During the month of July, Sporty’s is hosting a celebration of general aviation across its website, social media, store and, of course, at EAA AirVenture. The goal is to get out and fly this summer whether it’s to start training, get current, or to take a summer flying adventure. Specials include Sporty’s Flight Gear kneeboard and bags, “add a rating” online courses, aircraft models, t-shirts and even the brand-new L6 COM radio.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/05163815/alaska-1-1-1-scaled.jpg25602553Eric Radtkehttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngEric Radtke2023-07-11 08:55:472023-07-10 12:40:06Sporty’s is celebrating Fly July with specials on pilot gear
Every Private pilot checkride includes a discussion with the examiner on the privileges and limitations of the pilot certificate. It is generally well understood that Private pilots cannot be paid for their pilot services which would require at least a Commercial pilot certificate, but there are several exceptions outlined in § 61.113. The exceptions include a Private pilot flying in connection with business or employment as long as the flight is incidental to that business activity. Additional exceptions include flying for certain charitable events or even search and rescue operations.
And it is also commonly understood that Private pilots (or any pilot) is permitted to share in the expenses of a flight with passengers. The types of expenses that can be shared are expressly stated in § 61.113(c) which are “fuel, oil, airport expenditures, or rental fees.” If you are to share in these expenses with other passengers, it’s also a requirement that the pilot not “pay less than the pro rata share of the operating expenses.” This indicates that the expenses must be shared proportionally or evenly. In other words, the pilot cannot pass along 90% of the expenses of a flight to his passengers. In the case of three aboard the aircraft including the pilot, those expenses would have to be split into thirds.
If you are to share expenses with other passengers, the expenses must be shared equally.
An element of sharing expenses with passengers that is less understood is the FAA’s consistent legal interpretation that the pilot must have a common purpose with his passengers for traveling to the destination. In other words, the pilot’s motivation cannot simply be flying as a favor or for the purpose of building flight time. This type of activity falls into the category of common carriage or “holding out” to the public which is considered a charter operation which is reserved for certified air carriers.
“Holding out” to the public or common carriage generally consists of four elements:
1) a holding out of willingness to
2) transport persons or property
3) from place to place
4) for compensation.
While advertising (digital, print, social) is the most obvious indication of expressing a willingness to transport people or property for compensation, using other people to help spread the message, or simply establishing a reputation as one who provides air travel can be considered “holding out.” And the FAA has established a broad interpretation of compensation that extends well beyond the exchange of money. Compensation can be considered the exchange of other goods, goodwill, or, as mentioned previously, even building flight time.
Enforcement of illegal charter activity is an emphasis area of the FAA.
Enforcement of illegal charter activity is an emphasis area of the FAA. It poses a risk to the general public and puts those organizations who are certified air carriers at a distinct disadvantage. Penalties for illegal charter can include significant fines as well as certificate suspension or revocation. Remember, in general, Private pilots cannot act as PIC for compensation or hire or act as PIC of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire. And no pilot can participate in common carriage unless certified as an air carrier.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/05161511/Baron-landing-tail-1.png21603840Eric Radtkehttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngEric Radtke2023-07-07 08:50:102023-06-22 09:31:40When can a pilot share expenses with a passenger?
While traffic pattern flow is governed, entries are not, but pilots should still follow recommended entry procedures.
The FAA recently published an update to Advisory Circular (AC) 90-66 for non-towered airport operations. This AC calls attention to regulatory requirements, recommended operations, and communications procedures for operating at an airport without a control tower. It recommends traffic patterns, communications phraseology, and operational procedures. The AC has been updated to reflect current procedures and best practices at airports without an operating control tower.
The AC notes that when entering the traffic pattern at an airport without an operating control tower, inbound pilots are expected to observe other aircraft already in the pattern and to conform to the traffic pattern in use. If there are no other aircraft present, the pilot should check traffic indicators on the ground and wind indicators to determine which runway and traffic pattern direction to use. Traffic pattern entry and turn direction information is provided by using the airport remarks or Chart Supplement, or by referring to the AIM. Arriving aircraft should enter the airport’s traffic pattern at traffic pattern altitude and avoid straight-in approaches for landing to mitigate the risk of a midair collision.
