CFI in cockpit

Tough flight instructors are worth it… most of the time

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Tough instructors go beyond FAA standards and deeper than the textbook to teach you things that really matter, in ways that make an indelible impression. Over the years, I’ve had a few right seat companions who deserve the adjective “tough,” but in looking back over those lessons I'm glad I had them.

Airport Signs and Markings (Interactive Scenario)

All airports with ATC control towers in the U.S. (and some non-towered airports) use a standard set of pavement markings and elevated signs to guide pilots from the parking airport to the active runway. Test your knowledge of their location and meaning in this interactive exercise so that you’ll be well prepared on what to expect when taxiing at a large airport.

Paula’s Discovery Flight – Private pilot training tips with Spencer Suderman (episode 4)

In this episode, Spencer takes Paula (a new student pilot) out for her first flight lesson in a Cessna 172. You will see what it's like to learn the basics of airplane control and how your CFI will coach you along the way to make each lesson a fun learning experience.

Flight Training Frustrations

We’ve all been there - you feel like the harder you practice to get it right and the more repetition involved, you still plateau, or worse, you regress. Sometimes it seems like there’s nothing you can do about it but keep spinning your wheels.

Video tip: Techniques for better takeoffs

The takeoff is one of the exhilarating parts of flying, but requires some basic knowledge of aircraft control and the airport environment. Here we'll look at a series of tips to help ensure each of your takeoffs are executed both smoothly and safely.

How to become a professional pilot

Recent data indicates that pilot certification changes have had far-reaching effects on qualified commercial and airline transport pilots and flight departments are experiencing a shortage of qualified pilots. In addition to flying passenger aircraft for major and commuter airlines, pilots also crew corporate aircraft and serve the military and law enforcement.

Flying with Flight Simulator – Flight Maneuver Spotlight

Welcome to the latest edition of the Flight Maneuver Spotlight series. Here we’ll highlight the various maneuvers you’ll practice during your flight training and be expected to demonstrate during your private pilot checkride. This one is a little different—we're sharing a flight simulator maneuver that you can fly on your own.
steep turn

Sporty’s offering free ebook: A Comprehensive Guide to Private Pilot Training

Sporty's instructors share valuable tips and insight Filled…

Inflight emergency scenarios with Spencer Suderman

Airshow pilot and flight instructor, Spencer Suderman, simulates several inflight emergency scenarios and how to handle them, including loss of engine power, flight instrument failure and loss of radio communications. Then on the return flight back to Jacksonville's Craig field, Spencer shows how to work with ATC in a busy traffic pattern.
test questions

Webinar video: How to Pass the Private Pilot FAA Knowledge Exam in Less Time

It's something all pilots have to do during training for a Private Pilot license -- pass the FAA Knowledge Test. While this test has gotten a bad rap over the years from some, the reality is it's a non-event when you approach it with the proper mindset and use the right study tools.