The ATP certification rule has revamped the requirements and process for obtaining an airline transport pilot certificate. The rule requires pilots to hold an air transport pilot certificate in order to fly for an airline.
As part of these changes, regulations were also created for the new Restricted ATP (R-ATP) and the ATP Certification Training Program requirements that mandate all ATP applicants for complete ground training in order to be eligible for the written exam for ATP multiengine.
Sporty’s Chief Flight Instructors Eric Radtke and Paul Jurgens lead a comprehensive overview of the new requirements as they guide you through the complex new requirements.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/05180559/Screen-Shot-2016-12-14-at-2.14.59-PM.png10611434studentpltnewshttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngstudentpltnews2016-11-28 11:09:002021-06-08 19:23:31Webinar – ATP training requirements, what you need to know
First, I would like to say that I think that 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.
“…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.”
The problem is that very few pilots participate in this program or any other program of recurrent training!
From the previously mentioned study, as of December 2010, 8,878 out of 627,588 pilots (119,119 of these were student pilots) had earned a phase of WINGS under the revamped program. This is about 1.75% of the rated pilots. That said, there are a lot of pilots that participate in the ground portion but never finish a phase of WINGS.
A question arises in my mind but is not answered by the FAA WINGS study. Does WINGS lower the accident rate or are pilots that tend to complete a phase a WINGS the kind of conscientious pilots that will have a lower accident rate anyway? While I have no hard proof, I suspect that the answer can be found somewhere in the middle in that WINGS provides a path for these conscientious pilots that tend to fly in a safer manner and seek out additional training. The additional training provides an added boost to these already safer pilots.
Same Old Faces
If you attend very many WINGS seminars in your area, you may start to recognize some of the same old faces. Here at Sporty’s Academy, the WINGS crowd has a lot of familiar faces. Looking around the room, I would estimate that the average age is certainly leaning toward much older pilots.
Pilots from other areas make similar comments.
Where are the other pilots? Do they believe that they know it all already? Are they just too busy to spend time improving their knowledge? Or do we simply have a severe case of pilot apathy?
Where Are the Instructors?
Another group that seems to be poorly represented at WINGS seminars are younger flight instructors. The older guys and gals are often present because they understand and believe in the program.
I can understand it when a flight instructor has spent the entire day teaching, he or she is probably not interested in spending more time at the airport. But what kind of example are we setting for our students? If the instructors don’t show up, the students won’t show up. When the students don’t show up, they aren’t likely to show up once rated either.
Come on instructors, are you in this just for the hours and a paycheck or do you want to produce safe pilots and grow this thing called aviation that we all (or once did) love?
Beyond the example, these instructors are also missing out on a huge opportunity. What better place to meet new clients with a desire to improve than at your local WINGS seminar? Participate! Wear a name tag or a shirt that identifies you as a flight instructor! Start friendly conversations and pass out your business cards!! If a potential client expresses a strong interest, get him or her on your schedule!
Beyond Showing Up for the Camaraderie
It is likely true that many of the older, familiar faces are there to hang out with their older flying comrades. We certainly don’t want to discourage this as a sense of “community” has been shown to help grow aviation. But the old boy’s and girl’s clubs shouldn’t be the only ones there.
Take some time to engage with these older pilots as some of them can be a wealth of information. Realize that their nostalgic reminiscences of “the good old days” may still have some nuggets of truth and useful information. Just don’t allow yourself to get too worked up about their railing against the increased complexity or the modern conveniences. Times and technology change. Why not give them a hand with learning about some of these new-fangled things?
While you are at the seminar, be a keen observer and an attentive listener. Taking notes about the presentation will help you to get the most out of the time that you are spending.
What Can We Do?
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 killing themselves and unfortunately, they will take others with them.
Don’t be one of these pilots!
Become one of those conscientious pilots mentioned earlier. 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.
Is WINGS the answer? I would say that it is definitely a part of the answer but probably not the be all and end all of answers. WINGS and other recurrent training programs only work when we pilots and flight instructors participate.
Get out there and stay current and proficient. Fly safe!!