All traffic, should, at a minimum, monitor the CTAF. For departures a minimum of 10 minutes prior to taxi and arrivals a minimum of 10 miles out from the airport, you should broadcast your intentions. Failure to follow recommended communication procedures has contributed to near midair collisions, and as such could be considered careless and reckless operation of an aircraft. On the airport’s CTAF, you should communicate and coordinate your takeoff intention with aircraft inbound and in the traffic pattern and announce the runway to be used, the direction of flight on departure, or whether you intend to remain in the traffic pattern. Pilots are reminded that the use of the phrase “ANY TRAFFIC IN THE AREA, PLEASE ADVISE” is not a recognized self-announce position and/or intention phrase and should not be used under any condition.
From the moment you choose to take to the skies and immerse yourself in aviation, your relationship with the flight instructor community becomes a constant, enriching part of your journey. As you chase a new rating, it’s commonplace to find yourself engaged in multiple training sessions each week. These interactions typically occur with your instructor before, during, and shortly after flights.
But what happens when you need additional guidance outside the regular hours or want a fresh viewpoint on a challenging topic? Or, what if you feel an itch late in the evening to perfect a complex instrument approach using the flight simulator application on your home computer, but your flight instructor isn’t available?
An innovative new online service called InstaCFI connects you online with a qualified instructor on your schedule to guide you through that instrument approach while virtually sitting next to you in the right seat via a video call. InstaCFI creates a seamless bridge between students, pilots, flight simulator enthusiasts, and online instructors, offering flexible learning opportunities that allow you to train anytime, anywhere. Here’s how it works.
Scheduling a lesson
Head over to instacfi.com and select the option to “Schedule Now” from the top of the page. Then select one of the available services, like ground instruction or flight simulator training (more on this later), and select one of the CFIs from the list. You’ll see a brief profile or each CFI, including qualifications and aircraft specialties.
Next, select how long you’d like to meet with the CFI, from 1 to 2 hours, and choose a date/time from the CFI’s availability calendar. You’ll then enter your information, lesson objectives and wrap up with payment information (lessons are currently $64/hr). When an appointment with a CFI is booked, you’ll receive a calendar invite containing a Google Meet video link. At the scheduled time simply click on the invite link and the lesson begins.
Services offered
InstaCFI’s roster of instructors features a wide range of experience and can provide advanced instruction beyond private pilot training. One of the best use cases we can think of is for current pilots to take advantage of this resource to help tackle new flight planning challenges. Here are some examples to consider across all pilot experience levels:
Written test prep assistance
Mock oral exam in preparation for the checkride
Weather briefing guidance when planning a flight around complex weather systems
Simulated flight lessons using Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-Plane
Avionics training
How to use advanced features in EFB apps like ForeFlight
Planning an IFR flight into busy airspace and instrument approach review
Aircraft owner guidance on maintenance decisions
How to fly into Oshkosh during EAA AirVenture
Paperwork and legal requirements to fly to Canada or the Bahamas
If both the client and CFI are using ForeFlight, the CFI can easily provide remote logbook entries through the app as a record of training.
For more information and to schedule a lesson, visit instacfi.com.
Updated and redesigned Flight Instructor Refresher Course (FIRC) offers effective and convenient CFI renewal option
Flight instructors serve a vital role in the aviation community helping to guide and mentor future generations of aviators. The profession requires extensive knowledge and training and demands patience, skill and commitment to succeed. Whether you have joined the teaching ranks or aspire to earn a flight instructor certificate, know that the learning must continue beyond the certification as it is imperative for instructors to have access to the latest information, tools and resources to bring to their clients.
It is imperative for instructors to have access to the latest information, tools and resources to bring to their clients.
This is why, unlike other pilot certifications, the flight instructor certificate is issued with an expiration date and the regulations offer various options to renew the certification every 24 calendar months.
Sporty’s has developed a fresh new option for flight instructors to renew their CFI certificate using a modern online learning system to deliver innovative, engaging content. Sporty’s FAA-approved eFIRC, updated for 2023, is part of a collection of online resources available through Sporty’s CFI Portal to help instructors broaden their knowledge base and stay connected to students. And it’s absolutely FREE!
The suite of tools within the CFI Portal also includes lesson plans, FAA resource library, endorsement guide, special offers, and complimentary access to Sporty’s award winning Private, Instrument and Commercial Pilot Training Courses.
Why should flight instructors use an online FIRC?
While there are a variety of ways to renew a CFI certificate (including a meeting with the local FAA inspector), most flight instructors elect to use an online course because of the ease of use and flexibility offered. The FIRC content can be consumed and reviewed when and where the user would like as opposed to being limited by the confines of a classroom. The online platform also offers the flexibility to offer expanded content and optional training modules so learning can be tailored to the individual’s needs.
