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# Learn To Fly

Where pilots and future pilots explore flight and flight training. From Aviation Supplies & Academics.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://learntoflyblog.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [CFI Brief: Airport Markings, Figure 65](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-airport-markings-figure-65/) - Today I would like to discuss a specific figure in the Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement for Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Private Pilot (FAA-CT-8080-2F). If you are unfamiliar with this testing supplement it is a book of legends and figures of which some questions on the knowledge exam will refer to. You should become familiar with
- [Human Factors: Night Vision Adaptation](https://learntoflyblog.com/human-factors-night-vision-adaptation/) - Flying at night? Several things can be done to help with the dark adaptation process and to keep a pilot's eyes adapted to darkness. Some of the steps pilots and flight crews can take to protect their night vision are described in this excerpt from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25). SunglassesIf a night
- [Human Factors: Vision, Scanning, and Judgement](https://learntoflyblog.com/human-factors-vision-scanning-and-judgement/) - Eyes provide the brain with a visual image of the environment. Each eye acts as a natural and very sophisticated digital camera. Its basic function is to collect light rays reflected from an object, using the lens to focus these rays into an image on a screen (the retina), and then converting this image into
- [Navigation: VOR](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-vor/) - We've had a few posts about the Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (VOR). Take a look at our introduction and at our CFI's posts on VOR service volumes and a couple questions that might show up on your exam. Today, we'll illustrate tracking to and from a VOR station. This post is excerpted from the
- [Navigation: VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR)](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-vhf-omnidirectional-range-vor/) - We're devoting this week's posts to the VOR, a radio navigation system used worldwide by private and commercial pilots. This introduction comes from The Student Pilot's Flight Manual, by William Kershner. The most useful of the enroute radio navigation aids, other than GPS, is the VHF omnirange, or VOR as it is sometimes called. The VOR frequency
- [Enroute Flight: Topography](https://learntoflyblog.com/enroute-flight-topography/) - A VFR Sectional Aeronautical Chart is a pictorial representation of a portion of the Earth's surface upon which lines and symbols in a variety of colors represent features and/or details that can be seen on the Earth's surface. Contour lines, shaded relief, color tints, obstruction symbols, and maximum elevation figures are all used to show
- [Human Factors: The Blind Spot](https://learntoflyblog.com/human-factors-the-blind-spot/) - Of all the senses, vision is the most important for safe flight. Most of the things perceived while flying are visual or heavily supplemented by vision. As remarkable and vital as it is, vision is subject to limitations, such as illusions and blind spots. The more a pilot understands about the eyes and how they
- [Navigation: Basic Radio Principles](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-basic-radio-principles/) - A radio wave is an electromagnetic (EM) wave with frequency characteristics that make it useful. The wave travels long distances through space (in or out of the atmosphere) without losing too much strength. An antenna is used to convert electric current into a radio wave so it can travel through space to the receiving antenna,
- [CFI Brief: What a Drag!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-what-a-drag/) - Drag as it relates to aerodynamics in aviation is just one of those things that must be dealt with and overcome – literally overcome. When we talk about drag in aviation it is usually discussed in relation to one of the four forces: lift, weight, thrust, and drag. It is the force that acts opposite
- [CFI Brief: Angle of Attack as it relates to the Lift Coefficient](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-angle-of-attack-as-it-relates-to-the-lift-coefficient/) - Monday’s post contained an excerpt from the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge discussing newly outlined content in regards to Angle of Attack indicators. What I hope you were able to gain from reading the earlier post was the correlation between Angle of Attack and a stall. The Dictionary of Aeronautical Terms defines angle of attack
- [CFI Brief: Runway Designation](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-runway-designation/) - “N123AS cleared to land runway one zero right”. Have you ever wondered how a runway gets its number and letter designation, like 10R (One Zero Right)? The answer is actually simple and serves as a safety feature for departing and landing traffic. The runway number is the whole number nearest one-tenth the magnetic azimuth of
- [CFI Brief: Magnetic Compass](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-magnetic-compass/) - However controversial, it is said that the magnetic compass first originated in China during the Qin Dynasty sometime between 212 and 206 B.C. as a Chinese fortune telling device. It wasn’t until the 13th Century that the magnetic compass began to be widely used as a directive aid during maritime and terrestrial navigation. But don’t
- [CFI Brief: Magnetic Compass](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-magnetic-compass-2/) - The magnetic compass is the most basic of all instruments you will find installed in your aircraft and is required under both Visual and Instrument Flight Rules (VFR and IFR). The function and purpose of a magnetic compass installed in an aircraft is no different then one you might use on a weekend hike with
- [CFI Brief: Newton](https://learntoflyblog.com/ground-school-newton/) - It’s been a few days since I last posted; I believe we left off discussing Bernoulli’s principal as it relates to lift. Today, I want to discuss another important mathematician/physicist from around the same time, Sir Isaac Newton. Sir Newton came up with what is known today as Newton’s Three Laws of Motion. The law
- [CFI Brief: Torque](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-torque/) - Today’s discussion is on torque. An airplane of standard configuration has an insistent tendency to turn to the left. This tendency is called torque, and is a combination of four forces: reactive force, spiraling slipstream, gyroscopic precession, and P-factor. Reactive force is based on Newton’s Law of action and reaction. A propeller rotating in a
- [CFI Brief: What is Aeronautical Decision Making?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-what-is-aeronautical-decision-making/) - Aeronautical decision making (ADM) is a systematic approach to the mental process used by aircraft pilots to consistently determine the best course of action in response to a given set of circumstances. ADM is vital process allowing pilots to safely and efficiently manage risk. Although there is no way to eliminate the associated risks and
- [CFI Brief: Hazardous Attitudes](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-hazardous-attitudes/) - Am I fit to fly? I like to think of myself as pretty fit, I hit the gym 3 or 4 times a week, eat healthy (most of the time), I even ran the Runway 5K this year at AirVenture in Oshkosh and absolutely crushed it! Ok, maybe I didn’t crush it but I did
- [Encouragement to fly, even after 49 or 50 years old](https://learntoflyblog.com/encouragement-to-fly-even-after-49-or-50-years-old/) - by Greg Brown, Learn to fly at any age with minimal prerequisites… Jeanne Peterson did so after 49 years old. Jeanne is a reader of my Flying Carpet column in Flight Training magazine. She boldly wondered what age was the ceiling that one could go about learning to fly. I explained anyone can, but that
- [FAR/AIM Explained: Understanding Aviation Regulations and Choosing the Right FAR Reference](https://learntoflyblog.com/far-aim-explained-understanding-aviation-regulations-and-choosing-the-right-far-reference/) - Whether you're a student pilot preparing for your first FAA knowledge test, an airline pilot reviewing operational requirements, or an aviation mechanic researching maintenance regulations, one thing is certain: knowing where to find the right information matters. The Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) and FAA guidance publications provide the foundation for safe aviation operations in the
- [Aircraft Performance: Runway Surface and Gradient](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-runway-surface-and-gradient-2/) - Today's post comes from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25), which is now available as an eBook. Runway conditions affect takeoff and landing performance. Typically, performance chart information assumes paved, level, smooth, and dry runway surfaces. Since no two runways are alike, the runway surface differs from one runway to another, as does the
- [CFI Brief: A/FD Legend and Test Questions](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-afd-legend-and-test-questions/) - That little green book I’m sure you’ve seen lying around the FBO or on the briefing room table in the flight school actually packs a punch. As you learned in Monday's post, it contains a wealth of crucial information that every pilot requires for pre-flight planning purposes. Just to recap a few key points regarding the
- [CFI Brief: Speed Limits](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-speed-limits/) - I don’t know why I am even going to tempt Murphy’s Law, but I haven’t had a speeding ticket in many years. Of course now that I put it out there I can probably expect to get one on the way home this evening. The reason I even mention it (which I’m already regretting) is
- [CFI Brief: Checking the accuracy of your VOR](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-checking-the-accuracy-of-your-vor/) - 14 CFR 91.171, "VOR Equipment check for IFR Operations"—a friendly reminder on this week’s Learn to Fly Blog to check the accuracy of your VOR equipment per §91.171! Sometimes in the excitement of getting wheels up and on to your destination a VOR accuracy check can often be overlooked. Even if you plan on operating on
- [CFI Brief: Density Altitude](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-density-altitude/) - Monday’s post introduced us into the subject of aircraft performance, focusing on how the environment we fly in, specifically the atmosphere and altitude, can affect the overall performance of the aircraft. Two very important altitudes were discussed; Pressure Altitude and Density Altitude both of which are significant when determining aircraft performance. Be particularly aware when
- [Navigation: Vector Analysis](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-vector-analysis/) - Today, we'll put together a few things we've learned on the Learn To Fly Blog to introduce a skill every beginning student should develop: thinking in terms of a wind triangle. Check out last week's posts on magnetic variation and using your E6B Flight Computer to determine magnetic heading, as well as early posts on navigation.
- [Navigation: The Effect of Wind](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-the-effect-of-wind/) - As you know by now, wind is a mass of air moving over the surface of the Earth in a definite direction. When the wind is blowing from the north at 25 knots, it simply means that air is moving southward at a rate of 25 NM in one hour. Under these conditions, any inert
- [CFI Brief: Enroute questions using the E6-B Flight Computer](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-enroute-questions-using-the-e6b-flight-computer/) - This week we are going to look at a few questions as they relate to enroute flight, specifically questions that require the use of an E6-B. Enroute flight is a popular topic on the FAA knowledge exam and these questions may be very similar to the ones you encounter on your knowledge test. The first
- [CFI Brief: Flight Controls of a typical Commercial Airliner](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-flight-controls-of-a-typical-commercial-airliner/) - This week on the Learn to Fly Blog the theme has been aerodynamics, and rather than stick to Private Pilot level aeronautical information we’ve hit you with some "graduate level" knowledge. Today, I thought it would be interesting to take a look at the primary flight controls of a typical commercial airliner. Looking at the image
- [CFI Brief: Carb Heat](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-carb-heat/) - Let’s recap some of the important information we learned from Monday's post on carburetor ice. As air flows through a carburetor, it expands rapidly. At the same time, fuel entering the airstream is vaporized. Expansion of the air and vaporization of the fuel causes a sudden cooling of the mixture which may cause ice to
- [CFI Brief: Basic Planning Calculations](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-basic-planning-calculations/) - It is a pilot’s responsibility prior to every flight to calculate time, speed, distance, and fuel required for that particular flight. As a pilot, you will have access to onboard systems, and tools like the CX-2 Flight Computer or E6-B that can assist in these types of calculations (check out our video tutorials on how
- [CFI Brief: Winds and Temperatures Aloft Forecast](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-winds-and-temperatures-aloft-forecast/) - Just the other day I was on a commercial airline flight on my way home from vacation. Prior to departure, the captain came on the overhead to advise the passengers that we would be arriving about 15 minutes late due to headwinds along the route. Like the captain did, it is an important part of
- [FAA Moves Forward with Mobile Clearance](https://learntoflyblog.com/faa-moves-forward-with-mobile-clearance/) - At EAA AirVenture Oshkosh on Thursday, July 23, 2026, the FAA announced that it is moving forward with Mobile Clearance, a digital system that will allow general and business aviation pilots to request IFR departure clearances through participating electronic flight bag and flight-planning applications. For many general aviation pilots, obtaining an IFR clearance still requires
- [What to Do at EAA AirVenture](https://learntoflyblog.com/what-to-do-at-eaa-airventure/) - This week the ASA team is off to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to attend EAA AirVenture 2026. If you are planning to make it this year, be sure to visit us at Booth 71 in Aviation Gateway Park (rather than our previous Hanger B location). Look for our new blue exhibit trailer sporting the ASA logo. You’ll find the ASA crew and a display of new and updated ASA books, products, and pilot supplies. Come by
- [How to Use an E6-B Flight Computer: Part 1, the Circular Slide Rule](https://learntoflyblog.com/how-to-use-an-e6-b-flight-computer-part-1-the-circular-slide-rule/) - How to Use an E6-B Flight Computer: Part 1, The Circular Slide Rule. Student Pilots use and E6-B to perform aviation calculations for real world application.
- [How to Use an E6-B Flight Computer: Part 2, Wind Correction](https://learntoflyblog.com/how-to-use-an-e6-b-flight-computer-part-2-wind-correction/) - Let's continue our examination of the E6-B flight computer. As a reminder, an E6-B has two main parts: (1) a circular slide rule side for quick calculations; and (2) a wind side for computing groundspeed and wind correction angle. A previous post discussed the circular slide rule side, and this one will be focused on
- [Avoid a Red Card in the Sky: Check for TFRs](https://learntoflyblog.com/avoid-a-red-card-in-the-sky-check-for-tfrs/) - It’s a clear Saturday in July. You and your instructor have the airplane fueled, the weather looks good, and the plan is simple: a short cross-country, a fuel stop, maybe lunch, and back before the afternoon storms start building. It’s a route you know well. During the final preflight check, your instructor asks, “Did you
- [FAA’s NOTAM System Upgraded After Decades](https://learntoflyblog.com/faas-notam-system-upgraded-after-decades/) - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is rolling out a new NOTAM system called the NOTAM Management Service (NMS). Most of the changes are happening behind the scenes, but the system still matters any time you check NOTAMs before a flight. The FAA isn’t changing what NOTAMs are, just the system that delivers them. You’re still
- [DETER: FAA Drone Enforcement Is Tightening](https://learntoflyblog.com/faa-drone-enforcement-is-tightening/) - If you currently fly a drone—whether recreationally or under Part 107—it’s worth taking a look at how FAA drone enforcement is changing. For a long time, the FAA leaned heavily on its compliance program for unmanned aircraft systems (UASs). If something went wrong and wasn’t intentional or dangerous, the focus was usually on education to
- [Launch Your Career: Join an Aviation Organization](https://learntoflyblog.com/launch-your-career-join-an-aviation-organization/) - By Bonnie Martin, PhD Whether you’re just starting your flight training or already soaring high, connecting with aviation organizations can open doors to valuable resources, mentorship, and career opportunities. From pilot associations and veteran groups to maintenance, business, and diversity-focused organizations, there’s a network waiting for you. Check out these trusted groups to expand your
- [Aviation Job Application Tips: The  Value of First Impressions](https://learntoflyblog.com/aviation-job-application-tips-the-value-of-first-impressions/) - By Bonnie Martin Your application is often your first impression, and in aviation, attention to detail and professionalism are everything. From the way you format your documents to the accuracy of your information, how you present yourself reflects directly on your judgment and reliability. Treat your application with the same care and precision you would
- [Overcoming Spatial Disorientation](https://learntoflyblog.com/overcoming-spatial-disorientation/) - Spatial disorientation (SD) remains one of aviation’s most persistent human factors and, according to the FAA, plays a role in approximately 80% of aviation accidents. It can affect any pilot, regardless of experience. The FAA’s recent InFO 26003 emphasizes the importance of comprehensive SD training for pilots under Parts 91, 91K, and 135, encouraging operators
- [Anti-Icing vs Deicing: What Every Student Pilot Needs to Know](https://learntoflyblog.com/anti-icing-vs-deicing-what-every-student-pilot-needs-to-know/) - If you’re early in your flight training, icing might feel like a “future problem” reserved for instrument pilots and turbine aircraft. In reality, understanding anti-icing and deicing equipment is essential for every pilot—including student pilots flying basic training airplanes. Icing affects performance, control, and safety, and knowing how your aircraft handles ice is part of
- [CFI Brief: Pressure Altitude Conversions](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-pressure-altitude-conversions/) - Pressure altitude is the height above the standard datum plane (SDP). The aircraft altimeter is essentially a sensitive barometer calibrated to indicate altitude in the standard atmosphere. If the altimeter is set for 29.92 "Hg SDP, the altitude indicated is the pressure altitude—the altitude in the standard atmosphere corresponding to the sensed pressure. The SDP
- [CFI Brief: The ASA CX-3 Flight Computer—Coming REAL soon!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-the-asa-cx-3-flight-computer-coming-real-soon/) - You have been asking us for an aviation flight computer with a backlit display, and trust us we've been listening. But we thought, if we are going to design a flight computer with a backlit display, why stop there? Wouldn't it be cool if we had a backlit keypad as well? It sure would, so
- [CFI Brief: CX-3 Flight Computer - Indicated Airspeed](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-cx-3-flight-computer-indicated-airspeed/) - Some questions on the FAA Knowledge Exam will require you to determine approximate indicated airspeed. These types of problems are best solved with the use of a CX-3 Flight Computer. Today, we will work through a sample knowledge test question requiring us to run several different calculations on the CX-3 to determine indicated airspeed from
- [IFR: Attitude Flying and Applied Instrument Flying](https://learntoflyblog.com/ifr-attitude-flying-and-applied-instrument-flying/) - This week we're back on the topic of IFR flight. If you've missed our previous posts touching on IFR, check out these posts: Regulations: “Minimum” IFR Training IFR: Flight at Mid-Level Altitudes CFI Brief: An Introduction to the Instrument Rating CFI Brief: IFR ATC Clearances We've also written extensively on the flight instruments themselves too,
- [Regulations: Privileges and Limitations](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-privileges-and-limitations/) - A good starting point for the regulations you must know as a pilot can be found in Bob Gardner's textbook The Complete Private Pilot. The definitive compilation of United States regulations for aviators is the FAR/AIM. Today's post breaks down 14 CFR 61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations; pilot-in-command. Here is a link to the
- [Regulations: Pilot Ratings](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-pilot-ratings/) - Getting started with your flight training and curious about the differences between ratings? As per 14 CFR 61.5, there are seven pilot certificates: student, sport pilot, recreational, private, commercial, airline transport pilot, and flight instructor. This summary comes from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot. The definitive compendium of all federal regulations pertaining to pilots
- [Regulations: Medical Certificates](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-medical-certificates/) - The first step in becoming a pilot is selecting an aircraft (whether it's airplanes, gyroplanes, weight-shift, helicopters, powered parachutes, gliders, balloons, or even airships). The second step is obtaining a medical certificate and Student Pilot's Certificate if the choice of aircraft is an airplane, helicopter, gyroplane, or airship. Today, with help from the Pilot's Handbook
- [Regulations: Required Documents](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-required-documents/) - The success of a flight depends largely on thorough preparation. In the course of your training, a pattern of regular preflight actions should be developed to ensure that this is the case. This includes planning a flight, and checking the airplane. These preflight actions must be based on the checks found in the pilot's operation
- [Regulations: Recent Flight Experience](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-recent-flight-experience/) - One regulation you need to be aware of as a new pilot is 14 CFR §61.57, "Recent Flight Experience - Pilot in command". Here's how Bob Gardner summarizes this regulation in The Complete Private Pilot: 14 CFR 61.57 Recent flight experience: Pilot-in-command. You may not carry passengers unless you have current experience, and that means
- [Regulations: Supplemental Oxygen](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-supplemental-oxygen/) - We're talking regulations this week. Take a look at what we've covered so far. Today, we'll go over the rules regarding supplemental oxygen under 14 CFR Part 91 with an excerpt from The Pilot's Manual: Ground School (PM-2), which has a useful chart to clarify the regulation. Crew oxygen requirements for operations under Part 91
- [Regulations: First Solo Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-first-solo-flight/) - You are able to fly solo when the instructor believes, with some confidence, that you can fly safely with a degree of consistency and you have mastered the presolo maneuvers defined in the regulations. Most important is evidence that you are taking control and responsibility for your own actions—that you are walking on your own
- [Regulations: Accident Reporting](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-accident-reporting/) - You've planned for every outcome but what do you do when the unexpected happens? Here's what Bob Gardner says in The Complete Private Pilot. National Transportation Safety Board Regulations, Part 830: These regulations govern accidents and accident reporting. They are not Federal Aviation Administration regulations, but need discussion as they lay out the rules for
- [Regulations: Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) Reports](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-unidentified-flying-object-ufo-reports/) - AIM Chapter 7, Safety of Flight, is an important chunk of the AIM which contains descriptions of weather services and severe weather flying, flight hazards like icing and volcanic ash, wake turbulence, and safety, accident, and hazard reporting. Under Section 6 "Safety, Accident, and Hazard Reports", we find this: 7-6-4 Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) Reportsa.
