Pilot’s Emotional Reaction Flying Over the Statue of Liberty

On this flight over the Hudson in New York, I felt the enormity of my life’s journey as an immigrant. The rush of emotions was unlike anything I ever felt flying my airplane. The view of the Statue of Liberty brought emotions I did not expect.

This year I celebrate 30 years in the US, and seeing the Statue of Liberty from above in my own airplane suddenly reminded me of the struggle and sacrifice that not only me but every immigrant makes to succeed and survive this complex world.

The weight of it all landed on my chest that very moment when looking down at the Statue. The millions of immigrants that came before me seeing this very sight and they knew they were free.

I too realize the freedom that I gained to succeed and be who I imagined to be. Born in Greece, but made in America…

Stay tuned for the full episode coming in the Winter of 2019...

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I am NOT a Certified Flight Instructor and my videos are not for instruction purposes. The video is intended for my own personal experiences and for entertainment purposes only. Do not use my video content as information about how to fly an airplane. To properly learn how to fly you MUST visit your local flight school and work with an experienced Certified Flight Instructor.

On this video you can hear:
- Crystalline Lens
- Every Dawn
- Arise
- New Home

Also follow me on:

[renaspyridonos]

This is amazing!!! So proud of what you have become and accomplished brother. 👏👏Ο Θεός να σε έχει παντα καλά🙏🙏🙏και καλά ταξίδια ❤️❤️❤️

[AllThingsMech]

"Born in Greece, but made in America".

This. This is why I love this country and why I served in the military - to defend the freedom enjoyed by so many. Niko, if you ever head out west and want to stop at the Elko Regional Airport in Nevada, it'd be a priviledge to shake your hand. Lunch is on me. Safe travels.

[douglasmiller]

I was very moved by this video and as US Navy veteran I appreciate your emotions.

[cdhorne]

I'm a Marine and I got emotional during that, our great country is so fortunate to have you here. What an inspiration

[freedomu]

The best turn around a point I ever did see!!!

[HiTechRob]

That flight around MIss Liberty choked me up too. So glad to know the heart of a fellow American like yours! We are a nation of immigrants - ALL of us have a history that began in another place and from a dream somewhere in our lineage, and now, can call America home. Land of the free! Home of the brave! I would love to hear more about your story immigrating from Greece to America. God bless you, Niko and God bless America!

[FlightFrames]

Decided to watch this video again today (9/11/20) after seeing social media posts in remembrance of the events that happened in 2001.

What an amazing country we live in and we will never forget.

[IvanKv]

I came to the U.S. 12 years ago and I feel the same way every time I see the Statue of Liberty.

[enriqueduprat]

Happy for you Niko!!! God Bless you and more important... God Bless this incredible and beautiful

[mjotd]

"How amazing is this" at 2:48 - Really sums up this video Niko.I felt for you.

[ajfwff]

The best 5.44 length video I have ever seen. Thanks Niko!

[mattf]

Niko..thanks for this..when you were overcome with emotion it took me back to when I took my grandfather to see Lady Liberty years ago..keep in mind he was a stoic man..strong ...fearless and most times showed emotion sparingly....we got off the ferry and he stood silent looking up..I watched him as tears started to form ..his mouth silently said.."thank you" as if he were talking to her....he slid his arm around my shoulder and asked me to walk with him..at 89 years old he walked up to the top with me...all.the time I kept a eye on him in case he faltered..when we reached the top and looked over the harbor we stood together his arm around my shoulders..I felt him grasp me and pull me closer..he just looked out over the skyline and murmured... "this is why we came Matthew...this is why we stayed..dont ever take it for granted"
My grandfather and people like him and you who stepped into a world unfamiliar and built a life are what makes our country strong..and why in these times we will come out the other side stronger ..you and yours stay safe amigo..

[AmericanExplorer]

The most powerful and moving video you've made. It's awesome to see someone who loves the United States as you do. A 30-year belated welcome, it's great to have you here. Thanks for sharing this incredible time.

[brendaanne]

Thank you for taking us along on your journey.
SHE IS BEAUTIFUL!! 🌹🗽
30 yrs...🍾🛩️ CONGRATULATIONS
🎉🎊🇺🇸 🎊🎉. 🇬🇷

[Eduardo_Chaves]

Without leaving my room, I could enjoy this beautiful moment; Gratitude is one of the noblest feelings man can feel; and share this moment with us, show how good you are! Keep flying .... and carry us on your wings!

[birdsofray]

Immigrant here, and proud of you! American for 1-year today and this video reminded me of how great it is to be a part of this great nation! Love your channel, Niko!

[Matt_from_Florida]

I salute you sir. My dad, who passed in 2014, was a U.S. Navy officer for 31 years. You have the attitude which all who come to this country should have, and truly embody what an American should be.

[PoleyB]

People like you are what makes America great. A true immigrant now American who saw a dream and worked hard for it. You have done what those millions of immigrants before you did. You are living your dream! Prayers and blessing to you and your family. I pray you have many more dreams come true and for your continued success.

[tomaskey]

Your emotions were contagious! How beautiful to watch someone appreciate one of the greatest symbols of freedom and opportunity in the world. With all the news coverage of people who come to the US to take with out giving and acting entitled, it really contrasts how you clearly feel about your success. Congratulations on taking advantage of the opportunities available. I know you worked hard, took smart chances, and persevered when times were tough. I'm happy for your success. As a born US citizen, I admire what you have done and, you are an example and inspiration to me!

[rbilardo]

Amen. God Bless you and God Bless America. You appreciate Freedom, some are trying to take it away from us, but God will not let that happen. Love your videos.