Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above!

Episode 18 continues the flight simulation journey — this time shifting from nostalgic origins to modern realism. Picking up where Episode 17 left off, host Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz trace the evolution of flight simulation from Microsoft Flight Simulator 2000 through FS2004, FSX, X-Plane, Aerofly FS, Digital Combat Simulator (DCS) and up to today’s Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. The conversation explores what changed — and what didn’t. While graphics and performance took enormous leaps, the true value of flight simulation has always lived elsewhere: in procedures, systems thinking, and disciplined flying. Stefan shares why modern airliner simulation can be “as realistic as it gets,” — and why sim time can still be surprisingly valuable even for professional pilots. Jürgen reflects on how flight simulation became a personal mental training tool, especially during winters without gliding or motor gliding. From mastering complex aircraft systems to building confidence through precision flying, he explains why even landing the “Queen of the Skies” in a simulator can make you feel mentally like a king. The episode also dives into practical insider tips: how to evaluate hardware before investing money, how to research smartly instead of chasing hype, and why outdated real-world charts are still one of the most powerful immersion tools available. Beyond today’s platforms, the discussion looks ahead. With artificial intelligence beginning to reshape simulation, both hosts explore how AI could define the next generation of flight sim — not as a game, but as an even more powerful training and learning environment. Thoughtful, experience-driven, and grounded in decades of sim and cockpit time, Episode 18 shows why flight simulation remains far more than entertainment — it’s a mindset, a toolbox, and for many, a lifelong companion in aviation.

Episode 17 launches a new multi-part flight simulation special — and goes back to where it all began. Long before glass cockpits, streaming scenery, and powerful PCs, flight simulation meant floppy disks, one megabyte of RAM, and imagination. Host Jürgen Reis revisits his very first flight simulation experience at a late-1980s trade show, flying an early simulator on an Atari ST — a moment that sparked a lifelong fascination with aviation. From there, the conversation moves into the Amiga 500 era, where 880-kilobyte floppy disks powered legendary titles like F-18 Interceptor and, later, the groundbreaking A320 Airbus by Thalion — a simulator that introduced real IFR flying, Jeppesen-style enroute and ILS charts, and serious flight planning to a whole generation. Stefan Lorenz, now an Airbus A320 first officer, shares how his own aviation journey quietly began years earlier — watching Jürgen fly F-18 Interceptor on an Amiga during a long afternoon at his parents’ house. That first exposure to flight simulation planted a seed that later led him down the same path: from Amiga to early PC systems and the first versions of Microsoft Flight Simulator. Beyond nostalgia, the episode offers surprisingly timeless insights: why outdated real-world charts are still perfect training tools for flight simmers, how carrier landings and custom scenarios build real aviation discipline, and how flight simulators can even be used to prepare for RC aircraft flying. The core philosophy remains unchanged — then and now: If you can’t do it in the real world, you can do it on your PC. Honest, reflective, and deeply rooted in early simulation culture, this episode is both a retro journey and an invitation — for anyone who once flew virtual skies in their teenage years, and for those discovering flight simulation today.

In this special 16th episode of aviation-quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Petter Hörnfeldt, widely known as the creator of Mentour Pilot, and today the driving force behind a growing aviation media ecosystem. What started more than ten years ago as a single YouTube channel has evolved into what Petter now calls the Mentour Group — including Mentour Pilot, Mentour Now!, and The Captain’s Speaking – An Aviation Podcast. Behind these projects stands a dedicated team, clearly defined roles, and countless hours of preparation, research, and production to deliver aviation content at the highest professional level. In this wide-ranging conversation, Petter speaks openly about his own aviation background, the phases of his career that shaped him most, and how mentorship became a central pillar of his work. Together, they discuss: - The origins and growth of Mentour Pilot and its expansion into multiple channels - Mentour Now! and The Captain’s Speaking – An Aviation Podcast as new formats for deeper discussion - The people and roles working behind the scenes of the Mentour Group - The workload and responsibility that come with large-scale aviation education - The mission statement behind Mentour Pilot and its focus on safety and realism - Honest, experience-based advice for young pilots considering a professional career - Crucial factors to evaluate before investing time and money into flight training - Which phases of Petter’s own career influenced him most as a pilot and mentor - Future plans for the continued growth of the Mentour Group - Petter’s personal definition of success — measured not in clicks or downloads, but in impact Recorded on January 20th, 2026, this episode offers rare insight into the person behind some of aviation’s most influential educational platforms. A thoughtful and grounded conversation for aspiring pilots, aviation professionals, and anyone interested in how modern aviation mentorship works in practice.