- [Regulations: "Minimum" IFR Training](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-minimum-ifr-training/) - Today's post is short and sweet but a very important detail in your private pilot training nonetheless! 14 CFR 61.109 Aeronautical Experience lists the required minimum experience needed to apply for a private pilot certificate. §61.109(a)(3) states the required instrument flying time: 3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane on the control and
- [Regulations: 14 CFR 91.13 and 91.15](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-14-cfr-91-13-and-91-15/) - Today we have more regulations that every pilot needs to know. Bob Gardner provides an excellent list of summarized federal regulations for student pilots in his textbook The Complete Private Pilot. If you're looking for the compendium of aviation regulations, check out our annually-relased FAR/AIM. These summaries are taken from the latest edition of The Complete Private
- [Regulations: VFR Minimums](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-vfr-minimums/) - This week we'll expand on what we've discussed about regulations. Chapter 19 in the brand-new fourth edition of The Pilot's Manual: Ground School has a great overview of the FARs you'll need to know. Beyond that, of course, is our FAR/AIM; the complete up-to-date set of aviation regulations. Today, we'll feature an excerpt from the
- [Regulations: Notices to Air Missions](https://learntoflyblog.com/regulations-notices-to-air-missions/) - Today, we'll take a look at NOTAM's with an excerpt from Bob Gardner's textbook The Complete Private Pilot. For all of the regulations pertaining to aviation, check out our annual FAR/AIM series. Information that might affect the safety of a flight, such as a runway closure, Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR), NAVAID outage, lighting system change,
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Taxiway and Runway Markings](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-taxiway-and-runway-markings/) - Airports come in all shapes and sizes. Some have long, hard-surfaced runways while others have short, grass runways. Some have operating control towers to regulate the flow of traffic in airspace around the airport as well as on the ground, and others do not. Airport pavement markings and signs provide information that is useful to
- [IFR: Precision Instrument Runway Markings](https://learntoflyblog.com/ifr-precision-instrument-runway-markings/) - Today, we're sharing an excerpt from The Pilot's Manual: Instrument Flying. This post is a follow-up to last month's IFR: The Instrument Landing System (ILS). To assist pilots transitioning to a visual landing at the conclusion of a precision instrument approach, precision instrument runways have specific markings. A displaced threshold on an instrument runway is
- [Aircraft Systems: Propping the Plane](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-propping-the-plane/) - This week we're thinking about aircraft systems. Here's an excerpt from William Kershner's textbook The Student Pilot's Flight Manual. Nearly all planes have starters these days, but the following is presented for your possible use. If you plan on doing any propping (cranking the propeller by hand), you should receive instruction from someone with experience;
- [Aircraft Systems: Ignition](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-ignition/) - You don't have to be a mechanic to be a safe pilot, but a knowledge of how your engine works and what the engine instruments are telling you will make it easier to give your engine tender loving care and get long, reliable service from it. Today we'll cover your airplane's ignition system, with a
- [Aircraft Systems: GPS](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-gps/) - The GPS can be a great aid for situational awareness in VFR operations. Today, we'll introduce the basics of how the system works. We'll go more in depth on using the GPS in future posts. Learn more about the GPS and more navigation systems and instruments in The Pilot's Manual Volume 2: Ground School. Precise
- [Aircraft Systems: Fuel Induction Systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-fuel-induction-systems/) - In March we looked at the basics of how an internal combustion works. Your airplane's engine is a four-cycle engine: on the intake stroke, a fuel/air mixture is drawn into the cylinder as the piston moves down; the mixture is then compressed on an upward piston stroke; a spark ignites the mixture driving the piston
- [Aircraft Systems: Landing Gear](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-landing-gear/) - Back to basics this week on the Learn to Fly Blog. Today, we're talking about landing gear. This post is excerpted from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. The landing gear forms the principal support of an aircraft on the surface. The most common type of landing gear consists of wheels, but aircraft can also
- [Aircraft Systems: Pressurized Aircraft](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-pressurized-aircraft/) - Aircraft are flown at high altitudes for two reasons. First, an aircraft flown at high altitude consumes less fuel for a given airspeed than it does for the same speed at a lower altitude because the aircraft is more efficient at a high altitude. Second, bad weather and turbulence may be avoided by flying in
- [Aircraft Systems: Pressurized Aircraft](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-pressurized-aircraft-2/) - Aircraft are flown at high altitudes for two reasons. First, an aircraft flown at high altitude consumes less fuel for a given airspeed than it does for the same speed at a lower altitude because the aircraft is more efficient at a high altitude. Second, bad weather and turbulence may be avoided by flying in
- [Aircraft Systems: Propeller Principles](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-propeller-principles/) - The propeller, the unit which must absorb the power output of the engine, has passed through many stages of development. Today we'll feature an excerpt introducing the general concepts of a propeller from our recently released book Aircraft Systems for Pilots. Propeller PrinciplesThe aircraft propeller consists of two or more blades and a central hub
- [Aircraft Systems: Fuel Contamination](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-fuel-contamination/) - Fuel contamination is a preventable event. Today, we'll take a look at what the new edition of the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge has to say about it. Accidents attributed to powerplant failure from fuel contamination have often been traced to: Inadequate preflight inspection by the pilot Servicing aircraft with improperly filtered fuel from small tanks
- [Aircraft Systems: Types of Electricity](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-types-of-electricity/) - Today, we're featuring an excerpt from our new textbook Practical Electricity for Aviation Maintenance Technicians. As you can tell from the title, this book is geared for new AMT candidates, but it does feature a wealth of information on aircraft electrical systems useful to anyone flying or fixing airplanes. There are two basic types of
- [Aircraft Systems: Fuel Injection Systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-fuel-injection-systems/) - Today we're featuring an excerpt from The Pilot's Manual: Ground School (PM-2). Many sophisticated engines have fuel directly metered into the induction manifold and then into the cylinders without using a carburetor. This is known as fuel injection. A venturi system is still used to create the pressure differential. This is coupled to a fuel
- [Aircraft Systems: Carburetor Ice](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-carburetor-ice/) - Today we're taking a look at carburetor ice with the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. As mentioned earlier, one disadvantage of the float-type carburetor is its icing tendency. Carburetor ice occurs due to the effect of fuel vaporization and the decrease in air pressure in the venturi, which causes a sharp temperature drop in the carburetor.
- [Aircraft Systems: Oil Systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-oil-systems/) - We're staying warm this week, but we'll be talking about ways to keep your engine cool. Today's post is on your aircraft's engine oil system. Look for follow up Ground School posts in the coming weeks about your engine's cooling and exhaust systems. And be sure to check out what we've already covered in regards
- [Aircraft Systems: Engine cooling and exhaust systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-engine-cooling-and-exhaust-systems/) - A few weeks ago we started talking about how your engine stays cool while producing intense heat. We'll follow up that post this week with more on an airplane's cooling and exhaust systems. Check out the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge for more on this and other easy-to-read descriptions of need-to-know flying subjects. While the
- [Aircraft Systems: Engine Cooling Systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-engine-cooling-systems/) - Today's post is excerpted from Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. The burning fuel within the cylinders produces intense heat, most of which is expelled through the exhaust system. Much of the remaining heat, however, must be removed, or at least dissipated, to prevent the engine from overheating. Otherwise, the extremely high engine temperatures can lead
- [CFI Brief: Off-Course Correction](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-off-course-correction/) - The fundamentals of visual navigation include two main methods as discussed in Monday's post, pilotage and dead reckoning, each of which should be used in conjunction with the other. Whether flying by means of visual navigation or even by reference to instruments like a VOR it is possible to find yourself in an off-course situation.
- [Can You Meet Pilot Vision Requirements?](https://learntoflyblog.com/can-you-meet-pilot-vision-requirements/) - The perception that all pilots must have perfect vision is an enduring myth, but is it true? Many types of pilot certificates are available, and as medical technology improves, so do the possibilities. Don’t misunderstand, we won’t be certifying blind pilots any time soon, but the image of an eagle-eyed student with perfect posture is
- [Inspire the Next Generation of Aviators with a Free Flight Experience](https://learntoflyblog.com/inspire-the-next-generation-of-aviators-with-a-free-flight-experience/) - By Carley Walker Every pilot remembers that first spark. The moment the ground fell away, the engine hummed, and the world looked different forever. That moment changed you forever, and now it can change a young person’s life. The aviation industry is facing one of the greatest challenges in its history. According to the CAE
- [CFI Brief: Attitude Instrument Flying](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-attitude-instrument-flying/) - The attitude of an aircraft is controlled by movement around its lateral (pitch), longitudinal (roll), and vertical (yaw) axes. In instrument flying, attitude requirements are determined by correctly interpreting the flight instruments. Instruments are grouped as to how they relate to control, function and aircraft performance. Attitude control is discussed in terms of pitch, bank,
- [Flight Instruments: Blocked Pitot System](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-instruments-blocked-pitot-system/) - Safely flying in any aircraft depends upon not only a pilot's ability to interpret and operate flight instruments, but also to recognize when an instrument is malfunctioning. This week, we'll take a look at common issues associated with pitot-static flight instruments: the airspeed indicator (ASI), altimeter, and vertical speed indicator (VSI). This content comes from
- [Flight Instruments: Airspeeds and the Airspeed Indicator (ASI)](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-instruments-airspeeds-and-the-airspeed-indicator-asi/) - Today, we'll go over the airspeed indicator (ASI). This explanation comes from the FAA textbook Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. The ASI is a sensitive, differential pressure gauge which measures and promptly indicates the difference between pitot (impact/dynamic pressure) and static pressure. These two pressures are equal when the aircraft is parked on the ground
- [Flight Instruments: The Altimeter and Altitudes](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-instruments-the-altimeter-and-altitudes/) - Today we're taking another look at flight instruments, specifically the altimeter. Understanding the instrument and altitudes is critical in learning to fly. This post comes from on of our favorite textbooks, Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot. Aircraft altimeters are aneroid (dry) barometers calibrated to read in feet above sea level. The altimeter gets its
- [Flight Instruments: Gyroscopic Instruments](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-instruments-gyroscopic-instruments/) - This week we're looking again at flight instruments. More specifically, gyroscopic instruments. Take a look at what we've posted so far on flight instruments, including our CFI's series on pitot-static systems. This post is excerpted from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot. The attitude indicator, the turn indicator, and the directional gyro or heading indicator
- [Flight Instruments: Attitude Indicator](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-instruments-attitude-indicator/) - We're focusing this week on flight instruments and today we'll cover the attitude indicator. The attitude indicator is reliable and the most realistic flight instrument on the panel; its indications are very close approximations of the actual attitude of the aircraft. Check out our previous posts on flight instruments, including our introduction to the gyroscopic instruments. Words
- [How to Pick a Flight School: Begin with the Right Foundation](https://learntoflyblog.com/how-to-pick-a-flight-school-begin-with-the-right-foundation/) - Choosing a flight school is one of the most exciting—and important—decisions in your journey to becoming a pilot. Here’s how to get started.
- [Flight Instruments: The Turn and Slip Indicator](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-instruments-the-turn-and-slip-indicator/) - Today we're focusing on your airplane's turn and slip indicator. This instrument shows the rotation around the yaw axis (via the ball) and around the roll axis (the miniature airplane or needle), and can be used to establish and maintain a standard-rate turn (3° per second, or a complete circle in two minutes). Today's post
- [Flight Instruments: Angle of Attack Indicators](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-instruments-angle-of-attack-indicators/) - Today's post on flight instruments comes from the brand-new Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25)! The purpose of an angle of attack (AOA) indicator is to give the pilot better situational awareness pertaining to the aerodynamic health of the airfoil. This can also be referred to as stall margin awareness. More simply explained, it is the margin that exists between
- [CFI Brief: Horizontal Situation Indicator (HSI)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-horizontal-situation-indicator-hsi/) - Personally, one of my favorite instruments in an aircraft is the horizontal situation indicator or HSI for short. The HSI is a combination of two instruments: the heading indicator and the VOR. By bringing these two instruments together you are able to get a much clearer picture in a quicker amount of time. This instrument
- [Why Becoming a Certified Flight Instructor Is a Smart Career Move](https://learntoflyblog.com/why-becoming-a-certified-flight-instructor-is-a-smart-career-move/) - by Bonnie Martin, PhD For many pilots working toward an airline career, becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) is one of the most effective ways to build flight time and experience. As a CFI, you're paid to teach while logging hours and sharpening your skills in the process. Flight instructing keeps you flying consistently and strengthens your
- [Interview Basics: Your S.T.A.R. Stories](https://learntoflyblog.com/interview-basics-your-s-t-a-r-stories/) - By Bonnie Martin, PhD A key part of successful interview preparation is learning how to communicate your experiences clearly and effectively. One of the most useful tools for this is the S.T.A.R. method, which helps you organize your answers to behavioral interview questions using a structured, story-based approach. These short, 1- to 2-minute stories allow you to
- [Aerodynamics: The Four Forces Part 1](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-5-the-four-forces-part-1/) - The four forces of flight make up the fundamental concept of flight. Lift, weight, thrust, and drag are the very first concepts students learn in ground school. In this post, we'll give you an introduction to the first two: Lift and Weight. The Student Pilot's Flight Manual by William Kershner explains this well: LiftLift is
- [Aerodynamics: Construction Part 1](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-7-construction-part-1/) - Experienced pilots know their aircraft inside and out, knowing the function of even very minor parts. Here are some of the most important parts of an airplane as described by Bob Gardner in The Complete Private Pilot: FuselageThe fuselage (or cabin, in most modern airplanes) is the basic structure to which the wings and empennage
- [Aerodynamics: The Four Forces Part 2](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-6-the-four-forces-part-2/) - This is the second part of this two part series on the four forces of flight, where we'll introduce thrust and drag. You can find our intro to lift and weight here. William Kershner's The Student Pilot's Flight Manual by will explain thrust and drag: ThrustThrust is furnished by a propeller or jet. The propeller
- [Aerodynamics: Construction Part 2](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-8-construction-part-2/) - This is the second part of our three part series about aircraft construction, which will cover flight controls. You can learn about the fuselage, wings, and empennage here in Part 1. This excerpt comes from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot. Flight ControlsFore-and-aft movement of the control wheel or stick is transmitted by pushrods or
- [Aerodynamics: Propeller Basics](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-propeller-basics/) - Back to basics today on the Learn to Fly Blog: your propeller. The aircraft propeller consists of two or more blades and a central hub to which the blades are attached. Each blade of an aircraft propeller is essentially a rotating wing, and thus the blades act like airfoils producing thrust. Today's post comes from
- [Aerodynamics: Forces in Climbs and Descents](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-forces-in-climbs-and-descents/) - We're talking about aerodynamics again this week. Today, an excerpt from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge on the forces in climbs and descents. Forces in ClimbsFor all practical purposes, the wing’s lift in a steady state normal climb is the same as it is in a steady level flight at the same airspeed. Although
- [Aerodynamics: The Spin](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-the-spin/) - Today on LTFB, we're featuring an excerpt from The Pilot's Manual: Ground School (PM-2) on spins. A spin is a condition of stalled flight in which the airplane follows a spiral descent path. As well as the airplane being in a stalled condition, and yawing, one wing is producing more lift than the other, which
- [Aerodynamics: High Speed Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-high-speed-flight/) - Today's post comes from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25). In subsonic aerodynamics, the theory of lift is based upon the forces generated on a body and a moving gas (air) in which it is immersed. At speeds of approximately 260 knots or less, air can be considered incompressible in that, at a fixed
- [Aerodynamics: Power](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-power/) - Today's post is excerpted from the second edition of our textbook Aerodynamics for Aviators. This book features extensive illustrations and covers everything from the fundamentals of flight to high-speed flight, and includes an excellent compendium of formulae and equations used at all levels of aviation. Aircraft aerodynamics involves the interaction of the four forces: lift,
- [Aerodynamics: Cruise Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-cruise-flight/) - Cruise flight centers on two basic principles: how far we can fly, and for how long. How far we can fly is defined as the aircraft’s range. How long we can fly is defined as endurance. Today's post is an excerpt from our textbook Aerodynamics for Aviators. When flying, we generally consider range in two
- [Aerodynamics: Descent and Gliding Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-descent-and-gliding-flight/) - Our CFI is out enjoying the Reno Air Races this week, so today we'll share a follow up to Monday's post with another excerpt from Aerodynamics for Aviators. Descending a light propeller-driven general aviation aircraft is a fairly simple task. Reduce power to a point where there is more power required than power available, and
- [Aerodynamics: Construction Part 3](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-9-construction-part-3/) - This is the third part of our three part series about aircraft construction, which will be covering landing gear, propeller, engine, and lights. You can learn about the fuselage, wings, and empennage in Part 1, and the flight controls in Part 2. This excerpt comes from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot. Landing GearThe two
- [Aerodynamics: Stability](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-stability/) - This week, we'll take a look at another aerodynamics topic: stability. Bob Gardner has this introduction in his textbook The Complete Private Pilot. The three axes of control pass through the center of gravity. How the designer has related the centers of lift or pressure to the center of gravity affects the stability of the
- [Aerodynamics: Turns and Load Factors](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-turns-and-load-factors/) - We're devoting this week to aerodynamics, specifically the load factors experienced in turns. There's more to turning your airplane than smoothly coordinating your ailerons and rudder pressure. Understanding the role of lift and gravity in a turn will help you fly efficiently and within the limitations of your airplane. The following is excerpted from William
- [Aerodynamics: Spins](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-spins/) - This post on spins is derived from the FAA Airplane Flying Handbook, available from ASA in print and in PDF format. A spin may be defined as an aggravated stall that results in what is termed “autorotation” wherein the airplane follows a downward corkscrew path. As the airplane rotates around a vertical axis, the rising
- [Aerodynamics: Stalls and Spins](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-stalls-and-spins/) - Today, we're going to look at some flight maneuvers from one of our favorite books, the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. Critical load factors apply to all flight maneuvers except unaccelerated straight flight where a load factor of 1 G is always present. Certain maneuvers considered in this section are known to involve relatively high load
- [Aerodynamics: Drag](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-drag/) - This week on the Learn to Fly Blog we're talking about drag. One of the four forces of flight, drag opposes thrust and at rearward parallel to the relative wind. We'll get more into the practical application of your understanding of drag on Thursday with our CFI, but today we will define the two types
- [Aerodynamics: Ground Effect](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-ground-effect/) - Thinking about your takeoff technique? Today we'll consider the role of ground effect. Simply put, ground effect is the reaction of the airflow against the ground surface. Today's post comes from our foundational flying textbook The Pilot's Manual 1: Flight School. Here's a basic overview: The cushioning of ground effect when the airplane is flying
- [CFI Brief: Crosswinds](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-crosswinds/) - This week’s discussion is geared towards the topic of aircraft performance and I thought today would be a great day to talk about crosswinds. The tree blowing across the freeway on my way into the office this morning is probably what gave me the idea. After all, March comes in like a lion and out
- [CFI Brief: ATC Tower Light Gun Signals](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-atc-tower-light-gun-signals/) - A while back I was on a local area pleasure flight with a couple of friends showing off the sights in the club’s Piper Cherokee. I was so wrapped up in making sure my passengers were having a good time that I failed to immediately notice the illuminated low voltage light. By the time I
- [sUAS: Preflight Inspections](https://learntoflyblog.com/suas-preflight-inspections/) - Today we're pleased to feature an excerpt from our latest remote pilot textbook, The Complete Remote Pilot, by Bob Gardner and David Ison. Built on the foundation of Bob Gardner's popular The Complete Private Pilot series, this textbook is tailored for anyone interested in pursuing and obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate, which is required in
- [Human Factors: Optical Illusions](https://learntoflyblog.com/human-factors-optical-illusions/) - Of the senses, vision is the most important for safe flight. However, various terrain features and atmospheric conditions can create optical illusions. These illusions are primarily associated with landing. Since pilots must transition from reliance on instruments to visual cues outside the flight deck for landing at the end of an instrument approach, it is
- [CFI Brief: Velocity vs. G-loads Diagram](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-velocity-vs-g-loads-diagram/) - Using the knowledge you learned from Monday's post on the Vg diagram, let’s see if we can answer some of these sample FAA knowledge test questions. Remember, a complete database of sample questions can be found in ASA Test Prep Books and Prepware Software! Reference the figure below for all questions, however please note on
- [CFI Brief: Atmospheric Stability](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-atmospheric-stability/) - Today we will take Monday's post on temperature inversions a step further with a discussion on atmospheric stability and the types of weather we can expect with a stable and unstable air mass. Atmospheric stability is defined as the resistance of the atmosphere to vertical motion. A stable atmosphere resists an upward or downward movement.