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/05180619/GarminSeminar-2014-11-003_opt.jpg11272000studentpltnewshttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngstudentpltnews2016-11-21 10:00:582021-06-08 19:23:31Is WINGS the Answer?
I began my flight training and earned my first pilot certificate more than 16 years ago, but at that time, in the early 2000s, there was a lot of change taking place in the tech industry. The dot-coms were exploding (literally and figuratively), WiFi was becoming mainstream, and GPS was well on its way to establishing itself as the new way to navigate.
While all this progress was being made in normal society, I couldn’t help but get the feeling that certain aspects of aviation were stuck in time. The area that stood out the most to me was both the format and delivery method that pilots relied on for getting preflight weather and updates on airport conditions.
While I soon learned to appreciate the coded format of METARs and TAFs for quick reading, other reports like NOTAMs, Area Forecasts and text AIRMETs/SIGMETs were beyond cryptic. Student pilots and flight instructors around the airport prided themselves on knowing obscure abbreviations and codings that had little to no benefit when it came to what really mattered.
Fast forward to today, where most of us get graphical weather briefings on iPads, in-flight datalink weather is the norm and text Area Forecasts are nearly a thing of the past. NOTAMs have gotten better (especially with how some apps display them right on the chart), but there is still work to be done there to make these important notices both easier to access and read.
My other major complaint was with how the FAA relayed runway and taxiway surface conditions to pilots during the winter months. An important consideration when planning a flight to an airport at below freezing temperatures is the possibility of snow or ice on the runway and whether the conditions are suitable for your particular airplane and operation.
Up until recently U.S. airports expressed braking action in NOTAMs using a MU friction value that ranged from 0.40 down towards 0, where the lower the # meant the higher likelihood you would go ice skating down the runway. It always struck me as odd that they’d publish a non-relatable decimal value in the airport NOTAMs and expect pilots to make sense of it. Every time I came across one of the reports during the winter months I had to use Google to decode the report. For example:
TAP MU 29/27/29 OBSERVED AT 1601010139. 1601010151-1601020145
Unfortunately, it took a runway overrun accident by a Boeing 737 at Chicago Midway airport in 2005 for the FAA to take a look at ways to improve the assessment of runway conditions and find better ways to report the status to pilots. The new system uses a matrix with clearly defined condition criteria and Runway Condition Codes (RwyCC) that range in value from 6 (dry pavement) to 0 (hang on for a wild ride).
Airport operators will use the matrix to assess paved runway surfaces, report contaminants present, and through the assistance of the Federal NOTAM System, determine the numerical Runway Condition Codes (RwyCC) based on the runway condition. Pilots can then use the code to assess the effects of a given contaminant(s) as indicated by the associated condition code prior to landing or departing.
The other big change is that airports can no long report a “Nil” braking action for an active runway or taxiway; if conditions warrant this type of report that surface must be closed.
I’d suggest downloading the PDF version of this Matrix and storing it on your iPad for quick reference on the ground and in the airplane: Runway Condition Assessment Matrix
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/05180708/snowy-runway.jpg10801920studentpltnewshttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngstudentpltnews2016-11-07 10:00:262021-06-08 19:23:31Runway braking action reports finally make sense
On a blustery, cold morning, back before I knew what lift was, a short freckled face kid strolled into the local airport to take his first airplane ride.
The flight jacket commands respect
Just about every pilot can recall his first flight, whether it was for training or for the thrill. As I stepped through that door, I knew right away who was going to be at the helm of our airborne chariot. Sitting with his legs crossed in a chair that had to be left over from a 1950s sitcom, was a man with a leather coat. Not just any coat, it was a pilot’s flight jacket. This “Member’s Only” jacket was reserved for only the finest aviators. Anyone not qualified, would just look silly. Because he possessed that unique ability to guide a piece of metal through the air, he alone could don this leather monster and command the respect of his peers by merely entering a room.
Fast forward 20 years later, one of the first items I bought once I started flight training was a leather flight jacket. I too wanted the prestige that was bestowed upon the elite few that could take to the skies. I couldn’t just walk into the local department store and find this ego boosting apparel. It wasn’t sold to the land-bound common folk. I’m sure if I looked hard enough, I could find a JC Penny or Sears-labeled “Bomber” jacket, but that wouldn’t do justice for this commander of the skies. I needed a coat that a WWII vet would be proud to stand next to. One that would last for decades and keep the battle scars of my dogfights for the entire world to see.
