Hunter Hayes is working on getting his pilot's license! The CMA's reigning New Artist of the Year reveals that in what little free time he has, he's working on mastering the friendly skies.

"I've got tons of hours on a flight simulator," Hunter reports (quote via WENN news). "Anytime I can go fly for a few hours, I go. It's stressful and stress-relieving at the same time. You've got five or six things you've got to pay attention to. But I'm a geek -- flying is so tailored to me."

There's no word on whether the Louisiana native will be able to fly himself to the Grammy Awards next month. Hunter is nominated for Best Country Album for his self-titled debut disc, Best Country Solo Performance for "Wanted," and for New Artist of the Year, which includes all genres of music.

"I am honored to represent country music in this category," says the 21-year-old music prodigy of the latter honor. "I am fans of all the people in this category (Alabama Shakes, Fun., The Lumineers, Frank Ocean), and I have bought their albums. As a new artist, you hope people will like your record and what you do. All I ever wanted to do is make music, and to be recognized in this category lets me know I am doing something right. It lets me know that my dreams can come true."

Watch Hunter Hayes' 'Somebody's Heartbreak' Video

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