Hosted by Seaplane Pilots Association Executive Director Steven McCaughey, the episode features a behind-the-scenes conversation with:
Patty Wagstaff, course author and on-camera instructor
Bret Koebbe, Sporty’s lead course developer
Filmed over more than a year—from Alaska to Florida—using 15 different seaplanes, the course represents one of the most ambitious seaplane training productions ever attempted. In this candid discussion, Patty, Bret, and Steve share what it took to bring it to life, from instructional philosophy and real-world water operations to the logistics of filming on location.
The project was made possible in large part through the support and expertise of the Seaplane Pilots Association. In recognition of that collaboration, Sporty’s is donating multiple seaplane rating scholarships to the Seaplane Foundation—marking a new level of partnership between Sporty’s, SPA, and the Seaplane Foundation.
Whether you’re planning to earn your seaplane rating or simply enjoy hearing how aviation training is built from the inside out, this episode delivers both insight and inspiration.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/11102817/seaplane-podcast-with-bret-patty.png10001250Eric Radtkehttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngEric Radtke2026-02-13 08:55:272026-02-11 10:29:21Behind the Scenes of Sporty’s New Seaplane Rating Course – On the Water Flying Podcast
The vast majority of airspace below 18,000 feet in the US is classified as either Class E or Class G and does not require communication with ATC to enter when flying in VFR conditions. This video tip explores how you can identify the boundaries of Class E and G airspace on a sectional chart and the operational considerations when flying in each.
This video tip is from the Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course, which includes complete training for Private and Sport Pilots.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06114558/video-tip-class-e-and-g.png10001250Bret Koebbehttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngBret Koebbe2026-02-11 08:55:522026-02-06 11:46:29Video Tip: Flying in Class E and G Airspace
From copying ATC clearances to taxi instructions and non-towered airport procedures, effective communication is a critical part of safe flying—and one of the easiest places for small mistakes to creep in. This quiz will test your knowledge of common communications scenarios, including clearances, transponder usage, traffic advisories, and ground operations. Take a few minutes and see how sharp your comms really are.
As standard operating practice, all inbound traffic to an airport without a control tower should continuously monitor the appropriate facility from a distance of
Correct!Wrong!
An ATC clearance provides
Correct!Wrong!
When making routine transponder code changes, pilots should avoid inadvertent selection of which codes?
Correct!Wrong!
When an air traffic controller issues radar traffic information in relation to the 12-hour clock, the reference the controller uses is the aircraft's
Correct!Wrong!
If instructed by ground control to taxi to Runway 9R, the pilot may proceed
Still have more answers? Take all our other quizzes.
Want to learn more about airplane performance planning? Check out Sporty’s Learn To Fly Course for in-depth training on this subject.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/06102241/quiz-how-solid-are-your-radio-skills.png10001250Flight Training Central Staffhttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngFlight Training Central Staff2026-02-09 08:59:382026-02-11 22:21:35Quiz: How Solid Are Your Radio Skills?
All airports with ATC control towers in the U.S. (and many non-towered airports) use a standard set of pavement markings and elevated signs to call out important parts of an airport runway. In this video, we’ll explore the location and meaning of each in a simulated 3D airport environment so that you’ll be well prepared when operating at a large airport.
This video tip is from the Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course, which includes complete training for Private and Sport Pilots.
Choosing an online ground school is one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make as a student pilot. A quick search will turn up plenty of “best online ground school” lists and AI-generated summaries, but those superficial answers rarely explain what actually matters once flight training begins. Learning styles vary, goals differ, and the right choice depends on more than a few bullet points.
Still, when student pilots search for “the best online ground school,” or “what online training should I choose,” they’re usually asking this question: Which course will prepare me to pass the written test; help me succeed in the airplane during flight training; and allow me to walk into my checkride prepared?
To answer that, it helps to define what “best” actually means.