Flight jackets were used out of necessity in WWI
But what makes a Flight Jacket worthy of having that title? Certainly it has to have some distinctive features, but why are they there? I’m sure there wasn’t a Betsy Ross of Flight Jackets who decided that epaulets are cool. To find the origins of flight jackets, you have to turn the clock back to the WWI. Pilots of this era flew in open cockpits. Exposed to the elements, they would wear whatever they could get their hands on to protect them. The U.S. Army officially started the Aviation Clothing Board in 1917. They issued heavy-duty leather jackets with knit cuffs and knit waist bands to help seal out the cold.
During World War II, flight jackets became essential to the well being of the crew. Often flying at altitudes in excess of 25,000 feet where temperatures were well below zero, most aircraft cabins were not insulated. The only way to keep warm was a thick, heavy flight jacket. As time passed, certain crews wanted pen holders or oxygen hose clips or fluffy collars or lighter weight, but the core of the jacket remained thick and warm to protect crews from the harsh elements found at higher altitudes.
Some jackets were decorated with squadron patches or painted. The jackets were issued to more than just flight crews, and became popular with generals. The Army and the Navy each had their own type of jacket. Once the war ended and as these pilot returned home and started careers as airline captains, the jackets lived on and became a symbol of their status. Pilot wannabes (myself included) saw them as a must have to be considered a real pilot.
While considering what to put on your Christmas list, consider a flight jacket to make the aviator – a real flight jacket.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/05180813/WW-II-Flight-Crew_small.jpg565810studentpltnewshttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngstudentpltnews2016-10-24 10:00:022021-06-08 19:23:31A flight jacket tells a story
Flight bags are like airplanes. They’re constantly changing to adapt to new technology, and yet there’s no such thing as a single perfect design – everyone has their own wants and needs. In recognition of those two trends, Sporty’s recently introduced a completely new selection of flight bags for general aviation pilots, called Flight Gear High Performance. These bags have a modern look and some unique new features, but with options for customizing each bag to match the mission.
Every new Flight Gear HP bag is made from durable ripstop nylon, with sturdy hardware and extra stitching where it counts. With a three year warranty and Sporty’s famous support, you can count on your bag for years of reliable service. Beyond those essential features, though, Flight Gear HP has some thoughtful design choices.
1. Light weight. A great flight bag should store and protect lots of aviation gear, but that doesn’t mean it has to be heavy. By using the right fabric and some novel construction techniques, we’ve been able to make Flight Gear HP 30% lighter than our previous generation of bags – without sacrificing durability. That means your bag is lighter before you ever load it. You’ll notice the difference as soon as you pick one up.
2. Reinforced carry handles. Grab and go is our philosophy, so we added large, padded handles to our Tailwind Backpack, iPad Bag and Captain’s Bag. These make it easy to haul heavy loads without hurting your hands. Each handle is securely riveted to the bag.
3. Oversized headset pockets. A good ANR headset is often a pilot’s most expensive investment, so we designed our new Flight Gear HP with extra protection. The Captain’s Bag and Crosswind Bag feature large, padded headset pockets on the side, with wide zippered openings. These have a contoured cut to make it easy to remove a headset, including ANR battery box, in an instant.
4. Headset hanger. For our Tailwind Backpack and iPad bag, we still found a way to accommodate a dedicated headset storage area without taking up too much space. The innovative headset hanger is loop and buckle at the top of the interior compartment, which wraps around your headset’s headband. This keeps your headset stable and elevated, so it won’t hit the ground when you drop your bag.
5. Pass-through iPad pocket. The Captain’s Bag has room for everything you carry, but with easy-access pockets that make it simple to find your gear. For example, a padded iPad pocket on the inside offers unmatched protection for your tablet, but the pass-through slot on the top of the bag allows you to remove your iPad without opening up the entire bag.
