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Video tip: how to fly with the Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot

December 26, 2024/in Video Tips/by Bret Koebbe

This week’s tip takes a look at the basic features of Garmin’s popular GFC 500 autopilot, including how to turn it on and use airspeed, vertical speed, altitude and heading modes.

Lazy Eights—Sporty’s Flight Maneuver Spotlight

December 23, 2024/in Flight Maneuvers/by Flight Training Central Staff

The Lazy Eight maneuver is part of Sporty’s 2025 Commercial Pilot Training 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

Video tip: how to fly with the Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot

December 26, 2024/in Video Tips/by Bret Koebbe

This week’s tip takes a look at the basic features of Garmin’s popular GFC 500 autopilot, including how to turn it on and use airspeed, vertical speed, altitude and heading modes.

Lazy Eights—Sporty’s Flight Maneuver Spotlight

December 23, 2024/in Flight Maneuvers/by Flight Training Central Staff

Many training airplanes also include an autopilot in the panel, but it’s not something you’ll use much during primary training. After the checkride, though, there’s a real benefit in learning how to incorporate the autopilot into your flying. It’ll reduce fatigue on longer trips, and you’ll find it’s an integral part of instrument training should you decide to expand your skills and add an instrument rating.

This week’s tip looks at the basic features of Garmin’s popular GFC 500 autopilot, including how to turn it on and use airspeed, vertical speed, altitude and heading modes.

The video clip below is from Sporty’s 2025 Instrument Rating Course

Sporty’s Flight Maneuver Spotlight series highlights the various maneuvers you’ll practice during your flight training experience and be expected to demonstrate on your checkride.