You Failed Your Checkride. Now What?

You Failed Your Checkride. Now What?

Author: Brandon Martini & Carson Vasquez July 4, 2026 Duration: 21:46

🌍 Failed a checkride? You're not alone, and it's not the end of your aviation journey. ✈️

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down what a checkride failure or discontinuance actually means for student pilots, plus dig into the differences between Part 61 and Part 141 flight schools, why general aviation airports keep shutting down, and why fewer people are flying just for fun these days. The hosts cover:

  • What happens after a failed checkride or discontinuance, and why it's more common than you think
  • Part 61 vs Part 141: the real differences in structure, stage checks, and examining authority
  • Why airports like Santa Monica, Rialto, and Huntington Beach have shut down, and what it means for GA's future
  • The declining number of people learning to fly purely for fun, and how the cost compares to other hobbies

🚀 Whether you're preparing for your own checkride, weighing Part 61 vs Part 141 training, or just care about the future of general aviation airports, this episode has practical insight and real talk for student pilots and GA enthusiasts alike.

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Every Friday, Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez settle in for a conversation that feels like hanging out in the best kind of pilot lounge. Their Aviation Mentors podcast is built on the idea that the world of flight is vast, connecting everything from engineering and history to personal stories and global culture. They bring their own perspectives as active aviators, mentors, and entrepreneurs to each discussion, creating a space that’s as welcoming to a first-time student pilot as it is to a seasoned airline captain or someone who just loves the sound of a radial engine. You’ll hear episodes that dive into the nuances of technique, the stories behind iconic aircraft and airports, and the broader ways aviation shapes our society and sense of place. It’s a weekly exploration driven by genuine passion, moving far beyond textbook talk to capture the real conversations aviators have when they’re just sharing their love for flying. Tune in for thoughtful, wide-ranging dialogues that remind you why the aviation community is so uniquely compelling.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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