Time has a way of playing havoc with your plans. One day you feel as if you could conquer the world, and the next day you’re wondering what else is out there you may want to do.
Such is the case with me of late. I had planned to continue flying professionally until May of 2026. But circumstances dictated that my date with retirement would begin September 23, 2025. It was time to move on to the next chapter.
My wife is a true team player, having supported and been an integral part of my career for forty years. Having flown for five charter companies, three airlines, and two corporate flight departments, while raising three kids, two grandkids, and a small parade of dogs and cats, we’ve finally made it through to the other side—trading the working life for retirement—and I couldn’t have done it without her.
A New Horizon Ahead
Looking through the windscreen ahead, I can see a new horizon taking shape. I will be writing more books, serving more outside the home, and, most importantly, I’ll be able to spend more time with my wife. It’s a journey I’m eager to begin.
To create a more streamlined and centralized experience for my visitors, I’ll start with a few minor updates to my media pages. Below is a quick overview of what you can expect. I hope to have the site completely refreshed by January 2026.
The Southern Pilot
I’m excited to share that “The Southern Pilot” will soon become the new home for my books and publishing projects. It’s more than just a name change — it’s a new chapter that ties everything I write and create under one brand.
A newsletter is also in the works! It’ll offer a behind-the-scenes look at what’s coming next — updates, sneak peeks, and a few personal notes along the way. I’ll post a link to the sign-up page soon.
There will be new ways to buy books, too. You’ll be able to choose from bundle options, single titles, or even pre-buy upcoming releases.
And for those who follow me on YouTube, that channel will be getting a refresh as well. The flying videos aren’t going anywhere, but the focus will shift more toward storytelling — where the heart of The Southern Pilot really lives.
jmikewills.com
(My Main Site)
My main website, jmikewills.com, will stay right where it is. Think of it as the central hub — the place where everything connects. From there, you’ll be able to find The Southern Pilot site, book links, updates, my Logbook Tales site, and anything else that comes along the way. There’s still plenty ahead, and I’m looking forward to sharing the journey with you.
As I take this next step, I want to thank you — my readers and supporters — for being part of the journey. You’ve shared your time and encouragement more times than I can count, and I’m very grateful for that, and I don’t take it lightly.
If you ever want to reach out, it’s still easy — just send me a note at mike@jmikewills.com. I read and reply to every message.
Here’s to new beginnings, and to the journey ahead.
J Mike Wills 