEEDCORN series.
Long Range Patrol: The P-8 SEEDCORN Part 1
Long Range Patrol: The P-8 SEEDCORN Part 2

MORE SNOWBIRDS EPISODES
More Snowbirds episodes

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK
More stories from RCAF and mission aviation pilots

In Part 1, Maryse shares her journey through Air Cadets, flight training in Moose Jaw, instructional flying on the CT-114 Tutor, operational flying with 434 Squadron, VIP operations with 412 Squadron, and serving in Bagotville during the post-9/11 years. Along the way she discusses Exercise RV92, flying with her brother, supporting the Prime Minister, and the experiences that shaped her leadership philosophy.

Maryse also reflects on earning a position with the Snowbirds, learning precision formation aerobatics, flying formation inverted, and eventually returning to command 431 Air Demonstration Squadron. It is a story of perseverance, trust, leadership, and one of the most remarkable careers in Canadian military aviation.

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT

Maryse mentioned our interview with Jamie Speiser-Blanchet. Check it out:
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/command-the-future-force-jamie-speiser-blanchet

If you're interested in another Snowbirds perspective, check out our interview with Blake McNaughton:
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/snowbirds-the-unexpected-path-blake-mcnaughton

HEAR MORE SNOWBIRDS EPISODES

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/search?query=snowbirds

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK
More stories from RCAF and mission aviation pilots

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes

After earning his wings on fast jets, a serious in-flight decompression incident forced him to rethink his career and ultimately transition to helicopters.

This episode is all about persistence, setbacks, and finding your path in aviation.

In Part 3, he shares what it’s like teaching new pilots, working in Standards, and supporting wildfire operations during Op Lentus. From coaching students through complex flying to landing in smoke so thick it turns day into night, this episode shows a different side of military aviation.

In this special 100th episode of The Pilot Project Podcast, Jamie discusses the challenges and opportunities facing today's RCAF, from recruitment and retention to NORAD modernization, fifth-generation air power, space capabilities, interoperability with allies, and preparing for future conflict. She explains how systems such as the F-35, P-8 Poseidon, RPAS, advanced sensors, and space-based capabilities will work together as part of a connected fifth-generation force.

Jamie also reflects on her own career journey, leadership philosophy, and the responsibility of guiding the Air Force through a rapidly changing security environment. Whether you're serving today, considering a military career, or simply interested in the future of Canadian military aviation, this conversation offers a rare look inside the decisions shaping the next generation of the RCAF.

After completing his training, Niels went almost straight from the Operational Training Unit to deploying aboard HMCS Ottawa. 

Niels opens up about the moment he realized he might not want to be a maritime helicopter pilot at all, and how he realized he was right where he wanted to be.

This episode breaks down what life is really like on board a Royal Canadian Navy frigate - from how helicopters are loaded and maintained at sea, to the realities of food, sleep, and day-to-day routines during long deployments.

He also shares the challenges of landing on a moving ship, the steep learning curve of early deployments, and what it takes to adapt and succeed in one of the most unique flying environments in the military.

In Part 1, we cover his early life, joining under CEOTP, the long training pipeline, and his first exposure to maritime helicopter operations before even starting flight training. Then we'll get into a high-level look at what life is like at sea with the CH-124 Sea King operating on Royal Canadian Navy frigates.

They discuss P-8 training, automation, crew coordination, and the differences between the Aurora and Poseidon. 

The conversation also covers tracking Russian submarines in the Atlantic, flying operational missions shortly after training, life at RAF Lossiemouth, and how Canada is preparing the next generation of Long Range Patrol crews years before the aircraft enters service.

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT

Long Range Patrol: The Poseidon SEEDCORN Part 1: Aurora Operations, Op NEON and the Road to the P-8 - Dylan Gilje-Allan and Matt Chretien

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/long-range-patrol-the-poseidon-seedcorn-part-1-dylan-gilje-allan-and-matt-chretien

Long Range Patrol: The Hunter: Long Range Patrol and the CP-140M Aurora - Davis Clark
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/long-range-patrol-the-hunter-davis-clark

MORE LONG RANGE PATROL EPISODES

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/search?query=Long+Range+Patrol

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK

More stories from RCAF and mission aviation pilots

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes

They discuss the CEOTP/SEEDCORN training pipeline, earning their wings during COVID, and life in the Long Range Patrol community. The conversation also explores Operation NEON deployments, anti-submarine warfare, the Titan submersible search, and a dangerous fighter intercept in the Indo-Pacific that was later classified as unsafe and unprofessional.