It’s Mobile-friendly!
Sporty’s eFIRC has a mobile-friendly design that works on any device with a web browser and internet connection—especially convenient for studying on the go with an iPhone, iPad or Android phone/tablet. Your progress is automatically saved in the cloud, so you can start on one device and resume learning on another.
Using the FIRC
After logging into the course, you will be presented with the main Dashboard view, allowing you to get started with any one of the 16 lessons. There is no requirement to complete the lessons in order, so you can pick the path that makes the most sense for you. This page also shows a graphical representation of both individual lesson and overall course progress.
Once you start a lesson, you’ll see a list of individual lesson modules listed on the left side of the screen. You’ll receive credit for each module as you study the content in main content viewer, located on the right side of the screen.
After completing each required module, you’ll be presented with a multiple choice quiz. This serves two purposes: to help reinforce key concepts in the lesson, and to help prepare you for the final exam.
There’s also a video training section included with most lessons that brings the content to life with real-world in-flight video and motion graphics. This not only makes each lesson more engaging, but gives you another perspective on how to relate key training concepts and maneuvers to students.
After completing all 16 lessons, the last step is to take the 60-question, multiple choice final exam in the course and earn a minimum score of 70%.
Paperless CFI Renewal
Once this last step is complete, the course will automatically generate an official FIRC graduation certificate for you to download that you can take to an examiner or FAA office to process the renewal. Or, for just $49.95, Sporty’s will handle the paperwork and issue a new temporary CFI certificate with its paperless CFI renewal service.
What you’ll learn
Sporty’s eFIRC was developed by Sporty’s team of educators with today’s modern CFI in mind so you won’t find just a rehash of regulations and dry FOI theory. Rather, you’ll learn about topics pertinent to today’s flight training environment. Featuring significant updates for 2023, topics covered include:
Navigating in the 21st Century: Pilotage to GPS: TAA & Automation
Security Related Special Use Airspace: What’s Going on—Where, and How to Stay Clear
Transportation Security Administration (TSA): What Flight Instructors Have to Know to Stay Out of Trouble
Safety Trends in GA: How CFIs Can Directly Contribute to Aviation Safety
Pilot Deviations: Their Causes and How to Teach Your Students to Plan Ahead to Avoid Them
Regulatory, Policy, and Publication Changes and Updates
How to Give an Effective and Useful Instrument Proficiency Check & Flight Review
Understanding and Teaching Advancements in Aviation Technology
How to Teach Pilots to Avoid Loss of Control
Wading Through the Changing Weather Products
Available free for CFIs
Sporty’s complete FIRC is available free for active CFIs and educators. The paperless renewal is an additional $49.95. You can sign up here, which provides 365 days of access.
Safety conscious pilots are always looking for ways to fly and stay safe. Many years ago, the FAA developed a program to help them do just that. Though it has undergone some changes since it was first introduced, the FAA WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program is an excellent way to improve your knowledge, skills, and safety.
What Is WINGS and Why Should I Care?
The FAA WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program is a wonderful and valuable resource. It provides educational opportunities for pilots via low priced and free seminars, webinars, and online learning while providing a structure for recurrent ground and flight training that goes well beyond the mandatory flight review which it can replace. The program is based on the premise that pilots who maintain currency and proficiency in the basics of flight will enjoy a safer and more stress-free flying experience.
An earlier FAA study entitled Report on the Effectiveness of the WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program made two observations (with impressive data to back it up):
“…pilots who participate in the WINGS Program and earn a phase of WINGS have a very low incidence of accidents.”
“…the study shows that pilots who maintain a “current” phase of WINGS have even fewer accidents.”
As wonderful as the program is, very few pilots participate in this program or any other program of recurrent training! The previously mentioned study found that only about 1.75% of the rated pilots had earned a phase of WINGS under the revamped program. That said, there are a lot of pilots that participate in the ground portion but never finish a phase of WINGS. A phase of WINGS requires meeting certain flight requirements along with the ground requirements.
The WINGS-Pilot Proficiency Program is designed to help you build an educational curriculum suitable to your unique flight requirements. The program encourages you to continue your aviation educational pursuits and requires training, review, and flight proficiency in the Areas of Operation (found in current ACS or PTS) that correspond with the leading causes for aviation accidents.
The most significant incentive for you to participate in the WINGS Program is the added level of safety and professionalism that is obtained through adoption of a reliable recurrent training program.
