Max talks with talks with Jim Goldfuss, who shares his inspiring journey transitioning from a long career in logistics and retail to fulfilling his lifelong dream of flying professionally. The conversation covers Jim’s early passion for aviation, his career transition, and his current role with PlaneSense.

Jim’s Aviation Journey
Jim, from Long Island, New York, has always been surrounded by aviation—his father worked for United Airlines, sparking his childhood ambition to become a pilot. Despite earning his private pilot’s license in 1989, financial constraints forced him to shelve his dream for decades while he built a career in logistics and retail management. However, by 2020, with grown children and stable finances, Jim revisited his goal, diving back into aviation training. Over two years, he obtained his instrument rating, commercial license, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate. He began instructing in 2022, a role that significantly honed his skills and prepared him for his current position.
Teaching and Professional Growth
Jim credits his CFI experience with deepening his knowledge of aviation and improving his communication skills. Teaching students forced him to not only explain the “how” but also the “why” of aviation procedures, sharpening his understanding. This background proved invaluable as he transitioned to a professional flying role, particularly in mastering advanced avionics and working within a crew environment.
Joining PlaneSense
Jim details his meticulous approach to joining PlaneSense, a fractional aircraft ownership company operating Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft. Initially inspired by a mentor’s suggestion, Jim conducted thorough research, attended industry events, and networked with PlaneSense personnel. His efforts culminated in a year-long application process, during which he diligently updated his resume and built connections. Jim emphasizes the importance of persistence and relationship-building in securing opportunities within the aviation industry.
Life at PlaneSense
Jim describes PlaneSense as a company with a welcoming culture, modern equipment, and strong support for its pilots. Its operations include 42 bases and a young fleet of Pilatus aircraft. The company’s two-pilot operation model ensures safety and efficiency, and Jim explains how roles are divided between the captain and second-in-command (SIC). As an SIC, he alternates legs with the captain, focusing on tasks such as preflight checks, programming avionics, and monitoring during flights.
Training and Operations
Jim highlights PlaneSense’s comprehensive training program, which includes weeks of ground school, simulator sessions, and mission-specific training. The instruction, conducted by PlaneSense instructors in leased simulators, focuses on company-specific procedures, ensuring seamless integration into their operations. Jim appreciates the structured approach, which allowed him to build confidence before beginning initial operating experience (IOE) flights with experienced captains.
A Week in the Life
Jim’s schedule involves seven days on, followed by seven days off. His typical rotation includes a mix of short hops in the busy Northeast and longer legs to destinations like Florida, the Rockies, and the Caribbean. He shares memorable experiences, such as landing at exclusive airstrips like Ocean Reef Club in Florida and flying to remote ranches in Texas. These unique flights showcase the variety and excitement of his work.
Future Goals and Company Growth
Jim plans to advance to captain on the PC-12 and eventually explore training roles, leveraging his passion for teaching. PlaneSense provides multiple career growth pathways, including moving to the PC-24 fleet or transitioning to leadership positions. Jim emphasizes that PlaneSense values retention and offers a positive work-life balance, which has attracted both long-term employees and younger pilots building experience for airline careers.
Advice for Aspiring Pilots
Jim offers practical advice for those interested in professional aviation. He stresses the importance of networking, persistence, and staying proactive in updating applications and resumes. He encourages aspiring pilots to research companies thoroughly, attend industry events, and build relationships with recruiters and current employees. For low-time pilots, Jim recommends focusing on building hours through instruction or similar opportunities.
Reflection and Gratitude
Jim expresses deep satisfaction with his role at PlaneSense, emphasizing the supportive environment, quality of life, and cutting-edge equipment. He finds fulfillment in interacting with clients and flying advanced aircraft. Jim’s enthusiasm underscores the rewards of pursuing one’s passion despite challenges, and he encourages others to follow their dreams with determination and preparation.
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