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Dan Cooper… Who B. That? His name wasn't D.B. Cooper. At least... probably not. In 1971, a man calling himself Dan Cooper boarded Northwest Orient Flight 305 in Portland, headed for Seattle—and became part of one of aviation's most enduring mysteries. In this episode of Destination Aviation, we're diving into the airplane, the hijacking, the infamous jump, the money, the clues, and the question that still hasn't been answered more than half a century later: Who was Dan Cooper... and what happened to him? And for my aviation friends thinking, “Oh great, another D.B. Cooper story...” 😄 Stick around until the end. I've got a lesser-known aviation story involving two guys, a small airplane, and one question: How long can you keep an airplane flying without landing? How about almost two months? Also, I've been experimenting with some new audio features in this episode. If you hear sound effects, airplane noises, or dramatic transitions... yes, I meant to do that. 😄 Love it? Hate it? Want more? Want me to knock it off? Let me know! Connect with us on Instagram: dapodcast85/ TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: @DestinationAviationpodcast Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: www.destinationaviation.org Support the show

The title may be tongue-in-cheek, but the conversation is all about the future of private aviation. In Episode 79 of Destination Aviation, I sit down with Alan Walsh, President & CEO of Sentient Jet, to discuss how technology is reshaping the private aviation industry while keeping the customer experience at the center of it all. We explore Sentient Jet's pioneering role as the inventor of the jet card, how digital tools like app-based and text-to-book services are changing the way travelers access private aviation, and why the human touch remains just as important as ever. We also discuss the growing demand surrounding major global events like the World Cup, the complexity of managing multi-leg private jet itineraries, and what today's travelers value most: reliability, flexibility, and control. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, an industry professional, or simply curious about the future of private air travel, this episode offers an inside look at one of the industry's most recognized brands and the leadership helping shape its next chapter. In this episode: The evolution of the jet cardTechnology's impact on private aviationManaging travel for major global eventsThe balance between innovation and personalized serviceWhere private aviation is headed nextIf you enjoy the conversation, be sure to subscribe to Destination Aviation, leave a review, and share the episode with a fellow aviation enthusiast. Thanks for listening, and as always, blue skies! The Original Private Jet Card Program | Sentient Jet Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, we sit down with entrepreneur Andy Ellwood to explore an incredible journey that spans private aviation, Silicon Valley, and the future of grocery shopping. Andy shares how he went from selling private jets for Warren Buffett to building startups acquired by Facebook and Google, before setting his sights on solving one of the biggest challenges facing families today—making grocery shopping smarter, more transparent, and more affordable. Along the way, Andy opens up about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, including overcoming personal tragedy, rebuilding after losing a key investor, and finding purpose through innovation. As the founder of Stretch, he's leveraging technology to help consumers make better purchasing decisions while creating lasting value for retailers and families alike. This conversation isn't just about aviation or grocery stores—it's about recognizing opportunities, embracing change, and having the courage to pursue ideas that can make a real difference. Whether you're an aviator, entrepreneur, or simply someone who enjoys hearing stories of resilience and innovation, this is an episode that offers plenty of food for thought. Download Andy's Stretch app by searching "Stretch" in your app store Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

What does it take to lead one of aviation's most influential organizations? In this episode of Destination Aviation, I sit down with Curt Castagna, President & CEO of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), for a conversation that goes far beyond titles and job descriptions. Curt shares his journey through the aviation industry, the experiences that shaped his leadership style, and what it's like guiding NATA during a pivotal time for business aviation and general aviation. We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, the importance of advocacy, workforce development, and why aviation's future has never been brighter. Of course, it wouldn't be Destination Aviation without a few laughs along the way. From stories about Curt's career to lighthearted moments throughout the conversation, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the person leading one of aviation's most respected organizations. Whether you're an aviation professional, a pilot, or simply someone who loves aviation, you'll enjoy this candid conversation with one of the industry's most recognizable voices. Tune in for a fun, insightful conversation with Curt Castagna—because, after all... we can stand ya! Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In 1956, a U.S. Air Force B-25 Mitchell bomber was flying a routine Cold War training mission when everything started to go wrong over western Pennsylvania. Low on fuel and running out of options, the crew made a desperate decision to put the aircraft down in the Monongahela River near Pittsburgh. What followed was a dramatic emergency ditching that was witnessed by many—and initially thought to be a survivable crash. But then something unexpected happened. The aircraft that everyone saw go into the river was never recovered. Despite immediate rescue efforts, Coast Guard operations, and Army Corps of Engineers searches, the wreckage of the B-25 simply vanished into the river system. Over time, questions began to mount. How does a medium bomber disappear in a relatively shallow waterway? Was it buried, destroyed, or something else entirely? In this episode of Destination Aviation, we dig into one of the most unusual and unresolved aviation mysteries of the Cold War era. We follow the flight, the emergency landing, the chaotic recovery attempts, and the decades of speculation that followed—including modern search efforts that still haven’t fully answered the question. What really happened to the Ghost Bomber? And why, after all these years, is it still missing? Listen now and decide for yourself. Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

What started as a hectic pharmacy run with four kids turned into a mission to transform how goods move through communities. In this episode of Destination Aviation, Jeffrey Miller sits down with Beth Flippo, founder and CEO of DEXA, one of the few FAA-certified drone carriers in the United States. Beth shares her journey from technology and defense systems to building a company at the forefront of autonomous aviation and last-mile logistics. The conversation explores the realities of drone delivery, FAA certification, beyond visual line of sight operations, the future of autonomous flight, and how DEXA is helping local businesses compete in a rapidly changing retail landscape. Beth also discusses the challenges of building a highly regulated aviation company, balancing entrepreneurship and family, and why she believes autonomous aviation will reshape the future of commerce. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, drone operator, airport professional, or simply curious about the future of flight, this episode offers an inside look at one of the most rapidly evolving sectors in aviation. Learn More About DEXA 🌐 Website: DEXA Follow Beth & DEXA 📸 Beth Flippo on Instagram: @beth_flippo 📸 DEXA on Instagram: @flydexa 💼 DEXA on LinkedIn: DEXA LinkedIn Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, Jeff sits down with aviation executive Erin O'Donnell to talk about her incredible journey through one of the most dynamic industries in the world. From a young age, Erin’s mother encouraged her to pursue a stable and meaningful career path — a push that eventually led her into aviation. Along the way, unexpected moments helped shape her career, including inspiration from none other than Sir Paul McCartney, who reminded her why aviation and travel matter to people around the world. Erin shares stories from her time leading Chicago Midway Airport, often referred to as “the busiest square mile in aviation,” and what it takes to manage one of the busiest and most operationally complex airports in the world.  Today, Erin is helping shape the future of ground operations as President of HiSERV North America, a company focused on flexible and capital-efficient ground support equipment (GSE) leasing solutions for airlines, airports, and ground handlers across the United States and Canada. HiSERV is working to modernize aviation ground fleets and accelerate the transition toward next-generation and electric GSE technologies. This episode is a conversation about leadership, reinvention, resilience, and the people who keep aviation moving every single day. Learn more about HiSERV North America: https://www.hiservgse.com Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, we sit down with Grant “Slider” Bishop — CEO of Silent Falcon UAS Technologies, decorated F-16 Wild Weasel combat veteran, former Squadron Commander, and aviation innovator with a career that spans military aviation, aerospace technology, AI, and unmanned systems. Grant shares the incredible journey that first pulled him into aviation, from his early flying ambitions to combat missions and his transition into leading-edge aerospace technology. We dive into stories from his time flying the F-16, supporting NATO operations, training international fighter pilots, and what it was like operating in some of the most demanding combat environments in modern history. We also explore how Grant transformed Silent Falcon into a global leader in AI-driven infrastructure intelligence and unmanned aircraft systems. From advanced remote sensing and predictive analytics to the future of airfield and transportation infrastructure assessment, this conversation offers a fascinating look at where aviation technology is heading next. Of course, it wouldn’t be Destination Aviation without a few laughs along the way. Between serious discussions on combat aviation and emerging AI technology, Grant shares memorable stories, insights, and humor from a lifetime in aviation. Learn more about Silent Falcon UAS Technologies: https://silentfalconuas.