From the DPE: Why Lazy Eights Are a Challenge for Commercial Pilot Students

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In this month’s From the DPE column, Jason Blair takes a deep dive into one of the most deceptively difficult maneuvers for commercial pilot students: the lazy eight. He explains why it tests not only technical skill but also energy management, coordination, and that elusive “feel” for the aircraft.

What’s Wrong: Cross-Country Mystery

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Welcome to “What’s Wrong?“, a new twist on aviation challenge quizzes. “What’s Wrong?” works just like a real flight: You’re in an airplane, flying along and there are clues to a potential problem right there in front of you—but it’s still on you to notice them and take action before it’s too late.

Video tip: Cessna 172 electrical system

The electrical system is a critical component of today's modern airplanes, distributing and supplying power to the lights, avionics and digital flight instruments. This week's tip takes a look at the various elements that make up the electrical system in the popular Cessna 172 training airplane.

Quiz: Understanding the airplane Pitot-Static System

The pitot-static system is the source of valuable flight information for the pilot. But how does it work and what instruments are affected? Take this quiz to find out if you have mastered the finer details of the pitot-static system.

How to identify airport runways and traffic patterns (video tip)

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A standard traffic pattern is normally flown when setting up to approach and land at an airport. In this video, we'll take a look at the standard ways to both enter and depart a traffic pattern, as well as look at how runways are identified based on their location and orientation.

Pilot’s Guide to Class E Airspace

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Class E airspace is often confusing because it's not clearly depicted on the sectional chart but it’s crucial to understand its boundaries

Webinar Video: Aviation Law 101 for Pilots

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CFI and aviation attorney, Mark Kolber , takes a practical look at the legal issues every pilot should know. From everyday cockpit decisions to the essentials of Aviation Law 101, you’ll gain real-world knowledge to help keep your flying safe and compliant.

CFI Focus: How to fly a power-on stall in a Cessna 172

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Join Sporty's Senior CFI Noah Frye in our new Flight Instructor Focus series, as he talks through how to fly the Power-On Stall in a Cessna 172. Noah breaks down each step of the maneuver and shares common student errors to watch for during training.

Distractions on the Ramp: How a Moment’s Inattention Can Cost Lives

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Distractions on the ramp can be deadly. From cell phones to social media, even small lapses in attention can put pilots, passengers, and line personnel at risk. Learn how situational awareness before, during, and after flight can prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.

Sporty’s Launches 2026 Learn to Fly Course with Advanced AI Tools and New Flight Maneuver Training

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Sporty’s has released its all-new 2026 Learn to Fly Course, packed with major upgrades that make pilot training more immersive, efficient, and personalized than ever before. The latest edition introduces new 4K flight maneuver videos, a powerful aviation-specific AI study tool, and expanded resources for Sport Pilot training under the new MOSAIC rules.