Tips for student pilots : Flight Training Central

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How to recover from an airplane spin, with Patty Wagstaff

March 18, 2026

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While spin training is only required for new flight instructor candidates, pilots of all skill levels should still know the steps and control inputs to recover from a spin. Join Patty Wagstaff in her Super Decathlon aerobatic airplane, as she first explains what an airplane spin is, and then the proper spin recovery steps to return to straight and level flight.

Do A Better Engine Run-up

March 16, 2026

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You’ve done dozens of run-ups by rote—but are you actually learning anything from them? Modern engine monitors and better systems knowledge mean your run-up can be far more than a checklist ritual. Here’s how to use ignition checks, carb heat, and fuel management to turn a routine run-up into a meaningful diagnostic tool before takeoff.

How to enter the traffic pattern at a nontowered airport (video tip)

March 11, 2026

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The FAA recommends standard traffic pattern flows at nontowered airports in an effort to maintain order and a safe environment for aircraft arrivals and departures. This includes specific instructions on how to enter back into the pattern after spending some time practicing maneuvers at a higher altitude away from the airport. This week's video tip illustrates several methods to do this, depending on the direction from which you're approaching the airport, in an effort to get established on the downwind leg at the published traffic pattern altitude.

Test Your Knowledge: Sharing Flight Expenses with Passengers

March 9, 2026

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While you can be compensated to fly as a Commercial pilot, you can only do so under the common law term, private carriage, which is conducted under Part 91. The opposite of private carriage is common carriage which requires a Part 119 authorization (Air Carrier Certificate) issued under Part 135 for charter operators or Part 121 for airlines.

RAA Scholarship Applications Now Open for 2026

March 6, 2026

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The Regional Airline Association (RAA) Scholarship Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 program. The scholarship provides financial support to students enrolled in accredited aviation programs across the U.S., including aspiring pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, and other aviation professionals.

Video tip: how to fly with the Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot

March 4, 2026

This week's tip takes a look at the basic features of Garmin's popular GFC 500 autopilot, including how to turn it on and use airspeed, vertical speed, altitude and heading modes.

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