From Flight Sim Kid to CFI: Cole Ruckstuhl’s Unexpected Aviation Journey
In this episode of Flight Tales, we sit down with Cole Ruckstuhl—pilot, instructor, and lifelong aviation enthusiast. From growing up in New Mexico to navigating the skies over Louisiana, Cole shares how early experiences with Microsoft Flight Simulator, mail-in questionnaires to real airline pilots, and unforgettable cockpit visits shaped his dream.But Cole’s story isn’t all smooth flying. After a mentor’s tragic crash, he nearly walked away from aviation for good. What brought him back? How did he turn fear into focus—and eventually become a certified flight instructor?We talk flight school…
The skinny
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