The episode concludes with their selection for Canada's P-8 Poseidon SEEDCORN program and the next chapter of Long Range Patrol aviation.

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT

Long Range Patrol: The Poseidon SEEDCORN Part 2: Flying the P-8 Poseidon with the RAF and Building Canada's Future Fleet - Dylan Gilje-Allan and Matt Chretien

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/long-range-patrol-the-poseidon-seedcorn-part-2-dylan-gilje-allan-and-matt-chretien

Long Range Patrol: The Hunter: Long Range Patrol and the CP-140M Aurora - Davis Clark
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/long-range-patrol-the-hunter-davis-clark

MORE LONG RANGE PATROL EPISODES

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/search?query=Long%20Range%20Patrol

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK

More stories from RCAF and mission aviation pilots

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes

After battling through severe winter weather and discovering the vessel hard aground on Newfoundland's west coast, the crew of Rescue 901 faced a critical decision: evacuate the injured sailors as originally planned, or remove all 20 people from the ship before conditions worsened further.

Join us as Pete and Greg walk through the rescue itself, including inserting SAR Techs onto the vessel, triaging injured crew members, coordinating multiple hoists in extreme conditions, and managing a rapidly evolving operation where every decision carried consequences. They also discuss the teamwork, preparation, and leadership that made the mission possible, along with the lessons learned from a rescue that captured national attention.

This is the story of the rescue, the extraction, and bringing everyone home safely.

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT

In Part 1, Pete Wright and Greg Hudson share their paths into the SAR community, the experiences that shaped them, and the lessons that prepared them for one of the most demanding missions of their careers.
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/sar-the-msc-baltic-iii-part-1-pete-wright-and-greg-hudson

In Part 2, Pete and Greg take listeners through the mayday call, the launch of Rescue 901, the transit through severe weather, and the moment they discovered the MSC Baltic III had run aground.
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/sar-the-msc-baltic-iii-part-2-pete-wright-and-greg-hudson

HEAR MORE SAR EPISODES

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/search?query=sar

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK
More stories from RCAF and mission aviation pilots

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes

On the morning of February 15, 2025, the cargo ship MSC Baltic III lost power in a violent winter storm off Newfoundland's west coast. With winds exceeding 120 km/h, massive waves, and reports of multiple injuries aboard, Rescue 901 launched into worsening conditions knowing time was running out.

Join us as Pete and Greg walk through the mission from the initial mayday call to the race across Newfoundland, the planning and preparation taking place inside the CH-149 Cormorant, and the moment they discovered the vessel had already run aground. They discuss the challenges of operating in extreme weather, adapting to rapidly changing information, and the decisions that set the stage for the rescue to come.

This is the story of the scramble, the transit, and the race against time.

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT

In Part 1, Pete Wright and Greg Hudson share their paths into the SAR community, the experiences that shaped them, and the lessons that prepared them for one of the most demanding missions of their careers.

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/sar-the-msc-baltic-iii-part-1-pete-wright-and-greg-hudson

In Part 3, Pete and Greg walk through the rescue itself, including the hoisting operation, evacuating all 20 sailors from the grounded vessel, and the lessons learned from the mission.

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/sar-the-msc-baltic-iii-part-3-pete-wright-and-greg-hudson

HEAR MORE SAR EPISODES

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/search?query=sar

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK
More stories from RCAF and mission aviation pilots

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes

Before the mayday call, the winter storm, and the race against time off Newfoundland's west coast, there were years of training, operational experience, and lessons learned that prepared them for that moment.

Join us as Pete and Greg share their paths into the Royal Canadian Air Force search and rescue community, the challenges of becoming a CH-149 Cormorant pilot and SAR Tech, the importance of crew trust, leadership, mental resilience, and the realities of responding when people are having the worst day of their lives.

This episode sets the stage for the MSC Baltic III rescue and provides a behind-the-scenes look at the people, training, and culture that make Canada's SAR community possible.

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT

In Part 2, Pete Wright and Greg Hudson walk through the initial mayday call through their transit on-scene in a brutal winter storm and seeing that the ship was already aground.

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/sar-the-msc-baltic-iii-part-2-pete-wright-and-greg-hudson

In Part 3, Pete and Greg take listeners through the rescue itself, including the decision to evacuate all 20 sailors, the hoisting operation, and the lessons learned from one of the most remarkable SAR missions in recent Canadian history.

