Navigating loss in Aviation

When we lose someone in the aviation world, it shakes us to the core. Those of us in this field have known the thrill of pushing limits and facing risks head-on, especially in air racing, where loss is a reality we brace ourselves for. But when tragedy strikes on a regular GA (general aviation) flight, a moment that should have been free of the dangers we’re accustomed to, it cuts even deeper.

I’ve lost friends over the years to air racing, each one leaving an emptiness that’s hard to describe. But when the skies claim someone in a situation that seems so ordinary, it’s a bitter reminder that aviation, no matter how routine, carries risks we can’t always control. And while most of us accept these risks every time we take off, it doesn’t lessen the shock or the pain when we lose someone.

So how do we deal with this? The truth is, there’s no perfect answer, but a few things have helped me through.

Lean on Your Community

The aviation community is like a family, one that understands our unique bond and the heartache that comes with it. Sharing stories, celebrating the life of the one we lost, and finding comfort in each other’s support can be a lifeline. Together, we remember their spirit and let it live on in our stories, our flights, and our friendships.

Acknowledge the Grief, Not Just the Legacy

We’re often quick to celebrate a fellow pilot’s achievements and legacy and we should, but it’s equally important to acknowledge the grief. Allowing ourselves to feel the loss and to admit that it hurts can be powerful. It’s a release, a way to process and eventually make peace with the tragedy and what’s happened.

Remember Why We Fly

For those of us who have dedicated our lives to flying, it’s in our blood. We don’t take to the skies because it’s always safe; we do it because it’s who we are. Embracing that can give us the strength to keep going, honouring those we’ve lost by continuing to chase the dream we all share.

Carry Forward Their Spirit

Every pilot I’ve known who has gone before us has left something behind, a lesson, an inspiration, a part of their spirit. Carrying that forward, flying in their memory, and passing their wisdom to others is a beautiful way to honour them. It reminds us that they’ll always be with us, looking over our shoulders with each takeoff.

Time for Self-Care

Loss in aviation can bring up a lot of emotions, some we’re prepared for, and some we’re not. Checking in with ourselves, finding outlets to process this grief, whether it’s talking with a friend, writing, or simply taking time to reflect it is crucial. We can’t pour from an empty cup, and taking care of ourselves allows us to keep flying strong.

Flying has always been about freedom, but it’s also about resilience. Losing an aviator is one of the hardest challenges we face, but as a community, we come together, we remember, and we carry on. The sky may feel emptier, but with each flight, we bring a part of them with us, keeping their legacy alive in every horizon we chase.

Keep supporting each other, and know that it is ‘Ok to Not be Ok’.