Entries by Eric Radtke

Mastering Approach Lighting Systems: Key Insights for IFR Pilots

Approach lighting systems are critical during low ceiling and low visibility conditions when you must decide whether to continue to land or execute a missed approach. If when reaching the minimum descent altitude or decision altitude on the approach and you have the approach lights in sight, you are permitted to descend to 100 feet above the touchdown zone elevation published for the runway.

Instant FAA Knowledge Test ACS Code Analysis–Free from Sporty’s

Sporty’s has deployed a free Knowledge Test Code Analysis function among its suite of Aviation Intelligence (AI) tools that provides a detailed report of your deficient knowledge areas in a matter of seconds. Simply drop a photo of your written test report into the analysis tool, and AI will retrieve the applicable ACS codes and a description of the deficient topics.

Mastering Stalls: How to Recognize, Prevent, and Recover Safely

The recovery procedure is the same as for all stalls. Reduce the angle of attack, add full power, and maintain directional control using coordinated rudder and aileron pressures. As you might expect, recovery from the full stall will require a lower pitch attitude to avoid the secondary stall and the altitude loss will be greater. As speed increases, retract the flaps- be sure that you have reached the best rate of climb speed before the final flap retraction.

The ABCs of Emergencies

While complete engine failures are not common, the stakes are high which is why pilots train extensively for such occurrences and why they get evaluated as part of a checkride. If faced with an engine failure, or training for your next engine failure with your instructor, act quick and decisively by remembering what you learned in kindergarten – your ABCs.

Getting Started With IFR Training—Steps to Earning an Instrument Rating

Earning an instrument rating is a fun and rewarding experience that will provide you with added confidence and make your pilot’s license more powerful. Pilots with an instrument rating are no longer confined to clear skies and VMC—it opens opportunities for more consistent flying, regardless of weather variability. And for pilots considering a career in aviation, an instrument rating is essential.

Overcoming the Five Most Common Landing Errors

Landing an aircraft is often described as a blend of precision, practice, and intuition—yet even seasoned pilots can fall victim to common landing errors. From misjudging the flare to battling crosswinds, these mistakes can challenge pilots of all experience levels. This article dives into the most prevalent landing errors, shedding light on why they occur and how they can sneak into even the most carefully executed approaches.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the FAA Knowledge Test

Scheduling your FAA knowledge test is an exciting step toward achieving your goals, but navigating the process can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to begin. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) partners with PSI Services to administer these exams, offering flexible scheduling options at numerous locations. Whether you’re taking the Private Pilot Airplane (PAR) exam […]