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/sar-the-msc-baltic-iii-part-3-pete-wright-and-greg-hudson

HEAR MORE SAR EPISODES

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/search?query=sar

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK
More stories from RCAF and mission aviation pilots

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes

She reflects on preparing her crew, making decisions under pressure, and leading in an environment defined by uncertainty and risk. Sam also speaks candidly about serving as the only female Hercules pilot in the RCAF for several years, the importance of mentorship through Elevate Aviation, and why International Women’s Day and Women of Aviation Worldwide Week matter in today’s military.

A conversation about command, courage, and representation in operational airlift.

As we mark International Women's Day and Women in Aviation Worldwide Week, Sam shares how she joined the Canadian Armed Forces under ROTP as a MARS Officer (now Naval Warfare Officer), and determinedly pursued a transfer to the Royal Canadian Air Force when the opportunity to become a pilot reopened. 

We walk through her flight training on the Grob in Portage la Prairie, the Harvard in Moose Jaw, and the King Air, as well as her time with the Multi-Engine Utility Flight before beginning her career on the Hercules with 436 Transport Squadron.

With 2,400 hours across 52 countries and five continents, Sam reflects on building operational experience, earning aircraft command, and what it means to grow into leadership in military aviation.

A story of persistence, adaptability, and carving your own path in uniform.

The episode dives into large-scale training events like Battalion Mass Tactical Week, Storm Flag, and Red Flag, crew culture on deployment, and the process of upgrading to Aircraft Commander. Tony also shares what makes Operation Christmas Drop so meaningful and what it’s like returning to the mission this year from the left seat. 

The conversation dives into the realities of RCAF pilot training, including Phase 1 in Portage, the challenges of Phase 2 on the CT-156 Harvard II, air sickness, spin course, test anxiety, and the perseverance required to push through setbacks. Tony also reflects on earning his wings, transitioning to the Hercules, deploying shortly after OTU on Op Reassurance, and preparing for Operation Christmas Drop during the Christmas season this year!

John brings listeners into the cockpit and onto the hoist with stories that highlight the intensity, teamwork, and urgency of SAR operations. He discusses the challenge of flying in the mountains of British Columbia, battling severe winds and turbulence, and the emotional toll of missions where outcomes hang in the balance. From max-range mountain rescues to long-lining injured hikers, from his first aircraft commander upgrade flights to the rescues that shaped him as a pilot, John offers a candid and powerful peek into what it means to fly SAR in Canada.

John walks listeners through Phase 1 and Phase 2 flight training, overcoming intense test anxiety, discovering a passion for formation flying, and learning from instructors who pushed him to become a better aviator. He also reflects on his OJT at 442 Squadron, where exposure to SAR operations cemented his desire to fly the Cormorant.

From the challenges of Phase 3 rotary-wing training to earning his wings virtually during the early days of COVID, this episode explores the skills, mindset, and resilience required to earn a place in Canada’s SAR community.

Anthony reflects on the loss of an American operator that day, what the motto “These things we do, that others may live” means in the moments that matter, and how those events shaped him long after the mission was over. He also opens up about the difficult transition out of the military, identity loss, drinking, confronting trauma, and how therapy, medication, and writing his memoir Moonchild helped him rebuild purpose as a husband, father, and storyteller. A raw and deeply human look at service, sacrifice, and healing.

American Veteran's Crisis Line (24/7 confidential crisis support):
Dial 988 then press 1 OR
Text 838255

To contact Anthony for speaking engagements etc, you can reach him at anthonyp.dyer@gmail.com

To buy his book you can visit Barnes and Noble or Amazon at the following links (or simply Google "Moon Child Anthony Dyer for many options):
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/moon-child-anthony-dyer/1147103074
https://www.amazon.ca/Moon-Child-Special-Missions-Aviator/dp/B0DZMXBHJ4

American Veteran's Crisis Line (24/7 confidential crisis support):
Dial 988 then press 1 OR
Text 838255

To contact Anthony for speaking engagements etc, you can reach him at anthonyp.dyer@gmail.com

To buy his book you can visit Barnes and Noble or Amazon at the following links (or simply Google "Moon Child Anthony Dyer for many options):
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/moon-child-anthony-dyer/1147103074
https://www.amazon.ca/Moon-Child-Special-Missions-Aviator/dp/B0DZMXBHJ4

Wade describes the transition from the CF-104 Starfighter to the CF-18 Hornet, his time shaping Canada’s early Hornet tactics, and the challenges of bringing a new fighter into service. He recalls intercepting Soviet bombers during Arctic NORAD alert operations and running forward deployments in the far North with 441 Squadron.