Some FAASTeam Industry Members may provide incentives rewarding pilots for their participation in the program based on the phase obtained and/or maintained in the program. Check with your local aviation industry organizations, companies, and insurance providers for their current incentive offerings. While the FAASTeam encourages FAASTeam Industry Members’ participation in offering incentives, the FAASTeam does not require, regulate, or control such incentives.
What Are the Nuts and Bolts of the Program?
WINGS credits and phases can be earned by pilots. Maintenance personnel have a similar recurrent training program that can be managed through FAASafety.gov. Our focus here will be on the pilots.
At its most elemental level, pilots complete knowledge and flight activities to earn WINGS credits. The knowledge and flight credits are assigned classifications at Basic, Advanced, and Master levels. When the appropriate Basic level knowledge and flight credits have been earned and approved on the FAASafety.gov website or in the pilot’s logbook, a Basic phase of WINGS is earned. Credits toward a phase may be accumulated over a 12 calendar month period.
Advanced and Master credits may be accumulated toward Advanced and Master phases, respectively. One caveat on the Advanced and Master phases is that the pilot must have earned a Basic phase in the previous 12 calendar months in order to qualify for the higher level phase.
Completion of a phase of WINGS at the Basic, Advanced, or Master level is considered to be an alternative method of complying with the Flight Review requirement of §61.56. This is described in 14 CFR 61.56(e).
While it is not a requirement to have an account on FAASafety.gov, it does make things easier. More about that later.
The FAA Safety Team, also known as the FAASTeam, incorporates a number of individuals and organizations with an interest in aviation safety.
Anyone can become a FAASTeam Member by making a conscious effort to promote aviation safety and become part of the shift in safety culture. To become a member:
Sign-up at FAASafety.gov and take part in all it has to offer.
Mechanics – participate in the automated AMT Awards Program
Attend live FAASTeam events in your area
Attend webinars online
FAASTeam Representatives are designated aviation safety volunteers that work closely with FAASTeam Program Managers (FPM) at the FAA to actively promote safety. These volunteers receive training and are supported by the FPM with equipment and materials.
FAASTeam Industry Members are companies or associations of people that have a stake in aviation safety. The FAA has guidelines that describe how these groups and the FAASTeam can formalize their desires to promote aviation safety together.
At the FAA, there is a National FAASTeam staff with assigned personnel holding positions as Safety Liaison Team (SLT) Leads and FAASTeam Program Managers (FPM). The National FAASTeam develops and provides the National FAASTeam Performance Plan (NPP) as well as national policy and guidance. FSDOs utilize assigned FPMs to accomplish the NPP and achieve the FAA’s safety program goals.
How Do I Sign Up?
You must have an account on FAASafety.gov to use the automated WINGS Program. By using the “Create an Account” link on the home page, you will be able to quickly accomplish this. You aren’t required to have an account if you don’t want to take courses, receive credit, or obtain certificates there. It is simply much easier with an account.
Although you may create an account by saying that you are not an airman, this will limit some functionality of the account. It is best to say you are an airman, if you are, and then provide your airman certificate number when creating the account. Once the airman information is verified, the airman certificate number is not kept.
The account will be created and a temporary password will be emailed to the email address provided. It is also best to add FAASafety.gov to Trusted Sites under Internet Options.
If you already have an account, go to the My Preferences page and click on the tab labeled, “Airman Registry.” If the next page shows your name and ZIP code, you are all set! If it does not, then you need to click on the “Locate My Airman Registry Record” button and provide the requested information to link the account to your airman information. You can have only one account on FAASafety.gov that is linked to your airman information.
If you take a course, attend a seminar or webinar, or participate in any other activity where you will earn WINGS credit, be sure to use the same email address. If you use a different email address, you will receive an email asking you to sign up for an FAASafety.gov account. This is another way to create an account if you don’t have one, but it will prevent you from receiving your earned credit if you do have an account.
Through WTOQ, the FAASTeam suggests WINGS flight activities and knowledge topics for each quarter. In the course of a year, four knowledge topics and four flight activities are suggested. The Spring, Summer, and Fall events will work together to complete a WINGS phase. The Winter events are considered an elective but are an excellent opportunity to remain proficient during the winter months.
The WTOQ program is an easy way for you to commit to quarterly proficiency training with a plan. The FAASTeam’s selection of the knowledge and flight events makes it easy to use. If you would like to pick alternatives to their choices, that is fine too; the goal is quarterly WINGS based proficiency training, not just following their choices. The FAASTeam’s choices just make it easier.
