Some flights are less about perfect maneuvers and more about rediscovering why flying feels magical in the first place. In this MzeroA “Destination December” video, Jason Schappert takes viewers along for a casual, unscripted trip from Naples to St. Petersburg’s Albert Whitted Airport (KSPG). The clear Florida skies set the scene for a flight that mixes everyday airmanship, real-world decision-making, and the easygoing personality that defines Jason’s teaching style.
A Relaxed Takeoff from Naples
The flight begins with a warm-up at Naples, where Jason walks through his routine without a script or set lesson plan. From requesting VFR flight following to programming the route to KSPG, the flight feels organic—an authentic look at what an experienced private pilot actually does before departure. Even as he navigates a busy taxi route, Jason’s focus on organization and awareness shows how preparation underpins safety. The casual tone reminds viewers that even simple flights require structure and discipline.
Smooth Climb and Flight Following to St. Petersburg Albert Whitted Airport
After departure from Runway 5, Jason climbs out under clear skies, managing radio calls and navigation with calm precision. The video captures the rhythm of real flight communication—ATC frequencies, squawk codes, and clearances blending naturally into flight deck flow. With the autopilot engaged and the route set for 4,500 feet, the lesson turns subtly toward how consistency in habits—checking instruments, leaning mixture, and scanning for traffic—keeps every flight smooth and predictable.
Learning from the Airspace
The route north includes transitions through Fort Myers and Tampa airspace, a perfect example of how complex Florida flying can be. Jason highlights the importance of staying proactive: anticipating reroutes, reading controller intent, and keeping a mental picture of the surrounding airspace. His commentary on airspace classes and altitude awareness turns a routine VFR flight into an on-the-fly training session, emphasizing how even casual cross-countries build valuable experience toward an instrument rating or commercial certificate.
Managing Power and Efficiency
Mid-flight, Jason dives into a practical discussion of leaning techniques and power management. Rather than treating it as a checklist task, he explains why small adjustments matter—how properly leaning reduces fuel burn, prevents fouled plugs, and maintains engine performance. His relaxed narration offers an owner-pilot’s perspective: careful mixture control isn’t just procedure, it’s respect for the airplane. These moments underscore the balance between technical knowledge and intuitive feel that defines good airmanship.
Descent into the Bay
Approaching St. Petersburg, the view opens to Tampa Bay and the downtown skyline—beautiful, but operationally demanding. Jason monitors changing altimeter settings, listens for tower transitions, and visualizes the Class B descent corridor. As workload increases, his calm commentary illustrates cockpit prioritization: aviate, navigate, communicate. Even while descending through busy airspace, he maintains a teaching rhythm that mirrors what a flight instructor models for advanced students.
A Scenic Yet Technical Approach
The arrival into KSPG showcases why it’s among Jason’s favorite airports. The Runway 7 approach cuts past downtown buildings and sailboats, demanding precise control and awareness of wind drift. Jason narrates the process with his trademark mix of humor and professionalism—acknowledging how intimidating the visuals can be while demonstrating smooth corrections and crosswind technique. The landing is a masterclass in composure: deliberate, steady, and beautifully aligned through the gusts.
Touchdown and Reflections
After clearing the runway, Jason taxis toward the waterfront and reflects on what makes KSPG special. Beyond its views and challenges, the airport embodies the joy of the aviation community—great food, unique approaches, and memories shared between pilots. His closing thoughts tie the episode to the spirit of “Destination December”: rediscovering why people fall in love with flight. For Jason, it’s about gratitude, growth, and sharing the skies with others who feel the same way.
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