Pyjama Pilots

After accidentally turning up to record with absolutely no plan, Jimbo somehow manages to drag Episode 22 into existence with Hoodie and Pedro joining the chaos shortly after. What follows is a proper hangar-style yarn covering everything from firebombing in Perth, topdressing careers, Coast to Coast training, and sky-high fuel prices, through to chemical ratings, old aviation stories, and whether drones will eventually kill ag flying. Along the way, Jimbo reveals his latest business venture — buying a mountain of dead-stock auto parts and storing them in the shed — despite Hoodie repeatedly calling it a terrible idea. There’s plenty of laughs, questionable financial decisions, aviation nostalgia, and the usual sideways tangents that somehow keep the whole thing airborne. Buckle up your seatbelts, folks — this one feels less like a podcast and more like sitting in the hangar after knock-off with a beer in hand.

A loose, unfiltered catch-up with the boys covering everything from flying over Christmas with medevac runs and life in the cockpit. What starts as casual chat quickly turns into a string of “whoopsie daisy” moments—ground loops, rough strips, turbulence hits, and the kind of decisions that seem like a good idea… until they aren’t. There’s talk of taildraggers vs nose-draggers, operating into sketchy strips, and how quickly things can unravel when conditions, experience, and instinct don’t quite line up. It’s equal parts storytelling, lessons learned the hard way, and classic pilot banter. If you’ve spent time around aircraft—or just enjoy hearing how things go wrong and right again—this one hits home.

In this episode, Jimbo, Hoodie and Pedro dive into the debate around modern spreading tech — variable rate systems, cockpit mapping, and whether it’s actually improving outcomes or just adding cost and complexity for farmers. Is the technology genuinely helping pilots and cockies get better results, or is it a half-finished system that’s shifting risk and responsibility onto the people flying the job? The conversation drifts (as it always does) through real stories from the cockpit — dodgy fert density, spread tests, long days in Gizzy, and the reality of life as an ag pilot when the weather, the boss, and the cockies all have different expectations. Along the way the lads also get into: Why constant-rate spreading actually is an improvement When automation helps… and when it becomes a distraction The pressure pilots face when new systems don’t work as advertised Early mornings, endless seasons, and the micro-climates every ag pilot learns to read Electric aircraft experiments, drones, and where ag aviation might be heading next It’s part industry discussion, part hangar-talk, and part therapy session for anyone who’s ever worked in agricultural aviation. Expect strong opinions, plenty of laughs, and the usual sideways detours into aircraft, war stories, and the realities of flying for a living.

In this episode the lads cover everything from the serious to the downright ridiculous. Pedro debriefs the Ag Aviation Conference — mental-health panels, medical reforms, and why pilots still fear losing their medicals — before the crew dives into training pathways, turbines vs pistons, and the future of the industry. Then the gold starts flowing: wild strip operations, tailwinds that make no sense, hybrid-electric ag-planes, and farmers doing farmers things. And topping it all off: the Mesopotamia Station story — two blokes accidentally sprinting 80 km/h down a strip hanging onto a moving aircraft . A mix of industry insight, pure chaos, and some of the funniest rural aviation yarns you’ll hear. **Special shout out to those who know Pedro and/or Hoodie and are asking what I'm up to! ;-D

The boys are back on the mics and straight into it. Jimbo’s been ping-ponging between NZ and Aussie, Hoodie’s barely alive after Pearl Jam, and Pedro is halfway between a half-marathon and a meltdown. This episode somehow manages to cover: • the “10 accidents in 10 weeks” saga• why pilots aren’t always the problem (management... hello)• flap checks, hopper pops, and learning the hard way• fake IDs, tequila disasters, and legendary hangovers• new composite firebombers that look like something out of Planes • ATPLs no one wants to pay for• floats, survey flying, and CFG headaches• plus the usual roasting, reminiscing, and barely-appropriate stories It’s chaotic, honest, aviation-nerdy, and very on-brand. Grab a drink (but not raro-tequila), settle in, and enjoy the ride.

I sat down with Richmond “Ditch” Harding, one of the most respected ag pilots around, to talk about his decades in the seat - from the early Tiger Moth days right through to the modern era of agricultural aviation. Ditch has a wealth of stories, sharp insights, and that trademark mix of honesty and humour you only get from a bloke who’s seen it all. We got into how he started out, the aircraft he’s flown, the changes he’s watched unfold, and what’s stayed the same through it all - the people, the passion, and the sheer love of flying.

We're back for another season with the Pyjama Pilots, and it's bloody great to be back! Sharing random babbles from a few good mates who love flying, but love taking the mickey out of each other more. The following description was made by AI. Take from that what you will, and let us know how accurate it was! In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of their lives, including personal challenges, work experiences in aviation, and the importance of community support. They delve into the complexities of flying regulations, share stories from their careers, and reflect on the impact of divorce on professional life. The discussion also touches on the significance of safety management in aviation and the joys of plane spotting as a community activity. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various themes surrounding aviation, personal experiences, and the importance of communication in relationships. They discuss managing distractions while flying, the significance of resolving conflicts before work, and the impact of personal growth and reflection on their lives. The conversation also touches on the challenges of long-distance relationships, individual approaches to stress, and the effects of divorce. Additionally, they explore aviation equipment preferences, innovations in training, and experiences with wildlife during flights. The discussion concludes with reflections on past experiences and the future of aviation technology and services.