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, Jeff sits down with two experienced A-10 Warthog pilots, Joel Bier and Andrew Tenenbaum, for an in-depth conversation about one of the most iconic and controversial aircraft ever built. From combat search and rescue missions in Afghanistan to close air support in some of the most dangerous environments on earth, Joel and Andy share firsthand stories from the cockpit of the A-10. The conversation also dives into the ongoing fight to keep the A-10 alive, why the aircraft’s mission still matters. They discuss the challenges of retiring and restarting military aviation programs, the unmatched dedication within the A-10 community. Beyond the military side, the episode explores life after combat aviation — from airline flying and business ventures to contract close air support and general aviation entrepreneurship. Featuring: Joel BierAndrew TenenbaumArticles & Links: The Real Problem With Killing America’s A-10 Warthog https://nationalinterest.org/feature/the-real-problem-killing-americas-10-warthog-17084The Real Problem With Killing America’s A-10 Warthog — A Decade Later https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/the-real-problem-with-killing-americas-a-10-warthog-a-decade-laterA-10 Discussion Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=iurPLNzp8L0&feature=youtu.beBlue Skies Independent Capital https://www.blueskiesic.comConnect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, we sit down with Mark Guiod for a wide-ranging conversation that spans more than four decades in aviation—from frontline air traffic control to senior FAA leadership and now into the future of aviation innovation. Mark currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Aviation 2.0 LLC (www.av2point0.com), where he is focused on advancing digital remote tower technology and next-generation air traffic management solutions. He also serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for Affordable Skies (www.affordableskies.org), a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the traveler voice in aviation policy and improving both safety and affordability in air travel. His aviation career began in 1981 as an FAA air traffic controller and evolved into a series of increasingly senior leadership roles across the National Airspace System. Mark served as Air Traffic Manager for Bradley Tower and the Yankee TRACON (BDL/Y90), later going on to lead the New York TRACON (N90)—responsible for managing the complex airspace over JFK, LaGuardia, Newark, Teterboro, and surrounding airports, widely considered one of the most complex airspaces in the world. Beyond the operational side of aviation, Mark held senior FAA headquarters roles in labor relations, systems development, and national operations strategy before transitioning into executive leadership in the private sector. His post-FAA career includes roles such as Vice President of Lumark Technologies and Director of Business Development for Civil Aviation and the FAA at Saab, Inc., along with advisory and consulting work across the industry. Mark has also contributed to aviation storytelling and media. He was featured in the documentary series Air Disasters in the episode “Tree Strike Terror,” available on Tubi, and served as a producer on the film The Art Thief, available on Amazon Prime Video. From controlling some of the busiest skies in the world to shaping future aviation systems—and even bringing aviation stories to the screen—Mark Guiod offers a unique perspective on where aviation has been and where it is headed next. Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, we sit down with Gary Powers Jr.—author, public speaker, and Cold War historian—who has dedicated his life to preserving the truth about his father’s legacy. Carrying forward one of the most debated stories of the Cold War, Gary shares how his mission has been to correct decades of misinformation and ensure the real story is told: that his father did not cooperate with the USSR while in captivity. We explore Gary’s journey from discovering deeply personal letters his father wrote while imprisoned in the Soviet Union, to understanding the global tension surrounding the incident—including the dramatic prisoner exchange that brought his father home. He also reflects on the surreal experience of seeing his father portrayed on screen by Lee Majors, and his own role as a consultant on Steven Spielberg’s Cold War thriller Bridge of Spies, starring Tom Hanks. Gary has authored eight books on the subject, with a new release coming this May, and continues to educate audiences through his work and as the founder of a Cold War museum near Washington, D.C. This is a powerful conversation about history, legacy, and one son’s commitment to setting the record straight. 🔗 Learn more, book Gary to speak, or explore his books: https://garypowers.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, we sit down with entrepreneur and innovator Miles Spencer for a conversation that lives at the intersection of technology, memory, and legacy. Miles is the co-founder and CEO of Reflekta, a groundbreaking “soul tech” platform designed to preserve the voices, stories, and personalities of loved ones—allowing future generations to interact with dynamic, AI-driven versions of those who have passed. Built from a deeply personal desire to have “one more conversation” with family, Reflekta is redefining how we think about memory, grief, and connection across time.  