Then, Wade tells the incredible story of the day he became the first Western pilot to fly a Soviet MiG-29, after escorting the aircraft through Canadian airspace to the Abbotsford Airshow. With insight, humour, and humility, Wade reflects on Cold War flying, the changing technology of fighter aviation, and what remembrance means to those who served in uniform. 

From growing up west of Edmonton and being inspired by the Golden Hawks, to earning his wings in 1969 and instructing on the CT-114 Tutor at Moose Jaw, Bob describes the high-tempo jet-training world of the 1960s. 

He shares how the Snowbirds were born from a few instructors with a passion for formation flying and a supportive base commander who defied orders to keep the team aloft. Along the way, he reflects on how military culture, mentorship, and sacrifice shaped his generation of RCAF aviators. 

He talks about crew coordination, tactical missions, mountain flying, and the training and experience required to upgrade from First Officer to Aircraft Commander in Canada’s heavy-lift helicopter community. 

Ian reflects on early on-the-job roles, an unexpected deployment to Afghanistan with a special operations aviation detachment, and how those experiences shaped his choice to fly rotary-wing aircraft. He closes by describing the nerve-wracking moment of selection for the CH-147F Chinook and what it felt like to join 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron. 

He talks about early training on the Grob and Harvard II, a unique posting to CFS Alert, and the challenge of fast-jet training in Sardinia. From dogfighting, radar intercepts, and close air support to the physical and mental demands of becoming a fighter pilot, Eli gives us a rare student’s perspective on preparing for the CF-18 Hornet.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to earn your wings and fly fighters for Canada, this is the episode for you.

We dive into the challenges of leading four-ship formations, training young fighter pilots at 410 Tactical Fighter Operational Training Squadron, and the adrenaline of flying airshow routines in the CF-18 Hornet. Brian also describes his current work instructing Canadian and international pilots on the T-346 Master in the LIFT program, preparing the next generation of fighter pilots for frontline jets.

If you’re passionate about aviation, fighter jets, and military training, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look you won’t want to miss.

Brian takes us through his journey from growing up in Alberta and joining the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, to earning his RCAF pilot wings at Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training in Texas. He shares highlights from flying the CF-18 Hornet with 409 and 401 Tactical Fighter Squadrons, training future fighter pilots at 410 Tactical Fighter Operational Training Squadron, and performing as the RCAF CF-18 Demo Pilot at airshows across North America.

We also hear his firsthand experiences flying combat missions on Op Impact against ISIS, NATO deployments on Op Reassurance in Romania, and the thrill (and pressure) of representing Canada abroad.

If you love aviation, airshows, or military history, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Hear how they planned the mission, flew into turbulence and near-zero visibility, coordinated with JRCC Trenton, and stabilized hypothermic passengers until evacuation. This real-world SAR story reveals the training, teamwork, and mental resilience behind Canada’s mission-critical aviation operations.

Perfect for fans of Canadian aviation, search and rescue operations, and RCAF pilot stories.

They walk us through the skills, mindset, and teamwork required to fly the CC-130H Hercules into some of the harshest environments in Canada. Along the way, they recount intense training experiences, mountain rescues, operational jumps, and life-or-death missions that prepared them for one of the most dramatic rescues of recent years: the Air Tindi crash in the Northwest Territories.

This episode is Part 1 of their story, focusing on careers, training, and earlier rescues that set the stage for the high-stakes mission at the heart of this two-part series.

What is it like to fly counter-drug interdiction and Search and Rescue missions in the Caribbean? What does it take to qualify for this demanding aviation work, and how do crews prepare to execute missions as part of Joint Interagency Task Force South (JIATF-South)?

In this episode, retired RCAF Lieutenant-Colonel Trevor Juby, now Chief Pilot with Provincial Airlines / PAL Aerospace in Curaçao, and retired RCAF Master Warrant Officer Pat Lalande, now a tactical coordinator and mission commander with PAL Aerospace, discuss their transition from the Royal Canadian Air Force to international operations in the Caribbean.

They provide insight into the training, teamwork, and operational challenges of counter-drug and SAR missions, while highlighting the crucial role PAL Aerospace plays in supporting multinational efforts to disrupt trafficking and save lives.