Episode 15 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above Few YouTube channels can claim a 20-year history — and even fewer have aged as gracefully as FSClips. In this episode, Stefan joins host Jürgen Reis for a rare, honest, and deeply insightful conversation about what it really means to run a high-quality aviation channel across two decades of constant platform change. Recorded in January 2026, ahead of FSClips’ 20th anniversary in early July, this episode also serves as a small piece of YouTube history: Stefan explains how the platform worked in its early days, why FSClips didn’t start as a clockwork-style weekly channel — and how it eventually evolved into the calm, consistent, and professional format viewers know today. Together, they explore: - The origins of FSClips and how long-term success on YouTube looked before algorithms ruled everything - Stefan’s understated style, from A320 deep dives to other aircraft, real cockpit footage, simulations, and games - A rare strategic outlook on which types of videos he wants to pursue in the future — and which he consciously leaves behind - A detailed walkthrough of the famous Kai Tak chessboard approach, from research and flight planning to recording, editing, and upload - The surprising number of hours behind a 15–20 minute YouTube video - Recommended PC hardware for enjoying flight simulation as a hobby — not just as a content creator - What Stefan is most proud of after 20 years of FSClips One unforgettable story stands out: “Can we fly 23 hrs non-stop?” — a flight-sim recreation of a real-world record flight. A night that ended with step climbs at 4 a.m., a wake-up call from his son at 5:30, and something very close to real jet lag — all for a YouTube video. This episode is not about chasing trends. It’s about craft, consistency, curiosity, and calm authority — and why FSClips remains relevant after two decades in one of the fastest-moving digital environments imaginable.

Episode 14 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above brings a special guest into the cockpit: Christoph Barszczewski, one of Europe’s most experienced seaplane instructors and the founder of Seaplanes.at. At 68 years old, he continues to fly — and teach — with the spirit of an explorer, splitting his time between Austria, Poland, and floatplane adventures in Alaska. Together with host Jürgen Reis, Christoph dives into: - His remarkable journey into the world of seaplanes - Water flying from Europe to Africa to Alaska - How pilots can obtain the EASA SEP(sea) rating - What landplane pilots gain from training on floats - Safety essentials and the unique mindset of lake landings - How to judge wind, conditions, and terrain when no runway exists - The growing seaplane community and meetings on Austria’s most beautiful lakes From remote bush-style operations to structured EASA training, this episode blends aviation wisdom with pure storytelling. Whether you dream of touching down on a glassy lake or simply love aviation’s more adventurous side — this episode will pull you right into the floatplane world.

Episode 13 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above concludes the ATPL Insight Series with the phase every flight student dreams of — and often underestimates: turning a frozen ATPL into a real airline cockpit seat. Airbus A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz takes host Jürgen Reis through the most demanding stretch of his journey: the years after flight school. Recorded with a 2025 industry perspective, Stefan explains why today’s pilot shortage offers unprecedented opportunities — while airlines remain as selective as ever when it comes to screening and selection. Drawing from his own career during the financial crisis of 2008–2009, Stefan shares how he faced hundreds of applications, long periods without job offers, and the financial pressure of maintaining licenses. Instead of giving up, he kept his skills sharp through networking, simulator work on aircraft like the Boeing 737 and even the iconic 747, and relentless preparation. The episode offers rare first-hand insight into high-end airline assessments — including psychological testing, simulator evaluations, and the mindset required to succeed at elite selection centers such as the DLR. Stefan explains why finishing flight school is often just the beginning, why persistence matters more than talent, and why global mobility can be a decisive factor in a pilot’s career. Honest, motivating, and grounded in real-world experience, this episode is essential listening for anyone aiming for an airline career — revealing what it truly takes to move from frozen ATPL to the right seat of an Airbus.

