I present to you, the official Flight Wife list of why pilot wives rule. In no particular order, here’s why we are awesome.
1. We get shit done.
When things break or go wrong (as they inevitably do) and our pilot is gone, we fix it or get it fixed. We are the ones who call the shots and we are the ones who get the messes cleaned. We are experts at navigating through obstacles, and can solve any problem that comes our way. We are efficient and well-organized, because we have to be.
2. We are flexible.
Change of plans? Not a problem. Pilot wives are the epitome of flexibility. We are used to canceled dinners, late flights, and rescheduling due to cancelations. We know how to roll with the punches, even while managing a full schedule. And while we might bitch about it, deep down we get a sense of satisfaction knowing that we can handle it.
3. We are independent.
Whether it’s taking our kids to birthday parties or get-togethers, we can show up and look great even without our better half. We know how to run the show and make executive decisions on the spot even when our pilots can’t be reached because we know we can handle it. We can juggle parent-teacher conferences with play dates and girls’ nights out. Because we’re awesome, that’s why.
4. We can handle 101 different jobs.
Wife, mom, scheduler, chauffer, cook, appointment maker, bill payer, housecleaner, goddess of all things. We come with a myriad of different hats, and we can switch them in the blink of an eye. We can juggle, multitask, and balance with the best of them – all while being alone.
5. We network.
Whenever we feel like we can’t do it all, or aren’t doing it well, we have a knack for asking for help from our fellow pilot wives. Whether it’s asking for a recipe, or venting about our lifestyle, pilot wives have each other’s backs. We celebrate each other’s victories, we commiserate together, and we grieve each other’s losses. We don’t judge each other; we don’t care about political stance, work vs. stay-at-home, breast vs. bottle, regional airline or mainline. It doesn’t matter where you live or where you’re from, whether you have a degree or you don’t, if you have kids or you’re newly married. Because one thing binds us together, and that is the fact that we are all in the aviation lifestyle and dealing the best we can. There’s no shortage of support with us, because we know we’re in this together.
6. We help each other.
Whether it’s trading babysitting, hosting a get-together, or helping each other run errands, when you know other pilot wives in your community, it’s a huge help. And if you can find a friend (we have a knack for this, too) who understands the aviation lifestyle and offers help, you know they’re a godsend. Whether it’s a neighbor you can call during an emergency, or another pilot wife who lives nearby, treat these friends like gold. You never know when you’ll need each other.
7. We know when we need a break.
You know that moment when you hand the kids off to your pilot and make a mad dash to Target/the nail salon/your hairdresser/get a massage? It’s a moment of pure glory. And it’s a moment every pilot’s wife deserves to have at least once a month. Has it been too long since you’ve done any of those? Time for a break my friend. Own it.
8. We support our pilots.
Studying for a checkride? We’ll handle the kids and house stuff. Had a bad day/trip? We’ll listen to them complain about crew scheduling, crappy hotel rooms, and maintenance delays with a smile and a nod. Because we are the soft place they fall, the confidante, and the soother of nerves. We know that sometimes it sucks, and that it’s awesome that we are the ones they turn to and trust to talk about the not-so-fun stuff.
9. We travel like pros.
Nobody knows the ins and outs of travel like pilot wives (besides crew members, of course). We know how to check loads, pack light, and how to dress for security. We can handle kids and car seats, and can entertain with endless games, toys, and snacks for hours if needed (because we also know the joys of traveling standby). We know how to navigate airports and can fly through terminals like nobody’s business. And we look damn good while doing it, too.
10. We handle the little stuff. And the big stuff, too.
Whether it’s managing the behind-the-scenes details at home while our husbands are gone, or dealing with big stuff like pregnancies or family loss, we are usually the first to know about and deal with crises big and small. Pilot wives know how to put on their big girl panties and deal with things, because that’s what they do best. Like a boss.
I want you to know, my fellow pilot wife, that you are a badass. You are strong and amazing and all kinds of wonderful. No wonder your pilot married you! Any time you feel like you aren’t doing a good job or you need a little pick-me-up, I want you to read this list and remind yourself why you truly are incredible. Don’t ever forget how awesome you are!
Have anything to add to this list? Comment below! I would love to hear from you.
Xoxo,
The Flight Wife
