The Most Misunderstood Aerodynamic Concepts

/
0 Comments
Having at least a basic understanding of aerodynamics is important for all pilots and it will be evaluated on the practical exam for a certificate or rating. The further along a pilot is in their certificates, the more advanced their understanding of aerodynamics should be. Pilots should take the time to study this information and be prepared for the practical exam along with being prepared for flight situations that will test the application of their understanding.

FAA Pilot Minute Video: Will Prescribed Testosterone Affect My Medical?

/
0 Comments
The FAA’s Office of Aerospace Medicine has released a “Pilot Minute” video that addresses the growing use of testosterone therapy and how it can affect your medical certification. Whether you're currently taking testosterone or considering it, it's important to understand the potential impact on your eligibility to fly. In this short video, Federal Air Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrup explains what the FAA looks for and how to stay in compliance.

Video tip: the Cessna 172 fuel system

It's important for pilots to have a good understanding of airplane systems to know how to properly operate their controls and troubleshoot them when things don't work as expected. This week's tip takes a look at the Cessna 172 fuel system to show each component and give you a better understanding of how all the parts work together.

Flight Maneuver Spotlight: Slow Flight

Flying an airplane just above the stall speed in the slow flight configuration will teach you a lot about the handling characteristics and controllability at low speeds, which is a critical step in the development of your flying skills during flight training.
frequently missed test questions

Sporty’s Most Frequently Missed Test Questions—June 2025

/
4 Comments
Thousands of simulated Private Pilot written exams are completed every month in Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course, but certain topics consistently trip up aspiring aviators. These commonly missed questions often focus on nuanced regulations, meteorology, flight planning, and airspace rules. Understanding why these questions are frequently misunderstood can help test-takers better prepare and avoid making costly mistakes.

Video tip: How to takeoff and land from a short runway

/
2 Comments
An advanced skill you’ll learn during flight training is how to achieve the maximum performance from the airplane by operating from shorter runways.

Pilot’s Guide to Special Use Airspace (SUA)

/
1 Comment
It's important for pilots to understand the operating requirements and restrictions regarding Special Use airspace (SUA).  SUA consists of Prohibited, Restricted, Warning, Military Operation, Alert, and Controlled Firing Areas. All SUA is depicted on aeronautical charts, except for controlled firing areas (CFA), temporary military operations areas (MOA), and temporary restricted areas.

Ready for the Real-World IFR Experience? Join IFR Focus

/
0 Comments
If you’ve earned your instrument rating—or you’re working on it—you know the book knowledge is just the beginning. The real learning begins when you start flying IFR in the system, dealing with fast-changing weather, cryptic ATC instructions, and split-second decisions. That’s where IFR Focus comes in.

VASI & PAPI Explained: Pilot’s Guide to Visual Approach Lighting

Visual approach slope indicators use a combination of white and red lights next to the runway to help pilots verify they are flying the correct approach angle to the runway. This week's video takes a closer look at 2 types, VASI and PAPI, to show you how they work and what the various indications mean.

Quiz: Airplane Weight and Balance

Calculating the airplane's weight and balance is a mandatory task you must complete before every flight. Many of an airplane's performance, handling, and structural characteristics are a function of weight and balance, not to mention the safety risks associated with operating an overloaded or out-of-balance airplane.