Join us on a remarkable journey through the skies with Royce Hooker, a distinguished 91-year-old (recorded 2023) aviation pioneer whose career spans the golden era of flight. From his early days as an aircraft mechanic in the RNZAF to his adventures topdressing Cessnas to the iconic FU-24 Fletcher, Royce has witnessed and shaped pivotal moments in aviation history. In this podcast, he shares stories from the industry's infancy, offering a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of those who paved the runway for future generations. Tune in to hear the untold tales of dedication, skill, and passion from a true veteran of the skies. Once again big ups to Chris Hoffman for sponsoring this Episode- You're a legend!

I'm flying solo again as we welcome Hallett Griffin, a luminary in the agricultural aviation industry with over six decades of experience. Starting his career in 1963, Hallett founded Griffin Ag-Air Ltd in 1981 with his wife Gloria, growing it into a respected family-run business. Join us as we yarn about Hallett and his amazing career as an Ag pilot. Another thanks to the Chris Hoffman, who helped fund this trip. What a legend.

In this episode I'm flying solo, having a sit down with Neville Worsley, a celebrated agricultural pilot whose distinguished career has made a significant mark in the skies of New Zealand. Neville, known for his exceptional skill in flying the DC-3 on single-pilot operations, shares fascinating insights and thrilling experiences from his time topdressing throughout New Zealand's beautiful landscape. For those eager to dive deeper into Neville's story, his book "Tiger Moths to Topdressing DC-3s" is a must-read. It's a treasure trove of aviation history, personal anecdotes, and insights into the world of agricultural flying. To purchase, email Neville directly at dh822dc3@gmail.com We also extend our gratitude to Chris Hoffman for sponsoring this trip to meet Neville. You're the man, Chris!

Chris is a legend! Today we tackle the age old debate: Where do we land in an engine failure? That and several other topics we wander off into: Standard Overhead Rejoins, Hawkes Bay Floods, and several others, on our journey of aviation tangents. We hope you enjoy!

Join us in this high-flying episode as our trio of aviators navigate through the swirling intricacies of weather and wind patterns in aerial topdressing. Learn how pilots tackle unexpected weather challenges and harness the power of the wind to ensure successful operations. Buckle up as we soar through the skies and delve into the atmospheric elements that shape the world of aerial topdressing.

In this powerful episode, we delve into the life-changing story of our very own co-host Pete, who experienced firsthand the impacts of trauma and mental health struggles. After witnessing a horrific incident that deeply affected him, Pete began his own arduous journey towards healing and recovery. Through his experiences, he has become a passionate advocate for mental health awareness in the aviation sector. Join us as we explore the challenges he faced, the stigma he encountered, and the steps he took to reclaim his life. Pete's story illuminates the critical need for mental health support in high-stress professions and offers hope to those who might be dealing with similar issues. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion about resilience, recovery, and the power of speaking out about mental health. His TVNZ Episode is available to NZ viewers here: https://www.tvnz.co.nz/shows/i-am/episodes/s4-e2 Pete's Vector article: https://www.aviation.govt.nz/assets/publications/vector/vector-article-archive/health-and-human-factors/vector-article-2021-4-to-hell-and-back.pdf PEER ASSISTANCE NETWORK Feel like you need a helping hand to get through the day? Work pressures, relationship issues or just overwhelmed? Visit pan.org.nz to request a confidential conversation with a trained peer, or call 0800 PAN 100 (0800 726 100). WOMEN’S ASSISTANCE FORUM Providing support and information to any woman who may be dealing with the challenges of working in aviation, from work/life balance to sexual harassment. Visit pan.org.nz > about-us > woman’s-assistanceforum to connect with a female PAN co-ordinator. Or phone on the PAN number above. NATIONAL HELP NUMBER Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor or go to 1737.org.nz

In this thought-provoking episode of our podcast, we tackle the often underestimated but critical issue of pilot fatigue. Delving deep into the aviation world, we explore how fatigue impacts pilots' performance, decision-making, and overall safety in the skies. Hear from seasoned pilots as they share real-life experiences and shed light on the causes, effects, and potential solutions to this pervasive problem. Tune in to understand why a well-rested pilot isn't just an option, but a necessity for safer air travel. For our NZ based listeners- here is the link to the TV Show Pedro will be featuring on: https://www.tvnz.co.nz/shows/i-am If we can find a link to watch this internationally, we will add it asap!

What is better: The PAC750XL or the Cresco? Spraying in Australia, what's it like? We discuss these and a few other Q and A's you kind folk have sent in! Enjoy!

Welcome aboard our next episode of Pyjama Pilots. Today we discuss airstrips and dive into the things we've learnt, and the experiences we had to endure while learning them. Some fun, some funny, and others getting a little hair raising to say the least!

Our first guest!! This fine gentleman has worked in several countries around the world. From bush flying in the Outback Australia, to the cool temperatures of Canada, and flying up and down Nepal's Himalayan mountain range. Join us as we catch up with his adventures. **WARNING** there's a bit of poo chat in here, if that puts you off you may like to consider listening while not eating.

It's been a couple of weeks since our last catch up, so we spent our time catching up! Talking our usual pilot bambles, with a bit of banter to boot.

All three of the Pyjama Pilots have done survey flying around the world. For us, a good chunk of it was in the continent of Africa. We talk a bit about our time there, amongst other things...

The Pyjama Pilots attempt to answer the question: "what does it take to become a successful Ag pilot?". We're still unsure if we answered it...