Every aviation journalist has likely written about the "beauty of flight." These columns, often titled “The Magic of Flight” or “The Dream of Flight,” focus on the awe and splendor experienced from the cockpit. The magic, beauty, and dreams associated with flying resonate with many pilots.
"I have been around long enough to experience my share of magic, mystery, and awe-inspiring flights," one seasoned pilot shared. Despite these experiences, they noted that an essential ingredient is often missing in such writings: the hard work and sacrifices required to reach those magical moments.
The most beautiful instrument approach this pilot ever performed was while flying a 767 from San Juan to JFK. Despite enduring over four hours of moderate turbulence, they were rewarded with a breathtaking view of a rainbow on the final approach. "It was life-enhancing and magical," they said, but it took 30 years of flying to get there.