6. Charging cable slot for electronics. The iPad bag also features a padded iPad pocket, but with a unique cable slot that allows you to keep your tablet connected to a battery pack while it’s in the bag. Keep a battery pack (sold separately) in the main compartment, then connect it to your iPad with the pass-through slot. Everything remains separated and protected, but you never run out of juice.
7. Gear Mods. Different flights call for different equipment, so a great flight bag has to adapt to fit long cross countries and local flights alike. Our Gear Mods are the perfect answer. These handy accessories attach to the back wall of any Flight Gear HP bag, and offer additional storage and organization options, from cables to tablets to radios. Don’t need that radio pocket for today’s flight? Just remove the Gear Mod.
8. Custom Embroidery. Make your bag uniquely yours, with custom embroidery from Sporty’s in-house team. We’ll add your initials, N-number, airplane silhouette or whatever else you dream up.
A BAG FOR EVERY PILOT
Four bags make up the Flight Gear HP line, and each of them costs under $100.
Tailwind Backpack – A comfortable and stylish backpack made exclusively for pilots, including a headset hanger, iPad pocket and laptop sleeve.
Captain’s Bag – Our most spacious bag, with two headset pockets, front organizer section and padded iPad sleeve.
iPad Bag – Designed for the active iPad pilot, featuring a headset hanger, padded iPad pocket, and plenty of external organizer pockets.
Crosswind Bag – Perfect for student pilots and weekend flyers, this compact bag offers plenty of organization for under $50.
For more information, check out our video demo below:
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/05180706/Captains-bag-800.jpg800800studentpltnewshttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngstudentpltnews2016-10-23 11:15:372021-06-08 19:23:31Sporty’s new Flight Gear HP bags show off unique features
Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course app has three awesome new features that student pilots will love and they don’t cost a thing. The free version of the app has access to our Study Buddy test prep and our practice exams for the written test. Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course is designed to supplement the ground school while you train for your private, sport or recreational pilots license. Before you fly with your instructor our segmented videos can help you prepare and retain the knowledge for each lesson. It’s a powerful tool that just got better. Take a look at how the free version of the app is giving students more than ever before.
1. LEARNING MODE IN THE FREE VERSION
Without purchasing the full version of the Learn to Fly app you can utilize Learning Mode. This mode allows you to select specific topics to study and practice those questions until you get them right. Start small and grow your knowledge by mastering individual topics one section at a time.
How To:
STEP 1: When you’re in the app, tap on Written Test Prep
STEP 2: In the main Study Buddy page, tap on Learning Mode.
STEP 3: Select the specific topics you want to cover.
As you answer the questions you can immediately see the correct or incorrect answers.
This is a great way to study the material without being overwhelmed by too many topics or questions. We recommend starting with one topic and after you’ve mastered that subject, add one more until you have the entire group down. By the time you’re looking at the entire subject bank you’ll be a pro.
2. TEST MODE IN THE FREE VERSION
Test mode allows the student to practice a written exam just like the actual test. Being a pilot is all about being prepared for the task at hand. There’s no better way to be prepared for your written exam than taking practice exams that are the same format, look, feel and questions you’ll see in the testing center. You’re able to practice the exams as many times as you want so you feel comfortable with the material. You can access this in the same location on Study Buddy as the Learning Mode.
How To:
STEP 1: Tap on the Test Mode menu in the Study Buddy.
STEP 2: On the next page you’ll find a description of the exam that has the same guidelines as the real exam. We recommend taking these practice exams until you consistently score in the 90% range. If you upgrade to the paid version of the app, you can automatically receive your written test endorsement after two scores of 80% or higher are recorded.
Here’s what the practice test will look like.
3. FOUR NEW INTRO TO FLYING VIDEOS IN THE FREE VERSION
If you’re looking to get started these videos are a great place to begin. Learning to fly is a long process that is unfamiliar to new pilots – that’s where the intro videos come in. You’ll get to watch the basics of how to earn a license, how to choose a flight school and what your first lesson will look like. These fast-paced videos help give you an idea of the adventure that awaits you as you earn your wings.
STUNNING HD VIDEO THROUGHOUT
The Learn to Fly course has rich, high-definition footage and graphics throughout the entire course. We’ve made special effort to keep our course looking good and easier to watch. That means professional quality videos with real airplane footage at beautiful locations. No talking heads or PowerPoint slides.
