In this episode of the LD Aviation Podcast, we sit down with Captain Behnam, an accomplished airline pilot with a remarkable story of resilience and heroism. Captain Behnam is best known for his extraordinary handling of United Airlines Flight 1175, where he and his crew faced a catastrophic engine failure at 36,000 feet. His quick thinking and expert piloting not only saved the lives of everyone on board but also earned him widespread recognition, including the ALPA Superior Airmanship Award.
Captain Behnam’s journey to becoming an airline pilot is one of perseverance and determination. As an immigrant to the United States, he overcame significant challenges to pursue his dream of flying, making his way through rigorous training and eventually earning a place in the cockpit of some of the world’s most advanced aircraft. His story is an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.
Beyond his aviation career, Captain Behnam is also deeply involved in human rights advocacy, particularly through his work with Help Free Iran. His commitment to giving back to the community, both locally and internationally, is a testament to his belief in using his platform for positive change.
In our conversation, Captain Behnam shares insights into his early inspirations, the challenges he faced on his path to becoming a pilot, and the events of that fateful day in 2018. He also discusses the impact of receiving recognition for his bravery, his thoughts on the evolution of the aviation industry, and the importance of maintaining a mindset that “Impossible is nothing.”
Key Takeaways:
- The defining moments in Captain Behnam’s journey to becoming an airline pilot.
- A detailed account of the in-flight crisis on United Airlines Flight 1175 and the lessons learned from the experience.
- The importance of crew coordination and maintaining professionalism under extreme pressure.
- Captain Behnam’s work in human rights advocacy and his efforts to give back to the community.
- Insights into the changes in the aviation industry and advice for aspiring pilots.
Resources Mentioned:
Captain Behnam | The Official Website
Date with Destiny: The Untold Story of United Flight 1175 and the Man Who Saved It
Guest Information:
Christopher Behnam on Linkedin
Host Information:
Lindsay Dyer | LinkedIn
Production and marketing
Massif Studio & Production | LinkedIn
For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email hello@MassifKroo.com