A good ground school helps you pass the written test. A great one supports your entire training journey from first solo to checkride and beyond. Based on instructor experience and student outcomes, several factors consistently matter most.
1) Instructional Quality
The best courses are developed by experienced CFIs and peer-reviewed.
The best ground schools are:
Developed by experienced CFIs and peer-reviewed
Aligned with FAA publications and the Airman Certification Standards (ACS)
Updated regularly as training standards and technique evolve
2) FAA Knowledge Test Preparation
Effective test prep goes beyond rote memorization:
Practice questions and study sessions reinforce understanding
Written test prep supports flight training and checkride success
The endorsement process is clear and objective
3) Learning Tools Beyond Video
Modern ground schools need more than video lessons.
Modern ground schools need more than video lessons:
Tools that are customizable and identify weak areas
Summaries and support tools for retention
Flexible study options for different learning styles
4) Flight Maneuver Training and Practical Application
Ground school should directly support flying:
Visual, step-by-step maneuver training
Instructor commentary and insights into common errors
Clear links between ground lessons and in-airplane application
5) Checkride and Oral Exam Preparation
The best programs continue well beyond the written test:
Scenario-based training
Delivery that explains concepts, not just gives answers
Training that builds confidence and a plan for continued proficiency
A Closer Look at Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course
Sporty’s has been a trusted name in pilot training for decades, and its Learn to Fly Course is one of the most widely used online ground schools in the world. Designed as a complete training system, the course provides lifetime access and updates at no additional cost.
The current 2026 edition reflects a shift toward more immersive instruction, with expanded flight maneuver training and aviation-specific AI tools that support students throughout their training experience.
How Sporty’s Measures Up to the “Best Ground School” Criteria
Instructor-Led, Real-World Training
Sporty’s course content is developed and maintained by experienced flight instructors, with lessons aligned to FAA publications and the ACS. The emphasis is on understanding why concepts matter, not just memorizing rules and numbers.
FAA Knowledge Test Prep That Builds Understanding
Written test prep is integrated throughout the course, not treated as a standalone. Students earn their FAA knowledge test endorsement by completing structured practice exams that reinforce learning and mimic actual FAA knowledge tests.
Modern Learning Tools Designed for Pilots
One of Sporty’s standout strengths is its aviation-specific AI tools. Unlike generic chatbots, these are built and tested by instructors to support pilot training.
Students can:
Use ChatFAR to ask any FAR-related question and get plain-language explanations
Use ChatDPE to practice interactive Q&A sessions to mirror a real FAA checkride
Use ChatCFI to ask any aviation question and get in-depth answers with helpful links
These tools function like an on-demand virtual instructor.
Flight Maneuver Training
The 2026 course introduces new 4K flight maneuver videos covering key private pilot tasks, including slow flight, stalls, steep turns, and more. Instructor-focused segments break each maneuver down step by step, highlight common mistakes, and explain examiner expectations.
From Written Test to Checkride Confidence
After completing the FAA knowledge test, students can upload their results to receive a custom ACS-based study guide. Missed topics are decoded and linked directly to course content—an especially valuable tool for oral exam prep.
Who Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course Is Best For
Sporty’s tends to work especially well for:
Student pilots who want depth, not shortcuts
Pilots balancing training with busy work, school, or family schedules
Learners who benefit from structured review and modern tools
Is Sporty’s the Best Online Ground School for You?
The “best” online ground school depends on how you learn and what you value most. Some students prioritize speed over traditional instruction, while others want the most comprehensive training possible.
For pilots looking for trusted, instructor-led content; strong FAA knowledge test preparation; modern tools that support real learning; and dedicated checkride prep, Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course sets the bar. It’s available for $299 and includes lifetime access and unlimited updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sporty’s a good online ground school for first-time student pilots?
Yes. The course is designed for students with no prior experience and progresses logically, with strong instructor guidance and simple, visual explanations.
Does Sporty’s include a written test endorsement?