A sample of the WINGS Topic of the Quarter Checklist, which lists the quarterly topics, may be found below. Obtain the latest WTOQ Checklist by visiting the Resources tab Library on FAASafety.gov and selecting the WINGS category to download the PDF from there.
What Else Can I Do to be a Safer Pilot?
I believe that there will always be a cadre of pilots that just want to get by with the bare minimum. Some of these pilots will one day end up hurting themselves or worse, and unfortunately, they will take others with them.
Don’t be one of these pilots!
Become a safe and conscientious pilot. Strive to never stop learning. Develop a plan to reach this striving. Follow the plan and improve your skills. If you need help with a plan, talk to your favorite local flight instructor and see if a phase of WINGS will be a worthwhile pursuit.
While you are talking to favorite instructor, ask about adding a rating or two to your certificate. New ratings have a way of adding skills to your current flying that you may not expect.
If you need well organized and high quality training products to help you improve your flying or reach your next aviation goal, check out https://sportys.com/courses. Many of these course will also qualify for WINGS knowledge credits.
Get out there and stay current and proficient. Fly safe!!
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/05175223/Normal-Landings-Video-Tip-YT.jpg10801920Paul Jurgenshttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngPaul Jurgens2023-06-19 08:55:042023-06-13 17:22:06Pilot’s Guide to the FAA WINGS Program
Sporty’s is celebrating Fly July with specials on pilot gear
/in News/by Eric RadtkeBrowse and shop at Sportys.com.
When can a pilot share expenses with a passenger?
/in Regulations/by Eric RadtkeEvery Private pilot checkride includes a discussion with the examiner on the privileges and limitations of the pilot certificate. It is generally well understood that Private pilots cannot be paid for their pilot services which would require at least a Commercial pilot certificate, but there are several exceptions outlined in § 61.113. The exceptions include a Private pilot flying in connection with business or employment as long as the flight is incidental to that business activity. Additional exceptions include flying for certain charitable events or even search and rescue operations.
And it is also commonly understood that Private pilots (or any pilot) is permitted to share in the expenses of a flight with passengers. The types of expenses that can be shared are expressly stated in § 61.113(c) which are “fuel, oil, airport expenditures, or rental fees.” If you are to share in these expenses with other passengers, it’s also a requirement that the pilot not “pay less than the pro rata share of the operating expenses.” This indicates that the expenses must be shared proportionally or evenly. In other words, the pilot cannot pass along 90% of the expenses of a flight to his passengers. In the case of three aboard the aircraft including the pilot, those expenses would have to be split into thirds.
If you are to share expenses with other passengers, the expenses must be shared equally.
An element of sharing expenses with passengers that is less understood is the FAA’s consistent legal interpretation that the pilot must have a common purpose with his passengers for traveling to the destination. In other words, the pilot’s motivation cannot simply be flying as a favor or for the purpose of building flight time. This type of activity falls into the category of common carriage or “holding out” to the public which is considered a charter operation which is reserved for certified air carriers.
“Holding out” to the public or common carriage generally consists of four elements:
1) a holding out of willingness to
2) transport persons or property
3) from place to place
4) for compensation.
While advertising (digital, print, social) is the most obvious indication of expressing a willingness to transport people or property for compensation, using other people to help spread the message, or simply establishing a reputation as one who provides air travel can be considered “holding out.” And the FAA has established a broad interpretation of compensation that extends well beyond the exchange of money. Compensation can be considered the exchange of other goods, goodwill, or, as mentioned previously, even building flight time.
Enforcement of illegal charter activity is an emphasis area of the FAA.
Enforcement of illegal charter activity is an emphasis area of the FAA. It poses a risk to the general public and puts those organizations who are certified air carriers at a distinct disadvantage. Penalties for illegal charter can include significant fines as well as certificate suspension or revocation. Remember, in general, Private pilots cannot act as PIC for compensation or hire or act as PIC of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire. And no pilot can participate in common carriage unless certified as an air carrier.
For additional information, visit Safe Air Charter Operations | Federal Aviation Administration (faa.gov)
FAA updates Advisory Circular for non-towered airport operations
/in News, Regulations, Tips and technique/by Eric RadtkeWhile traffic pattern flow is governed, entries are not, but pilots should still follow recommended entry procedures.
The FAA recently published an update to Advisory Circular (AC) 90-66 for non-towered airport operations. This AC calls attention to regulatory requirements, recommended operations, and communications procedures for operating at an airport without a control tower. It recommends traffic patterns, communications phraseology, and operational procedures. The AC has been updated to reflect current procedures and best practices at airports without an operating control tower.
