Photos: Saskatchewan pilots prepare for the future of flying | Globalnews.ca

Many of us have wondered what it would be like to fly. Some people rise to the challenge and become a pilot.

“That first solo flight is really memorable. It's exciting and a little bit nerve-wracking, but then you've accomplished something great,” said Regina Flying Club graduate Madeline Caban, reflecting on her time flying.

She is one of several students enrolled by the Regina Flying Club as demand for pilots grows across Canada. James Topinka, general manager of the Regina Flying Club, said the pilot shortage is due to increased demand, not a lack of interest.

At the club’s open day on Sunday, they launched their new ‘Stratus Flying Academy’ to expand their reach to students.

“We've been training pilots and operating the Regina Flying Club for almost 100 years and hopefully will continue to do so for the next hundred years,” Topinka said. “But we want to make sure there's public awareness and recognition so people know they can stay home in Regina and get trained. They don't have to travel to Calgary, Saskatoon or any other place where they can get trained here.”

Air Force Capt. Ky Weichel said he sought a greater challenge in life while serving as an engineer and found his way into the Air Force.

Now an instructor, he says pilots are not born, they are made, and he believes anyone with the right mindset can become a pilot, no matter what their reasons for choosing to fly.

“Work hard, give it your all, and chase your dream,” he said. “If their dream is to be a pilot, whatever path they decide to take, whether it’s going to civilian training or joining the Air Force — don’t give up. Keep pursuing that dream, chase that dream.”

Global News' Andrew Benson was on the scene to capture the action from the aviation community.

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