- [CFI Brief: Pitot-Static Systems and Flight Instruments, Part I](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-pitot-static-systems-and-flight-instruments-part-i/) - Today’s posts is the first part in a two part series on the pitot-static system and associated pitot-static instruments. We will begin by covering a quick general overview of the pitot-static system as seen in the picture below. The pitot-static system is responsible for the operation of the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator—also
- [CFI Brief: Pitot-Static Systems and Flight Instruments, Part II](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-pitot-static-systems-and-flight-instruments-part-ii/) - I am sure you have been waiting all week for Part II of the CFI Brief on the Pitot-Static system. So here it is: today we will get into some of the principals of operation of each of the three pitot-static instruments found in the cockpit: altimeter, vertical speed indicator, and airspeed indicator. The altimeter
- [CFI Brief: Latitude and Longitude](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-latitude-and-longitude/) - This week’s focus on the blog is aeronautical charts, specifically charts designed for VFR pilots. An overview of the Terminal, Sectional, and World Aeronautical charts was given in Mondays post and can be found here. Each one of these charts provides a wealth of aeronautical information on airports, airways, airspace, special use airspace, and even
- [CFI Brief: Aircraft Axes and Rotation](https://learntoflyblog.com/ground-school-aircraft-axis-and-rotation/) - In the previous week, the Learn to Fly Blog has covered the four forces in flight. To recap, these are lift, weight, thrust, and drag. These forces are key in aircraft aerodynamics and will become extremely important throughout your flight training, particularly when learning how to control the aircraft. In addition to these in-flight forces,
- [Aircraft Systems: Flaps](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-flaps/) - It's been a few weeks since we've talked specifically about your aircraft so let's focus again this week on aircraft systems. Today, we'll review flaps. This post has been excerpted from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. Flaps are the most common high-lift devices used on aircraft. These surfaces, which are attached to the trailing
- [CFI Brief: ICAO Flight Plan Form](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-icao-flight-plan-form/) - The FAA proposal to implement a standardized flight plan filling using the International ICAO flight plan form will soon take effect. As I mentioned last week, the FAA has removed all U.S. format flight plan questions from the knowledge exams. New updated question relating to the ICAO form will eventually replace those questions that have
- [Flight Instruments: The Heading Indicator and Magnetic Compass](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-instruments-the-heading-indicator-and-magnetic-compass/) - Today's post on flight instruments is an excerpt from the new fourth edition of The Pilot's Manual: Ground School (PM-2). The magnetic compass is the primary indicator of direction in most airplanes. It is, however, difficult to read in turbulence and subject to acceleration and turning errors, making it a difficult instrument to fly by
- [CFI Brief: Forward vs. Aft CG](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-forward-vs-aft-cg/) - Looking for the newest information on aircraft center of gravity (CG)? Check out the "Weight and Balance" section of ASA's Private Pilot Oral Exam Guide. Or, the FAA's Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook, for their most recent take. Happy New Year! After a great holiday it’s time to get back in the grind and what better
- [Weather: Fronts](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-fronts/) - Out here in the Pacific Northwest, we're used to what's generally characterized as "bad" weather. And since we're setting regional rainfall records right now, let's talk about weather. Specifically, fronts. As an air mass moves across bodies of water and land, it eventually comes into contact with another air mass with different characteristics. The boundary
- [Weather: Fronts](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-fronts-2/) - Today, we're featuring an excerpt from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot. A weather front exists where air masses with different properties meet. The terms “warm” and “cold” are relative: 30°F air is warmer than 10°F air, but that “warm” air doesn’t call for bathing suits. Cold air is more dense than warm air, so
- [CFI Brief: Significant Weather (SIGWX) Forecast Charts](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-significant-weather-sigwx-forecast-charts/) - The updated Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement for Instrument Rating (FAA-CT-8080-3F) has replaced 4 panel Low Level SIGWX Prognostic charts with updated 2 panel charts. These new figures as seen below show outlooks for both 12 and 24 hour forecast periods, with the left display being 12 hours and right 24 hours. The High Level SIGWX Prognostic
- [CFI Brief: W&B Simple Calculations](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-wb-simple-calculations/) - As a pilot you should always expect change. Change can often occur prior to your flight even beginning. I’ve been in situations before where I have completed my entire cross country flight plan and weight and balance only to find out another friend wants to come along for the ride. Before doing another entire weight and balance problem
- [CFI Brief: Pitot-Static Systems and Flight Instruments, Part III](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-pitot-static-systems-and-flight-instruments-part-iii/) - Today we will finally wrap up our three part post on the pitot-static system and related instruments with a quick discussion on errors. If an error is noted on one of the three pitot-static instruments it is almost always caused by either a blockage in the pitot-tube or one of the static ports. As we’ve
- [Aerodynamics: Vg Diagram](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-vg-diagram/) - For more information on the aerodynamics of flight, check out the Pilot's Handbook of Aviation Knowledge. The flight operating strength of an aircraft is presented on a graph whose vertical scale is based on load factor. The diagram is called a Vg diagram—velocity versus G loads or load factor. Each aircraft has it's own Vg
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Airport Markings](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-airport-markings/) - Airport pavement markings and signs provide information useful to pilots during takeoff, landing, and taxiing. Uniformity in airport markings and signs from one airport to another enhances safety and improves efficiency. An illustrated guide to these markings, from Barry Schiff's An Illustrated Guide to Flying is available in the Airport Markings and Signs Illustrated blog.
- [Sport Pilot vs. Private Pilot: Which Certificate Is Right for You Under the New MOSAIC Rules?](https://learntoflyblog.com/sport-pilot-vs-private-pilot-which-certificate-is-right-for-you-under-the-new-mosaic-rules/) - The FAA’s new 2025 MOSAIC (Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification) rule has brought significant updates to the world of light-sport aviation. The expanded privileges, aircraft eligibility, and training flexibility mean that earning a Sport Pilot Certificate now offers more opportunity than ever before. But how does the Sport Pilot Certificate compare to the Private Pilot
- [The Mental Health in Aviation Act of 2025](https://learntoflyblog.com/the-mental-health-in-aviation-act-of-2025/) - Safety in aviation has many dimensions: aircraft maintenance, flight operations, air traffic control, and human performance. One area that often receives attention only after a crisis is mental health among aviation professionals—pilots, air traffic controllers, and others. The Mental Health in Aviation Act of 2025 (H.R. 2591), passed by the House on September 8, 2025,
- [Seaplane Ratings and You](https://learntoflyblog.com/seaplane-ratings-and-you/) - The path to flying seaplanes has two lanes. You can go directly to your seaplane pilot rating, called the ASES (Airplane Single Engine Sea), as your first pilot certificate or, most commonly, you can obtain it as an add-on rating after you already hold the ASEL (Airplane, Single Engine Land) rating. One seaplane instructor estimates
- [So You Want to Be an Air Traffic Controller](https://learntoflyblog.com/so-you-want-to-be-an-air-traffic-controller/) - Air traffic controllers play a significant role in keeping all kinds of pilots in the air. Whether you are thinking about becoming a controller, or just talking to one on a regular basis, it’s worth knowing the requirements and standards the voice in your ear has met to become your trusted partner in the sky.
- [Unlocking BVLOS: FAA Proposes New Drone Rule](https://learntoflyblog.com/unlocking-bvlos-faa-proposes-new-drone-rule/) - Discover how new drone BVLOS regulations could revolutionize commercial and recreational drone use, opening up exciting opportunities in the skies.
- [MOSAIC Final Rule Expands the Reach of Light-Sport Aircraft](https://learntoflyblog.com/mosaic-final-rule-expands-the-reach-of-light-sport-aircraft/) - At the 2025 Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture, the US Transportation Secretary, FAA officials, and the EAA held a joint press conference to announce the final version of the long-awaited Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC), which published on July 24, 2025. Though most of the new and revised rules won’t go into effect until October,
- [Becoming a Pilot: When to Start](https://learntoflyblog.com/becoming-a-pilot-when-to-start/) - Becoming a pilot is a serious endeavor. Some people dream about it their whole lives, others start their journey very young. When is the “right” time to start? According to Jason Blair, who worked as an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, now is the perfect time. He lays out his reasons in his recent book, An
- [The Future of FBOs](https://learntoflyblog.com/the-future-of-fbos/) - Most flight training in the United States takes place at airports that include fixed-base operators (FBOs). An FBO is a commercial business that provides aviation services to both general and business aviation at airports. Essentially a gas station for airplanes, they are a critical component of the airport infrastructure, providing fuel, parking and hangar space,
- [SAFECON 2025 Crowns Embry-Riddle’s Golden Eagles Flight Team](https://learntoflyblog.com/safecon-2025-crowns-embry-riddles-golden-eagles-flight/) - Again this year, ASA traveled to the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) SAFECON Championship competition for aviation performance and safety. To qualify for nationals, teams compete at regional Safety and Flight Evaluation Conferences (SAFECONs) throughout the fall to earn an invitation. Each May, this one-of-a-kind competition brings the brightest and best in collegiate aviation together
- [By the Numbers: Pilot Demographics](https://learntoflyblog.com/by-the-numbers-pilot-demographics/) - Every year, several different groups provide data regarding the demographics of pilots. Today we have some 2024 numbers from the FAA as well as statistics by generation based on the current membership statistics for the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA). The FAA publishes annual statistics associated with airman certificate holders. As of December 31, 2024, and
- [Air Taxis, Drone Delivery, and the Future of Aviation](https://learntoflyblog.com/air-taxis-drone-delivery-and-the-future-of-aviation/) - In the past few years, drones and air taxis have both taken their turn in the spotlight. The frequency of food and online shopping deliveries has brought drone delivery discussions to the fore, and the Paris Olympics generated talk about how air taxis could be used for large events in urban areas.* Flying cars are
- [TFRs, Super Bowls, and Very Important People](https://learntoflyblog.com/tfrs-super-bowls-and-very-important-people/) - When President Trump decided to attend Super Bowl LIX (that’s 59, for non-Romans), the security and airspace regulations in the area became even tighter than usual. In special circumstances, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has the power to issue something called a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR), which does exactly what it sounds like—temporarily restricts access to a designated airspace.
