Flight Training Central publishes original content for pilots and students, including articles, video tips, quizzes, industry news, and webinars. We also maintain a comprehensive Scholarship Directory, connecting you to hundreds of awards. Stay informed with our free email newsletter featuring the latest posts and updates.
The FAA’s latest update to the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) took effect January 22, 2026. While most changes are editorial, the FAA clarified guidance on approach and landing minimums—specifically reinforcing pilot responsibilities and published restrictions during circling approaches. Pilots are encouraged to review the updated AIM language carefully.
Redbird Flight recently launched its annual State of Flight Training Survey. The survey allows all stakeholders the opportunity to share their thoughts on the key opportunities and challenges facing flight training businesses and flight instructors. The information you share helps the flight training community identify trends, priorities, strengths, and challenges to build a brighter future for aviation.
Every year, hundreds of new products make their way into the cockpit—but only a few stand out as must-haves. Sporty’s Gear of the Year winners are selected by both pilots and our team of expert staff. These are the tools and gadgets that actually get used, get talked about, and make flying easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
During your flight training you’ll learn all about the four forces acting on the airplane in flight, including lift, thrust, weight and drag. This week’s tip takes a closer look at the aerodynamic forces that cause the rearward force of drag, including a breakdown of parasite vs. induced drag.
Flight Training Central’s most popular articles of 2025 focused on what student pilots struggle with most: understanding tricky concepts, avoiding common mistakes, and making better decisions in real-world scenarios. From interactive quizzes to clear explanations of frequently missed test questions, these posts helped turn confusion into confidence.
Power-off stalls—especially in the landing configuration—are designed to teach recognition, not surprise. In this spotlight, we’ll focus on identifying the cues of an imminent and full stall, maintaining coordination throughout the maneuver, and executing a smooth, prompt recovery with minimal altitude loss. We’ll also highlight common errors instructors see during training and on practical tests, so you can build confidence and consistency long before checkride day.
Students can explore a broad range of instructor backgrounds and specialties using tools that allow them to browse and compare instructors or flight schools. Clear profile details—including experience, credentials, teaching approach, and location—help students make informed choices. The platform also highlights whether instructors have aircraft access and carry appropriate instructional or liability insurance, providing an additional layer of transparency.
Airport markings, aerodynamic fundamentals, night flight rules, and even approach-and-landing technique questions topped the list of frequently missed test questions for the fall—areas that can feel simple at first glance but hold plenty of nuance.
VFR into IMC is one of the deadliest scenarios a private pilot can face. In fact, VFR into IMC accidents are three times more likely to be fatal than engine failures. Yet the FAA’s mandatory 3 hours of simulated instrument training for students often becomes just a “check in the box,” with little scenario-based practice or clear objective. That’s why we’re excited to share a new syllabus designed specifically to give private pilots the skills to avoid, survive, and escape IMC safely.
Starting the airplane engine is one of the first hands-on procedures you’ll learn when starting your flight training. In our latest video tip, we’ll show you step-by-step the procedure for starting the Cessna 172S fuel-injected engine.
