For Tom and Erik Lake, aviation is more than just a career, it’s a family legacy. This extraordinary father and son duo have shared nearly 500 hours together on the flight deck, creating a narrative that spans generations and inspires future aviators.
Tom Lake, a seasoned pilot with over three decades of experience, had the unique honor of being his son Erik’s Captain on Erik’s first flight as a commercial airline pilot. Years later, Erik returned the favor by serving as his father’s First Officer on Tom’s final commercial flight before retirement.
Erik’s journey includes flying the KC-135R and KC-46A air refueling aircraft during three deployments, and later transitioning to the airlines where he has flown the MD-88, Boeing 737, and currently the A-320. On Instagram, Erik shares his life as a pilot under the handle @erik_cleared_for_takeoff.
Tom, who has trained countless aviators throughout his career, shares his wisdom and reflections after retiring in May 2024. His illustrious career began in the Air Force, where he flew the C-141 Starlifter and participated in special operations missions, including Desert Storm. In his commercial airline career, Tom flew a variety of aircraft, including the Boeing 727, L-1011, Boeing 767, MD-88, and A-320.
Despite Tom’s retirement, the Lakes’ passion for flying continues. They still take to the skies together in General Aviation aircraft, nurturing their shared love for aviation.
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