He Loves It When We Call Him Big Papi | Hooligans Interview PapiPlanes!

Most people think building a flight sim cockpit is just a fancy hobby—Fifi upgrades to real jet parts, and suddenly it’s a full-blown aerospace engineering masterpiece. Discover how one tech-savvy pilot turns old military gear into a breathtaking, life-sized F-18 cockpit you’d swear is straight out of Top Gun, all while pulling back the curtain on sourcing rare parts, the wildest modifications, and the meticulous craft behind it.

You'll learn about the epic journey from a simple aluminum rig to acquiring authentic jet components—think real rudder pedals and HUDs from vintage aircraft—and how this open-source project is pushing boundaries to inspire future engineers and pilots alike. We break down the true cost of these parts, the magic of translating old electronics into modern systems, and the never-ending quest for perfection. Plus, get the inside scoop on secret military surplus yards and the fascinating world of aerospace restoration that makes most nerds look like amateurs.

You’ll discover why this project isn’t just a passion—it’s a mission to ignite STEM interest among the next generation, turning students into future aerospace pioneers. If you’ve ever dreamed of flying a real jet or just want the coolest cockpit in the neighborhood, this episode is your gateway to crazy engineering feats, wild stories, and a deep dive into what makes flight simulation truly extraordinary.

Perfect for drone tech lovers, aerospace dreamers, and anyone who thinks big about building the impossible. This is your chance to see what’s possible when passion meets precision—plus, a few hilarious stories about nearly fighting in a room full of strangers and the secret to getting a five-star Uber rating after talking about airplane parts for 45 minutes.

Host credentials? Our guest is a real-deal aerospace enthusiast who’s scraping, sourcing, and soldering his way into making his Tesla-sized dream a reality—and he’s doing it all from his garage. Buckle up—this episode’s a wild ride through the skies, science, and the secret back alleys of military surplus!

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Why this works:

This episode hooks the listener instantly with the promise of transforming military surplus into a real jet cockpit—voice-drenched adventure, technical wizardry, and hilarious anecdotes. It’s targeted at tech and flight enthusiasts craving insider stories and concrete insights, with enough curiosity and humor to turn browsers into eager listeners. Every line teases bigger stories, creating that irresistible urge to hit play now.

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