The AC notes that when entering the traffic pattern at an airport without an operating control tower, inbound pilots are expected to observe other aircraft already in the pattern and to conform to the traffic pattern in use. If there are no other aircraft present, the pilot should check traffic indicators on the ground and wind indicators to determine which runway and traffic pattern direction to use. Traffic pattern entry and turn direction information is provided by using the airport remarks or Chart Supplement, or by referring to the AIM. Arriving aircraft should enter the airport’s traffic pattern at traffic pattern altitude and avoid straight-in approaches for landing to mitigate the risk of a midair collision.
All traffic, should, at a minimum, monitor the CTAF. For departures a minimum of 10 minutes prior to taxi and arrivals a minimum of 10 miles out from the airport, you should broadcast your intentions. Failure to follow recommended communication procedures has contributed to near midair collisions, and as such could be considered careless and reckless operation of an aircraft. On the airport’s CTAF, you should communicate and coordinate your takeoff intention with aircraft inbound and in the traffic pattern and announce the runway to be used, the direction of flight on departure, or whether you intend to remain in the traffic pattern. Pilots are reminded that the use of the phrase “ANY TRAFFIC IN THE AREA, PLEASE ADVISE” is not a recognized self-announce position and/or intention phrase and should not be used under any condition.
Pilots may report safety threats or regulatory violations online to the FAA Hotline at https://faa-aae.my.site.com/s/hotline.
View these helpful video tips from Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course for non-towered airport operations.
New online service: train with flight instructors anytime, anywhere
/in News, Tips and technique/by Bret KoebbeFrom the moment you choose to take to the skies and immerse yourself in aviation, your relationship with the flight instructor community becomes a constant, enriching part of your journey. As you chase a new rating, it’s commonplace to find yourself engaged in multiple training sessions each week. These interactions typically occur with your instructor before, during, and shortly after flights.
An innovative new online service called InstaCFI connects you online with a qualified instructor on your schedule to guide you through that instrument approach while virtually sitting next to you in the right seat via a video call. InstaCFI creates a seamless bridge between students, pilots, flight simulator enthusiasts, and online instructors, offering flexible learning opportunities that allow you to train anytime, anywhere. Here’s how it works.
Scheduling a lesson
Head over to instacfi.com and select the option to “Schedule Now” from the top of the page. Then select one of the available services, like ground instruction or flight simulator training (more on this later), and select one of the CFIs from the list. You’ll see a brief profile or each CFI, including qualifications and aircraft specialties.
Next, select how long you’d like to meet with the CFI, from 1 to 2 hours, and choose a date/time from the CFI’s availability calendar. You’ll then enter your information, lesson objectives and wrap up with payment information (lessons are currently $64/hr). When an appointment with a CFI is booked, you’ll receive a calendar invite containing a Google Meet video link. At the scheduled time simply click on the invite link and the lesson begins.
Services offered
InstaCFI’s roster of instructors features a wide range of experience and can provide advanced instruction beyond private pilot training. One of the best use cases we can think of is for current pilots to take advantage of this resource to help tackle new flight planning challenges. Here are some examples to consider across all pilot experience levels:
If both the client and CFI are using ForeFlight, the CFI can easily provide remote logbook entries through the app as a record of training.
For more information and to schedule a lesson, visit instacfi.com.
Free online FIRC available through Sporty’s CFI portal
/in News/by Eric RadtkeUpdated and redesigned Flight Instructor Refresher Course (FIRC) offers effective and convenient CFI renewal option
Flight instructors serve a vital role in the aviation community helping to guide and mentor future generations of aviators. The profession requires extensive knowledge and training and demands patience, skill and commitment to succeed. Whether you have joined the teaching ranks or aspire to earn a flight instructor certificate, know that the learning must continue beyond the certification as it is imperative for instructors to have access to the latest information, tools and resources to bring to their clients.
It is imperative for instructors to have access to the latest information, tools and resources to bring to their clients.
This is why, unlike other pilot certifications, the flight instructor certificate is issued with an expiration date and the regulations offer various options to renew the certification every 24 calendar months.
Sporty’s has developed a fresh new option for flight instructors to renew their CFI certificate using a modern online learning system to deliver innovative, engaging content. Sporty’s FAA-approved eFIRC, updated for 2023, is part of a collection of online resources available through Sporty’s CFI Portal to help instructors broaden their knowledge base and stay connected to students. And it’s absolutely FREE!
