Discovery Channel's hit new show "Flying Wild Alaska," is likely the new-favorite show of many pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. It depicts a unique section of the aviation community and illustrates the "American Dream" as it applies to aviation. Flying Wild Alaska tells the story of Jim Tweeto, his family, and the many pilots and aircraft that comprise his upstart company Era Alaska, which has become the premier regional airline of the state.
The show depicts the glories and hardships of flying as an Alaskan bush pilot, but also the harsh realities of the Alaskan wilderness itself--teen suicides, difficult communication and transport of goods, and unforgiving weather. Flying (and living) in the comparatively calm climate of Wisconsin seems much easier after watching Flying Wild Alaska!
Beyond the actual flying, the show indirectly raises the question: Is the American Dream still possible in aviation? After seeing the success of Era Alaska, it certainly seems so. Within the next ten, twenty, or thirty years, we may see the next "Era" expanding to a different frontier. Perhaps a modest upstart company will pave the way to chartered space flight (although some companies have already begun doing this), and rise as a successful business receiving national attention. Look for "Flying Wild Space" in the future.
Okay, enough of the sequitur about the "next frontier" of aviation and upstart aviation charters; back to Flying Wild Alaska.
The show can serve as a useful teaching tool for aeronautical decision making. On the most recent episode, Jim Tweeto had to make the difficult go/no-go decision to land on a waterlogged and significantly shortened gravel runway. In a prior episode, pilot Doug Doherty flew along Russian airspace in an explosive-packed airplane, all the while losing radar contact with ATC. These situations provide examples of aeronautical decision making that most pilot will most likely never encounter.
In all, Flying Wild Alaska is an excellent show for both pilots and non-pilots (the show averages 2 million viewers on Friday nights). Its ADM lessons and exciting aviation action will draw in nearly any viewer.
I just hope Discovery Channel decides to make a second season!