What is it like to fly long-range patrol missions in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), face close calls in high-stakes operations, and then transition to counter-drug and Search and Rescue (SAR) missions in the Caribbean? How do Canadian military pilots prepare for this demanding work, and what challenges do they face operating in one of the busiest regions for international aviation operations?

In this episode, retired RCAF Lieutenant-Colonel Trevor Juby, now Chief Pilot with PAL Aerospace / Provincial Airlines in Curaçao, and retired RCAF Master Warrant Officer Pat Lalande, now a tactical coordinator and mission commander with PAL Aerospace, share their experiences. They discuss RCAF patrol missions, the skills and training needed for counter-narcotics aviation, and the realities of flying SAR operations in the Caribbean.

What kinds of missions do a long-range patrol sensor operator and crew commander face in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)? What challenges and close calls have they experienced, and how did those skills carry over into high-stakes counter-narcotics and Search and Rescue (SAR) missions in the Caribbean?

In this episode, retired RCAF Lieutenant-Colonel Trevor Juby, now Chief Pilot with Provincial Airlines / PAL Aerospace in Curaçao, and retired RCAF Master Warrant Officer Pat Lalande, now a tactical coordinator and mission commander with PAL Aerospace, share their journey from Canadian military aviation to today’s critical counter-drug and SAR operations.

Listeners will hear about their careers in the RCAF, the transition to international aviation operations, and the realities of flying missions in one of the most complex and dynamic regions of the world.

• Lieutenant-Colonel Luc Coates, Commanding Officer of 418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron
• Lieutenant-Colonel Francois Fasquelle, Commanding Officer of 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron
• Major Dan Faux, subject matter expert on the CC-295 Kingfisher

We dive deeper into the Kingfisher, exploring how simulation and training are shaping new SAR pilots, and how the aircraft has been performing in real-world operations so far. And perhaps most intriguing for our listeners: we take on every rumour and criticism we could find about the Kingfisher — separating fact from fiction and busting the biggest myths.

• Lieutenant-Colonel Luc Coates, Commanding Officer of 418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron
• Lieutenant-Colonel Francois Fasquelle, Commanding Officer of 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron
• Major Dan Faux, subject matter expert on the CC-295 Kingfisher

We begin with Dan’s early days as a pilot and what led him to join the fixed-wing SAR project. From there, we explore why Canada needed a new fixed-wing Search and Rescue aircraft and what that journey looked like — from concept to selection. Finally, we dive deep into the Kingfisher itself: the modifications that set it apart, how it’s performing in operations so far, and the process of training a new generation of SAR crews to fly it.

In this episode, we sit down with three remarkable guests:

• Lieutenant-Colonel Luc Coates, Commanding Officer of 418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron
• Lieutenant-Colonel Francois Fasquelle, Commanding Officer of 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron
• Major Dan Faux, a subject matter expert on the CC-295 Kingfisher

Together, they share stories from their diverse beginnings, the lessons they’ve carried forward, and what ultimately led them to the unique world of SAR and Canada’s newest fixed-wing SAR aircraft, the Kingfisher.

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Erin Edwards — a Special Operations Aircraft Commander, Elsie MacGill Award recipient, and current CAPCOM working with NASA and the Canadian Space Agency.

She shares her journey from commanding aircraft in Canada’s elite 427 Squadron to her first unforgettable call to the ISS. If you've ever wondered what it takes to lead under pressure — whether in the cockpit or mission control — this episode is for you.

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Erin Edwards, a trailblazing Canadian Armed Forces pilot who transitioned from flying special operations missions to becoming a CAPCOM — the voice between astronauts and Earth — at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

We explore the grit, mindset, and milestones that defined her journey, from the demanding world of tactical aviation to collaborating with the Canadian Space Agency and NASA in Houston.

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Erin Edwards, a SOF Aircraft Commander, recipient of the prestigious Elsie MacGill Award, and currently serving as a CAPCOM at NASA in Houston.

We explore her remarkable journey through the Canadian Armed Forces — from her early days at sea to commanding aircraft with Special Operations Forces. Erin shares personal stories of perseverance, leadership, and what it truly means to earn your place among the best.

Dan's books can be here:

Tutor Tales

Supersonic Stories

You can find his books at:

Tutor Tales

Supersonic Stories

Today we sit down for a chat with Fred "Penguin" Roy to talk all things CF-18. Fred is a former Reg Force fighter pilot who now flies as an airline pilot for Air Transat, while still flying the CF-18 as a pilot in the Reserve Force.