The suite of tools within the CFI Portal also includes lesson plans, FAA resource library, endorsement guide, special offers, and complimentary access to Sporty’s award winning Private, Instrument and Commercial Pilot Training Courses.
Why should flight instructors use an online FIRC?
While there are a variety of ways to renew a CFI certificate (including a meeting with the local FAA inspector), most flight instructors elect to use an online course because of the ease of use and flexibility offered. The FIRC content can be consumed and reviewed when and where the user would like as opposed to being limited by the confines of a classroom. The online platform also offers the flexibility to offer expanded content and optional training modules so learning can be tailored to the individual’s needs.
It’s Mobile-friendly!
Sporty’s eFIRC has a mobile-friendly design that works on any device with a web browser and internet connection—especially convenient for studying on the go with an iPhone, iPad or Android phone/tablet. Your progress is automatically saved in the cloud, so you can start on one device and resume learning on another.
Using the FIRC
After logging into the course, you will be presented with the main Dashboard view, allowing you to get started with any one of the 16 lessons. There is no requirement to complete the lessons in order, so you can pick the path that makes the most sense for you. This page also shows a graphical representation of both individual lesson and overall course progress.
Once you start a lesson, you’ll see a list of individual lesson modules listed on the left side of the screen. You’ll receive credit for each module as you study the content in main content viewer, located on the right side of the screen.
After completing each required module, you’ll be presented with a multiple choice quiz. This serves two purposes: to help reinforce key concepts in the lesson, and to help prepare you for the final exam.
There’s also a video training section included with most lessons that brings the content to life with real-world in-flight video and motion graphics. This not only makes each lesson more engaging, but gives you another perspective on how to relate key training concepts and maneuvers to students.
After completing all 16 lessons, the last step is to take the 60-question, multiple choice final exam in the course and earn a minimum score of 70%.
Paperless CFI Renewal
Once this last step is complete, the course will automatically generate an official FIRC graduation certificate for you to download that you can take to an examiner or FAA office to process the renewal. Or, for just $49.95, Sporty’s will handle the paperwork and issue a new temporary CFI certificate with its paperless CFI renewal service.
What you’ll learn
Sporty’s eFIRC was developed by Sporty’s team of educators with today’s modern CFI in mind so you won’t find just a rehash of regulations and dry FOI theory. Rather, you’ll learn about topics pertinent to today’s flight training environment. Featuring significant updates for 2023, topics covered include:
Available free for CFIs
Sporty’s complete FIRC is available free for active CFIs and educators. The paperless renewal is an additional $49.95. You can sign up here, which provides 365 days of access.
Learn more and explore the CFI portal resources at www.Sportys.com/CFI.
Pilot’s Guide to the FAA WINGS Program
/in Tips and technique/by Paul JurgensSafety conscious pilots are always looking for ways to fly and stay safe. Many years ago, the FAA developed a program to help them do just that. Though it has undergone some changes since it was first introduced, the FAA WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program is an excellent way to improve your knowledge, skills, and safety.
What Is WINGS and Why Should I Care?
An earlier FAA study entitled Report on the Effectiveness of the WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program made two observations (with impressive data to back it up):
As wonderful as the program is, very few pilots participate in this program or any other program of recurrent training! The previously mentioned study found that only about 1.75% of the rated pilots had earned a phase of WINGS under the revamped program. That said, there are a lot of pilots that participate in the ground portion but never finish a phase of WINGS. A phase of WINGS requires meeting certain flight requirements along with the ground requirements.
The WINGS-Pilot Proficiency Program is designed to help you build an educational curriculum suitable to your unique flight requirements. The program encourages you to continue your aviation educational pursuits and requires training, review, and flight proficiency in the Areas of Operation (found in current ACS or PTS) that correspond with the leading causes for aviation accidents.
The most significant incentive for you to participate in the WINGS Program is the added level of safety and professionalism that is obtained through adoption of a reliable recurrent training program.
Some FAASTeam Industry Members may provide incentives rewarding pilots for their participation in the program based on the phase obtained and/or maintained in the program. Check with your local aviation industry organizations, companies, and insurance providers for their current incentive offerings. While the FAASTeam encourages FAASTeam Industry Members’ participation in offering incentives, the FAASTeam does not require, regulate, or control such incentives.
What Are the Nuts and Bolts of the Program?
