Who can act as a safety pilot for hooded instrument practice? Here are the certificate, dual control and vision requirements, plus how to brief and log the flight.
Safety Pilot Requirements for Simulated Instrument Flight Read More »
VFR cruising altitudes follow a simple odd/even plus 500 rule based on magnetic course. Here is how it works and how to pick the right altitude.
VFR Cruising Altitudes Explained: Odd, Even and the Plus 500 Rule Read More »
The tailwheel endorsement has no minimum hours, just proficiency training and a one-time logbook sign-off. Here is what to expect and how to prepare.
Tailwheel Endorsement Requirements: What Every Pilot Should Know Read More »
Landing doesn’t close a VFR flight plan. Here is how I close mine by phone, radio or app, and the mistakes that leave plans open.
How to Close a VFR Flight Plan (and Why You Can’t Forget) Read More »
Your first solo is closer than you think. Here is how to prepare on the ground, set your own limits, and fly a calm, stable pattern on the big day.
First Solo Flight Tips for Student Pilots: What I Wish I Knew Read More »
What to tell passengers before a flight in a small airplane: the 14 CFR 91.107 minimum, a simple ramp checklist, and how to agree on a way to say stop.
Passenger Briefing for a Small Airplane: What to Say Before You Fly Read More »
Set your go-around decision point before you turn final. Here are the approach gates I brief, why pilots wait too long, and how to fly the go-around cleanly.
Go-Around Decision Point: When to Abandon the Landing Read More »
Nervous about your first flight following call? Here is how to request VFR flight following, what to say, and what to expect once ATC is watching.
How to Request Flight Following: A First-Timer’s Guide for VFR Pilots Read More »
The flight review ground portion is easier when you prepare. Here are the topics, documents, and habits that make your BFR go smoothly.
Flight Review Ground Portion Topics: What to Study Before Your BFR Read More »
A practical guide to writing personal minimums for VFR flying: set honest limits, scale them to risk, and stick to them.
Personal Minimums for VFR Pilots: How to Write Yours Read More »