Episode 12 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above continues the three-part ATPL journey, this time diving into the intense, hands-on flight phase of pilot training. After conquering ground school in Part 1, A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz shares with host Jürgen Reis what it really meant to take his training into the sky — across Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Listeners get a vivid look at: - Winter operations in Canada — low jetstream, freezing temperatures, and the unique challenges they bring - High-temperature flying in the U.S. — density altitude, aircraft performance, and staying sharp under physical stress - The “eat, fly, study, sleep, repeat” lifestyle — months dedicated entirely to aviation - The transition from PPL to multi-engine IFR — mastering complexity step by step - Entering the multi-crew world — CRM, airline-style procedures, and preparing for real cockpit environments Stefan describes how these intense months shaped his airmanship, discipline, and mindset — and why the international training environment was invaluable preparation for an airline cockpit. Packed with guidance and real-world insight, this episode is a must-listen for anyone dreaming of a professional pilot career or curious about what ATPL flight training truly feels like behind the scenes.

Episode 11 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above launches a brand-new three-part series exploring how Airbus A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz worked his way from student to airline pilot. In this first chapter, Stefan takes host Jürgen Reis back to the very beginning: his time at the Oxford Aviation Academy, one of Europe’s most respected pilot training institutions. He shares what life in full-time ATPL training really looks like — from strict uniforms, long study nights, and 14 demanding theoretical subjects to the discipline, focus, and mindset needed to succeed. Listeners get a rare behind-the-scenes look at how high-pressure ground school shapes future pilots, why mentorship matters, and how to decide whether a professional pilot path is truly the right choice. Stefan also explains how he managed social life, stress, and expectations while staying motivated and finishing as one of his class’s top students. Packed with practical insights for aspiring aviators, this episode offers a realistic, inspiring, and highly informative guide to what awaits behind the doors of Europe’s big aviation academies — before a single engine even starts turning.

Episode 10 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above continues the deep dive into gliding — focusing on one of its most fascinating aspects: the landing. How can you touch down safely when a go-around simply isn’t an option? Former glider pilot and host Jürgen Reis shares how training, energy awareness, and constant planning create multiple safe landing options, even without power. Together with A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz, he contrasts glider approaches with those of modern airliners, revealing surprising overlaps and crucial differences. Jürgen also offers hands-on advice for flight sim enthusiasts on how to configure simulators like FSX or Microsoft Flight Simulator for a realistic glider setup — including the art of coordinated flight with the yaw string and mastering the side-slip. This episode celebrates the discipline and finesse behind every silent landing — where judgment, skill, and calm decision-making define true airmanship.

Episode 9 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above begins a brand-new series exploring the world of gliding — flight in its most elemental form. This time, the microphones are turned around: Airbus A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz interviews his co-host Jürgen Reis, who earned his glider pilot license at just 17, long before getting a driver’s license. Jürgen shares what it’s like to learn real stick-and-rudder flying at a young age, take full responsibility for the aircraft and the airspace, and experience the thrill of silent flight powered only by nature. Together, they discuss how gliding builds strong foundations for a professional aviation career, the steps to get started today, and why this path remains one of the most affordable, inspiring entries into aviation. Whether you’re a teenager dreaming of flight or a seasoned pilot nostalgic for your first thermals — this episode captures the freedom, discipline, and beauty of flying without an engine.

Episode 8 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above wraps up the listener-driven FAQ series with two fascinating topics that reveal the depth of a pilot’s profession. Airbus A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz opens up to host Jürgen Reis about how airline pilots are trained to handle emergencies — mentally, technically, and as a team. From simulator sessions to real-life decision-making, discover how preparation turns potential crisis into controlled professionalism. In the second half, the discussion shifts to the world of cargo operations: Would Stefan ever trade passengers for freight? What are the differences, pros and cons, and does flying cargo mean more “hands-on” flying time? Naturally, the iconic Boeing 747 — the Queen of the Skies — also makes an appearance. Balancing adrenaline, insight, and a touch of aviation nostalgia, this episode is a powerful finale to the FAQ series — and a must-listen for anyone curious about the challenges, choices, and character of real-world airline flying.

Episode 7 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above takes a candid look behind the glamour of aviation: What are the biggest disadvantages of being a pilot? Airbus A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz joins host Jürgen Reis to explore the less-talked-about realities of cockpit life — from irregular hours, fatigue management and red-eye flights to roster changes, time-zone shifts and the toll these take on body and mind. Stefan shares how he balances work, rest and family life, turns standby time into productivity, and keeps his health and nutrition on track despite a demanding schedule. This episode offers an honest, experience-based insight into why being a pilot is as much a lifestyle as it is a career — and what it really takes to stay sharp, safe and fulfilled while living life above the clouds.

