A Ferry Flight That Started a Friendship
One of the most rewarding parts of my job isn’t flying airplanes—it’s the relationships that develop along the way.
In December 2022, I was contracted by a new Vision Jet owner to ferry his brand-new Cirrus Vision Jet from Atlanta, Georgia, to Thermal, California. Delivering a factory-new aircraft is always exciting, but what made this trip memorable had nothing to do with the airplane itself.
It was the beginning of a lasting friendship.
Watch the accompanying YouTube video as I share highlights from the trip and introduce this beautiful new Vision Jet.
Preparing for the Journey
After departing Atlanta, I flew the aircraft to Nashville, where it remained in my hangar over the Christmas holiday. Before continuing west, I spent several hours carefully detailing the aircraft so it would arrive looking every bit as pristine as the day it left the factory.
As a Vision Jet owner myself, I understand how special taking delivery of a new aircraft can be. I wanted the owner’s first experience with his jet to be memorable from start to finish.
A Special Trip
This ferry flight was unique for another reason.
The owner graciously invited my wife to accompany me on the trip, allowing us to enjoy several days together while delivering the aircraft across the country.
Our route included three flight legs:
- Nashville, Tennessee → Tulsa, Oklahoma for fuel and lunch
- Tulsa, Oklahoma → Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Albuquerque, New Mexico → Thermal, California
The journey covered approximately 1,650 nautical miles in about 5½ hours of flight time, showcasing exactly the type of cross-country mission the Vision Jet was designed to accomplish.
Desert Jet Aviation
We concluded the trip at Desert Jet Aviation in Thermal, California.
The facility, staff, and service were outstanding, making it a fitting destination for the aircraft’s arrival. It’s easy to see why Desert Jet has earned such an excellent reputation among business aviation operators.
More Than a Ferry Flight
Although the delivery flight was complete, our journey together wasn’t.
Over the following six months, I had the privilege of flying with the owner as he transitioned into Vision Jet ownership.
I ferried the aircraft to Knoxville so he could complete his “Victory Lap” flight home after taking delivery. I served as his mentor pilot during his Supervised Operating Experience (SOE), accompanied him on business trips, and helped him build confidence as a Vision Jet Pilot in Command.
Watching a new owner grow from initial excitement to confident, capable aircraft commander is one of the most rewarding aspects of what I do.
The Best Part
Airplanes have an incredible way of bringing people together.
What began as a ferry flight eventually became months of mentoring, shared experiences, and countless hours in the cockpit. Along the way, we developed something far more valuable than a professional working relationship—we became friends.
For me, that’s what makes this profession so rewarding.
At SF50 Flight Support, our goal is to do more than help owners operate their Vision Jets. We strive to build lasting relationships while helping owners become safe, confident, and knowledgeable pilots.
Thank you…
- United States Aviation: Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Cutter Aviation: Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Desert Jet Aviation: Thermal, California
I flew the plane to Knoxville and flew with him on his “Victory Lap” home. I flew with him through his SOE and on business trips for several months. We became friends and that was the best part of this story.
– Don Medine, Professional Pilot
Let’s Connect
Whether you’re looking for a contract pilot, Supervised Operating Experience – SOE mentor, or long-term operational partner, SF50 Flight Support provides the reliability and expertise your Vision Jet deserves.
📍 Based in the Nashville area — supporting Vision Jet operations nationwide.
📧 Contact us today to discuss your upcoming flight needs. Call or text (615) 543-8553 or schedule a call.
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