- [NORAD: Tracking Santa Since 1958](https://learntoflyblog.com/norad-tracking-santa-since-1958/) - The holiday season has arrived, along with all the gifting and travel that comes with it. Here at ASA, we have gifts for all the aviators and student pilots in your life, so if you're looking for a last-minute gift, a digital ASA gift card might fit the bill. We also checked in to see
- [An Advanced Composite Primer](https://learntoflyblog.com/an-advanced-composite-primer/) - If you’re looking for ways to be around aircraft and in demand in the aviation industry, becoming an Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) could be an opportunity for you to explore. On the other hand, if you decide to become an aviator, you will spend plenty of time working with aviation mechanics. These highly trained people
- [CFI Brief: FAR/AIM](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-faraim/) - Moving? Change of address? Did you know that that there is a regulation, 14 CFR §61.60 to be exact, that states the holder of a pilot, flight instructor, or ground instructor certificate who has made a change in permanent mailing address may not, after 30 days from that date, exercise the privileges of the certificate
- [Why learn to fly airplanes?](https://learntoflyblog.com/why-learn-to-fly-airplanes/) - Being a pilot and flying an airplane is a thrill, say most aviators. It’s no wonder. History tells us that people have been fascinated by flight for centuries, but it’s only been in the last 100 years that humans have been able to take flight in order to experience that thrill. Old films show us
- [Be Unfaithful to Your CFI](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-from-two-flight-instructors/) - Can two flight instructors teach you more than one? Learn from conflicting opinions and healthy debate to make yourself a better pilot. During the course of typical flight training, we spend lots of time with our flight instructors (CFI). They become trusted advisors, so when they tell us something, we tend to accept it. When
- [CFI Brief: SPAR](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-spar/) - Back in January, the FAA announced changes to the Student Pilot Application Requirements (SPAR), effective April 1st, 2016. Well that time has fast approached and these changes will go into effect tomorrow Friday April 1st, 2016, and this is no April fool’s joke. I have previously written a CFI Brief on this change and it
- [E6-B Video Tutorials](https://learntoflyblog.com/e6-b-video-tutorials/) - This week, take a look at our easy to follow E6-B video tutorials on our YouTube channel: Check out ASA's YouTube channel for more tutorials and training videos. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to get the latest information on new products and updates. Please feel free to leave comments on any
- [CFI Brief: Communications](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-communications/) - Communication between pilots and air traffic controllers is crucial to the safe efficient flow of air traffic in the national airspace system. The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) points out that the single most important thing in pilot-controller communication is understanding. It is important when speaking on the radios to not only be clear and concise
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Nontowered Airports](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-nontowered-airports/) - Your flights normally begin and end at an airport. An airport may be a small sod field or a large complex utilized by air carriers. This week we'll be thinking about the two types of airports: towered and nontowered. These introductions to the two airport types come from the FAA textbook Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical
- [Communication Procedures: Phraseology, Techniques, and Procedures](https://learntoflyblog.com/communication-procedures-phraseology-techniques-and-procedures/) - Effective communication is absolutely critical to your safety and the safety of those in the air around you and on the ground. There's a well established phraseology and accepted techniques in aviation, so mastering this will be key in your flight training. Take a look at the introduction to radio communications, excerpted from Bob Gardner's
- [Weather Services: Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF)](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-services-terminal-aerodrome-forecast-taf/) - This week, we're taking another look at aviation forecasts and focusing on the terminal aerodrome forecast (TAF), one of the printed forecasts that all pilots need to be familiar with. TAFs are designed to be useful in the preflight planning stage. Here's how the FAA breaks down a TAF in the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical
- [Aircraft Performance: Computing Weight and Balance](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-computing-weight-and-balance/) - Back in February, we introduced the concept of weight and balance and its significance in preflight planning. This week, we'll look at one of the methods of determining your loaded weight and CG. There are a variety of methods to do this, but this week we'll illustrate the table method with an example from the
- [CFI Brief: Global Positioning System (GPS)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-global-positioning-system-gps/) - Global Positioning System (GPS) is a United States satellite-based radio navigational, positioning, and time transfer system operated by the Department of Defense (DoD). The system provides highly accurate position and velocity information and precise time on a continuous global basis to an unlimited number of properly-equipped users. The system is extremely versatile in its uses
- [Communication Procedures: Airport Traffic Area Communications and Light Signals](https://learntoflyblog.com/communication-procedures-airport-traffic-area-communications-and-light-signals/) - Things can happen, and part of being a good aviator is competently handling adverse situations when they arise. It is possible that a pilot might experience a malfunction of the radio. This might cause the transmitter, receiver, or both to become inoperative. Here's how to handle landing at a towered airport in this scenario, as
- [CFI Brief: UPS Flight 1354 Crash, Lessons Learned](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-ups-flight-1354-crash-lessons-learned/) - You may remember back in 2013 a UPS Airbus A300-600 crashed while on final approach to Birmingham International Airport, both pilots were fatally injured. The National Transportation Safety Board has just wrapped up a nearly two year investigation into the accident and on Monday released the first ever video companion to an accident report. The
- [CFI Brief: Confidence on the Radios](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-confidence-on-the-radios/) - Let me quote §61.103(b), “Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language…”. This here is one of the eligibility requirements for Private Pilots and every other Pilot Certificate for that matter. Throughout training, however, it seems as if we are learning an entirely new language consisting of proper ATC phraseology and technique
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Airport Lighting](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-airport-lighting-2/) - The majority of airports have some type of lighting for night operations, and the variety and type of lighting systems depends on the volume and complexity of operations at a given airport. We're going to be examining these types today with help from the FAA's Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. Airport beacons help a pilot identify an airport
- [Weather: Temperature and Atmosphere](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-temperature-and-atmosphere/) - Today we'll think about the effect of temperature on the weather. We've covered how solar energy from the sun drives all atmospheric and geological processes on Earth, so now we'll address it's role in atmospheric stability. Words and pictures in this post come from the FAA's Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. Atmospheric Stability The stability of the
- [CFI Brief: Identifying Clouds](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-identifying-clouds/) - Today we are going to spend some time on the subject of clouds. Understanding the various types of clouds is important to pilots as clouds are direct indicators of the type of weather that one can expect. Having the ability to understand and correlate the meaning of a particular cloud as it relates to weather
- [Weather Services: Aviation Area Forecast (FA)](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-services-aviation-area-forecast-fa/) - Observed weather condition reports are often used in the creation of forecasts for the same area. A variety of different forecast products are produced and designed to be used in the preflight planning stage. The printed forecasts that pilots need to be familiar with are the terminal aerodrome forecast (TAF), aviation area forecast (FA), inflight
- [Communication Procedures: Radar Assistance to VFR Aircraft](https://learntoflyblog.com/communication-procedures-radar-assistance-to-vfr-aircraft/) - In many instances, a pilot is required to have contact with ATC. But even when not required, a pilot finds it helpful to request their services. Today, we're taking a look at radar assistance with words and pictures from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. Primary RadarRadar is a device which provides information on range, azimuth,
- [CFI Brief: IMPORTANT Changes to EFAS (Flight Watch)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-important-changes-to-efas-flight-watch/) - Earlier this year, all questions relating to Enroute Flight Advisory Service (EFAS) were removed from the knowledge test banks. In addition, the FAA announced that due to user preferences and a shift towards automated services Flight Watch would be eliminated. This caused some immediate concern for those who rely on the services provided by Flight
- [CFI Brief: Airplane Flight Manual (AFM)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-airplane-flight-manual-afm/) - In today’s post, we are going to discuss the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM). The AFM is a document that is developed by your airplane's manufacturer containing specific information in regards to operating instructions of the aircraft. These manuals are specific to an aircraft’s serial number and are approved by the FAA. This manual must be
- [Practice the Glide](https://learntoflyblog.com/practice-the-glide/) - This week, we're pleased to feature guest posts from CFI and FAA DPE Jason Blair! We featured Jason's excellent write up on flying the traffic pattern earlier this year. He writes his own blog at jasonblair.net. Gliding is for gliders, right? Well, it’s not just for them. Something I notice in many checkrides I give
- [Reflections and Tips from Recent Practical Tests](https://learntoflyblog.com/reflections-and-tips-from-recent-practical-tests/) - Once again, we're pleased to feature a guest post FAA DPE and CFI Jason Blair. Check out his post from last week on why you should be practicing the glide and his post on flying the traffic pattern from earlier this year. He writes his own blog at jasonblair.net. I would like to share a
- [CFI Brief: Airman Testing, October Test Roll](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-airman-testing-october-test-roll/) - The October Airman Knowledge Test Roll has been released and information is now posted to the FAA website. You may be asking, test roll? What is that? Throughout the year, the FAA goes through a process of evaluating Airman Knowledge Tests. Part of this evaluation process is determining the need to remove questions that may
- [Navigation: Automatic Direction Finder](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-automatic-direction-finder/) - This Thursday, we'll pick up where we left off with flight planning last week, but today we have a post on another cockpit navigation aid: the automatic direction finder (ADF). This post is excerpted from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. Many general aviation-type aircraft are equipped with ADF radio receiving equipment. To navigate using
- [Communication Procedures: the Transponder](https://learntoflyblog.com/communication-procedures-the-transponder/) - Today we're talking communication procedures, specifically your airplane's transponder. This post comes to us from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot. Although the transponder has no microphone or speaker, it is a means of communication with ground radar facilities. Interrogation signals transmitted from the ground are received by your transponder, and it replies with a
- [CFI Brief: Icing Systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-icing-systems/) - Temperatures have started dropping up here in the Northwest and the leaves have all but fallen off the trees. With the official start to winter a little more than a month away, what better time than to have a quick Brief on ice, particularly those systems which prevent us from falling to earth looking like
- [CFI Brief: IFR ATC Clearances](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-ifr-atc-clearances/) - Last week, I promised you we would begin to expand upon the topic of IFR, particularly clearances. A clearance is simply an authorization from ATC to fly to an airport or fix via an assigned route and altitude. Any operation in controlled airspace under IFR requires the pilot to first obtain a clearance to do
- [CFI Brief: ADS-B Out Coverage Map](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-ads-b-out-coverage-map/) - Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), or what the FAA is calling the future of air traffic control, is an enhanced aircraft management and tracking technology. This technology is currently available in various locations over the U.S. and will be required in all aircraft by 2020. In short ADS-B uses data from the already established GPS satellite network
- [What a DPE Wants to See on Your Practical Test Beyond Mechanical Skills](https://learntoflyblog.com/what-a-dpe-wants-to-see-on-your-practical-test-beyond-mechanical-skills/) - Today we're pleased to feature a guest post from CFI and DPE Jason Blair. Check out his previous contributions to the LTFB here. He writes his own blog at JasonBlair.net Every practical test requires that an examiner see the applicant perform all the required maneuvers within established standards. This is really the obvious part of
- [CFI Brief: Airman Testing, February Test Roll](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-airman-testing-february-test-roll/) - It’s the first “Test Roll” of 2016, a process where the FAA implements changes to the FAA Knowledge Exam and announces what’s new and upcoming in airman testing. ASA will incorporate this information in updates to our publications. Some of the more beneficial items to note with February's Test Roll are outlined below. 1. The FAA
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: The Airport/Facility Directory](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-the-airportfacility-directory/) - Last week, we released the 12th edition of one of our keystone textbooks: The Complete Private Pilot. This week we'll be covering procedures, and today we'll introduce the Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD). Here's what Bob Gardner has to say about it in the latest edition of The Complete Private Pilot. Before setting off on a cross-country flight,
- [How to Prepare Mentally for Your Practical Test](https://learntoflyblog.com/how-to-prepare-mentally-for-a-your-practical-test/) - Today we’re pleased to feature a guest post from CFI and DPE Jason Blair. Check out his previous contributions to the LTFB here. He writes his own blog at JasonBlair.net. UPDATE: we've since posted a follow-up companion blog post on physical preparation. Click here to read it. The stress of a practical test is something
- [Weather Services: Radar Weather Reports](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-services-radar-weather-reports/) - Out here in the Pacific Northwest, there's a saying: if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes. Whether or not your weather changes as fast as ours does, knowing what to expect is still critical to flight safety. Radar helps us track weather nearly in real-time and make visual sense of what to expect
- [CFI Brief: NEW Experimental Aviation Weather Product](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-new-experimental-aviation-weather-product/) - What’s new in the world of aviation weather products you ask? Well, the “Experimental Graphical Forecast for Aviation” (GFA) of course! As the title suggests, this product is in experimental form at the moment, but is up and running at AviationWeather.gov. The National Weather Service and FAA are asking for your help in surveying this
- [Five Things NOT To Do on Your Practical Test](https://learntoflyblog.com/five-things-not-to-do-on-your-practical-test/) - Today we’re pleased to feature a guest post from CFI and DPE Jason Blair. Check out his previous contributions to the LTFB here. He writes his own blog at JasonBlair.net As an examiner, I regularly see the same things cause disapproval on practical test. These common errors are things that anyone can avoid during their practical test.
- [Communication Procedures: Communication at Airports with Operating Towers](https://learntoflyblog.com/communication-procedures-communication-at-airports-with-operating-towers/) - We've talked a lot about communications so far on the Learn to Fly Blog. Today we'll get into communications at towered airports. This post comes from the latest edition (twelfth!) of Bob Gardner's essential flying textbook The Complete Private Pilot. Airspace around an airport with an operating control tower is Class D airspace (unless it
- [CFI Brief: In with the NEW and out with the OLD...](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-in-with-the-new-and-out-with-the-old/) - Yes, Yes, Yes, exciting times and change are right around the corner in Airman Testing! I am sure that by now many of you are well aware that the implementation of the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for both Private and Instrument Pilot Airplane will be happening in just a few weeks. I know, this may
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Visual Glideslope Indicators](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-visual-glideslope-indicators/) - It's been a while since we've talked about procedures and airport operations, so today we'll introduce three visual approach slope indicator (VASI) systems. Visual glideslope indicators provide the pilot with glidepath information that can be used for day or night approaches. By maintaining the proper glidepath as provided by the system, a pilot should have
- [Aircraft Performance: Airplane Stability (Stability, part 1)](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-airplane-stability/) - Today, we'll introduce airplane stability. As you're well aware of by now, there are three axes around which the airplane moves (yaw, pitch, and roll). These axes pass through the airplane’s center of gravity, or the point where the airplane weight is considered to be concentrated. An airplane that is stable requires little pilot attention
- [CFI Brief: Firsthand Insight on the ACS—an Interview with Jackie Spanitz](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-firsthand-insight-on-the-acs-an-interview-with-jackie-spanitz/) - It’s official! Final versions of the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for Private and Instrument Pilot Airplane have been published and will go into effect in just a few days (June 15th, 2016). These new ACS will replace the Practical Test Standards. The anticipation has been building for weeks now in our small tight-knit aviation community.
- [Weather Services: Sources of Information](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-services-sources-of-information/) - There's a lot of weather information available to pilots, most of which we've already talked about. Here's what Bob Gardner recommends you do with all of it in his textbook The Complete Private Pilot. And we recommend you bookmark these links! Self-brief first, to get the big picture before calling or logging onto the briefing
- [CFI Brief: www.1800wxbrief.com](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-www-1800wxbrief-com/) - Obtaining a weather briefing in my opinion is one of the single most important parts of any pre-fight. Whether you plan on conducting a flight in the vicinity of an airport or are heading out on a 100 NM cross country trip, having current and updated weather information is crucial for a successful flight. If
- [CFI Brief: Fatigue](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-fatigue/) - IMSAFE, the not-so-subtle-phrase within the acronym. I think by this point in your training you have probably begun to realize that aviation is flooded with acronyms and abbreviations for a myriad of things. PAVE stands for Pilot, Aircraft, Environment, and External Pressure and is an essential risk management tool that assists the pilot in running
- [CFI Brief: Hot Tips from ASA](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-hot-tips-from-asa/) - It’s almost 2017! Wait, what? Well that’s the way it feels here at ASA Headquarters. As I write this the entire ASA Team is preparing for the upcoming 2016-2017 school year, and that means lots of new and updated training material is coming your way soon! Some of our 2017 products are already shipping and
- [CFI Brief: Packing your first flight bag!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-packing-your-first-flight-bag/) - Hot off the press, July/August issue of FAA Safety Briefing! This summer’s issue contains some great content specifically for the student pilot and airman-in-training. It’s the third part in a string of Student Pilot Guides that will provide the reader with tips and resources for success in initial pilot certification. I enjoyed reading this article
- [CFI Brief: Status on Third-Class Medical Reform](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-status-on-third-class-medical-reform/) - Good news: the FAA will not be shutting down on July 15th! Say what? That’s right the current FAA extension act was set to expire on July 15th. Lucky for us, and pretty much anyone who travels by air, the House,after much back and forth between senate, passed the “FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act
- [CFI Brief: Flying into EAA AirVenture 2016?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-flying-into-eaa-airventure-2016/) - Flying to EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin this year? Well if so you will be just one of the more than 10,000 landings that will take place at Whitman Regional Airport over the week. Insane yes, but don’t let that high number deter you from flying in, it’s almost a rite of passage and will
- [Editor's Picks: Summer Reading](https://learntoflyblog.com/editors-picks-summer-reading/) - Looking to up your skills or just relax with a book at your campsite at EAA AirVenture? Today we'll share a few summer reading suggestions for the aviator. And speaking of AirVenture, be sure to come visit us this week in Hangar B, Aisle D! Logging Flight Time by William K. Kershner A fantastic collection of
- [Weather: Dew Point](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-dew-point/) - As we've talked about before, being aware of the weather at takeoff, at your destination, and en route is a key part of flight planning and flying safety. By now you know which models to check before you leave, but an understanding of the basic elements of weather and atmosphere can help you anticipate changes
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Wake Turbulence](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-wake-turbulence/) - You're probably familiar with wake trailing boats. Larger vessels generate more wake, and it's very easy to see when you're in the water. Airplanes generate wake too, and the wake trailing larger airplanes is something to be aware of. Today, we'll introduce wake turbulence with words and pictures from the new edition of the Pilot's
- [Weather: Wind Shear](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-wind-shear/) - Wind shear is a sudden, drastic change in wind speed and/or direction over a very small area. Wind shear can subject an aircraft to violent updrafts and downdrafts, as well as abrupt changes to the horizontal movement of the aircraft. Today, we'll go over the basics of this common weather phenomena, with excerpts from the
- [CFI Brief: Remote Pilot Privileges](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-remote-pilot-privileges/) - So who’s planning on taking the Remote Pilot Knowledge Test next week? It becomes available August 29. I know I am! Don’t worry, I am well aware I don’t “need” to since I already hold a pilot certificate issued under Part 61, but I figured it would be a great opportunity and good learning experience
- [Creating the FAR/AIM: How a Bill becomes a Regulation](https://learntoflyblog.com/creating-the-far-aim-how-a-bill-becomes-a-regulation/) - With the election around the corner, knowledge about how the government works is at a premium. The Learn to Fly Blog has talked about additions and upcoming changes to aviation regulations, but we haven’t covered how these get created in the first place. Who writes them and what is the process they go through? To
- [CFI Brief: Remote Pilot Knowledge Exam, Inside Scoop!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-remote-pilot-knowledge-exam-inside-scoop/) - I took the new Remote Pilot knowledge test this week and scored a 95%! While proud of my score, my strength isn’t in my genius but rather my ability to develop and execute a plan: I studied properly and used all the recommended materials to achieve the highest possible grade I could. So here’s the
- [Communication Procedures: Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT)](https://learntoflyblog.com/communication-procedures-emergency-locator-transmitter-elt/) - Today here at ASA, we're celebrating the launch of Finding Carla, the first book from commercial pilot and writer Ross Nixon. Finding Carla chronicles the Oiens, a family of three, who survive a plane crash in California's Trinity Mountains in 1967. The family survived for almost two months but the ruggedness of the terrain and
- [CFI Brief: Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-emergency-locator-transmitter-elt/) - In keeping with the theme from Monday’s post and celebration of the release of the new book Finding Carla, today we will continue the discussion on emergency locator transmitters (ELTs). Since the 1960s, technology has improved greatly and brought about new legislation requiring an ELT in all registered U.S. Civil aircraft with few exceptions. The
- [Aircraft Performance: Runway Surface and Gradient](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-runway-surface-and-gradient/) - The majority of pilot-caused aircraft accidents occur during the takeoff and landing phases of flight. So today on the Learn to Fly Blog, we'll take a look at how runway conditions can effect takeoff and landing performance. Today's post comes from The Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. Runway conditions affect takeoff and landing performance. Typically, performance chart
- [CFI Brief: Maneuvering During Slow Flight (PA.VII.A)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-maneuvering-during-slow-flight-pa-vii-a/) - Maneuvering during slow flight is a task required of all private pilot airplane applicants per 14 CFR §61.107(b). The applicant must be able to demonstrate this task to a set of evaluation standards outlined in the Airman Certification Standards (ACS-6). The Private Pilot ACS, effective June 15 2016, revised how slow flight should be conducted during
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Pilot Deviations](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-pilot-deviations/) - Today on the Learn to Blog, we'll take a look again at safety in and around the airport. This post is excerpted from the new edition of the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. A pilot deviation (PD) is an action of a pilot that violates any Federal Aviation Regulation. While PDs should be avoided, the regulations do
- [CFI Brief: Runway Incursion, Disaster Averted.](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-runway-incursion-disaster-averted/) - Reading Monday’s post you learned that a pilot deviation (PD) is a pilot action that violates any Federal Aviation Regulation. The two broad categories of PDs are ground- or surface-based deviation and airborne deviation. A common example of a surface-based deviation would be a runway incursion, which just is today’s topic. Runway Incursion: any occurrence
- [Navigation: Chart-Reading in Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-chart-reading-in-flight/) - Chapter 26, "En Route Navigation," of the new fourth edition of The Pilot's Manual: Ground School focuses on how to go about the business being an effective pilot/navigator with minimum interruption of safely flying the airplane. The components of successful pilot/navigation are: flight planning; chart-reading (also known as pilotage) which means determining your position over
- [Aircraft Performance: Air Density](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-air-density/) - Takeoff and landing are perhaps two of the most labor intensive tasks involved in piloting an airplane, and they start long before the wheels leave the ground. Takeoffs involve much more than smooth piloting skills; they involve careful planning and preparation. A very smooth takeoff is of little value if the airplane, once airborne, is
- [Weather: Adverse Wind](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-adverse-wind/) - [Update: In December 2022, the FAA published the Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28) which replaced Advisory Circulars 00-6, 00-45 and 00-54.] Adverse wind is a category of hazardous weather that is responsible for many weather-related accidents. Adverse winds include: crosswinds, gusts, tailwind, variable wind, and a sudden wind shift. Takeoff and landing are the most critical
- [Human Factors: Managing Risks](https://learntoflyblog.com/human-factors-managing-risks/) - This week we're featuring an excerpt from the just-released latest edition of the Risk Management Handbook (FAA-H-8083-2). This FAA handbook provides tools to help pilots determine and assess each situation for the safest possible flight with the least amount of risk. This handbook presents methods pilots can use to manage the workloads associated with each
- [Editor's Picks: Last-minute gifts for the pilots on your list!](https://learntoflyblog.com/editors-picks-last-minute-gifts-for-the-pilots-on-your-list/) - Time's almost up, but ASA has you covered! Here are three books for the pilot in your life! Be sure to check out our list from earlier this month and all of our editor's picks as well. The Basic Aerobatic Manual by William K. Kershner William K. Kershner started his solo aerobatic career in a Stearman
- [CFI Brief: Who got a drone for Christmas?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-who-got-a-drone-for-christmas/) - Did you get a drone for Christmas? Does it weight over 0.55 lbs? If so, you better register your drone ASAP or you can be subject to civil and criminal penalties! To begin the drone registration process follow the link or click on the image below, it’s quick and easy: https://registermyuas.faa.gov/ The next question you will
- [CFI Brief: FAA Safety Briefing—January 2017](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-breif-faa-safety-briefing-january-2017/) - Check out the latest FAA Safety Briefing for January/February 2017! Click the image below for your very own PDF copy. Also available in ePUB and MOBI.
