Video tip: Flying internationally (FARs, flight planning, eAPIS and US Customs)

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One of the most rewarding trips you can take after earning your pilot certificate is leaving the U.S. and heading to new destinations in Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean. This week's video tip takes a look at what it takes to fly internationally, including flight planning, extra equipment requirements and how to file the required paperwork with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The Solo Cross-Country Requirement Every Student Pilot and CFI Must Know

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Many student pilots think they can tackle their first solo cross-country flight without any instrument flying. Not so fast. DPE Jason Blair explains why 14 CFR 61.93(e)(12) requires pre-solo instrument training—and how skipping it can create legal issues and, more importantly, safety risks.

FAA Wants Your Checkride Feedback

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The FAA has announced plans to roll out a new post-checkride survey for pilots, designed to collect feedback on checkride experiences with Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs). Before the survey becomes official, the agency is asking for public comment, and pilots have a chance to shape how this works.

Pilot’s guide to reading VFR sectional charts

VFR sectional charts contain a wealth of information and are considered essential equipment for pilots of all skill levels. This week's tip dives into the symbols and markings used on these charts to help you get more out of the aviation data on your next flight.

Quiz: Understanding Aircraft Performance

Airplane performance can be defined as the capability of an airplane to operate effectively while serving a specific purpose.  Among the elements of performance are takeoff and landing distances, rate of climb, ceiling, speed, payload, and fuel economy.  Answer these questions and see if you can correctly determine all the factors required for adequate aircraft performance.

Share Your Thoughts on the State of Flight Training

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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.

Video Tip: Aerodynamics of a Wing Stall

During your flight training you will practice stalling the airplane to better learn the low-speed handling characteristics of the airplane, and how to recover if an unintentional stall occurs. In this video tip we'll look at how the airflow changes over the wing as it nears the critical angle of attack and eventually stalls.

Common Aircraft Fuel Myths

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“Fuel gauges are only accurate when empty”—or are they? This post takes a closer look at fuel-related myths, what the FARs really say about fuel gauge accuracy, and why smart fuel management requires more than just trusting the needle.

The 2025 Gear of the Year Winners from Sporty’s

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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.

Video Tip: The Aerodynamics of Induced and Parasite Drag

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.