With a career spanning media, entrepreneurship, and storytelling—including his time as co-host of PBS’s MoneyHunt—Miles has long explored the power of narrative. Today, he’s pushing boundaries by turning memories into living, interactive legacies that can endure for generations.  But this conversation goes beyond technology. We also dive into Miles’ passion for aviation and adventure, including his parachuting experiences and his upcoming jump over Normandy—an event honoring the courage and sacrifice of Allied troops from World War II. Set against one of history’s most meaningful backdrops, this jump reflects both remembrance and the idea that legacy is something we actively carry forward. From the skies over Normandy to the future of artificial intelligence, this episode explores a powerful question: What does it really mean to be remembered? Miles Spencer: The Shoebox Goes Digital: Modern Tools for Memory Capture | Reflekta - Miles to Go. Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, we sit down with Jennifer C. Rykaczewski, the driving force behind Affordable Skies. Jennifer and her team are focused on something that affects everyone: making sure flying remains within reach for everyday travelers. As ticket prices fluctuate and costs continue to rise, Affordable Skies is working to advocate for greater transparency, fairness, and affordability across the commercial aviation landscape. Through her efforts, Jennifer is shining a light on the real financial pressures facing passengers today, while pushing for solutions that help keep air travel accessible for families, communities, and future generations. In this conversation, we dig into what’s driving the cost of flying, why affordability matters now more than ever, and what’s at stake if access to air travel begins to slip away. Because this isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about preserving connectivity, opportunity, and economic mobility. If you’ve ever questioned where the cost of flying is headed—and whether it will remain accessible to the average traveler—this episode offers a timely and important perspective on keeping the skies open to all. Affordable Skies: Affordable Skies | Consumer Advocacy Group Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Website: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this gripping episode of Destination Aviation, we sit down with author Kevin Hazzard to explore his latest book, No One’s Coming—a real-life aviation thriller that puts you in the middle of one of the most daring air medical rescue missions in history. Set against the backdrop of the 2014 Ebola outbreak, the story follows a high-stakes race against time as two infected American aid workers must be evacuated from West Africa. With the clock ticking and the risks nearly unimaginable, a small, unconventional aviation company—Phoenix Air—is called upon to attempt what many believed was impossible: safely transport highly contagious patients across the globe.  Hazzard takes us inside the cockpit and behind the scenes of this unprecedented mission, where pilots, engineers, and medical teams pushed the limits of aviation, medicine, and courage. The result is a tense, cinematic account of innovation under pressure and the kind of aviation story you rarely hear—one where the stakes aren’t just high, they’re global.  In our conversation, we dive into the real events behind the book, the challenges of flying bio-containment missions, and what this story reveals about aviation’s critical role in global crisis response. If you’re passionate about aviation, emergency response, or just love an incredible true story, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 👉 Grab your copy of the book here: No One’s Coming: Hazzard, Kevin: 9781538783177: Amazon.com: Books Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Websites: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show

In this special episode of Destination Aviation, Jeff takes you behind the scenes of his very first vlog — now live on our YouTube channel. The journey starts briefly in Florida at the ACI-NA CEO meeting, where aviation leaders from across the country gathered to talk airports, innovation, and the future of our industry. From there, Jeff heads west to the desert for the high-energy, jet-fueled excitement of the Buckeye Air Fair in Arizona. But this trip wasn’t just about airplanes. Along the way, Jeff explores the town of Buckeye, takes in some local flavor, and captures the travel experience that makes aviation more than just what happens on the runway. If you’re someone who primarily listens to the podcast, this episode gives you a preview of what you can now see on our YouTube channel — air show action, travel moments, and the full visual experience from the Buckeye trip. 🎥 Be sure to check out our first official Destination Aviation vlog on YouTube and let us know what you think. This is aviation — on the ground, in the air, and now on video. Connect with us on Instagram: Instagram TikTok:  Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok YouTube: Destination Aviation - YouTube Drop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane tales Websites: Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation Support the show