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Video tip: how do VORs work?
In the age of GPS and iPad it can be tempting to look past the traditional forms of ground-based radio navigation like VOR in favor of direct-to navigation and moving map displays. It's important you still take the time to understand how to use these systems since VORs serve an important role in the national airspace system and can provide a reliable source of backup navigation.
Quiz: BasicMed
BasicMed underwent a significant expansion in November 2024, increasing the number of allowable passengers in a covered aircraft to six (up from five); increasing the allowable number of seats to seven (up from six); and increasing the maxium certificated takeoff weight to 12,500 pounds (up from 6,000 pounds). Test your knowledge of BasicMed in this quiz.
New options available to reinstate flight instructor privileges
The FAA introduced major changes for certified flight instructors on December 1, 2024. CFIs will no longer have an expiration date associated with their certificate under the new rules; however, CFIs are required to maintain recent flight instruction activity or participate in a flight instructor refresher course (FIRC) at least every 24 months. Failure to document and apply for recency via IACRA have the same effect as a CFI expiring—meaning a reinstatement is required.
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.
Top 10 student pilot gifts
The best value in aviation today is Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course. It will give you all the knowledge you need to become a proficient aviator and help you ace your FAA tests. Home study is an essential part of your training and Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course will save you time and money. It works on all your devices and it never expires, so you can buy it once and use it for the rest of your flying career.
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