Video tip: 6 rules for VFR cross-country flights

Getting out of the traffic pattern and going on a real trip is a lot of fun. It may even be the reason you’re learning to fly in the first place. But the same reasons these trips are so much fun - new places to see, a goal at the end of the flight - can lead to challenges if you aren’t prepared. Here are six rules to keep in mind when you’re flying VFR cross countries.

“NORDO” – 5 tips for avoiding loss of communication

While a quiet frequency is not uncommon, if the change was abrupt, that’s a warning sign of a communication issue. Even on a quite frequency, if the silence continues for an extended period (5-10 minutes perhaps), a radio check may be in order.
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Why I fly

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1 Comment
I have learned problem solving, Getting me and the airplane out of a fix. I use those skills every day, So that is reason number six.
CFI

Starting flight training later in life: some tips for success

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As we get older, most of us get worse at being a student—no matter what the subject. After all, you’re used to being the expert. So if you’re considering learning to fly after your 40th birthday (or your 60th—you really aren’t too old to start), remember these tips. 
Honeycomb Alpha and Bravo

Home Simulator Flying and Flight Training

Home computer flight simulation technology has made impressive leaps forward over the past 10 years. Finally, stock software made by companies like Microsoft allow for at-home flight simulation real enough to provide tangible benefits.

Video tip: how to land an airplane

Landing an airplane is one of the most challenging, yet satisfying tasks you'll learn to master on your path towards becoming a private pilot. This week's tip shows how to fly a stabilized final approach and help you visualize the steps necessary to transition from the roundout and flare to the touchdown.
Traffic Pattern

Quiz: Flying The Traffic Pattern

Check out our latest pilot quiz to test your flying knowledge of airport traffic patterns, landing directions and appropriate techniques for operating around the airport.
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How I hit my flight training budget within $50

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3 Comments
Following the checkride, I totaled all the money I spent on training to discover it was $50 less than what the flight school manager had estimated at the beginning.

The Road to PIC YouTube Series from Baron Pilot

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Learning to fly is fun and rewarding, but it can also be frustrating and even scary at times—and that's exactly what Kim and Kristoffer from the Baron Pilot YouTube channel wanted to show in their new video series. In The Road to PIC, you can follow along on the exhilarating, but often raw and emotional journey, as Kim goes from first lesson, to first solo to PIC.
CFI in cockpit

Tough flight instructors are worth it… most of the time

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5 Comments
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.