Yes. Students receive their FAA knowledge test endorsement by completing the required video training and practice tests within the course.
Is Sporty’s ground school updated regularly?
Yes. The Learn to Fly Course is updated continually with questions and content, and all updates are included free for existing users.
Can Sporty’s help with oral exam and checkride prep?
Yes. ACS-based review tools, AI features like ChatDPE and ChatCFI, lesson summaries, and plain-language explanations support oral exam and practical test preparation.
Can I access the course on multiple devices?
Yes. The course is available on iPad, iPhone, Android, web, and smart TVs, with progress synced automatically via the Sporty’s Pilot Training app.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/16130800/best-online-ground-school.png10001250Eric Radtkehttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngEric Radtke2026-02-02 08:55:352026-01-20 10:17:14Is Sporty’s the Best Online Ground School for Private Pilots?
Most pilots reach a point where flying becomes second nature. You know the flows, you know the airspace, and you anticipate what’s coming next. The good landings far outnumber the not-so-good. That’s not a bad thing—it’s proficiency. But it’s also when many pilots start looking for something that challenges them to think a little differently. Seaplane flying does exactly that.
Seaplane flying challenges pilots to think a little differently.
Flying on water forces you to slow down, look outside more, and make decisions based on what you see instead of what’s painted on the runway. Wind matters more. Surface conditions matter more. Judgment matters more. The airplane hasn’t changed—but the environment has, and so has the way you fly it.
That’s why so many pilots eventually put a seaplane rating on their “someday” list. Maybe because it feels exotic, but also because it sharpens skills that carry over to every other kind of flying.
Flying Where the Runway Doesn’t Exist
Water is never static. It moves, reflects, deceives, and demands respect. Seaplane pilots don’t just land on it—they read it as part-mariner, part pilot.
That’s part of what makes seaplane training so valuable, even beyond the rating itself. You learn to evaluate conditions visually instead of relying on pavement markings and how to anticipate how wind, surface texture, and obstacles interact. Few maneuvers illustrate this better than glassy water landings.
With no wind and a mirror-smooth surface, depth perception disappears. The water offers no visual cues. What looks calm and inviting can quickly become unforgiving if the approach isn’t disciplined and precise.
In the video above, you’ll see how a proper glassy water landing relies on planning, power, pitch, and patience—holding a precise attitude, managing descent rate, and resisting the urge to flare. It’s one of the clearest examples of how seaplane flying sharpens a pilot’s judgment.
Training That Goes Beyond the Checkride
Filmed on location in Florida, Maine, and Alaska, and hosted by aviation legend, Patty Wagstaff, the new Seaplane Rating Course from Sporty’s shows seaplane flying as it really happens—on moving water, in changing conditions, and in some of the most beautiful flying environments in the world.
The training walks pilots from foundational skills like taxiing, takeoffs, and landings, into more advanced territory:
Glassy and rough water operations
Confined areas and river flying
Flap management and hull speed awareness
Docking, beaching, and securing a seaplane
These aren’t abstract concepts. They’re practical techniques rooted in experience—the kind of knowledge pilots don’t always find in a checklist or POH.
The training walks pilots from foundational skills like taxiing, takeoffs, and landings, into more advanced territory.
Learning from Experience—And Enjoying the View
One of the unique aspects of the course is its 360°/VR Adventure Flying module. These aren’t lessons or tests. They’re immersive flights designed to let pilots simply experience seaplane flying.
From classic floatplanes in Alaska to unique aircraft in unforgettable settings, the adventure chapters offer a front-row seat to real-world seaplane operations and a behind-the-scenes look at how the course was created. It’s also provides an opportunity to relax, observe, and absorb.
It’s the kind of content that reminds you why you started flying in the first place.
The Course includes immersive flights designed to let pilots simply experience seaplane flying.