- [CFI Brief: BasicMed](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-basicmed/) - Hot off the presses from the FAA, Tuesday January 10th 2017 : FAA Issues General Aviation Medical Rule The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today issued a final rule (PDF) that allows general aviation pilots to fly without holding an FAA medical certificate as long as they meet certain requirements outlined in Congressional legislation. “The United States
- [Aircraft Performance: Introduction to Performance Factors](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-introduction-to-performance-factors/) - For today's post, we have adapted information from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge to introduce the subject of aircraft performance. Matters of aircraft performance will always be subject to the guidelines of your specific aircraft outlined in the performance or operational information section of the Aircraft Flight Manual/Pilot’s Operating Handbook (AFM/POH). The use of
- [How to Prepare Physically for Your Practical Test](https://learntoflyblog.com/3080-2/) - Today we’re pleased to feature a guest post from CFI and DPE Jason Blair. Check out his previous contributions to the LTFB here. He writes his own blog at JasonBlair.net Practical tests can be physically demanding in additional to the mental stress that they cause. Preparing for a practical test physically can be a key
- [Weather: Operational Factors of Thunderstorms and Microbursts](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-operational-factors-of-thunderstorms-and-microbursts/) - Icing, reduced visibility from fog or particulates, turbulence, windshear, thunderstorms, and microbursts are all types of weather that pose significant operational challenges. We've already discussed the weather theory behind thunderstorms and other related weather events, so today we'll focus on the things to keep in mind should you ever find yourself operating in the vicinity
- [sUAS: Operating a Drone in Controlled Airspace](https://learntoflyblog.com/suas-operating-a-drone-in-controlled-airspace/) - Local news in our area is reporting this morning of increased sightings of drones near SeaTac and PDX approaches. Incidents in the Pacific Northwest include a near-midair collision with a National Guard A-10 fighter based at Boise's airport and a number of airline pilot reports of drone operations in the vicinity of airport operations including a "saucer-shaped
- [Weather: Temperature Inversions](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-temperature-inversions/) - Today's post on temperature inversions comes to us from The Pilot's Manual: Ground School (PM-2). Temperature normally decreases with altitude. In the standard atmosphere the temperature is assumed to decrease by approximately 1.98°C for each 1,000 feet climbed in a stationary air mass. In practice, we can assume a decrease, or temperature lapse rate, of
- [CFI Brief: 14 CFR §91.211 Supplemental Oxygen](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-14-cfr-§91-211-supplemental-oxygen/) - I hope you thoroughly read Monday’s post on oxygen regulations, if not you could be in trouble answering this two question pop quiz to start of today’s blog. NO cheating! 1. When operating an aircraft at cabin pressure altitudes above 12,500 feet MSL up to and including 14,000 feet MSL, supplemental oxygen shall be used
- [CFI Brief: Don't Be Afraid of the Dark!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-dont-be-afraid-of-the-dark/) - One of my favorite times to fly is during the night or in the wee hours of the morning while it's still dark. Ever since my first night cross-country flight, I have enjoyed being in the skies when most people are at home sound asleep. Often, flying during these nighttime hours can be a much
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: The Go-Around](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-the-go-around/) - Today we're excited to announce a new fifth edition of our foundational textbook The Pilot's Manual: Flight School (PM-1). Flight School breaks down all the tasks required for Private and Commercial certification. Each chapter outlines the objective, consideration, application, technique, and airmanship of a maneuver as well as a visual explanation of the task and
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Normal Landing](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-normal-landing/) - A good landing is most likely following a good approach, so aim to be well established in a stabilized approach with the airplane nicely trimmed by the time you reach short final, the last part of the approach. Short final for a training airplane may be thought of as the last 200 feet. The landing
- [CFI Brief: June 2017 Test Roll](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-june-2017-test-roll/) - June has been a busy month here at ASA headquarters and for the FAA. Let’s recap what all is going down in terms of Airman Testing. The FAA has released updated Airman Certification Standards for both Private Pilot Airplane (FAA-S-ACS-6A) and Instrument Pilot Airplane (FAA-S-ACS-8A) effective June 2017. Additionally, the Commercial Pilot Airplane ACS was
- [CFI Brief: Fireworks, Drones and Airplanes Don't Mix](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-fireworks-drones-and-airplanes-dont-mix/) - The ASA offices will be closed July 3rd and 4th for Independence Day. Happy 4th of July! Now for a public service announcement from the FAA! June 30- As people travel, purchase fireworks and fly drones over the Independence Day holiday, the FAA reminds them to know and follow the aviation safety rules. Here are
- [Aircraft Performance: Changing Airspeed in Straight-and-Level Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-changing-airspeed-in-straight-and-level-flight/) - Normal cruise involves setting cruise power, holding cruise altitude, and accepting the airspeed that is achieved, which should be close to the figure published in your Pilot’s Operating Handbook. On occasions, however, there is a need to fly at other than normal cruise airspeed. Today, we'll discuss the basics of changing speeds in straight-and-level flight
- [Weather: Precipitation](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-precipitation-2/) - [Update: In December 2022, the FAA published the Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28) which replaced Advisory Circulars 00-6 and 00-45.] We're seeing rain for the first time in over two months in the Seattle area right now, so how about a refresher on precipitation today on the Learn to Fly Blog? Today's post is excerpted from
- [CFI Brief: Pilot Deviations, Stay Alert!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-pilot-deviations-stay-alert/) - Yesterday, the FAA Safety Team distributed a newly published Fly Safe Fact Sheet, Avoiding Pilot Deviations (PDs). Now listen, if you’ve read this blog over the years you know we have discussed this topic before. However, it’s worth discussing on the regular since PDs can lead to serious consequences in the form of accidents or
- [Weather: Measurement of Atmospheric Pressure](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-measurement-of-atmospheric-pressure/) - Today's post is an excerpt from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (8083-25). Atmospheric pressure historically was measured in inches of mercury ("Hg) by a mercurial barometer. The barometer measures the height of a column of mercury inside a glass tube. A section of the mercury is exposed to the pressure of the atmosphere, which
- [CFI Brief: October 2017 Test Roll](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-october-2017-test-roll/) - The FAA October test cycle resulted in very few changes or updates to the FAA Airman Knowledge Tests. The FAA Aviation Exam Board continues to work to align questions within the context of a specific Area of Operation/Task as outlined in the various Airman Certification Standards publications. The goal of this boarding process is to
- [CFI Brief: FAA Safety Briefing, January 2018](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-faa-safety-briefing-january-2018/) - The first edition of the FAA Safety Briefing for 2018 is now available and includes some great articles. One in particular that I found to be very informative is "Simple?" written by Susan Parsons. This is a great article that discusses getting back to the basics of piloting in an otherwise complex environment. To read
- [Ground Reference Maneuvers: Rectangular Course](https://learntoflyblog.com/ground-reference-maneuvers-rectangular-course/) - A pilot must develop the proper coordination, timing, and attention to accurately and safely maneuver the airplane with regard to the required attitudes and ground references. Ground reference maneuvers are the principle flight maneuvers that combine the four fundamentals (straight-and-level, turns, climbs, and descents) into a set of integrated skills that the pilot uses in
- [CFI Brief: Aviation Weather Services (AC 00-45H) - UPDATE](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-aviation-weather-services-ac-00-45h-updates/) - [Update: In December 2022, the FAA published the Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28) which replaced Advisory Circulars 00-6 and 00-45.] The FAA has issued a Change 1 to Advisory Circular AC 00-45H effective January 8th 2018. AC 00-45, more commonly referred as Aviation Weather Services, is the go-to resource for U.S. aviation weather products and services.
- [CFI Brief: February 2018 Test Roll](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-february-2018-test-roll/) - The FAA February test cycle resulted in few changes or updates to the FAA Airman Knowledge Tests. The FAA Aviation Exam Board continues to work to align questions within the context of a specific Area of Operation/Task as outlined in the various Airman Certification Standards publications. The goal of this boarding process is to ensure
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Traffic Patterns](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-traffic-patterns/) - Today we're featuring an excerpt from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25). At airports without an operating control tower, a segmented circle visual indicator system, if installed, is designed to provide traffic pattern information. Usually located in a position affording maximum visibility to pilots in the air and on the ground and providing a
- [Preparing for and Passing Your FAA Remote Pilot Knowledge Test](https://learntoflyblog.com/preparing-for-and-passing-your-faa-remote-pilot-knowledge-test/) - Today, we asked recently-certified remote pilot Monira B. to share his experience studying for and taking the FAA Remote Pilot Knowledge Test. I've been building and tinkering with drones for the last couple years and flying them recreationally. I wanted to get into aerial photography and figured I'd eventually sell prints or try to monetize
- [Announcing the Learn to Fly Blog from ASA](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-blog-from-asa/) - Welcome to the Learn to Fly Blog provided by ASA (Aviation Supplies and Academics, Inc). I'm Dan Johnson, sort of the "blogmaster" around here. If you are thinking of learning to fly or already working on your pilot's license, this site is for you. We'll cover a multitude of topics around the subject of learning
- [Editor's Picks: Greg Brown](https://learntoflyblog.com/editors-picks-greg-brown-2/) - Today I'd like to highlight three books from author, pilot educator, and photographer Greg Brown. Greg has been flying since 1972 and writes the Flying Carpet column in AOPA Flight Training magazine and maintains the popular Facebook group Greg Brown's Student Pilot Pep Talk. You can find more of Greg's work including his aerial photography on
- [The Love Flight That Wasn't](https://learntoflyblog.com/the-love-flight-that-wasnt/) - by Laurel Lippert, Are you thinking about learning to fly because your spouse is a pilot? Or, maybe you dream about flying around the country with your husband or wife who also wants to learn to fly. Sharing the cockpit of a small airplane would be fun, right? Well, the truth is, like all joint
- [Stuck somewhere?  Might be your lucky day.](https://learntoflyblog.com/helpful-aviation-community/) - by Laurel Lippert, When you become a pilot, you join a helpful community. Being stranded at an airport somewhere gives you a chance to see just how supportive it can be. Finding yourself stranded somewhere might seem like the worst fate if you’re a pilot, but, more often than not, it turns out to be
- [Encouraged to fly, even after 49 years old (Part 2)](https://learntoflyblog.com/encouraged-to-fly-even-after-49-years-old-part-2/) - by Greg Brown, Is it worth learning to fly at an older age? Yes, even at 54, says this retired Air Force Lt Col. Feeling too old to learn to fly? Let’s change that feeling. Age is not a factor when determining if you can obtain your pilot’s license. Health and physical ability, yes…but not
- [Aerial Road Trip to Oshkosh](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerial-road-trip-to-oshkosh/) - by Greg Brown, from his ASA book Flying Carpet: The Soul of an Airplane, Crowds. Craziness. Music. It’s enough to justify a road trip. I’m not talking Woodstock here, but AirVenture, that surprisingly similar event in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. AirVenture’s tunes come not from wailing guitars but from airplane engines — vying like Stratocasters for the crowd’s
- [Festival Flying](https://learntoflyblog.com/festival-flying/) - by Greg Brown, from his ASA book Flying Carpet: The Soul of an Airplane, “Hey, Dan, check out that ’39 Chevy. It’s just like the one I owned in high school – even the same color!” Dan drives a tricked out Camaro, so I doubt he appreciated the old car’s beauty as I did. Then again,
- [Encouraged to fly, even after 49 years old (Part 3)](https://learntoflyblog.com/encouraged-to-fly-even-after-49-years-old-part-3/) - by Greg Brown, Any healthy person can learn to fly. Even at age 57 and beyond. You just need persistence and patience. There’s no age limit to learning to fly, as you’ll continue to hear me say. A few days ago, I introduced you to Jeanne Peterson and her concern about perhaps being too old
- [Encouraged to fly, even after 49 years old (Part 4)](https://learntoflyblog.com/encouraged-to-fly-even-after-49-years-old-part-4/) - by Greg Brown, With persistence and patience, you too can overcome challenges learning to fly. As I’ve shared over the last few days in my posts about Jeanne Peterson, Chevy Chevallard, and Phil Ferdolage, there is no ceiling age when you’re too old to learn to fly. Regardless of age, staying focused and committed (persistent)
- [What is LSA or Light Sport Aircraft?](https://learntoflyblog.com/what-is-lsa-or-light-sport-aircraft/) - In 2004, Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) became a new category the FAA created for aircraft that are simple, easy to fly and inexpensive to own and operate. To fly an LSA, you’ll need a Sport Pilot License, which is much easier to obtain than other more common pilot’s licenses. It does have some limitations, such
- [Which aircraft are considered Light Sport Aircraft (LSA)?](https://learntoflyblog.com/which-aircraft-are-considered-light-sport-aircraft-lsa/) - Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) are defined by a set of governing regulations. Among the resulting LSA models, there are three styles that are prevalent: (1) Fixed wing, conventional style (airplanes), (2) Powered Parachutes, and (3) “Trikes” (a.k.a. weight-shift control, as the FAA calls them). The conventional airplane style is the one that everyone recognizes. It
- [A Low-Carb, High-Altitude Lunch](https://learntoflyblog.com/a-low-carb-high-altitude-lunch/) - The difference between me right now and me one hour ago is significant: I'm no longer hungry, and I'm current to carry passengers. I didn't plan to fly today, but the weather got the best of me. It's midweek, so of course an airplane was available. Plus, my currency had lapsed and I need to
- [Why fly a Light Sport Aircraft (LSA)?](https://learntoflyblog.com/why-fly-a-light-sport-aircraft-lsa/) - Light Sport Aircraft (LSA), including the fixed wing, conventional airplane style, are some of the most fun and simplest you can fly. Even though you can find faster flying airplanes elsewhere, there are significant reasons you would choose LSA over those others. Even within LSA, there is a wide range of aircraft that fit diverse
- [Where can I fly Light Sport Aircraft (LSA)?](https://learntoflyblog.com/where-can-i-fly-light-sport-aircraft-lsa/) - Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) can fly into the same airspace and airports as standard category, general aviation (GA) aircraft. In addition, LSA can operate in many places that standard category (non-LSA) cannot. LSA’s higher performance and slower speeds allow them to fly into smaller fields with shorter takeoff and landing areas. The higher power-to-weight ratio
- [Choosing the right Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) for Yourself](https://learntoflyblog.com/choosing-the-right-light-sport-aircraft-lsa-for-yourself/) - What factors should you consider before buying or learning how to fly a Light Sport Aircraft? Lifestyle. Imagine living your dream. What lifestyle do you want to create for yourself? With so many types of aircraft, you can to choose what you want, what’s best for you. Speed. If you want a new and
- [Maintenance and inspections for Light Sport Aircraft (LSA)](https://learntoflyblog.com/maintenance-and-inspections-for-light-sport-aircraft-lsa/) - FAA regulations for the maintenance and inspection of Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) are specific about the frequency of inspections and who may perform their maintenance. Conventional, standard category LSA, such as a Piper J-3 Cub, are maintained the same way as their standard category brothers, such as a Cessna 172. There is no change to
- [Flight Training: Taking the Short Approach](https://learntoflyblog.com/flight-training-taking-the-short-approach/) - A comprehensive orientation to aviation — find out what's involved with learning to fly and earning a pilot's license in this streamlined approach to flight training.
- [No One Will Teach You To Be A Safe Pilot](https://learntoflyblog.com/no-one-will-teach-you-to-be-a-safe-pilot/) - Do you think flight training is about choosing a flight instructor and then sitting back while knowledge is stuffed into your head? If so, let’s clear out that head of yours right now. In my book Flight Training: Taking the Short Approach, I suggest how to go about choosing a flight school, certified flight instructor
- [Be a Sport Pilot: Learn to Fly a Fixed Wing Light-Sport Aircraft](https://learntoflyblog.com/be-a-sport-pilot-learn-to-fly-a-fixed-wing-light-sport-aircraft/) - Experience the adventure of becoming a Sport Pilot and flying a fixed wing, 3-axis aircraft.
- [Failures on the Flight Path to Success](https://learntoflyblog.com/failures-on-the-flight-path-to-success/) - “Did you know that women ruined aviation?” asked the examiner. I stared at the man across the desk with a blank look, not sure if I should laugh or cry. It was my instrument rating oral exam, and I was as nervous as I always am before a test, trying to keep my sense of
- [CFI Brief: Drone vs. Aircraft at 238 MPH!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-drone-vs-aircraft-at-238-mph/) - Reports of small unmanned aircraft systems, or drones as they are commonly called, operating within the vicinity of airports without authorization is on the rise. Drone ownership has skyrocketed in the past few years and everyone from teenagers to government agencies have their hands on one. The increase of drones being spotted near and close
- [Learn to Fly 1: Introduction](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-1-introduction/) - Welcome to the new Learn to Fly Blog by Aviation Supplies and Academics. We have decided take a fresh look at our blog and to use it to help students and future pilots learn and explore insights on the foundations of flight and flight training. You will find out what it takes to become a pilot,
- [Learn to Fly 3: How much will it cost?](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-3-how-much-will-it-cost/) - One of the most common worries among prospective pilots is whether it is affordable to learn to fly. Greg Brown and Laurel Lippert's book You Can Fly! does a great job at explaining this: A range of factors will determine your total investment in flight training. First of all, flight school costs vary based on
- [Learn to Fly 2: Why Fly?](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-2-why-fly/) - Why fly? The following is an excerpt from You Can Fly! by Greg Brown and Laurel Lippert that explains why flying is such an amazing feeling: Flying is humankind's wildest dream fulfilled–soaring among the birds, playing tag with the clouds and gazing down upon the wonders of the earth. Pilots really do get to do
- [Flying Carpet: The Soul of an Airplane](https://learntoflyblog.com/flying-carpet-the-soul-of-an-airplane/) - A great read for anyone—not just pilots! This exceptional collection of flying stories is one ride that should not be missed.
- [You Can Fly!](https://learntoflyblog.com/you-can-fly/) - For prospective pilots, an exciting and informative introduction to the world of flying and flight training, profusely illustrated with full-color photography by Tom Lippert.
