This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating a different kind of love story, the kind written in logbooks, lived above the clouds, and passed down from one generation of aviators to the next.

At Cockpit USA, we’re inspired by pilots whose passion for flight is more than a career; it’s a lifelong love story with the sky. We spoke with a pilot, educator, and mentor whose journey reflects a true love of aviation’s past, present, and future. Introducing Cockpit USA's newest Pilot Ambassador, Janie Daly. 

Cockpit USA : What are three words that describe what you do?

Pilot Janie : As the director of a college flight program and an adjunct professor, I see myself as a pilot, educator, and mentor. Each role is grounded in my love for aviation.

Cockpit USA : What are you currently flying?

Pilot Janie : My husband and I own and maintain a Citabria 7GCAA and a Great Lakes biplane based out of Bayport Aerodrome, New York. I especially enjoy flying the Great Lakes, a Bücker Jungmann, and other vintage tailwheel aircraft at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome during airshow season.

Cockpit USA : What inspired you to become a pilot?

Pilot Janie : My father initially inspired me to earn my certificates. As I grew in aviation, I developed a deep appreciation for the grit and determination of early aviation pioneers, many of whom flew from Hempstead Plains on Long Island. I’m also continually inspired by my husband, a commercial pilot and IA/A&P, who supported me through earning my Airframe & Powerplant certificate and introduced me to vintage tailwheel flying.

How did you meet your husband Cliff? 

Pilot Janie : I met my husband, Cliff, through our mutual love of aviation. We were both commercial pilots when we met, but from very different sides of the industry. I held a Commercial Helicopter certificate, which intrigued him, and he was flying a variety of tailwheel aircraft and working in Airport Operations, which intrigued me. We started talking and quickly realized we wanted to build a life together. Being able to share such a deep passion with the person I love most has been the greatest gift.

Cockpit USA: Share more about your love of aviation

Pilot Janie : I first fell in love with aviation because of the happiness that comes from the challenge and reward of flying. When I began flight training, I had never experienced anything like it. I discovered that I loved not only flying itself, but also the studying and dedication required to be a good pilot. It’s an industry that demands continuous learning and improvement, which really resonates with me.  After meeting my husband, I was introduced to — and grew to appreciate — the less glamorous side of aviation: the maintenance and behind-the-scenes work that keeps aircraft flying. It’s a different, often more demanding kind of love, but it’s given me a deep respect for the aviation professionals who don’t always get the spotlight.

Cockpit USA : How has aviation changed since you became a pilot?

Pilot Janie : Aviation has always been driven by innovation, from the Wright brothers’ 12-second flight to space travel just decades later. Today we see VTOL aircraft, electric airplanes, and self-landing rockets.

While technology advances rapidly, I value vintage aviation for its simplicity and stick-and-rudder fundamentals. Places like the Cradle of Aviation Museum, American Airpower Museum, and Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome keep aviation’s heart and history alive.

Cockpit USA : What are three things you look for in a jacket?

Pilot Janie:  Durability, warmth, and style.