An Aspiration Worth Chasing
Not every pilot will earn a seaplane rating. But many will find themselves drawn to it—by the challenge, the scenery, and the chance to fly in a way that feels both demanding and deeply rewarding.
If you’ve ever looked at a quiet lake and imagined what it would be like to lift off from its surface, this kind of training isn’t just educational—it’s an invitation.
Learn More
The Seaplane Rating Course is available for $99 at Sportys.com and includes lifetime access and updates. The content is available on all of your devices via the Sporty’s Pilot Training app.
https://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/16110651/Why-Seaplane-Flying-Belongs-on-Every-Pilots-Bucket-List.png10001250Eric Radtkehttps://media.flighttrainingcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17092615/FTC_Redesign_2025_WhiteRed_WEB.pngEric Radtke2026-01-30 08:55:432026-01-16 11:17:14Why Seaplane Flying Belongs on Every Pilot’s Bucket List
Behind the Scenes of Sporty’s New Seaplane Rating Course – On the Water Flying Podcast
/in News/by Eric RadtkeIf you’re curious how Sporty’s new Seaplane Rating Course came together, the latest episode of the Water Flying Aviation Podcast is worth your time.
Hosted by Seaplane Pilots Association Executive Director Steven McCaughey, the episode features a behind-the-scenes conversation with:
Patty Wagstaff, course author and on-camera instructor
Bret Koebbe, Sporty’s lead course developer
Filmed over more than a year—from Alaska to Florida—using 15 different seaplanes, the course represents one of the most ambitious seaplane training productions ever attempted. In this candid discussion, Patty, Bret, and Steve share what it took to bring it to life, from instructional philosophy and real-world water operations to the logistics of filming on location.
The project was made possible in large part through the support and expertise of the Seaplane Pilots Association. In recognition of that collaboration, Sporty’s is donating multiple seaplane rating scholarships to the Seaplane Foundation—marking a new level of partnership between Sporty’s, SPA, and the Seaplane Foundation.
Whether you’re planning to earn your seaplane rating or simply enjoy hearing how aviation training is built from the inside out, this episode delivers both insight and inspiration.
Video Tip: Flying in Class E and G Airspace
/in Video Tips/by Bret KoebbeThe vast majority of airspace below 18,000 feet in the US is classified as either Class E or Class G and does not require communication with ATC to enter when flying in VFR conditions. This video tip explores how you can identify the boundaries of Class E and G airspace on a sectional chart and the operational considerations when flying in each.
This video tip is from the Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course, which includes complete training for Private and Sport Pilots.
Quiz: How Solid Are Your Radio Skills?
/in Quiz/by Flight Training Central StaffFrom copying ATC clearances to taxi instructions and non-towered airport procedures, effective communication is a critical part of safe flying—and one of the easiest places for small mistakes to creep in. This quiz will test your knowledge of common communications scenarios, including clearances, transponder usage, traffic advisories, and ground operations. Take a few minutes and see how sharp your comms really are.
Share the quiz to show your results !
Facebook
Facebook
Share your results :
Facebook
Facebook
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Still have more answers? Take all our other quizzes.
Want to learn more about airplane performance planning? Check out Sporty’s Learn To Fly Course for in-depth training on this subject.
Video tip: Airport runway signs and markings
/in Video Tips/by Bret KoebbeAll airports with ATC control towers in the U.S. (and many non-towered airports) use a standard set of pavement markings and elevated signs to call out important parts of an airport runway. In this video, we’ll explore the location and meaning of each in a simulated 3D airport environment so that you’ll be well prepared when operating at a large airport.
This video tip is from the Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course, which includes complete training for Private and Sport Pilots.
Is Sporty’s the Best Online Ground School for Private Pilots?
/in Getting Started/by Eric RadtkeThe best course goes beyond written test prep.
Choosing an online ground school is one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make as a student pilot. A quick search will turn up plenty of “best online ground school” lists and AI-generated summaries, but those superficial answers rarely explain what actually matters once flight training begins. Learning styles vary, goals differ, and the right choice depends on more than a few bullet points.
