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Five ways to celebrate getting your wings Aviators are a unique breed. Some might say we are obsessive/compulsive and they could probably make a pretty good case. After all, we are no longer bound to operate a vehicle in only two dimensions. It’s that up and down part that so many people never get to […]
Pilots spend a lot of time worrying about the weather, and for good reason–it’s a factor in many general aviation accidents. But while nasty things like thunderstorms and in-flight icing get a lot of attention, more flights are affected by wind than any other weather phenomena. It deserves serious attention.
When most students hear the term “PTS” they might think of a training acronym, an obscure part of their aircraft, or a list to buy at the grocery store. Rarely is the correct term, Practical Test Standards, their first thought. The PTS is unfortunately a rarely used, little understood document by the student. Most students’ knowledge of […]
The last time I posted, we looked at flying just for fun and some of the fun things that you can do with your pilot certificate, now let’s take a look at what I would call some of the “fun ratings” available to you. These are ratings on your pilot certificate that you may not use on a regular basis but are a lot of fun to pursue.
There’s no doubt your checkride was conducted within the parameters of the PTS and you demonstrated quality decision making skills and judgment, but that’s just the beginning. Earning a pilot certificate is a special accomplishment. It also comes with the responsibility to continue learning and refining those skills through practice. Creating a plan for doing […]
In November, a Boeing 747 that was supposed to deliver parts to McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas, landed nine miles north at Col. James Jabara Airport. That airplane was flown by a two-person crew and had no passengers. In January, a Boeing 737, also flown by a two-person crew, was supposed to have […]
During your training you’ll learn what aircraft equipment is required for flight, starting with what the FAA requires for certification. This information is outlined in FAR 91.205 and includes items such as airspeed indicator, fuel gauges, and engine instruments. The equipment is broken down into VFR flight for day and night as well as for […]
It doesn’t take long for student pilot to be confused by, or question the roles of the Flight Service Stations (FSS) today. Pre-solo ground lessons teach us that they provide weather briefings over the phone and handle flight plan filing. Later on in the training we are taught how to communicate with FSS Flight Watch […]
Aviation is filled with “experts.” These self-appointed sages never miss a chance to share their tips for safer flying, usually from the lofty perch of a rocking chair at the FBO. But not every cliche can be discarded. Most of them exist because there’s a kernel of truth.
One of the more difficult aspects of pilot training is starting back after a lengthy break. If you have ever had to take two or more weeks away from your training, in an otherwise consistent schedule, you have experienced the “rust”. “Rust” is the term that pilots use to describe the degradation in flying skills […]
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