I have always had a dream to become a pilot.  I grew up with family and friends who are pilots.  I am lucky to have been included on countless flying adventures ranging from the Alaskan peninsula to Southern Argentina.  Some of my flight time was routine…some of it not so much…but all of my flying experiences have been fun!

I credit my love for flying to those experiences I had in Alaska and Central America.  Flying into grass strips carved out of the dense jungle speaks for itself.  You learn quickly that flying noncommercial aircraft outside the structure of the Federal Aviation Administration defines true adventure!  One can never make assumptions and must always be prepared for the completely unexpected.  And for those of you who have ever been to Alaska, you know that flying is not just a hobby, it’s a way of life.  The vast majority of flying in Alaska is what is known as bush flying.  There is little in life that compares to the adventure of bush flying.  Often you are flying at low altitude through constantly changing weather over beautiful terrain.  And then of course you have bush pilots…who are a breed unto themselves.  I have concluded that all bush pilots are not only first rate pilots, but a little crazy!

My wife obtained her pilot’s license while I was in law school.  Flying with her up and down the Southern California coast only reiterated my desire to get my license.  My time finally came this last year.  I always promised myself that when I got my pilot’s license I would use it; and use it I have!  But I don’t just fly because it’s fun and it’s what I really enjoy, I have found that flying can be a useful tool in my law practice.

Given the nature of my upbringing and deep seeded roots in Southern Arizona, I have had the opportunity to develop a substantial amount of great business relationships with clients located outside the State and in Mexico.  However, as with all lasting relationships, I need face-to-face interaction with my clients in order to provide them with the best possible legal advice and services.  My pilot’s license has allowed me to get together more regularly with my out-of-town clients.  I now frequently fly throughout Arizona, Sonora and Baja, Mexico to interact with clients.  This ability to provide personal interaction with long distance clients has not only improved the quality of advice and services I provide to my clients, but it has also substantially strengthened my relationships with them.  Thus, what started out as a personal goal has turned into a valuable tool for my business and legal profession.  I am not sure there is any lesson to be learned other than to pursue your personal goals because you never know, they may turn out to be more than just fun!