Still, when student pilots search for “the best online ground school,” or “what online training should I choose,” they’re usually asking this question: Which course will prepare me to pass the written test; help me succeed in the airplane during flight training; and allow me to walk into my checkride prepared?
To answer that, it helps to define what “best” actually means.
In This Article:
What Makes an Online Ground School “The Best”?
A Closer Look at Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course
How Sporty’s Measures Up to the “Best Ground School” Criteria
Flight Maneuver Training
From Written Test to Checkride Confidence
Who Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course Is Best For
Is Sporty’s the Best Online Ground School for You?
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Survey
What Makes an Online Ground School “The Best”?
A good ground school helps you pass the written test. A great one supports your entire training journey from first solo to checkride and beyond. Based on instructor experience and student outcomes, several factors consistently matter most.
1) Instructional Quality
The best courses are developed by experienced CFIs and peer-reviewed.
The best ground schools are:
2) FAA Knowledge Test Preparation
Effective test prep goes beyond rote memorization:
3) Learning Tools Beyond Video
Modern ground schools need more than video lessons.
Modern ground schools need more than video lessons:
4) Flight Maneuver Training and Practical Application
Ground school should directly support flying:
5) Checkride and Oral Exam Preparation
The best programs continue well beyond the written test:
A Closer Look at Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course
Sporty’s has been a trusted name in pilot training for decades, and its Learn to Fly Course is one of the most widely used online ground schools in the world. Designed as a complete training system, the course provides lifetime access and updates at no additional cost.
The current 2026 edition reflects a shift toward more immersive instruction, with expanded flight maneuver training and aviation-specific AI tools that support students throughout their training experience.
How Sporty’s Measures Up to the “Best Ground School” Criteria
Instructor-Led, Real-World Training
Sporty’s course content is developed and maintained by experienced flight instructors, with lessons aligned to FAA publications and the ACS. The emphasis is on understanding why concepts matter, not just memorizing rules and numbers.
FAA Knowledge Test Prep That Builds Understanding
Written test prep is integrated throughout the course, not treated as a standalone. Students earn their FAA knowledge test endorsement by completing structured practice exams that reinforce learning and mimic actual FAA knowledge tests.
Modern Learning Tools Designed for Pilots
One of Sporty’s standout strengths is its aviation-specific AI tools. Unlike generic chatbots, these are built and tested by instructors to support pilot training.
Students can:
These tools function like an on-demand virtual instructor.
Flight Maneuver Training
The 2026 course introduces new 4K flight maneuver videos covering key private pilot tasks, including slow flight, stalls, steep turns, and more. Instructor-focused segments break each maneuver down step by step, highlight common mistakes, and explain examiner expectations.
From Written Test to Checkride Confidence
After completing the FAA knowledge test, students can upload their results to receive a custom ACS-based study guide. Missed topics are decoded and linked directly to course content—an especially valuable tool for oral exam prep.
Who Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course Is Best For
Sporty’s tends to work especially well for:
Is Sporty’s the Best Online Ground School for You?
The “best” online ground school depends on how you learn and what you value most. Some students prioritize speed over traditional instruction, while others want the most comprehensive training possible.
For pilots looking for trusted, instructor-led content; strong FAA knowledge test preparation; modern tools that support real learning; and dedicated checkride prep, Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course sets the bar. It’s available for $299 and includes lifetime access and unlimited updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sporty’s a good online ground school for first-time student pilots?
Yes. The course is designed for students with no prior experience and progresses logically, with strong instructor guidance and simple, visual explanations.
Does Sporty’s include a written test endorsement?
Yes. Students receive their FAA knowledge test endorsement by completing the required video training and practice tests within the course.
Is Sporty’s ground school updated regularly?
Yes. The Learn to Fly Course is updated continually with questions and content, and all updates are included free for existing users.
