
Latest posts




Sporty’s webinar video: Flying with Datalink Weather—ADS-B and SiriusXM Tips
Datalink weather has the potential to make your flying safer and more comfortable - but only if you know how to use it properly.



Video tip: How to handle crosswinds during takeoff
When planning for takeoff, it's best to choose a runway at the departure airport that is most aligned with the wind. Unfortunately, the winds rarely blow right down the runway, so you must learn how to accomplish takeoffs and landings under crosswind conditions. This week's tip looks at the control inputs required and performance implications when performing a crosswind takeoff.



How to master steep turns
It’s conceivable that a 45 degree banked turn could be needed for an evasive maneuver, but we don’t practice or require the execution of steep turns so that we can make them a part of our everyday flying. In fact, they should largely be avoided. Steep turns are a staple in our training regimen for a better understanding of the aerodynamics associated with turns and to help develop smooth and coordinated use of flight controls, division of attention, and general mastery of the aircraft to aid all of your flying.



Video tip: Flying airplanes with retractable landing gear
Many high-performance airplanes feature retractable landing gear that allows them to fly at higher speeds thanks to the reduced drag (and they look cool too). There are new operational considerations to learn when transitioning to this type of airplane, including the best time to raise the gear after takeoff and lower the gear before landing.



Ten airport signs, markings, and lights all pilots should know
Taxiing at larger airports can add new complexities to your flight, especially when visiting an unfamiliar airport for the first time. Here’s a review of ten airport signs, pavement markings and lighting systems you might encounter during ground operations at a busy airport.
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