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FLYING’s I.L.A.F.F.T. Podcast Returns in 2026 With New Host, Same Trusted Voice

FLYING Magazine has announced the continuation of its long-running I Learned About Flying From That (I.L.A.F.F.T.) podcast in 2026, ushering in a new chapter for one of aviation’s most enduring and influential audio programs. The podcast will return under the leadership of a new host, while preserving the format, tone, and mission that have defined it for nearly a decade.

Since its launch, I.L.A.F.F.T. has become one of aviation’s most recognized storytelling franchises, built on firsthand pilot experiences, hard-earned lessons, and candid discussions aimed at improving safety and decision making across the GA community. With more than 100 episodes published, the podcast has helped set the standard for narrative-driven aviation safety content and remains a cornerstone of FLYING’s multimedia portfolio.

“We don’t take lightly the responsibility of carrying forward something that has become part of aviation’s shared culture,” said Ryan Ewing, group president of the Aviation Division at Firecrown Media, FLYING’s parent company. “I.L.A.F.F.T. is an original concept that earned its audience through credibility, consistency, and trust over five years. Authenticity and legacy still matter—and that’s exactly what we’re protecting and building on as the show moves into its next era.”

Beginning in 2026, I.L.A.F.F.T. will be hosted by Carl Valeri, a veteran aviator, educator, and broadcaster with decades of experience across multiple segments of the industry. Valeri is best known as the longtime host of the Aviation Careers Podcast and for his work as an on-air personality with Sun ’n Fun Radio, where he has interviewed thousands of pilots, instructors, and aviation leaders.

An airline captain with more than 15,000 flight hours, Valeri brings a deep understanding of pilot decision making, training, and real-world operations, making him a natural fit to guide the next generation of I.L.A.F.F.T. conversations.

Carl Valeri
Carl Valeri

“This podcast has always been about respect for experience—both the good decisions and the mistakes that teach us the most,” said Valeri. “I’m honored to take on a role in a program that helped define aviation storytelling long before it became trendy. My goal is to honor that foundation while continuing to give pilots a place where lessons are shared honestly and without ego.”

The podcast’s 2026 continuation is supported by Avemco Insurance Company, whose long-standing commitment to aviation safety and pilot education aligns closely with the show’s mission.

“Learning from real-world experiences is one of the most powerful tools pilots have,” said Marci Veronie, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Avemco. “I.L.A.F.F.T. has earned its reputation by putting substance first, and we’re proud to continue supporting a program that has made a meaningful impact on aviation safety for years.”

Now with an additional video component, new episodes of I Learned About Flying From That will debut in February and will be available on all major podcast platforms and via FLYING’s digital channels.

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