- [CFI Brief: Aerodynamics Questions](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-questions/) - To control yaw! I know you have been anxiously awaiting the answer to last week’s teaser question, and there it is: answer A. The purpose of the rudder is to control yaw about the vertical axis of the aircraft. As promised here are a few more questions to test your knowledge of the information presented
- [Navigation: Aeronautical Charts](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-aeronautical-charts/) - This introduction to aeronautical charts comes from the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, a foundational text for any student pilot. An aeronautical chart is the road map for a pilot flying under VFR. The chart provides information which allows pilots to track their position and provides available information which enhances safety. The three aeronautical charts
- [Ground School: Hypoxia](https://learntoflyblog.com/ground-school-hypoxia/) - This introduction to hypoxia is excerpted from the FAA's Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, available from ASA. Hypoxia means “reduced oxygen” or “not enough oxygen.” Although any tissue will die if deprived of oxygen long enough, usually the most concern is with getting enough oxygen to the brain, since it is particularly vulnerable to oxygen
- [Navigation: Introduction](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-introduction/) - Navigation is the process of piloting an aircraft from one geographic position to another while monitoring one’s position as the flight progresses. It introduces the need for planning, which includes plotting the course on an aeronautical chart, selecting checkpoints, measuring distances, obtaining pertinent weather information, and computing flight time, headings, and fuel requirements. There are
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: The Airport](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-the-airport/) - Today's post comes from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot, an excellent resource for anyone working to earn their private pilot license. At any airport, you will have to be able to identify the runway in use, taxi safely, be aware of wake turbulence hazards, deal with the line crew, know who (if anyone) controls your
- [CFI Brief: Runway Incursion](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-runway-incursion/) - If you take a look in the Private Pilot Practical Test Standards you will note a section called "Special Emphasis Areas.” The section lists several areas in relation to aircraft operations that are considered critical to flight safety. It will be the examiners job during a practical test to place special emphasis on each listed
- [Weather Services: Observations and Forecasts](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-services-observations-and-forecasts/) - Weather information can be divided into two categories: observations, and forecasts. An observation is a snapshot of weather conditions at a stated time; its utility degrades over time. Some observations can be as much as an hour old when you first see them. If your planned trip is four to seven days in the future,
- [CFI Brief: Interpreting the ASI](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-interpreting-the-asi/) - The airspeed indicator (ASI) is an important component of the pitot-static instruments. As you can imagine, there are numerous speeds for each aircraft. It can be tough sometimes to remember all those V-speeds, particularly if you are transitioning between multiple aircraft with different performance characteristics. The ASA Dictionary of Aeronautical Terms by Dale Crane defines V-speeds
- [Weather Services: Weather Briefings](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-services-weather-briefings/) - [Update: In December 2022, the FAA published the Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28) which replaced Aviation Weather (AC 00-6) and Aviation Weather Services (AC 00-45).] This week, we're thinking about weather briefings. This post comes from the FAA's Aviation Weather Services, available from ASA in print, PDF, and in a combo-pak with Aviation Weather. Prior to every flight, pilots should
- [Enroute Flight: Latitude and Longitude](https://learntoflyblog.com/enroute-flight-latitude-and-longitude/) - Understanding the imaginary grid we've laid out around and across our planet is key in flight planning and ultimately your safety. Today, we'll review some of the basics with help from the FAA textbook Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. The equator is an imaginary circle equidistant from the poles of the Earth. Circles parallel to the
- [CFI Brief: Favorite Aviation Videos from 2015](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-favorite-aviation-videos-from-2015/) - Happy New Year! I think we've accomplished enough learning for the year right? Let's take a break on the last day of 2015 and check out some cool videos from the last 12 months in aviation. — First up, the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner practicing for the Paris Airshow. http://www.youtube.com/embed/KYbM-3E11Qo The life of a corporate pilot,
- [CFI Brief: Procedural Compliance](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-procedural-compliance/) - Procedural compliance is defined as following the appropriate procedure at the appropriate time. It has become a hot button issue as of late due to the increased number of accidents resulting from a lack of procedural compliance in the cockpit. The NTSB has recently released a video highlighting the importance of procedural compliance. It’s informative
- [Editor's Picks: Holiday Favorites](https://learntoflyblog.com/editors-picks-holiday-favorites/) - Today I'd like to recommend three great holiday gifts for pilot's. Along with covering everything an aviation professional or aspiring aviator needs for their advancement, ASA has a large aviator's library of books by pilots for pilots ranging from history, to best practices, to personal accounts. Making Perfect Takeoffs & Landings by Ron Fowler Making Perfect
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Taxiing](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-taxiing/) - Today's post comes from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot. Strong gusty winds can make taxiing a chore, and mishandling the controls might result in loss of control. You must understand how to use the controls so that the wind cannot get beneath the wing or tail surfaces and cause you to drag a wing
- [CFI Brief: Bird Strikes](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-bird-strikes/) - I can’t put my finger on it but for some reason I feel today would be a great day to discuss bird strikes. A bird strike is a potentially serious safety of flight event and has the ability to cause substantial damage to an aircraft big or small. There have been over 142,000 reported bird
- [Editor's Picks: Stocking Stuffers](https://learntoflyblog.com/editors-picks-stocking-stuffers/) - Need a stocking stuffer or a last minute gift idea for that pilot in your life? We've got you covered! These are some of our favorite things: Flight Notes This set of 3, 48-page notebooks is the perfect pocket reference for any pilot. Each notebook contains quick reference aviation facts including lists, tables, and graphs
- [CFI Brief: FAA Handbooks](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-faa-handbooks/) - Time to update your aviation library! ASA has just taken delivery of newly published editions of the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25) and Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook (FAA-H-8083-1). Both FAA Handbooks have been revised and edited to include more relevant and meaningful information with regards to today’s flight environment. The Pilot’s Handbook of
- [Navigation: Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-automatic-dependent-surveillance-broadcast/) - Today, we're featuring an excerpt from The Pilot's Manual: Instrument Flying (PM-3). Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) is a surveillance technology being deployed throughout the entire National Airspace System. ADS-B enables improved surveillance services, both air-to-air and air-to-ground, especially in areas where radar is ineffective due to terrain or where radar is impractical or cost prohibitive.
- [Learn to Fly 4: Getting Started](https://learntoflyblog.com/learn-to-fly-4-getting-started/) - If these last posts have convinced you that you would like to be a pilot, that's great! Bob Gardner's book, The Complete Private Pilot is a great place to start! Here is an excerpt from his book: So you want to be a pilot! You've come to the right place. If you haven't already done
- [Introducing the New CX-3 Flight Computer](https://learntoflyblog.com/introducing-the-new-cx-3-flight-computer/) - Today on the Learn to Fly Blog, we'd like to share some information on ASA's next generation CX-3 Flight Computer, available this November. The CX-3 is an excellent companion in the cockpit, on the tarmac, or the ground school classroom, whether you need to make a rate of descent calculation or plan a flight. You
- [CFI Brief: Engine Failure, Video Clip](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-engine-failure-video-clip/) - In keeping with the theme of gliding, this week I am going to follow-up Jason’s post with a clip from our Virtual Test Prep™ Flight Maneuvers DVD on airborne engine failures. After reading Monday's post and watching this short clip see if you can answer the two following questions. 1. When executing an emergency approach
- [Ground Reference Maneuvers: Turns Around a Point](https://learntoflyblog.com/4717-2/) - Today we're featuring a follow-up to our recent post on the rectangular course with an excerpt from the Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3). Turns around a point are a logical extension of both the rectangular course and S-turns across a road. The maneuver is a 360° constant radius turn around a single ground-based reference point. The
- [Weather: Clouds](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-clouds/) - Today we'll review one of the fundamental concepts in aviation weather, understanding clouds. This post feature's an excerpt from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (8083-25). Clouds are visible indicators and are often indicative of future weather. For clouds to form, there must be adequate water vapor and condensation nuclei, as well as a method
- [Aerodynamics: Shock Waves](https://learntoflyblog.com/aerodynamics-shock-waves/) - Today we're taking a look at a concept related to high speed flight, shock waves, with an excerpt from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25). During flight, a wing produces lift by accelerating the airflow over the upper surface. This accelerated air can, and does, reach sonic speeds even though the aircraft itself may
- [Calculating Fuel Burn on the CX-2](https://learntoflyblog.com/calculating-fuel-burn-on-the-cx-2/) - Today's post is a video is about how to calculate the amount of fuel used when given the fuel burn rate and time en route using our CX-2 flight computer. The CX-2 complies with Order 8080.6- Conduct of Airman Knowledge Tests, so users are free to bring their CX-2 with them to the testing centers for
- [Weather: Turbulence](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-turbulence/) - This week: turbulence. Some degree of turbulence is almost always present in the atmosphere and pilots quickly become accustomed to slight turbulence. Moderate or severe turbulence, however, is uncomfortable and can even overstress the airplane. Today we'll talk about its causes and share some best-practices when encountering turbulence. Words and pictures have been excerpted from
- [CFI Brief: Would I be a good flight instructor?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-would-i-be-a-good-flight-instructor/) - Have you ever thought about taking you’re flying career to the next level and becoming a Certified Flight Instructor? Well, today we are going to take a quick look at some of the characteristics and responsibilities that and aviation instructor must possess. Many students view an aviation instructor as an authority, so it is important for an instructor to project
- [Editor's Picks for the 2017 Holiday Season](https://learntoflyblog.com/editors-picks-for-the-2017-holiday-season/) - 2017 was a big year for us at ASA. We've been busy, releasing new editions of all three Pilot's Manual textbooks (Flight School, Ground School, and Instrument Flying), William Kershner's The Student Pilot's Flight Manual, Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot, our Oral Exam Guide titles (Private, Instrument, Commercial, Multi-Engine, CFI, and Aircraft Dispatcher), Dale Crane's Dictionary
- [Aircraft Systems: Electrical System](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-systems-electrical-system/) - Today, we're featuring an excerpt from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-8083-25). Most aircraft are equipped with either a 14- or a 28-volt direct current (DC) electrical system. A basic aircraft electrical system consists of the following components: Alternator/generator Battery Master/battery switch Alternator/generator switch Bus bar, fuses, and circuit breakers Voltage regulator Ammeter/loadmeter Associated
- [CFI Brief: Ground Effect, Pop Quiz!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-ground-effect-pop-quiz/) - I sure hope you read Monday's post on ground effect because today I’m throwing a pop quiz at you! Remember that ground effect occurs when flying within one wingspan or less above the surface. The airflow around the wing and wing tip is modified and the resulting pattern reduces the downwash which reduces the induced
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: The Round Out (Flare)](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-the-round-out-flare/) - Today's post is excerpted from the brand-new edition of the Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3) available now in print and ebook from ASA. The round out is a slow, smooth transition from a normal approach attitude to a landing attitude, gradually rounding out the flightpath to one that is parallel with, and within a very few
- [CFI Brief: Updates to ACS and NEW Testing Supplements](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-updates-to-acs-and-new-testing-supplements/) - This week, the FAA released updated Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for Private Pilot-Airplane, Instrument Rating-Airplane, and Commercial Pilot Airplane. The Airman Testing Branch will be hosting a webinar next week, June 6th to discuss the updates that are taking place. Webinar information is as follows: June 6, 2018, at 1430 Central Time, to attend follow
- [CFI Brief: Earning a Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-earning-a-remote-pilot-certificate-drone/) - Drone operation is one of the most popular topics in the world of aviation right now. It has taken off over the last few years and is growing at an astounding pace. The FAA has been playing catch up with regulating this growing Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) industry. The recently released Part 107 of
- [Aircraft Performance: Takeoff Distance](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-takeoff-distance/) - Today we're talking about takeoff distance. The majority of pilot-cause aircraft accidents occur during the takeoff and landing phase of flight. Therefore, a pilot must be familiar with all the variables that can influence aircraft performance during these critical phases. This post is excerpted from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. The minimum takeoff distance
- [Enroute Flight: Mental Workload](https://learntoflyblog.com/enroute-flight-mental-workload/) - We tend to think of piloting an airplane as a physical skill, but there is much more to it. The pilot must assemble information, interpret data, assess its importance, make decisions, act, communicate, correct and continually reasses. Over time, all of this contributes to fatigue. Today on the Learn to Fly Blog we'll talk about
- [CFI Brief: Parasite and Induced Drag](https://learntoflyblog.com/3183-2/) - Monday’s post touched on the topic of aerodynamics, specifically drag. As you can imagine, drag is an extremely crucial part of flying and also one of the four forces acting on an aircraft in flight (Thrust, Drag, Weight, Lift). Today I want to briefly cover and test your knowledge on the two types of drag:
- [CFI Brief: Complex Airplane, No Longer Required on Checkride](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-complex-airplane-no-longer-required-on-checkride/) - The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a Notice of Change to National Policy regarding use of complex airplanes during Commercial Pilot (Single-Engine Land) or Flight Instructor checkrides. A complex airplane is defined as an airplane with flaps, retractable landing gear, and a constant speed propeller. This change in policy will no longer require the use
- [IFR: Instrument Scanning](https://learntoflyblog.com/ifr-instrument-scanning/) - This week we're back with more on IFR. Go back and familiarize yourself with the basics we've introduced in earlier introductory posts from this year. Today, we'll look at instrument scanning techniques. This post features text and images from The Pilot's Manual Volume 3: Instrument Flying. In instrument conditions, when the natural horizon cannot be
- [CFI Brief: Airport Signage](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-airport-signage/) - Airport signage is an extremely important concept that all pilots will need to have a thorough understanding of prior to earning any pilot certificate, whether it's Private Pilot, Sport Pilot, or even a Remote Pilot Certificate. Right of the bat you should take note that as an airport layout grows in complexity so will the
- [CFI Brief: It's Getting Hot in Here.](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-its-getting-hot-in-here/) - Today, I would like to recap Monday’s post on the aircraft engine cooling system and go over some typical questions you will likely see on your FAA Private Pilot knowledge test. First off, we learned about the effects of operating with an excessively high aircraft engine temperature and that it can lead to loss of
- [CFI Brief: sUAS Operations and Airspace](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-suas-operations-and-airspace/) - Airspace is a significantly important element to sUAS (drone) operations and as the remote pilot-in-command (Remote PIC) it will be your sole responsibility to understand the regulations surrounding airspace operations. In addition to understanding the regulations you will be required to understand the types and classifications of airspace and will need to be able to
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Runway Incursions](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-runway-incursions/) - Learn to reduce your risk of a runway incursion by following these simple FAA recommendations outlined in the Instrument Procedures Handbook (FAA-8083-16). On any given day, the NAS may handle almost 200,000 takeoffs and landings. Due to the complex nature of the airport environment and the intricacies of the network of people that make it
- [CFI Brief: Part 107 sUAS Operating Limitations](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-part-107-suas-operating-limitations/) - If you plan on operating an sUAS under 14 CFR Part 107, make sure you fully understand your operating limitations. Operating Limitations The sUAS must be operated in accordance with the following limitations: • Cannot be flown faster than a ground speed of 87 knots (100 miles per hour). • Cannot be flown higher than
- [Calculating Time En Route on the CX-2](https://learntoflyblog.com/calculating-time-en-route-on-the-cx-2/) - Last week, we showed you how to calculate fuel burn using ASA's CX-2. This week, we'll show you how to calculate leg time, or time en route, when given distance and groundspeed using the CX-2 flight computer. Have a specific problem you want to see worked out on the CX-2 or one of our E6-B
- [Communication Procedures: An Introduction](https://learntoflyblog.com/communication-procedures-an-introduction/) - It can take some time to get the hang of radio communications as a new pilot. However, according to Bob Gardner in his book The Complete Private Pilot, familiarization is key to developing a knack for radio procedures early on. You will learn a lot just by listening on aircraft frequencies to hear how other
- [CFI Brief: VFR vs. VMC](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-vfr-vs-vmc/) - An instructor and student are preparing for an early afternoon flight to conduct maneuvers out in the practice area. The student receives a weather briefing and the instructor asks how the weather conditions are for the flight. The student responds that the weather looks to be VFR. OK, that’s great, but remember, the instructor’s specific
- [CFI Brief: Unusual Attitude Recoveries](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-unusual-attitude-recoveries/) - An unusual attitude in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) is a very unwelcome experience. Many years ago on a commercial cross country training flight with my instructor, I came very close to putting myself in an upset condition, or unusual attitude as it’s commonly referred to. The close call occurred on the last leg of our
- [Weather: Circulation and Wind](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-circulation-and-wind/) - [Update: In December 2022, the FAA published the Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28) which replaced Aviation Weather (AC 00-6) and Aviation Weather Services (AC 00-45).] Differences in temperature create differences in pressure. These pressure differences drives a complex system of winds in a never ending attempt to reach equilibrium. Wind also transports water vapor and spreads
- [Remember Air Traffic Control Is on Your Team](https://learntoflyblog.com/remember-air-traffic-control-is-on-your-team/) - #Communication Procedures
- [CFI Brief: What's the deal with fog?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-whats-the-deal-with-fog/) - Fog, just like clouds, is formed when invisible water vapor in the atmosphere condenses in the air into visible water droplets. You can best think of fog as simply a cloud that reaches the ground. As a pilot you are bound to encounter fog at some point, probably sooner than later as it is one
- [CFI Brief: sUAS Maintenance & Inspection](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-suas-maintenance-inspection/) - In addition to preflight and postflight considerations for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) which was disused in Monday's post, special attention should be placed on maintenance and inspection procedures. Unlike an airplane or helicopter, a sUAS does not require an airworthiness certificate nor is it required to have maintenance inspections done at certain intervals. It
- [Aircraft Performance: Introduction to Weight and Balance](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-introduction-to-weight-and-balance/) - This week we'll introduce weight and balance. This post is excerpted from Bob Gardner's textbook The Complete Private Pilot. It would be nice to have an airplane in which we could fill all of the seats and all of the baggage area, fuel up to capacity, and take off safely without worrying about loading, but
- [Aircraft Performance: Pitch Stability (Stability, part 2)](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-pitch-stability-stability-part-2/) - Before reading today's post, go back and re-read our post on airplane stability from earlier this month. As promised, we'll talk today about how static and dynamic stability applies to you as a pilot. We'll pick up where we left off in Bill Kershner's The Advanced Pilot's Flight Manual. The elevators control the pitch (the movement around
- [Helicopters: Hovering](https://learntoflyblog.com/helicopters-hovering/) - Today, we'll introduce one of the aerodynamic fundamentals of helicopter flight, hovering, with an excerpt from the Helicopter Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-21). Hovering is the most challenging part of flying a helicopter. This is because a helicopter generates its own gusty air while in a hover, which acts against the fuselage and flight control surfaces. The
- [CFI Brief: LIVE from Oshkosh!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-live-from-oshkosh/) - Things are in full swing here at EAA Airventure 2016! It's been a great first couple of days, crowds have been amazing, and the weather seems to be holding out. Be sure to swing by the ASA booth in Hanger B and check out some of our latest products, including hot off the printing press
- [CFI Brief: Update to AC 90-109](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-update-to-ac-90-109/) - Advisory Circular 90-109 has been cancelled and updated to 90-109A effective June 29, 2015. For those of you not familiar with this AC, it deals with transitioning to unfamiliar aircraft. As a pilot or instructor this is an important and resourceful document to become familiar with. Research and available data have found that the majority
- [CFI Brief: Medical Certificates Answers and Explanations](https://learntoflyblog.com/ground-school-medical-certificates-answers-and-explanations/) - On Monday I posted two questions about medical certificates Let’s see how you did. 1. A Third-Class Medical Certificate was issued to a 19-year-old pilot on August 10, this year. To exercise the privileges of a Recreational or Private Pilot Certificate, the medical certificate will expire at midnight onA—August 10, 2 years later.B—August 31, 5 years
- [Enroute Flight: Magnetic Variation](https://learntoflyblog.com/enroute-flight-magnetic-variation/) - Plotting a course? Today we're learning about magnetic variation, with help from Bob Gardner's The Complete Private Pilot textbook. For flight planning purposes you must recognize that although the lines of latitude and longitude on charts are neatly perpendicular and relate to the True North Pole there is nothing in your airplane that relates to
- [Aircraft Performance: Computing Weight and Balance With a Graph](https://learntoflyblog.com/aircraft-performance-computing-weight-and-balance-with-a-graph/) - We've already introduced the importance of weight and balance consideration during your preflight planning, and touched on using the table method to compute weight and balance problems. Our CFI even walked us through some sample problems back in May. Today we'll talk about another method, using a graph, to reliably compute weight and balance to
- [CFI Brief: Summertime!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-summertime/) - The official start to summer is just right around the corner, an exciting time particularly up here in the Pacific Northwest. With summer upon us we tend to see an increase in temperatures and more VFR weather, resulting in an increase in air traffic at and around airports. Changing seasons means a changing environment and
- [Understanding the Pitot-Static System and Flight Instruments: Altimeter](https://learntoflyblog.com/understanding-the-pitot-static-system-and-flight-instruments-altimeter/) - Understanding the Pitot-Static System and Flight Instruments: Altimeter
- [IFR: The Instrument Landing System (ILS)](https://learntoflyblog.com/ifr-the-instrument-landing-system-ils/) - Today, we're featuring an excerpt from The Pilot's Manual: Instrument Flying. In A Pilot's Accident Review, author John Lowery recommends that "after about 100 hours of flying with a new private certificate it’s important to the new pilot’s safety and longevity to begin training for an instrument rating.” If you're a private pilot curious about
- [CFI Brief: The Instrument Approach Procedure Chart](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-the-instrument-approach-procedure-chart/) - On Monday, we learned about the Instrument Landing System and it’s components. Today, I would like to further our discussion and talk about Instrument Approach Procedure Charts. These charts are what depict to pilots how to fly a particular approach into an airport. Many instrument approaches will require the use of an ILS or it’s
- [CFI Brief: Magnetos](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-magnetos/) - So I've been told my airplane engine has two magnetos, but what the heck is a magneto? Well in a reciprocating airplane engine like that of Lycoming IO-360 found in many Cessna 172 aircraft the magnetos are a source of high-voltage electrical energy. This electrical energy is used to produce the spark to ignite the
- [Ground School: Preflight Inspection](https://learntoflyblog.com/ground-school-preflight-inspection/) - The success of a flight depends largely on thorough preparation. In the course of your training, a pattern of regular preflight actions should be developed to ensure that this is the case. This includes planning the flight, and checking the airplane. These preflight actions must be based on the checks found in the pilot’s operating
- [CFI Brief: Effects of Weight on Performance](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-effects-of-weight-on-performance/) - So over the last two weeks while away at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, I may have overindulged a bit too much in deep fried cheese curds. This has unfortunately resulted in a slight weight increase around my waistline and has more than likely affected my athletic performance. Not to compare myself to an airplane, but
- [Weather: Cumulus Cloud Bases](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-cumulus-cloud-bases/) - Test Prep
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Short-Field Approach and Landing](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-short-field-approach-and-landing/) - Short-field approaches and landings require the use of procedures for approaches and landings at fields with a relatively short landing area or where an approach is made over obstacles that limit the available landing area. Short-field operations require the pilot fly the airplane at one of its crucial performance capabilities while close to the ground
- [IFR: Preparation for Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/ifr-preparation-for-flight/) - Careful planning for a flight on instruments is important. Besides satisfying normal IFR requirements, an instrument pilot flying in clouds or at night must be conscious of high terrain or obstacles that cannot be seen, and ensure that a safe altitude above them is maintained. You must be aware of the danger of icing (both
- [CFI Brief: Effective Communication](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-effective-communication/) - According to FAA research and safety reports there are three distinct types of communication errors: An absence of a pilot readback. The pilot merely acknowledges the clearance that he/she in actuality misunderstood. A Readback/hearback error. When a pilot reads back a clearance incorrectly and the controller fails to catch the error. Hearback Type II Errors.