A video made to celebrate Duncan's career can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lawuhcfE-jU&ab_channel=DuncanMacIsaac

Links:
https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/training-education/canadian-forces-aircrew-selection-centre/joining-instructions.html

Links:
https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/training-education/canadian-forces-aircrew-selection-centre/joining-instructions.html

Paul has flown search and rescue out of Goose Bay, Labrador and Greenwood, Nova Scotia. He has conducted many rescues and SAR missions, and has had to learn some tough lessons along the line. Now, he's learning to instruct helicopter pilots to get their wings at 3CFFTS in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba.

You can't save them all. Sometimes a mission outcome will not be what you want. Sometimes you'll be terrified of the conditions. Hear about all these things and many more on this latest episode of The Pilot Project Podcast.

Links to stories that Paul has been involved in:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/yarmouth-county-canoeist-body-found-1.5876353
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/military-helicopter-grand-manan-1.6745475
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-naufrage-fisherman-search-1.5143017
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/search-for-villa-de-pitanxo-crew-continues-1.6353419
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/missing-fisher-canso-nova-scotia-search-jrcc-coast-guard-1.6383442
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/air-force-helicopter-bear-1.5744778

For Mike, all these things became part of normal life as he went through his 7 tours in Afghanistan. Mike has flown cargo all around the world, has instructed students (including me!) to get their wings in the RCAF, and taught instructors how to do their jobs. Mike has definitely been there and done that.

Mike will share his adventures in Afghanistan as well as his struggles to process those experiences; he'll tell us about how Remembrance Day has changed for him over the years as a result of his time in Afghanistan, and much more in this episode of The Pilot Project Podcast. 

Rich Macdougall has flown NORAD and air refueling missions around the globe as a Tanker Commander on the CC-130H Hercules. Later, after instructing on the CT-156 Harvard II, he decided to give his lifelong dream a shot and became a member of the Snowbirds. 

However, during Op Inspiration in 2020, tragedy struck as Rich took off from Kamloops BC, when a bird strike occurred and an ejection became necessary; resulting in severe injuries for Rich and the death of his friend Jenn Casey. Rich will tell us about his experiences that day, his injuries and recovery, his return to the Snowbirds and much more in this episode of The Pilot Project Podcast.

Greg has been a Tac Hel instructor, and deployed early in his career to fight in Afghanistan with CHFA; flying nearly 600 combat hours in many sorties. 

Greg will share his adventures and his struggles in Afghanistan plus much more on this episode of The Pilot Project Podcast.

What is it like if your new husband deploys? What about when you have a newborn, or you're pregnant? We will explore all these challenges and more as we sit down with 4 spouses to hear about the RCAF homefront on this episode of The Pilot Project Podcast.

What was it like for a Canadian military controller working in New York at the time? What about a civilian controller working in Gander, a town of 9000 that took on 6000 stranded passengers? How did an isolated NORAD detachment in Inuvik respond to the changing situation?

We will hear these stories and more in this week’s episode of The Pilot Project Podcast.

In this episode, Blake shares lessons from thousands of hours teaching on the CT-156 Harvard and CT-155 Hawk, the demanding process of earning a spot on the Snowbirds, and the realities of performing in one of Canada's most recognizable aviation teams. He also reflects on setbacks, mentorship, leadership, and what it was like to return to pilot training years later to learn helicopters before joining the CH-149 Cormorant community.

From formation flying and airshows to resilience, adaptability, and lifelong learning, this conversation offers valuable insight for anyone pursuing a career in military aviation. 

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT

Interested in another Snowbirds perspective? Check out our interview with Maryse Carmichael:
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/snowbirds-the-pause-part-1-first-female-jet-demonstration-pilot-and-flying-the-ct-114-tutor-maryse-carmichael

HEAR MORE SNOWBIRDS EPISODES

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/search?query=snowbirds

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK
More stories from RCAF and mission aviation pilots

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes

Paul will talk about his advice for successfully joining the RCAF as a pilot, answer the questions kindly supplied by listeners and the Canadian Forces Subreddit and much more on this latest episode of The Pilot Project Podcast.

Corey will talk about his experiences flying the Cyclone and his journey to recovery after the Stalker 22 crash. He’ll talk about why growth happens on those dark and stormy nights when your NVGs fail and much more on this latest episode of The Pilot Project Podcast.