DOWNLOAD THE LEARN TO FLY COURSE NOW
These useful features are available to you now with the free Learn to Fly app in the App Store. To download the Learn to Fly app on your iPad or iPhone click here. For $199.99, you can unlock the full course, including over 20 hours of HD video, explanations for each question in the Study Buddy, and an automatic written test endorsement. For more information on the Learn to Fly Course click here.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/05180744/IMG_0068.png15362048studentpltnewshttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/05155154/FTC-logo-horizontal-fianl.pngstudentpltnews2016-10-20 11:06:182021-06-08 19:23:313 new features on the Learn to Fly app
Webinar – ATP training requirements, what you need to know
/in Webinars/by StudentpltnewsThe ATP certification rule has revamped the requirements and process for obtaining an airline transport pilot certificate. The rule requires pilots to hold an air transport pilot certificate in order to fly for an airline.
As part of these changes, regulations were also created for the new Restricted ATP (R-ATP) and the ATP Certification Training Program requirements that mandate all ATP applicants for complete ground training in order to be eligible for the written exam for ATP multiengine.
Sporty’s Chief Flight Instructors Eric Radtke and Paul Jurgens lead a comprehensive overview of the new requirements as they guide you through the complex new requirements.
Is WINGS the Answer?
/in Tips and technique/by StudentpltnewsA 2011 study entitled Report on the Effectiveness of the WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program made two observations (with impressive data to back it up):
The problem is that very few pilots participate in this program or any other program of recurrent training!
From the previously mentioned study, as of December 2010, 8,878 out of 627,588 pilots (119,119 of these were student pilots) had earned a phase of WINGS under the revamped program. This is about 1.75% of the rated pilots. That said, there are a lot of pilots that participate in the ground portion but never finish a phase of WINGS.
A question arises in my mind but is not answered by the FAA WINGS study. Does WINGS lower the accident rate or are pilots that tend to complete a phase a WINGS the kind of conscientious pilots that will have a lower accident rate anyway? While I have no hard proof, I suspect that the answer can be found somewhere in the middle in that WINGS provides a path for these conscientious pilots that tend to fly in a safer manner and seek out additional training. The additional training provides an added boost to these already safer pilots.
Same Old Faces
Pilots from other areas make similar comments.
Where are the other pilots? Do they believe that they know it all already? Are they just too busy to spend time improving their knowledge? Or do we simply have a severe case of pilot apathy?
Where Are the Instructors?
Another group that seems to be poorly represented at WINGS seminars are younger flight instructors. The older guys and gals are often present because they understand and believe in the program.
I can understand it when a flight instructor has spent the entire day teaching, he or she is probably not interested in spending more time at the airport. But what kind of example are we setting for our students? If the instructors don’t show up, the students won’t show up. When the students don’t show up, they aren’t likely to show up once rated either.
Come on instructors, are you in this just for the hours and a paycheck or do you want to produce safe pilots and grow this thing called aviation that we all (or once did) love?
Beyond the example, these instructors are also missing out on a huge opportunity. What better place to meet new clients with a desire to improve than at your local WINGS seminar? Participate! Wear a name tag or a shirt that identifies you as a flight instructor! Start friendly conversations and pass out your business cards!! If a potential client expresses a strong interest, get him or her on your schedule!
Beyond Showing Up for the Camaraderie
Take some time to engage with these older pilots as some of them can be a wealth of information. Realize that their nostalgic reminiscences of “the good old days” may still have some nuggets of truth and useful information. Just don’t allow yourself to get too worked up about their railing against the increased complexity or the modern conveniences. Times and technology change. Why not give them a hand with learning about some of these new-fangled things?
While you are at the seminar, be a keen observer and an attentive listener. Taking notes about the presentation will help you to get the most out of the time that you are spending.
What Can We Do?
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 killing themselves and unfortunately, they will take others with them.
Don’t be one of these pilots!
Become one of those conscientious pilots mentioned earlier. 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.
Is WINGS the answer? I would say that it is definitely a part of the answer but probably not the be all and end all of answers. WINGS and other recurrent training programs only work when we pilots and flight instructors participate.
