Carrier Decks and Beyond

Written by Rachelle Haughn and Jay Smith As featured on page 48 in the January 2012 issue. Read the entire interview and video highlights.

THIS MONTH, we’re paying homage to jets—from coverage of the Jet World Masters to a construction article on a Gloster Meteor. And who knows jets better than pilots Capt. Robert “Hoot” Gibson and Capt. Tom “Huffer” Huff?

Both Hoot and Tom have had extensive careers with the U.S. Navy. Although best known for his career as an astronaut, Hoot served as a jet fighter pilot and flew combat missions in Southeast Asia. Tom has been in the navy for 27 years. Throughout his military career, he has served as a jet fighter pilot and a test pilot.

Hoot and Tom are members of the AMA and good friends. When they get together, the pair loves to talk about model aircraft and, of course, jets.

We took the opportunity to interview both of them to share some insight on their experiences as modelers and also as aviators. They have taken their love of flight to heights most of us can only dream about, yet they are humble and friendly and have been great supporters of the AMA

Read Model Aviation's exclusive interview and watch a video of Capt. Robert "Hoot" Gibson.

Read Model Aviation's exclusive interview and watch a video of Capt. Tom "Huffer" Huff.