Can Sporty’s help with oral exam and checkride prep?
Yes. ACS-based review tools, AI features like ChatDPE and ChatCFI, lesson summaries, and plain-language explanations support oral exam and practical test preparation.
Can I access the course on multiple devices?
Yes. The course is available on iPad, iPhone, Android, web, and smart TVs, with progress synced automatically via the Sporty’s Pilot Training app.
Why Seaplane Flying Belongs on Every Pilot’s Bucket List
/in Having fun, News/by Eric RadtkeMost pilots reach a point where flying becomes second nature. You know the flows, you know the airspace, and you anticipate what’s coming next. The good landings far outnumber the not-so-good. That’s not a bad thing—it’s proficiency. But it’s also when many pilots start looking for something that challenges them to think a little differently. Seaplane flying does exactly that.
Seaplane flying challenges pilots to think a little differently.
Flying on water forces you to slow down, look outside more, and make decisions based on what you see instead of what’s painted on the runway. Wind matters more. Surface conditions matter more. Judgment matters more. The airplane hasn’t changed—but the environment has, and so has the way you fly it.
That’s why so many pilots eventually put a seaplane rating on their “someday” list. Maybe because it feels exotic, but also because it sharpens skills that carry over to every other kind of flying.
Flying Where the Runway Doesn’t Exist
Water is never static. It moves, reflects, deceives, and demands respect. Seaplane pilots don’t just land on it—they read it as part-mariner, part pilot.
That’s part of what makes seaplane training so valuable, even beyond the rating itself. You learn to evaluate conditions visually instead of relying on pavement markings and how to anticipate how wind, surface texture, and obstacles interact. Few maneuvers illustrate this better than glassy water landings.
With no wind and a mirror-smooth surface, depth perception disappears. The water offers no visual cues. What looks calm and inviting can quickly become unforgiving if the approach isn’t disciplined and precise.
In the video above, you’ll see how a proper glassy water landing relies on planning, power, pitch, and patience—holding a precise attitude, managing descent rate, and resisting the urge to flare. It’s one of the clearest examples of how seaplane flying sharpens a pilot’s judgment.
Training That Goes Beyond the Checkride
Filmed on location in Florida, Maine, and Alaska, and hosted by aviation legend, Patty Wagstaff, the new Seaplane Rating Course from Sporty’s shows seaplane flying as it really happens—on moving water, in changing conditions, and in some of the most beautiful flying environments in the world.
The training walks pilots from foundational skills like taxiing, takeoffs, and landings, into more advanced territory:
These aren’t abstract concepts. They’re practical techniques rooted in experience—the kind of knowledge pilots don’t always find in a checklist or POH.
The training walks pilots from foundational skills like taxiing, takeoffs, and landings, into more advanced territory.
Learning from Experience—And Enjoying the View
One of the unique aspects of the course is its 360°/VR Adventure Flying module. These aren’t lessons or tests. They’re immersive flights designed to let pilots simply experience seaplane flying.
From classic floatplanes in Alaska to unique aircraft in unforgettable settings, the adventure chapters offer a front-row seat to real-world seaplane operations and a behind-the-scenes look at how the course was created. It’s also provides an opportunity to relax, observe, and absorb.
It’s the kind of content that reminds you why you started flying in the first place.
The Course includes immersive flights designed to let pilots simply experience seaplane flying.
An Aspiration Worth Chasing
Not every pilot will earn a seaplane rating. But many will find themselves drawn to it—by the challenge, the scenery, and the chance to fly in a way that feels both demanding and deeply rewarding.
If you’ve ever looked at a quiet lake and imagined what it would be like to lift off from its surface, this kind of training isn’t just educational—it’s an invitation.
Learn More
The Seaplane Rating Course is available for $99 at Sportys.com and includes lifetime access and updates. The content is available on all of your devices via the Sporty’s Pilot Training app.