Nathan Fielder has taken to the skies in a remarkable journey that combines comedy with a serious exploration of airline safety and pilot dynamics, culminating in the season 2 finale of his show The Rehearsal. In this episode, Fielder, known for his unconventional approach, finally shares that he has achieved his pilot’s license after an arduous two-year process.
The finale illustrates Fielder’s authentic pilot training, which he undertook to better understand the experiences of pilots. He candidly reflects on his challenges during flight training, noting that while most aspiring pilots can fly solo after a mere 10 to 30 hours, he needed over 120 hours across seven months before he could land satisfactorily. His struggle was so pronounced that multiple instructors were consulted to figure out the unusual difficulties he faced.
Despite not meeting the typical requirement of 1,500 flight hours needed for commercial pilots, Fielder devised a plan to fly a commercial-size aircraft filled with actors posing as passengers. His loophole strategy involves leveraging the difference between flying private and commercial; he learned that if he doesn’t technically work for an airline, he can fly the aircraft. His plan is supported by former National Transportation Safety Board member John Goglia, who confirms that Fielder’s idea could indeed work.
Fielder’s journey wasn’t solely about training; it also involved examining deeper issues within aviation. He engages a doctor to ensure his mental health is accurately represented on a medical review form necessary for flying. Fielder’s personal reflections highlight the stigma surrounding mental health in aviation, as he grapples with the implications of potentially undiagnosed conditions while navigating the complexities of pilot certification.
In the climatic flight, Fielder not only takes off but also maneuvers discussions about feelings and communication with his co-pilot, emphasizing the importance of transparency and connection in the cockpit environment. His innovative ideas, including creating character exercises for honest feedback, showcase a unique blend of humor and introspection.
The flight itself goes smoothly, showcasing Fielder’s growth and ability to land the plane, much to the delight of his passengers. However, upon receiving a voicemail regarding the results of his mental health assessment, Fielder opts for willful ignorance, exemplifying the pressure pilots face to comply with standards at the risk of their mental well-being.
In a surprising twist at the finale’s end, Fielder reveals he’s been flying empty 737s, reflecting a blend of triumph and absurdity in the aviation world. His comments also underline the complexity of trust in the industry, leaving viewers with an introspective look at the realities of flying in today’s world.
This season’s storyline effectively combines entertainment with a poignant examination of mental health, raising awareness of critical safety issues in aviation, and offering a thoughtful reflection on the pressures faced by pilots. All six episodes of The Rehearsal season 2 are currently available for streaming on Max.