Entries by Bret Koebbe

Video tip: the pilot’s operating handbook (POH)

You’ll find a “how-to” manual on every airplane that describes how to operate that particular model, called the pilot’s operating handbook, or POH. This week’s tip takes a look at the information contained in the POH, along with the differences between the version that must be kept on the airplane and the one sold off the shelf at the local pilot shop.

Video tip: magnetic compass errors

The magnetic compass is the only “self-powered”, north-seeking instrument in the panel and you’ll find one in just about every airplane. It’s not a perfect instrument though and has some inherent errors due to its design and construction. This week’s tip takes a look at when you’re most likely to experience these errors and how to compensate for them should you ever need to rely on the compass for primary navigation guidance.

Video tip: Airman Certification Standards (ACS)

The Airman Certification Standards (ACS) spell out the performance standards that you’ll need to meet during your private pilot test. It’s important that you take time during your flight training to familiarize yourself with this document and use it to help gauge your progress.

This week’s tip takes a closer look at a few examples of the specific knowledge, skills, risk management elements and performance metrics found in the Private Pilot ACS.

Video tip: reducing drag in a Citation X and Cirrus SR-22

Airplane manufacturers go to great lengths to design the exterior surfaces to be as aerodynamically clean as possible to maximize performance. This week’s tip takes a look at the drag-reducing features found on two of the fastest airplanes in both the jet and piston aviation segments.

Video tip: ATC tower communications

Learning to effectively communicate with a control tower often presents a challenge to student pilots, since it requires additional multitasking during an already busy time of flight. One of the best ways to learn is to listen to other pilots on the radio, and this week’s tip follows a Cessna 172 pilot as he works with both ground control and the tower to taxi and takeoff from a Class D airport.

Video Tip: Handling Emergencies

During your training, you’ll practice a variety of simulated emergencies so that you’re prepared in the event the real thing develops in flight. One of the common training scenarios is a simulated engine failure, which will teach you important memory items and how to use the emergency checklist. This week’s tip demonstrates best-practices for dealing with this rare situation to help you get safely back on the ground.