Matt Chapman: American Airlines captain, Airshow pilot and RC modeler

Skybound RC

Today, we have a very special guest, Matt Chapman is joining us on the Skybound RC podcast. Matt is an American Airlines captain flying the Boeing 737 and an avid RC pilot. He's also an accomplished full-scale aerobatic pilot, boasting numerous competition successes, including a remarkable 3rd place in the 1998 World Aerobatic Championships.
After his competitive career, he's continued to captivate millions at major US airshows and has showcased unique RC and full-scale formation demos. He’s even worked with Hobbico to develop and release an RC model replica of his own full-scale Eagle 580.
Today, he’s still passionate about RC planes, and we're diving into all things aerobatics and aviation with him.
Nice intro to Matt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04CZYolOWPE
Checkout one of Matt's airshows: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PH2YPQiRy9o
Full-scale and RC formation demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxhMuvqDuAw
00:00: Intro
05:30: Matt’s start in aerobatics
07:55: Process of learning and improving aerobatic skills
21:50: RC vs Full Scale aerobatics
27:56: Airshows while working as a commercial pilot
31:10: Great Planes Eagle 580
36:25: Combined demos full scale and RC plane
42:28: Flying with the Blue Angels
48:30: RC planes
53:30: Advice for somebody getting into full scale aerobatics