- [CFI Brief: Hypoxia](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-hypoxia/) - Monday’s ground school post had some great information on hypoxia; if you have not yet read it I would suggest doing so. Throughout your aviation training you will continually learn about aeromedical factors that affect pilots such as hypoxia which in my opinion is one of the most dangerous things a pilot can encounter. Just
- [ASA’s Greg Robbins Receives Estridge Award](https://learntoflyblog.com/asas-greg-robbins-receives-estridge-award/) - Each year, the University Aviation Association grants the W.W. Estridge Award to a person who has distinguished themselves as a strong supporter of collegiate aviation education, and this year, ASA’s own Greg Robbins was honored. Nominations for the award must come from UAA members, and the honoree must have made significant contributions while actively involved
- [TFRs and Sports: Drone Footage Exciting and Dangerous](https://learntoflyblog.com/tfrs-and-sports-drone-footage-exciting-and-dangerous/) - Football season is upon us, and game footage is everywhere. Watching your favorite team take on their rival (whether on TV or streaming on a phone or computer) you may notice that one swooping angle is missing: drone coverage. While the spring football leagues, first the USFL and now the UFL, have been using drone
- [Weather Map Resources: Graphical Forecasts for Aviation](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-map-resources-graphical-forecasts-for-aviation/) - Pilots are one of the most weather-informed groups in the world. They must be, because a change in wind direction or a developing storm can make a mess of all their other careful planning. The aviation industry has recognized this, and they make many resources available for pilots, from continual broadcasts from airports that include
- [Preparing for Helicopter Practical Test Scenarios](https://learntoflyblog.com/preparing-for-helicopter-practical-test-scenarios/) - On your road to becoming a certified pilot you’ll reach several milestones. Taking classes with an instructor and spending time in the pilot’s seat make up just part of the path. You also must pass both the written FAA Knowledge Test and a FAA practical exam, which includes both an oral exam and practical flight
- [ASA at AirVenture 2024](https://learntoflyblog.com/asa-at-airventure-2024/) - This week the ASA team is off to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to attend EAA AirVenture 2024. If you are planning to attend, you can choose to visit us at either our indoor or outdoor location. For decades, Hangar B, Aisle D has been the place to find the ASA crew and a 400 square foot display
- [The No Longer Invisible Angle of Attack: AOA Indicators](https://learntoflyblog.com/the-no-longer-invisible-angle-of-attack-aoa-indicators/) - Did you know that loss of control (LOC) is the number one root cause of fatalities in both general aviation (GA) and commercial aviation? More than 25% of GA fatal accidents occur during the maneuvering phase of flight. Of those fatal accidents, half involve stall/spin scenarios resulting in a crash. What can pilots do to
- [The FAA Reauthorization: Why It’s Important](https://learntoflyblog.com/the-faa-reauthorization-why-its-important/) - If you’ve been spending time near the aviation industry in the past year, you have probably heard about the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) reauthorization. Most of the FAA’s budget is financed from the Airport & Airway Trust Fund, which receives its revenue from aviation excise taxes on airline tickets, cargo, and general aviation fuel. This
- [Reading Significant Weather (SIGWX) Forecast Charts](https://learntoflyblog.com/reading-significant-weather-sigwx-forecast-charts/) - Before a flight, pilots must do all they can to prepare for or avoid factors that are out of their control, such as weather. One of the many weather charts that are available are the significant weather (SIGWX) forecast charts. SIGWX charts offer meteorological data that can be vital when planning longer flights, or when
- [Celebrate Drones with Drone Safety Day and Xponential](https://learntoflyblog.com/celebrate-drones-with-drone-safety-day-and-xponential/) - The fourth week in April is an important one for drone enthusiasts. First, April 22–25, AUVSI (Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International) co-hosts the Xponential conference and exhibition. Global leaders and end users in the uncrewed systems and robotics industry will gather at the San Diego Convention Center to learn about and share the latest
- [Aviation Decision-Making and Spring Weather](https://learntoflyblog.com/aviation-decision-making-and-spring-weather/) - The saying “in like a lion out like a lamb” is most often used for March, but April can also be a crazy weather month. While aviation training tends to focus on the go/no-go decision, equally critical are the continue/divert decisions that happen quite literally throughout the flight. Once the decision is made to divert,
- [FAA Releases New Airman Certification Standards](https://learntoflyblog.com/faa-releases-new-airman-certification-standards/) - For the past several years, the FAA has been working on an update for the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS). Monday, using a process called incorporation by reference (IBR), Parts 61, 63, and 65 of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) have been amended, and the new
- [Remote ID Now Enforced for Drones](https://learntoflyblog.com/remote-id-now-enforced-for-drones/) - If you’re a remote pilot, you should know that March 16, 2024, is an important date regarding the enforcement of Remote ID for drones. The FAA has been working to safely and securely integrate UAS (uncrewed aircraft systems) into the national airspace system. This has included a move toward drones broadcasting their identification and location
- [METAR Deciphered](https://learntoflyblog.com/metar-deciphered/) - Some of the most important jargon you’ll learn as a pilot has to be how to read a METAR. These “aviation routine weather reports” provide pilots with an accurate depiction of current weather conditions at an airport. METARs are issued on a regularly scheduled basis, usually close to the top of the hour, unless significant
- [CFI Brief: VOR Service Volumes](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-vor-service-volumes/) - VORs are anything but standard. When operating under the guidance of radio navigational aids like a VOR it’s important to understand the restrictions and standard service volumes (SSV) associated with each aid of intended use. VOR standard service volumes are designated in three classes: Terminal (T), Low Altitude (L), and High Altitude (H). Your aeronautical
- [Skimming Blue Waters](https://learntoflyblog.com/skimming-blue-waters/) - by Greg Brown, from his ASA book Flying Carpet: The Soul of an Airplane, Flying is fun. Here’s the entertaining story of my training and checkride for my seaplane rating. On every flight, even training experiences like these, you have the potential for experiencing exhilaration, awe and laughter. “Need help?” yelled the guy in the tour
- [Like Riding on a Flying Carpet](https://learntoflyblog.com/flying-to-another-world/) - by Greg Brown, from his ASA book Flying Carpet: The Soul of an Airplane, Reward for learning to fly is endless experiences of exhilaration Ninety minutes even in a single engine aircraft, you can find yourself in another world. On one particular day for me, it was magical! The whining of gyros gave way to mystical
- [CFI Brief: 1-800-WX-BRIEF](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-1-800-wx-brief/) - With increasing technologies and access to the internet it may seem to some that a telephone weather briefing is a little outdated. For some it may be, but for others it’s a great opportunity to speak to a weather briefing specialist to learn about the conditions along your route of intended flight. 1-800-WX-BRIEF (992-7433) is
- [Weather: Temperature Variations](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-temperature-variations/) - [Update: In December 2022, the FAA published the Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28) which replaced Advisory Circulars 00-6 and 00-45.] This week, we're taking another look at weather and focusing on its cause: the heating and cooling of the Earth's surface and atmosphere. More on what every pilot needs to know about weather can be found
- [CFI Brief: METAR](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-metar/) - KMYF 031742Z 14003KT 1 1/2SM -RA BR BKN008 OVC012 18/17 A3001 RMK AO2 RAB36 CIG 004V011 P0000 T01780167. Wait, don’t email us yet! I know what you must be thinking, massive typo in today’s blog post. But don’t fret, our editors are not on vacation, this is just an Aviation Routine Weather Report, affectionately known
- [CFI Brief: VOR](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-vor/) - On and around airports, or even driving out in the countryside in an open field, you may see what resembles a giant bowling pin type structure usually surrounded by a security fence. This structure you see is most likely what we in aviation refer to as a VOR. However, not always shaped like a bowling
- [CFI Brief: What causes weather?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-what-causes-weather/) - The theory of weather is a complex yet intriguing topic to discuss. It’s often joked that by the time you complete training you’re an amateur meteorologist. Joke or not, that statement is fairly accurate. Weather can be one of the key factors in determining a go/no-go decision and to make an accurate assessment it is
- [A Pilot’s Story](https://learntoflyblog.com/a-pilots-story/) - A documentary film celebrating the passion for flight Rico Sharqawi/Producer A Pilot’s Story is a feature length documentary film that explores the mystical attraction and endless adventure that draw pilots into the sky. Exhilarating and inspiring, the story is told in the voices of the interview subjects, a gallery of noted aviators ranging from aerobatic
- [Upside Down and Out](https://learntoflyblog.com/upside-down-and-out/) - I thought I was doing fine flying loops and rolls, even a hammerhead, in the brand-new Pitts S2C with only 36 hours on the tachometer. A half-hour earlier, Sean D. Tucker (yes, world-famous airshow performer Sean D. Tucker) had said jokingly, “Now don’t lose your lunch in my new airplane, Laurel.” But, the flat spin
- [Choosing between newer and older planes](https://learntoflyblog.com/choosing-between-newer-and-older-planes/) - Learning to fly in a new plane or older one is the question of the day from Eric in Seattle, WA. Not only does he want help choosing based on the age of the aircraft, but also the driving distance to get his lessons. You see, the newer plane is a three-times longer drive for lessons than
- [Which aircraft is right for me?](https://learntoflyblog.com/which-aircraft-is-right-for-m/) - From the slow and simple (ultralight) to the complex and fast (jets), there is an airplane “pecking order” that affects your aviation adventure. Throughout my life, I have learned that there will always be airplanes that can fly higher, faster and farther relative to what I am flying at the time. Pick any plane. I’ll
- [CFI Brief: BasicMed added to FAA Knowledge Exams](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-breif-basicmed-added-to-knowledge-tests/) - Student pilot, recreational pilot, and private pilot operations, other than glider and balloon pilots, require a third-class medical certificate or if operating without a medical certificate compliance with 14 CFR Part 68, referred to as BasicMed. The BasicMed privileges apply to persons exercising student, recreational, and private pilot privileges when acting as pilot in command
- [CFI Brief: Pop Quiz—Clouds](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-pop-quiz-clouds/) - If you are reading today’s blog then you have already committed yourself to this mandatory 5-question pop quiz. Too late, you can’t leave now! Plus, who doesn’t love a good pop quiz to test your level of aviation meteorology knowledge. Meteorology you say? That’s right todays pop quiz is on clouds, so I hope you
- [CFI Brief: Airport Hot Spot](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-airport-hot-spot/) - Ever heard of an airport hot spot, or wondered what that is? No, it’s not a scorching hot section of an airport, it’s more along the lines of the cool hip place to be at an airport. A hot spot is defined as a location on an airport movement area with a history of potential
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Night Flight Approaches and Landings](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-night-flight-approaches-and-landings/) - The mechanical operation of an airplane at night is no different than operating the same airplane during the day. The pilot, however, is affected by various aspects of night operations and must take them into consideration during night flight operations. Some are actual physical limitations affecting all pilots while others, such as equipment requirements, procedures,
- [CFI Brief: Sunset Weather](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-sunset-weather/) - What could be better than taking your significant other on a romantic sunset flight around your local airport? I’ll tell you what, taking your significant other on a romantic sunset flight during an absolutely epic sunset! Sounds awesome right, but just how are you suppose to know when an epic sunset is going to happen?
- [We're here at EAA Airventure Oshkosh 2017!](https://learntoflyblog.com/were-here-at-eaa-airventure-oshkosh-2017/) - We're here! Come find us at our booth (2075-2079) in Hangar B, showcasing our current line of training products and pilot supplies along with some new products. Come say hello and get your flight training questions answered by ASA staff. On Monday, July 24th (tonight!), ASA will be hosting the Collegiate Tailgate Party in Aviation
- [Procedures and Airport Operations: Crosswind Takeoff](https://learntoflyblog.com/procedures-and-airport-operations-crosswind-takeoff/) - Since The Pilot's Manual: Flight School (PM-1) is now available in eBook format, this week we'll feature another maneuver from the textbook. The fifth edition of Flight School covers everything you need to know in order to fly your airplane through the maneuvers required for certification. Not all airports have a runway that faces upwind on a
- [CFI Brief: 5 Major Items Pilots Miss During Their Preflight Inspection – InfoGraphic](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-5-major-items-pilots-miss-during-their-preflight-inspection-infographic/) - Today on the Learn to Fly Blog we are featuring a guest article by Alec Larson of Sun State Aviation. Thanks for the excellent article, Alec, and for all the hard work that went into producing this this! Perhaps the most critical part of any general aviation flight is the preflight inspection of the aircraft.
