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planning, and you can make it happen. And once you arrive at your destination, it makes the experience so much more fulfilling.”
After receiving his PPL, Shawn added his instrument rating and commercial certificate, as well as single- engine sea and rotorcraft-helicopter privileges. One of his favorite ways to enjoy aviation outside of the TBM cockpit is in his experimental 2018 CubCrafters Carbon Cub FX3. He purchased the aircraft from CubCrafters in Anchorage, Alaska. And what better way to get an in-depth indoctrination with a new plane and how it flies than to take it on a long cross-country. So, in 2019, Shawn packed up and set off on a nearly 2,000 nautical mile, 30-flight hour journey down the Western Coast of the country to his home in Lake Tahoe, California. He has been known to make similarly long trips with the aircraft in search of new backcountry flying opportunities such as Canada, Montana, and Idaho.
“There is nothing in this world like flying low and slow in a Cub. We have a home in Lake Tahoe, and in the summer, the Cub is on amphibs and parked at our dock so I can hop in and fly around in some of the most beautiful scenery that this world has to offer, especially on floats!” He also owns a Robinson R44 II helicopter, allowing him to further see and enjoy the world-class scenery of his home region from another vantage point.
In addition to routine flying for real estate ventures and personal pleasure, another way Shawn keeps sharp in the cockpit is offering his time and TBM in support of several volunteer organizations like Pilots N Paws and Angel Flight West. Flying for these groups helps fulfill his mantra’s “be kind” portion. He hopes to one day combine his thirst for adventure and giving back by an around-the- world flight and fundraiser for Angel Flight West. But this is on hold until the pandemic calms and more countries begin accepting visitors. In the meantime, Shawn will continue to travel to international countries welcoming private aviation during the unique times.
Overall, the TBM 700B has treated the adventure-seeking pilot very well thus far. Shawn has no present intention of moving into another aircraft. But if he decides to go for something else, he plans on staying within the family and trading for a 900-series TBM. This would be a step up of around 40 knots (on top of other factors), plus help solve the continued work of maintaining an out-of-warranty aircraft. In owning and operating a 20-year-old plane, maintenance can occasionally be a thorn in the side. But Shawn noted that he has never had an AOG event. He added, “Stellar Avion, the maintenance facility I use in Camarillo, California, is top-notch and provides a personal level of service unlike any other I’ve found in aviation.”
COVINGTON
February 2022 / TWIN & TURBINE • 29