Get out there and stay current and proficient. Fly safe!!
Runway braking action reports finally make sense
/in Tips and technique/by StudentpltnewsI began my flight training and earned my first pilot certificate more than 16 years ago, but at that time, in the early 2000s, there was a lot of change taking place in the tech industry. The dot-coms were exploding (literally and figuratively), WiFi was becoming mainstream, and GPS was well on its way to establishing itself as the new way to navigate.
While all this progress was being made in normal society, I couldn’t help but get the feeling that certain aspects of aviation were stuck in time. The area that stood out the most to me was both the format and delivery method that pilots relied on for getting preflight weather and updates on airport conditions.
While I soon learned to appreciate the coded format of METARs and TAFs for quick reading, other reports like NOTAMs, Area Forecasts and text AIRMETs/SIGMETs were beyond cryptic. Student pilots and flight instructors around the airport prided themselves on knowing obscure abbreviations and codings that had little to no benefit when it came to what really mattered.
Fast forward to today, where most of us get graphical weather briefings on iPads, in-flight datalink weather is the norm and text Area Forecasts are nearly a thing of the past. NOTAMs have gotten better (especially with how some apps display them right on the chart), but there is still work to be done there to make these important notices both easier to access and read.
Up until recently U.S. airports expressed braking action in NOTAMs using a MU friction value that ranged from 0.40 down towards 0, where the lower the # meant the higher likelihood you would go ice skating down the runway. It always struck me as odd that they’d publish a non-relatable decimal value in the airport NOTAMs and expect pilots to make sense of it. Every time I came across one of the reports during the winter months I had to use Google to decode the report. For example:
TAP MU 29/27/29 OBSERVED AT 1601010139. 1601010151-1601020145
Unfortunately, it took a runway overrun accident by a Boeing 737 at Chicago Midway airport in 2005 for the FAA to take a look at ways to improve the assessment of runway conditions and find better ways to report the status to pilots. The new system uses a matrix with clearly defined condition criteria and Runway Condition Codes (RwyCC) that range in value from 6 (dry pavement) to 0 (hang on for a wild ride).
Airport operators will use the matrix to assess paved runway surfaces, report contaminants present, and through the assistance of the Federal NOTAM System, determine the numerical Runway Condition Codes (RwyCC) based on the runway condition. Pilots can then use the code to assess the effects of a given contaminant(s) as indicated by the associated condition code prior to landing or departing.
The other big change is that airports can no long report a “Nil” braking action for an active runway or taxiway; if conditions warrant this type of report that surface must be closed.
I’d suggest downloading the PDF version of this Matrix and storing it on your iPad for quick reference on the ground and in the airplane: Runway Condition Assessment Matrix
A flight jacket tells a story
/in Personal stories, Pilot Gear/by StudentpltnewsOn a blustery, cold morning, back before I knew what lift was, a short freckled face kid strolled into the local airport to take his first airplane ride.
The flight jacket commands respect
Just about every pilot can recall his first flight, whether it was for training or for the thrill. As I stepped through that door, I knew right away who was going to be at the helm of our airborne chariot. Sitting with his legs crossed in a chair that had to be left over from a 1950s sitcom, was a man with a leather coat. Not just any coat, it was a pilot’s flight jacket. This “Member’s Only” jacket was reserved for only the finest aviators. Anyone not qualified, would just look silly. Because he possessed that unique ability to guide a piece of metal through the air, he alone could don this leather monster and command the respect of his peers by merely entering a room.
Fast forward 20 years later, one of the first items I bought once I started flight training was a leather flight jacket. I too wanted the prestige that was bestowed upon the elite few that could take to the skies. I couldn’t just walk into the local department store and find this ego boosting apparel. It wasn’t sold to the land-bound common folk. I’m sure if I looked hard enough, I could find a JC Penny or Sears-labeled “Bomber” jacket, but that wouldn’t do justice for this commander of the skies. I needed a coat that a WWII vet would be proud to stand next to. One that would last for decades and keep the battle scars of my dogfights for the entire world to see.
