With testing standards transitioning from Practical Test Standards (PTS) to Airman Certification Standards (ACS), as of January 13th, 2020, knowledge test reports have begun listing missed questions as ACS codes. Why the change? The old PLT codes used were derived from references, which meant any given topic could have a number of different codes depending...Read More
On December 31, 2019, the FAA published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to establish a remote identification system for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) flights. Remote identification can help to safely integrate UAS into the national airspace system (NAS). The rules would apply to nearly all drones weighing more than 0.55 lbs, including UAS flown...Read More
Landing an aircraft smoothly without waking the passenger in the back seat is one of the greatest feelings as a pilot. In addition to executing complex maneuvers in the air, consistently landing an airplane smoothly is something that never fails to impress our skyfaring peers. But to get to that point with our landings, it...Read More
The FAA’s WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program is a great way for pilots to stay current and legally able to fly, but even better than that, it helps pilots stay proficient. Unfortunately, many pilots are not aware the program exists or don’t know how to use it. So, let’s take a look at the WINGS program...Read More
As the E-6B flight computer turns 80 years old in 2020, we pay our respects to the device that has helped millions of pilots plan their flights for eight decades. With the advent of electronic flight bags, modern navigation equipment, and portable electronic devices, the E-6B flight computer is often regarded as an old-fashioned tool...Read More
On November 1, 2019, the FAA issued AC 43.9-1G, “Instructions for Completion of FAA Form 337.” This advisory cancels the existing AC 43.9-1F originally issued on January 25, 2007. In addition to new formatting, the most significant change is to the paragraph titled “Purpose of FAA Form 337.” Historically, the purpose of Form 337 has...Read More
As aviators, we are required to interpret numerous charts for planning purposes. One item that is frequently misunderstood is how to determine the crosswind component. This blog explains how to determine the headwind and crosswind component for a given set of conditions by using the wind component chart. When an aircraft is certified, a pilot...Read More
The holidays are approaching, days are getting shorter, and the cold weather is settling in. What to do when the AIRMETs for IFR, ice and other inclement weather keep us grounded? How about brushing up on your aviation knowledge? Start simple by looking at your local sectional chart. Before a giant tethered balloon causes you...Read More
We are recirculating our money-saving tips for you just in time for the holidays and Black Friday. The holiday shopping season is here again and everyone is trying to save money! Black Friday deals have already rolled out at many stores, and Cyber Monday is right around the corner. While everyone is getting swept up...Read More
Two very important, yet often overlooked, aspects of flight training are the pre- and post-flight briefings. These briefings are frequently rushed (or skipped entirely!) because many do not realize the immense benefit they can offer. Between their anxiousness to get in the air and the sheer amount of they have yet to learn, new students...Read More