The conversation explores the Aurora's diverse missions, including anti-submarine warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, search and rescue, counter-narcotics operations, and Arctic sovereignty patrols. Davis also provides an inside look at Aurora training, crew upgrades, deployments over Iraq and Syria, and the realities of operating in a combat environment. Whether you're interested in military aviation, maritime patrol, or RCAF operations, this episode offers a fascinating look inside one of Canada's most important air capabilities. 

CONTINUE THE FLIGHT

Long Range Patrol: The Poseidon SEEDCORN Part 1: RAF Exchange, Flying the P-8 Poseidon and Tracking Russian Submarines - Dylan Gilje-Allan & Matt Chretien
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/long-range-patrol-the-poseidon-seedcorn-part-1-dylan-gilje-allan-and-matt-chretien

Long Range Patrol: The Poseidon SEEDCORN Part 2: Flying the P-8 Poseidon with the RAF and Building Canada's Future Fleet - Dylan Gilje-Allan and Matt Chretien
https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes/long-range-patrol-the-poseidon-seedcorn-part-2-dylan-gilje-allan-and-matt-chretien

MORE LONG RANGE PATROL EPISODES

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/search?query=Long+Range+Patrol

EXPLORE THE LOGBOOK

https://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/episodes

After flying all around the world as well as instructing on the CC-130J Super Hercules, Skye has been there, done that, and thrived in the RCAF. 

Skye will talk about why a stick of gum and a whole lot of knowledge can get you out of almost any situation.  She’ll also talk about taking part in evacuations during Alberta’s wildfires, overcoming imposter syndrome, and how she overcame the biggest scare of her flying career through openness and honesty.

After extensive experience as an Air Combat Systems Officer (ACSO) Scott decided to join the good guys and be a pilot. He just finished a shortened Phase I course and has began his training in Phase II. In this episode we check in with him to hear his experiences as an ACSO on the Alpha Jet, doing electronic warfare, and what it’s like to be a pilot trainee right now in the RCAF.

Scott talks about what it's like to turn 'n burn in an Alpha Jet and the importance of Electronic Warfare in the battlespace, as well as the importance of teamwork during flight training. He'll talk about student life, what it's like at the mess, and why preparation and visualization (chair flying) are critical to success.

Vic was featured in our episode about Phase III Helicopter Training, and while that episode is not 'required listening' before checking this out, we highly recommend it.

Vic is a highly experienced helicopter pilot who has flown Combat Support, done lots of SAR work and currently instructs students on the Phase III Helicopter course. Vic will tell us about Combat Support, about his hardest day, and what it took to recover and thrive through this incredible adversity.

For this special Mental Health Awareness Month episode, Bryan will sit in the guest seat and his wife Melissa will take a turn interviewing.
 

Bryan has flown around the world in the CP-140M Aurora, but the missions that left their mark indelibly ended up being in Iraq against ISIS.  Bryan will talk about his journey from good health to a mental health injury, the struggle of accepting a diagnosis, as well as what he has learned about identity, what it means to be a pilot, and what he has gained and lost along the way. Through it all we will do our best to provide good information on what it is like to navigate the mental health system in the RCAF, and to provide great resources for anyone who is struggling. 

Remember, if you or a loved one are a CAF member and in need of assistance, the Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program is there for you.

Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program - 1-800-268-7708

After flying all around the world in the C17 and now instructing on the Phase III multi-engine course at 3CFFTS, John knows what it takes to succeed as a pilot in the RCAF. 

John talks about his adventures around the world in the C17, but he’ll also talk about why he believes it is critical to take ownership of your own professional education and stay in the books to maintain a high level of readiness as an Air Force pilot.  He’ll also emphasize the importance of shared experiences among peers to keep each other sharp. We’ll culminate with an exciting account of evacuating refugees from Afghanistan as the country fell to the Taliban.

Jeff walked into the RCAF with zero flight experience.  Now, Jeff has flown all over the world in the CC-150 Polaris.  He has immense experience and is now a qualified multi-engine instructor at 3 Canadian Forces Flight Training School.  Jeff will talk about what it's like to fly royalty, Prime Ministers, and other dignitaries around the world. He talks about the importance of stress outlets, mental rehearsal, and support structures, as well as the importance of taking things one day at a time.  

Colin flew the CH-124 Sea King, and Morty flew the CH-146 Griffon.  Both have extensive experience as pilots, leaders, and as commanding officers.  Now both are involved in the training, both pre- and post-wings of RCAF pilots.