Flight jackets were used out of necessity in WWI
But what makes a Flight Jacket worthy of having that title? Certainly it has to have some distinctive features, but why are they there? I’m sure there wasn’t a Betsy Ross of Flight Jackets who decided that epaulets are cool. To find the origins of flight jackets, you have to turn the clock back to the WWI. Pilots of this era flew in open cockpits. Exposed to the elements, they would wear whatever they could get their hands on to protect them. The U.S. Army officially started the Aviation Clothing Board in 1917. They issued heavy-duty leather jackets with knit cuffs and knit waist bands to help seal out the cold.
During World War II, flight jackets became essential to the well being of the crew. Often flying at altitudes in excess of 25,000 feet where temperatures were well below zero, most aircraft cabins were not insulated. The only way to keep warm was a thick, heavy flight jacket. As time passed, certain crews wanted pen holders or oxygen hose clips or fluffy collars or lighter weight, but the core of the jacket remained thick and warm to protect crews from the harsh elements found at higher altitudes.
Some jackets were decorated with squadron patches or painted. The jackets were issued to more than just flight crews, and became popular with generals. The Army and the Navy each had their own type of jacket. Once the war ended and as these pilot returned home and started careers as airline captains, the jackets lived on and became a symbol of their status. Pilot wannabes (myself included) saw them as a must have to be considered a real pilot.
While considering what to put on your Christmas list, consider a flight jacket to make the aviator – a real flight jacket.
Sporty’s new Flight Gear HP bags show off unique features
/in Pilot Gear/by StudentpltnewsFlight bags are like airplanes. They’re constantly changing to adapt to new technology, and yet there’s no such thing as a single perfect design – everyone has their own wants and needs. In recognition of those two trends, Sporty’s recently introduced a completely new selection of flight bags for general aviation pilots, called Flight Gear High Performance. These bags have a modern look and some unique new features, but with options for customizing each bag to match the mission.
Every new Flight Gear HP bag is made from durable ripstop nylon, with sturdy hardware and extra stitching where it counts. With a three year warranty and Sporty’s famous support, you can count on your bag for years of reliable service. Beyond those essential features, though, Flight Gear HP has some thoughtful design choices.
1. Light weight. A great flight bag should store and protect lots of aviation gear, but that doesn’t mean it has to be heavy. By using the right fabric and some novel construction techniques, we’ve been able to make Flight Gear HP 30% lighter than our previous generation of bags – without sacrificing durability. That means your bag is lighter before you ever load it. You’ll notice the difference as soon as you pick one up.
2. Reinforced carry handles. Grab and go is our philosophy, so we added large, padded handles to our Tailwind Backpack, iPad Bag and Captain’s Bag. These make it easy to haul heavy loads without hurting your hands. Each handle is securely riveted to the bag.
3. Oversized headset pockets. A good ANR headset is often a pilot’s most expensive investment, so we designed our new Flight Gear HP with extra protection. The Captain’s Bag and Crosswind Bag feature large, padded headset pockets on the side, with wide zippered openings. These have a contoured cut to make it easy to remove a headset, including ANR battery box, in an instant.
4. Headset hanger. For our Tailwind Backpack and iPad bag, we still found a way to accommodate a dedicated headset storage area without taking up too much space. The innovative headset hanger is loop and buckle at the top of the interior compartment, which wraps around your headset’s headband. This keeps your headset stable and elevated, so it won’t hit the ground when you drop your bag.
5. Pass-through iPad pocket. The Captain’s Bag has room for everything you carry, but with easy-access pockets that make it simple to find your gear. For example, a padded iPad pocket on the inside offers unmatched protection for your tablet, but the pass-through slot on the top of the bag allows you to remove your iPad without opening up the entire bag.
6. Charging cable slot for electronics. The iPad bag also features a padded iPad pocket, but with a unique cable slot that allows you to keep your tablet connected to a battery pack while it’s in the bag. Keep a battery pack (sold separately) in the main compartment, then connect it to your iPad with the pass-through slot. Everything remains separated and protected, but you never run out of juice.
7. Gear Mods. Different flights call for different equipment, so a great flight bag has to adapt to fit long cross countries and local flights alike. Our Gear Mods are the perfect answer. These handy accessories attach to the back wall of any Flight Gear HP bag, and offer additional storage and organization options, from cables to tablets to radios. Don’t need that radio pocket for today’s flight? Just remove the Gear Mod.