Episode 6 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above explores one of the most fascinating aviation career questions: Which is more rewarding — working as cabin crew or as a pilot? With first-hand experience in both roles, A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz reflects on his early years as cabin crew and how that shaped his later career in the cockpit. Together with host Jürgen Reis, he breaks down the real pros and cons of each profession, what it takes to succeed in either role, and who might be best suited for them. The conversation also highlights the deeper responsibilities of cabin crew — far beyond serving drinks — and how cockpit and cabin teams rely on synergy and mutual respect to make every flight safe and smooth. This episode offers candid insights into two distinct yet connected aviation careers, inspiring for anyone curious about life in the skies — whether behind the trolley or the yoke.

Episode 5 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above dives into one of the most overlooked, yet crucial aspects of airline flying: crew dynamics. Do pilots actually know the colleagues they fly with, or is it a new team every trip? And how does working with a familiar captain change the experience? Airbus A320 first officer Stefan Lorenz takes listeners deep into the world of Crew Resource Management (CRM) — showing how multi-crew coordination shapes every airline flight, and how it fundamentally differs from single-pilot general aviation or flight sim flying. Together with host Jürgen Reis, the episode also explores how sim pilots can bring CRM into their own virtual cockpits, including practical tips, tools, and even the possibilities of virtual ATC networks. Packed with insider knowledge and hands-on advice, this episode bridges the real and virtual skies — perfect for aviation professionals, GA pilots, and sim enthusiasts alike.

Episode 4 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above continues the listener-driven FAQ series with two classic passenger questions: Is turbulence really dangerous? and Do pilots ever get to enjoy the scenery? Airbus A320 pilot Stefan Lorenz explains how airline crews deal with turbulence, thunderstorms, and weather avoidance — combining cockpit procedures with modern technology to keep flights safe. Together with co-host Jürgen Reis, the conversation also turns to the beauty of flying into “paradise destinations” and challenging airports such as Innsbruck, where mountains and scenery add both complexity and magic to the approach. As always, the discussion bridges the gap between airline operations and general aviation, offering relatable insights for pilots, enthusiasts, and flight sim fans eager to recreate the thrill at home. This episode blends cockpit realism with a reminder of why so many fall in love with aviation: the view from above.

Episode 3 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above continues the special FAQ series with a deep dive into one of the most frequently asked questions airline pilots face: How much hand-flying is left in a modern cockpit? Airbus A320 pilot Stefan Lorenz shares fascinating insights into how the aircraft is really flown — from autopilot modes to the unique side-stick controls that make the Airbus philosophy so distinct. Together with co-host Jürgen Reis, he compares the “two worlds” of flying: from the simplicity and raw stick-feel of gliders and small GA aircraft to the complexity and teamwork behind airline operations. Along the way, you’ll hear personal stories, cockpit anecdotes, and practical takeaways for flight sim enthusiasts eager to bring authentic airline procedures into their virtual skies. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the balance between pilot skill and cockpit automation — and what flying really feels like, from Cessnas to Airbuses.

Episode 2 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above takes off with part 1 of a special FAQ-style session, answering questions that curious passengers, friends, and fellow aviation fans have asked over the years. Jürgen Reis interviews Airbus A320 pilot Stefan Lorenz, diving into stories of his early aviation dreams, the magic of first flights, and what keeps him inspired after decades in the cockpit. You’ll hear tales from Stefan’s time as both cabin crew and commercial pilot, including the unforgettable moments that shaped his career and mindset. Plus, gain insights into life as a crew member and even some tips for aviation enthusiasts and flight sim fans. This episode is perfect for anyone who’s ever looked out a plane window and wondered: What’s it really like up front?

Join hosts Jürgen Reis — former World Cup climber, author, coach, and veteran podcaster with a background in gliding — and Stefan Lorenz, a professional Airbus A320 pilot and flight simulation expert, as they introduce themselves and the mission behind this new audio journey through the skies. In this launch episode, you’ll get exclusive insight into their aviation backgrounds, podcast goals, and what listeners can expect from future episodes: honest conversations, expert voices, and a unique mix of real-world aviation and flight sim passion. From flight schools to cockpits, and from engineering to air traffic control — the series explores it all. If you're ready to dive into the aviation universe from a fresh, down-to-earth perspective — this is your boarding call.