Are you a disciple?

Merriam-Webster defines disciple as “one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another, such as a convinced adherent of a school or individual.”

I’ll add one more to the end of the definition…or flight.

For many of us, we live and breath aviation. Especially that segment of aviation where we are in control. No doubt that F-22s and 787s are cool, but few of us actually fly those aircraft.

I’m talking about 150s and Aeroncas and Cubs and Archers and, you know, general aviation.

A new documentary, The Disciples of Flight, is the latest reason my gears are turning about our unquenchable – and mutual – passion for aviation.

The one-hour, 34-minute documentary is beautifully shot and edited. In fact, many times I had to back up the film just so I could hear what Patty Wagstaff or Rod Machado or other interviewees said because I was lost in the imagery.

The film’s road map touches on many of the high points we aviators — or disciples of flight — are familiar with. Why we fly, the freedom of flying, skill development, fun, broad experiences, building, accidents, risk management, and more.

Many of us have experienced a deliciously deep conversation about flying. The time floats past and the conversation keep flowing along. Knowledge is passed on. Disagreements are settled or not settled. But everyone leaves more alive and energized.

” Disciples of Flight” is that conversation put to video and music. One that you can play over and over. Or use as the starting point for a conversation. I suppose you could even cherrypick the scenes to share with someone who may not share your zeal for aviation. Assuming you associate with such folk. 🙂

The film’s description captures its essence nicely: “A full-length documentary film celebrating flight, aircraft, and the passionate community of people who follow the dream of flying. Join us as we seek to understand what it feels like to fly a small airplane. Why people are so driven to aviation. The life-long devotion some aviators feel toward flying and how it’s changed their lives forever.”

The documentary was a couple of years in the making and can be rented for $4.99 (for 24-hours to stream) or bought for $14.99 (to stream or download).

Either way, I believe it is worth the price of admission. Take a peak at the trailer — or better yet, watch the entire film — and ask yourself: Are you a disciple of flight?