8. Custom Embroidery. Make your bag uniquely yours, with custom embroidery from Sporty’s in-house team. We’ll add your initials, N-number, airplane silhouette or whatever else you dream up.
A BAG FOR EVERY PILOT
Four bags make up the Flight Gear HP line, and each of them costs under $100.
Tailwind Backpack – A comfortable and stylish backpack made exclusively for pilots, including a headset hanger, iPad pocket and laptop sleeve.
Captain’s Bag – Our most spacious bag, with two headset pockets, front organizer section and padded iPad sleeve.
iPad Bag – Designed for the active iPad pilot, featuring a headset hanger, padded iPad pocket, and plenty of external organizer pockets.
Crosswind Bag – Perfect for student pilots and weekend flyers, this compact bag offers plenty of organization for under $50.
Shop the entire Flight Gear line here
For more information, check out our video demo below:
3 new features on the Learn to Fly app
/in Pilot Gear/by StudentpltnewsSporty’s Learn to Fly Course app has three awesome new features that student pilots will love and they don’t cost a thing. The free version of the app has access to our Study Buddy test prep and our practice exams for the written test. Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course is designed to supplement the ground school while you train for your private, sport or recreational pilots license. Before you fly with your instructor our segmented videos can help you prepare and retain the knowledge for each lesson. It’s a powerful tool that just got better. Take a look at how the free version of the app is giving students more than ever before.
1. LEARNING MODE IN THE FREE VERSION
Without purchasing the full version of the Learn to Fly app you can utilize Learning Mode. This mode allows you to select specific topics to study and practice those questions until you get them right. Start small and grow your knowledge by mastering individual topics one section at a time.
How To:
STEP 1: When you’re in the app, tap on Written Test Prep
STEP 2: In the main Study Buddy page, tap on Learning Mode.
STEP 3: Select the specific topics you want to cover.
As you answer the questions you can immediately see the correct or incorrect answers.
This is a great way to study the material without being overwhelmed by too many topics or questions. We recommend starting with one topic and after you’ve mastered that subject, add one more until you have the entire group down. By the time you’re looking at the entire subject bank you’ll be a pro.
2. TEST MODE IN THE FREE VERSION
Test mode allows the student to practice a written exam just like the actual test. Being a pilot is all about being prepared for the task at hand. There’s no better way to be prepared for your written exam than taking practice exams that are the same format, look, feel and questions you’ll see in the testing center. You’re able to practice the exams as many times as you want so you feel comfortable with the material. You can access this in the same location on Study Buddy as the Learning Mode.
How To:
STEP 1: Tap on the Test Mode menu in the Study Buddy.
STEP 2: On the next page you’ll find a description of the exam that has the same guidelines as the real exam. We recommend taking these practice exams until you consistently score in the 90% range. If you upgrade to the paid version of the app, you can automatically receive your written test endorsement after two scores of 80% or higher are recorded.
Here’s what the practice test will look like.
3. FOUR NEW INTRO TO FLYING VIDEOS IN THE FREE VERSION
If you’re looking to get started these videos are a great place to begin. Learning to fly is a long process that is unfamiliar to new pilots – that’s where the intro videos come in. You’ll get to watch the basics of how to earn a license, how to choose a flight school and what your first lesson will look like. These fast-paced videos help give you an idea of the adventure that awaits you as you earn your wings.
STUNNING HD VIDEO THROUGHOUT
The Learn to Fly course has rich, high-definition footage and graphics throughout the entire course. We’ve made special effort to keep our course looking good and easier to watch. That means professional quality videos with real airplane footage at beautiful locations. No talking heads or PowerPoint slides.
DOWNLOAD THE LEARN TO FLY COURSE NOW
These useful features are available to you now with the free Learn to Fly app in the App Store. To download the Learn to Fly app on your iPad or iPhone click here. For $199.99, you can unlock the full course, including over 20 hours of HD video, explanations for each question in the Study Buddy, and an automatic written test endorsement. For more information on the Learn to Fly Course click here.