At its most elemental level, pilots complete knowledge and flight activities to earn WINGS credits. The knowledge and flight credits are assigned classifications at Basic, Advanced, and Master levels. When the appropriate Basic level knowledge and flight credits have been earned and approved on the FAASafety.gov website or in the pilot’s logbook, a Basic phase of WINGS is earned. Credits toward a phase may be accumulated over a 12 calendar month period.
Advanced and Master credits may be accumulated toward Advanced and Master phases, respectively. One caveat on the Advanced and Master phases is that the pilot must have earned a Basic phase in the previous 12 calendar months in order to qualify for the higher level phase.
Completion of a phase of WINGS at the Basic, Advanced, or Master level is considered to be an alternative method of complying with the Flight Review requirement of §61.56. This is described in 14 CFR 61.56(e).
While it is not a requirement to have an account on FAASafety.gov, it does make things easier. More about that later.
More details about the program may be found in Advisory Circular (AC) 61-91J and in the WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program User’s Guide.
Tell Me More about the FAASTeam
The FAA Safety Team, also known as the FAASTeam, incorporates a number of individuals and organizations with an interest in aviation safety.
FAASTeam Representatives are designated aviation safety volunteers that work closely with FAASTeam Program Managers (FPM) at the FAA to actively promote safety. These volunteers receive training and are supported by the FPM with equipment and materials.
FAASTeam Industry Members are companies or associations of people that have a stake in aviation safety. The FAA has guidelines that describe how these groups and the FAASTeam can formalize their desires to promote aviation safety together.
At the FAA, there is a National FAASTeam staff with assigned personnel holding positions as Safety Liaison Team (SLT) Leads and FAASTeam Program Managers (FPM). The National FAASTeam develops and provides the National FAASTeam Performance Plan (NPP) as well as national policy and guidance. FSDOs utilize assigned FPMs to accomplish the NPP and achieve the FAA’s safety program goals.
How Do I Sign Up?
Although you may create an account by saying that you are not an airman, this will limit some functionality of the account. It is best to say you are an airman, if you are, and then provide your airman certificate number when creating the account. Once the airman information is verified, the airman certificate number is not kept.
The account will be created and a temporary password will be emailed to the email address provided. It is also best to add FAASafety.gov to Trusted Sites under Internet Options.
If you already have an account, go to the My Preferences page and click on the tab labeled, “Airman Registry.” If the next page shows your name and ZIP code, you are all set! If it does not, then you need to click on the “Locate My Airman Registry Record” button and provide the requested information to link the account to your airman information. You can have only one account on FAASafety.gov that is linked to your airman information.
If you take a course, attend a seminar or webinar, or participate in any other activity where you will earn WINGS credit, be sure to use the same email address. If you use a different email address, you will receive an email asking you to sign up for an FAASafety.gov account. This is another way to create an account if you don’t have one, but it will prevent you from receiving your earned credit if you do have an account.
WINGS Topic of the Quarter Program
Through WTOQ, the FAASTeam suggests WINGS flight activities and knowledge topics for each quarter. In the course of a year, four knowledge topics and four flight activities are suggested. The Spring, Summer, and Fall events will work together to complete a WINGS phase. The Winter events are considered an elective but are an excellent opportunity to remain proficient during the winter months.
The WTOQ program is an easy way for you to commit to quarterly proficiency training with a plan. The FAASTeam’s selection of the knowledge and flight events makes it easy to use. If you would like to pick alternatives to their choices, that is fine too; the goal is quarterly WINGS based proficiency training, not just following their choices. The FAASTeam’s choices just make it easier.
A sample of the WINGS Topic of the Quarter Checklist, which lists the quarterly topics, may be found below. Obtain the latest WTOQ Checklist by visiting the Resources tab Library on FAASafety.gov and selecting the WINGS category to download the PDF from there.
What Else Can I Do to be a Safer Pilot?
I believe that there will always be a cadre of pilots that just want to get by with the bare minimum. Some of these pilots will one day end up hurting themselves or worse, and unfortunately, they will take others with them.
Don’t be one of these pilots!
Become a safe and conscientious pilot. Strive to never stop learning. Develop a plan to reach this striving. Follow the plan and improve your skills. If you need help with a plan, talk to your favorite local flight instructor and see if a phase of WINGS will be a worthwhile pursuit.
While you are talking to favorite instructor, ask about adding a rating or two to your certificate. New ratings have a way of adding skills to your current flying that you may not expect.
If you need well organized and high quality training products to help you improve your flying or reach your next aviation goal, check out https://sportys.com/courses. Many of these course will also qualify for WINGS knowledge credits.
Get out there and stay current and proficient. Fly safe!!