What is it like to fly the largest helicopter in the RCAF? Jackie has flown the CH-147F Chinook all over Canada and Mali, and now instructs new pilots on the Chinook.

She'll talk about flying the Chinook as well as the tools she developed to go from failings tests from pre-test jitters to teaching new pilots. She'll also tell us the incredible story of flying medevacs in Mali, including after an Al-Qaeda ambush.

CBC article on medevac

Ryan flew the Twin Otter all over the Arctic (and Antarctic!), and currently instructs at 3 Canadian Forces Flight Training School in Portage la Prairie, MB.  He has also had some civilian experience at West Jet before returning to the RCAF during the uncertainties of Covid.

Ryan talks about flying the CC-138 Twin Otter as well as his insights into the importance of teamwork both as a flight crew, but especially as a team in flight training. We’ll talk about why helping your course-mates can be one of your best tools for your own success.

Pete has flown the Bell CH-146 Griffon in Canada and Iraq, and currently instructs at 3 Canadian Forces Flight Training School in Portage la Prairie, MB.  He’s been a high school teacher and had many other  occupations before joining which makes him unique among my guests so far!

Pete talks about flying the CH-146 Griffon and some of his passion projects; through it all what shines through is someone whose generosity and passion for helping others also keeps him loving the Air Force Lifestyle.

Eagle's Wings Flight School

Jules has flown a myriad of aircraft and has a whopping 6800 flight hours, with about 3200 of that being instructional.  He instructs on the Phase III Hawk course in Moose Jaw, and is currently the Deputy Commanding Officer (DCO) of 2CFFTS in Moose Jaw.  Jules has a ton of experience and knows all about jet training, but also about what it’s like to move into a leadership role as a pilot – and why you might want to.

Jules talks about the Phase III Hawk course and what it takes to make it in the world of flight fighter jets, as well as some of the future plans for jet training in Canada.

Dan flew search and rescue missions out of Comox BC on the CC-115 Buffalo.  He instructed on the Phase III Multi-Engine Flight Training course in Portage la Prairie, eventually achieving A category, standards, instrument check pilot, and more.  Dan is extremely knowledgeable about what it takes to do great on Phase III, but also to be grateful and enjoy your career no matter where it takes you.

Dan talks about the Phase III Multi course, some of the unexpected turns his career has taken, and why they were even better than what he could have planned for himself.

KFAero Contracted Flight Training for Phase III Multi

Vic flew as a Bell 412 pilot in Combat Support role in Cold Lake, Alberta as well as in Goose Bay, Labrador.  He now teaches at 3 Canadian Forces Flight Training School.

Vic will talk about his passion for flying, why he loves to teach and what he thinks it takes to thrive in your flying career and life!

3CFFTS website (KF Aero, the contracted company)

Deploying through birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays is part of being in the CAF. Today, we’ll hear stories from Greg Juurlink, Rob Truscott, Jack Wesselo, about what it was like to be deployed for the holidays, and how they spent that time. We'll also hear special guest and the host's mom, Diana Morrison, about what it was like to have a son deployed at Christmas.

Episode 1 Photos

Write to the Troops Message Board

"Go for Shakedown", by Stephen Robertson

Lauren has flown all over the world in the RCAF’s largest aircraft, the CC-177 Globemaster (C-17).  She has also instructed in Moose Jaw as both a military flight instructor on the Harvard and as a civilian on the simulator.  Lauren is intimately familiar with what it takes not just to make it through, but to crush Phase II and to be a great pilot!

Lauren talks about the Phase II course and the attitudes that can help you or hold you back in military aviation. She also talks about the advantages military flying can give you if you eventually decide to fly in the airlines!

Info on our mission in Iraq

Nato Flight Training Centre (NFTC), the training school in Moose Jaw

After taking part in over 60 rescues, instructing on the Phase III helicopter course and being the Phase I Grob Flight Commander, Dawn knows what it takes to be successful, take responsibility for your success and to make sure you stay balanced and healthy while you strive for it.

Dawn talks about how wellness can help you navigate difficult situations so you shine in both the good and the hard times you encounter.  She’ll also focus on how mindfulness and ensuring you’re ready to fight are critical to being a successful Air Force pilot.

Links:

Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP)

Death and Deliverance

Flight Comment - Issue 2, 2022 (page 22 for Dawn's article)

Royal Canadian Air Cadet website (How Bryan got his start):
https://aircadetleague.com/

The London International Airshow (Bryan's childhood favourite airshow)
https://airshowlondon.com/