Video tip: how do VORs work?
In the age of GPS and iPad it can be tempting to look past the traditional forms of ground-based radio navigation like VOR in favor of direct-to navigation and moving map displays. It's important you still take the time to understand how to use these systems since VORs serve an important role in the national airspace system and can provide a reliable source of backup navigation.
Video tip: Flying airplanes with retractable landing gear
Many high-performance airplanes feature retractable landing gear that allows them to fly at higher speeds thanks to the reduced drag (and they look cool too). There are new operational considerations to learn when transitioning to this type of airplane, including the best time to raise the gear after takeoff and lower the gear before landing.
Video tip: Flying internationally (FARs, flight planning, eAPIS and US Customs)
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One of the most rewarding trips you can take after earning your pilot certificate is leaving the U.S. and heading to new destinations in Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean. This week's video tip takes a look at what it takes to fly internationally, including flight planning, extra equipment requirements and how to file the required paperwork with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Video tip: How to use a sectional plotter to plan a cross-country flight
As you enter the cross-country planning phase of your private pilot training, you'll learn the skills required to plan long-distance trips using a VFR sectional, plotter, E6B flight computer and Navlog. This week's tip takes a look at the first phase of this planning process and shows how to use a plotter and sectional to measure the trip distance and determine the exact direction you'll need to fly.
Video tip: How to takeoff and land from a short runway
An advanced skill you’ll learn during flight training is how to achieve the maximum performance from the airplane by operating from shorter runways.
Video tip: engine detonation and pre-ignition
What happens when the spark plugs in your engine aren't working properly? Some pretty bad stuff. In our latest video tip, we explain what detonation and pre-ignition are all about, how they happen, and what you can do to prevent them from happening.
Video tip: what kind of cloud is that?
Clouds are often referred to as "sign posts in the sky", and for good reason since they are one of the best visual indicators of what mother nature has planned for the weather. This week's tip takes a look at the various types of clouds, when and where they form and what kind of flying conditions pilots can expect when flying in and around them.
Video tip: Airport runway signs and markings
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.
Short Field Takeoff—Sporty’s Flight Maneuver Spotlight
Each maneuver is part of Sporty's 2025 Learn to Fly Course and includes a narrated video animation, along with step-by-step instructions that include performance standards and common errors. Study them while on the ground or print them for quick reference in the airplane.
Video Tip of the Week: Class B airspace
Class B airspace surrounds the busiest airports, which means there are some important restrictions to remember any time you're operating within it - or underneath it. In this week's video tip, we review how Class B airspace works, what you need to do to fly legally in it and how to stay safe. Take a few minutes and get current today.