- [CFI Brief: Solo Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-solo-flight/) - In Monday's post we were introduced to the student pilot’s first solo flight. Today, we will take a look a little more in depth to understand exactly what the instructor needs to do to prepare his or her student for solo flight. As a student, this will give you a behind the scenes look at
- [Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM)](https://learntoflyblog.com/notice-to-air-missions-notam/) - Today we are featuring an excerpt from the new edition of Pilot's Manual: Ground School (Fourth Edition). Also be sure to check out https://pilotweb.nas.faa.gov/PilotWeb/. This website provides access to current NOTAM information from the United States NOTAM System. NOTAMs are an important and time-critical piece of aeronautical information that could affect a pilot’s flight and should
- [Happy Thanksgiving from ASA!](https://learntoflyblog.com/3817-2/) - ASA will be closed for the holiday on Thursday and Friday. The Learn to Fly Blog will be back with a new post on Monday. —
- [CFI Brief: Medical Certificates Questions](https://learntoflyblog.com/ground-school-medical-certificates/) - Prior to starting your flight training it is important to first determine if you meet the guidelines for issuance of an FAA Medical Certificate. Don’t let this process deter you, obtaining your FAA Medical is a fairly simple process and is much like going to your doctor for a physical. The main difference is that
- [CFI Brief: Ice Induced Stall Safety Video](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-ice-induced-stall-safety-video/) - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recently released a new training aid, Ice Induced Stall Pilot Training. This 30-minute video covers the phenomenon of tailplane and wing stall icing conditions as well as icing certification rules and recommended cockpit procedures to mitigate ice induced stalls. As a pilot, it is crucial that you are well informed
- [The Top 10 Mistakes Students Make on Their Practical Test](https://learntoflyblog.com/the-top-10-mistakes-students-make-on-their-practical-test/) - Today we’re pleased to feature a guest post from CFI and DPE Jason Blair. He writes his own blog at JasonBlair.net As an examiner who gives a significant number of practical tests every year, I see some of the same errors over and over. Being prepared for a test takes a lot of work, but
- [IFR: Flight at Mid-Level Altitudes](https://learntoflyblog.com/ifr-flight-at-mid-level-altitudes/) - Today we're pleased to feature a guest post from CFI and DPE Jason Blair. He writes his own blog at JasonBlair.net Learning to fly in IFR conditions requires a great deal of study and skill development. Flying blind isn’t easy! But general instrument flight training typically focuses on low level flying skills, in effect, the
- [CFI Brief: Space Weather](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-space-weather/) - [Update: In December 2022, the FAA published the Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28) which replaced Advisory Circulars 00-6 and 00-45.] Today I would like to discuss weather, specifically the all-important topics of Galactic Cosmic Radiation and Solar Eruptive Activity. Wait, say what? That’s what I thought when reviewing my newly printed edition of the FAA Advisory
- [Weather: Precipitation](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-precipitation/) - [Update: In December 2022, the FAA published the Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28) which replaced Advisory Circulars 00-6 and 00-45.] For the first time since 1975, the FAA has updated Aviation Weather (AC 00-6B replacing AC 00-6A). A lot has changed since then in our understanding of meteorology and in the data available to pilots and
- [Right-of-Way](https://learntoflyblog.com/right-of-way/) - Today's post is inspired by a cartoon from flight instructor Mark Rowe. However unlikely you would encounter this scenario in real life, these overtly specific rules are in place to guarantee safety for all aviators. Let's take a look at the specifics, which are detailed in our 2015 Private Pilot Test Prep: An aircraft in
- [Weather: Americas Weather Regions, California](https://learntoflyblog.com/weather-americas-weather-regions-california/) - The United States of America has some diverse weather patterns. Thomas A. Horne's book Flying America’s Weather gives you a view of different weather regions around the U.S. from a pilots view. Here is an excerpt from the book discussing weather in the region of California: For pilots or any other student of meteorology, the state
- [Communication Procedures: Emergency Radio Procedures](https://learntoflyblog.com/communication-procedures-emergency-radio-procedures/) - How should you react to the unexpected? How should you ask for help? Today we're talking about emergency radio procedures. This post comes from our textbook The Pilot's Manual Volume 1: Flight School (PM-1). Request assistance whenever you have any serious doubt regarding the safety of a flight. Transmission should be slow and distinct, with each word pronounced clearly
- [CFI Brief: Minimum Equipment - CFR §91.205](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-minimum-equipment-cfr-91-205/) - Tomatoflames, gooseacat, flaps, apes, grabcard, decarat… My spellcheck is going wild right now with red squiggly lines. Spellcheck settle down, I understand these are not words nor did I misspell them. The aforementioned are actually aviation mnemonics to help pilots remember the minimum instruments and equipment required for flight. As the pilot-in-command, it will be
- [CFI Brief: 300+ Drones (sUAS)!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-300-drones-suas/) - If you watched the Super Bowl over the weekend you may have noticed the more than 300 drones during the halftime show. Yes those were really drones in the sky, however they were not actually flying during the halftime show. The entire drone sequence was filmed earlier in the week because of FAA flight-over-people restrictions
- [CFI Brief: sUAS (drone) Accident Reporting](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-suas-drone-accident-reporting/) - Ever wonder what you should do if you crash your small unmanned aircraft (drone)? Well the specifics are outlined for you in 14 CFR §107.9 which we will break down below (no pun intended). Accident Reporting The remote PIC must report any sUAS accident to the FAA, within 10 days of the operation, if any
- [CFI Brief: Calling all Student Pilots!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-calling-all-student-pilots/) - Share your flying story with the Learn to Fly Blog We’re looking for student pilot stories dealing with overcoming challenges, lessons-learned, or insights-gained, humorous or serious. If selected, your story will be published on the Learn to Fly Blog! This is an ongoing call for submissions and there’s no deadline. Once selected your story will be professionally
- [CFI Brief: New GFA Supplement Figures](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-new-gfa-supplement-figures/) - In the latest Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement for Instrument Rating (CT-8080-3F), the FAA has added several Graphical Forecast for Aviation (GFA) figures. These figures are 260 through 271 in the supplement and although the FAA has not yet added questions to the Instrument knowledge test on GFA, this weather tool is still something to become familiar
- [Cold Weather and Aircraft: What a Pilot Needs to Know](https://learntoflyblog.com/cold-weather-and-aircraft-what-a-pilot-needs-to-know/) - The past few weeks have seen extraordinary weather events in all parts of the United States. Unusually cold temperatures have brought everything from ice storms to blizzards, even in places that don’t usually expect white winters. Pilots must keep the weather in mind when preparing for any flight. You can accomplish this by obtaining an
- [FAA’s MOSAIC May Expand the Reach of Light-Sport Aircraft](https://learntoflyblog.com/faas-mosaic-may-expand-the-reach-of-light-sport-aircraft/) - If you hang out around aviation enthusiasts, you may have heard the term mosaic a whole lot more often in recent months. What is this term and how does it apply to you? No bits of ceramic are used to make art in this type of MOSAIC. It stands for Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification
- [NORAD Has the Watch: Santa Tracker](https://learntoflyblog.com/norad-has-the-watch-santa-tracker/) - Want to be sure your flightpath is clear on Christmas Eve? Don’t worry, NORAD has you covered. Early in the morning on December 24th, NORAD (the North American Aerospace Defense Command) records the launch of a very special aircraft. After coordinating with “Santa's Elf Launch Staff” to confirm his launch time, they then tell anyone
- [ASA 2023 Gift Guide](https://learntoflyblog.com/asa-2023-gift-guide/) - What to get the student pilot: Aviation Supplies & Academics 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for the student pilot or student aircraft mechanic on your shopping list.
- [Workforce Study: What Aviation's Future Could Mean for You](https://learntoflyblog.com/workforce-study-what-aviations-future-could-mean-for-you/) - Because of questions raised about the supply of airline pilots and aircraft mechanics meeting upcoming demand, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 included a provision to study the aviation and aerospace workforce of the future, including the current and future supply of people in the workforce. In May of 2023, the U.S. Government Accountability Office
- [Mental Math for Pilots: Fuel Planning Made Easy](https://learntoflyblog.com/mental-math-for-pilots-fuel-planning-made-easy/) - When a student pilot first encounters all the calculations required to fly, it can be overwhelming. With altitude conversions, angles of descent, bank angles, temperature differences, and more, anyone who had any trouble with math in school may wonder if it’s possible for them to get their mind around all those equations. In his book
- [Airport Markings and Signs Illustrated](https://learntoflyblog.com/airport-markings-and-signs-illustrated/) - As a pilot or student pilot, you may see airport markings as simple or obvious, but to someone who has had less experience on the tarmac, they can seem quite complicated. One of ASA’s premier books for students, passengers, and future pilots, An Illustrated Guide to Flying offers information in bitesize pieces and visual representations
- [The ASA Author Talk Series Takes Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/the-asa-author-talk-series-takes-flight/) - ASA is proud to present a new author feature on our website: ASA Presents. We’ve lined up talks with our authors that are educational and fun, plus you can earn credit with the FAA WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program. The first in ASA’s Author Talk Series features Captain Kristofer Pierson, a pilot with a major airline
- [ASA at AirVenture: Learning and More](https://learntoflyblog.com/asa-at-airventure-learning-and-more/) - At AirVenture and looking for a place to have fun and learn about piloting? Look no further than the ASA booth in Hanger B, Aisle D. As usual, plenty of books and pilot supplies will be available for you to pick up. Show specials on our video and ground school courses for private, instrument, and
- [Why Now is the Right Time to Become a Pilot](https://learntoflyblog.com/why-now-is-the-right-time-to-become-a-pilot/) - Thinking of becoming a pilot? Now is the perfect time. The aviation industry is in the headlines. Pilots are in demand. The airlines are recovering from the pandemic and more pilots are needed than are available to fly. Flight training will lead you to a career that is essential and marketable. You will be able
- [Introducing the ASA Library](https://learntoflyblog.com/introducing-the-asa-library/) - ASA is dedicated to being the best learning platform for student pilots, and the ASA Library is just one of the ways we are serving this goal. Our new eBook reading platform for desktop and mobile devices, the ASA Library seamlessly connects with asa2fly.com accounts, making your eBooks accessible on multiple devices. Carry all your
- [On Vacation this Summer: Great places to get into the pilot’s seat!](https://learntoflyblog.com/on-vacation-this-summer-great-places-to-get-into-the-pilots-seat/) - Kauai, Hawaii… what a great way to get to see a new place from a gorgeous perspective! And if you’re already a flight student, a wonderful way to build hours and try a new aircraft, as well. In aviation, it’s often the case that if someone gets behind the controls of an aircraft, is allowed
- [CFI Brief: Airport Rotating Beacon](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-airport-rotating-beacon/) - Have you ever wondered how pilots are able to determine the location of an airport at night or in reduced visibility? Well the answer is actually very simple. At night, the location of an airport can be determined by the presence of an airport rotating beacon light like the one seen in the image below.
- [CFI Brief: Steep Turns](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-steep-turns/) - Steep turns are a fun and exciting maneuver and right in line with this week’s discussion on load factors. As a student pilot part of your training will include performing steep turns to established standards as outlined in the Private Pilot Practical Test Standards and shown below. Key concepts to be learned are coordination, orientation,
- [CFI Brief: Time Zones](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-time-zones/) - Coordinated Universal Time, Universal Time Coordinated, Greenwich Mean Time, Zulu Time—I am sure you have heard these terms at some point in your flight training, but what is all of it? To keep it simple these are essentially one in the same: time corrected for seasonal variations in the earth’s rotation about the sun. As you may
- [So, Where in the Pattern is the Upwind?](https://learntoflyblog.com/so-where-in-the-pattern-is-the-upwind-2/) - Takeoff and climb out is not the upwind. Yup, I know lots of people call the "upwind" in the traffic pattern as they climb after takeoff, but they are actually calling "upwind" in the wrong spot. And being accurate when you tell people where you are in the traffic pattern can be important. I'll admit,
- [CFI Brief: Aerodynamics Answers and Explanations](https://learntoflyblog.com/ground-school-aerodynamics-answers-and-explanations/) - I hope everyone had a great weekend and got a chance to spend some time looking over Thursday’s questions, let’s see how you did. 1. When do the four forces that act on an airplane in equilibrium? A—During un-accelerated flight. B—When the aircraft is accelerating. C—When the aircraft is at rest on the ground. In
- [CFI Brief: Mach Number](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-mach-number/) - As you progress through a career in aviation you will hopefully one day start flying high speed jet aircraft, a fun and challenging learning experience. However there are many differences when moving from low-speed flight to high-speed flight. Today we will briefly touch on some of the required knowledge associated with high speed flight beginning
- [CFI Brief: Icing](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-icing/) - Ice sucks, unless of course you are a hockey player, figure skater, or just want a nice, cold, tasty beverage. But in terms of aviation, ice sucks. In general, icing is any deposit of ice forming on an object. In aviation icing is considered to be one of the major weather hazards affecting flight. We
- [CFI Brief: How does a Propeller Work?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-how-does-a-propeller-work/) - The propeller is a rotating airfoil which produces thrust by creating a positive dynamic pressure, usually on the engine side. Some exceptions include the Piaggio Avanti, shown below which uses propellers mounted in what’s often referred to as the pusher configuration. When a propeller rotates, the tips travel at a greater speed than the hub.
- [CFI Brief: Altimeter Pressure Errors](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-altimeter-pressure-errors/) - High to low look out below, low to high clear the sky! If you have never heard that saying before you are probably pretty confused right now. Let me help ease that confusion and explain that today we are discussing altimeter errors when flying in areas of changing atmospheric pressures. The discussion will revolve around
- [CFI Brief: Caution for the wake turbulence from the departing 757](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-caution-for-the-wake-turbulence-from-the-departing-757/) - Today we are going to take a look at wake turbulence, which is the disturbed air left behind an airplane. Why you may ask is this important to us? This disturbed air left behind an aircraft can form tornado like vortices that are dangerous to all aircraft, particularly smaller general aviation aircraft operating behind a
- [CFI Brief: Deciphering the METAR](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-deciphering-the-metar/) - Today we are going to take a look at your most common type of weather report, the Aviation Routine Weather Report, abbreviated as METAR. A METAR is an observation of current surface weather reported in a standard international format. The purpose is to provide pilots with an accurate depiction of current weather conditions at an
- [CFI Brief: Can you be a pilot with Diabetes?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-can-you-be-a-pilot-with-diabetes/) - Today we are featuring a guest editorial column by Elisabeth Almekinder RN, BA, CDE, and originally published by TheDiabetesCouncil.com. We hope you will find it useful and we thank The Diabetes Council for allowing us to share it with our readers. In this article we will explore whether or not you can become a pilot if you have
- [CFI Brief: FAA Taxi Test](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-faa-taxi-test/) - Monday on the blog we briefly discussed runway incursions and recommended practices for pilots to avoid such an occurrence. As air traffic grows and airports become busier, both general aviation and commercial, runway incursions become more of a growing concern to pilots and airport operators. In an effort to cut down on the potential of
- [CFI Brief: Thunderstorms](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-thunderstorms/) - An important aspect of becoming a private pilot is having an understanding of weather. Even more important is having a thorough understanding of weather that could pose a potential risk to flight. The goal of this understanding is so you can identify and avoid these hazardous conditions as part of your preflight preparations and inflight
- [CFI Brief: Breathing and Oxygen](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-breathing-and-oxygen/) - Did you know the percentage of oxygen in the atmosphere is a constant 21% regardless of altitude? Well it’s true! So you may be wondering why then that it gets harder to breath as you increase in altitude. The simple answer is quantity and pressure. As you increase in altitude, the quantity and pressure of atmosphere
- [CFI Brief: Awarded Top 50 Aviation Blog!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-awarded-top-50-aviation-blog/) - It’s nice to report that the Learn To Fly Blog received an early Christmas present this year. Earlier in the week, it was announced that the ASA Learn To Fly Blog would be included as one of the Top 50 Aviation Blogs on the Planet! We are honored to be included on this list and
- [CFI Brief: Frost](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-frost/) - It’s been cold here in Seattle and across many parts of the country over the last several days. All week long I have had the pleasure of scraping an inch of ice and frost off my windshield each morning. If my car's windshield is icing over, the same can probably be said for all the
- [CFI Brief: Cold Weather Operations](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-cold-weather-operations/) - We are well into fall and winter seems to be fast approaching, I am ever reminded by all the holiday décor already up around town. For the majority of us, baring you lucky few down south, we will notice drops in temperature and for many areas across the United States temperatures can drop well below
- [CFI Brief: Chart Supplement U.S.](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-chart-supplement-u-s/) - Earlier in 2016, the FAA renamed the Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD) to “Chart Supplement U.S.” The FAA made this change to bring the publication in line with specifications under the Interagency Air Cartographic Committee (IACC). Not all that important why it was done; what is important is the fact that the name has changed. The information
- [CFI Brief: Wind Shear](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-wind-shear/) - Wind shear is defined as a change in wind direction and/or speed over a very short distance in the atmosphere. This can occur at any level of the atmosphere and can be detected by the pilot as a sudden change in airspeed. As a pilot you can be certain that you will experience wind shear
- [CFI Brief: Flight Safety in the Drone Age (FSDA)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-flight-safety-in-the-drone-age-fsda/) - Drones, yes drones. A very common term you hear these days, they just seem to be everywhere (LITERALLY)! As a matter of fact there are actually more registered drone operators then there are aircraft pilots. This is pretty astonishing, particularly when you put into perspective just how new of a concept drone use is to
- [CFI Brief: Runway Safety Areas (RSA)](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-runway-safety-areas-rsa/) - This video is an update to the FAA's Runway Safety Area Improvement Program and Runway Incursion Mitigation Program. The majority of the discussion in the video is in reference to commercial-use airports, typically those Class B and C airports in which commercial air traffic operates. However, I believe anyone can benefit from the information presented
- [CFI Brief: NextGEN Modernization](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-nextgen-modernization/) - On Tuesday the FAA published a new video to FAA TV, NextGEN: See, Navigate, Communicate. If you are not familiar with NextGEN, it is simply the modernization of the National Airspace System (NAS). The short 6 minute video discusses the current challenges to the NAS and how NextGEN is overcoming these challenges with a total revamping
- [CFI Brief: Pilot’s Role in Collision Avoidance](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-pilots-role-in-collision-avoidance/) - With all the talk this week on instrument flying and scanning techniques I wanted to take this opportunity to remind you to get your head out of the cockpit. See and Avoid! Did you know that the See and Avoid concept is an actual regulation outlined in CFR 91.113? Don’t believe me check it out.
- [CFI Brief: It’s sunny and 80°F, why do I need a weather brief?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-its-sunny-and-80f-why-do-i-need-a-weather-brief/) - I did the majority of my flight training in San Diego, CA. Yes, lucky me. Not only did I get to fly in such a beautiful area but I always had a killer tan. After my first week of ground school, my instructor had me get my first over-the-phone weather briefing. That day in class
- [CFI Brief: Heading to a Fly-In this year?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-heading-to-a-fly-in-this-year/) - This week kicks off airshow and fly-in season with SUN 'n FUN International Fly-In and Expo being held in Lakeland, FL. The event began on Tuesday and will conclude on Sunday with the mass exodus of hundreds of general-aviation aircraft. In advance of this year’s fly-in season the National Transportation Safety Board has issued a
- [CFI Brief: An Introduction to the Instrument Rating](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-an-introduction-to-the-instrument-rating/) - Federal Aviation Regulations Part 61 stipulates that no person may act as pilot-in-command (PIC) of a civil aircraft under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimums prescribed for visual flight rules (VFR) unless the pilot holds an instrument rating. The rating must be for the category of aircraft to be flown; e.g., airplane
- [CFI Brief: Changes to the Student Pilot Certificate](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-changes-to-the-student-pilot-certificate/) - On Tuesday January 12th, 2016, the FAA issued a final rule changing the process in which a student pilot must obtain a student pilot certificate. Beginning April 1st, 2016, Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) will no longer have the ability to issue student applicants a student pilot certificate. Now, rather than receiving a paper student pilot
- [CFI Brief: Santa One](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-santa-one/) - Attention to all pilots who will be flying on Christmas Eve (December 24th). ASA recommends that you remain extra vigilant and on the lookout for Santa Claus and his nine-reindeer-powered sleigh (call sign: Santa One) as they make their round-the-world multi-stop mission. The sleigh is easily identifiable by a single red navigation light fixed upon
- [Navigation: VFR Waypoints](https://learntoflyblog.com/navigation-vfr-waypoints/) - We've covered a lot of navigation topics so far, but this week we'll be reviewing VFR waypoints. VFR waypoints provide VFR pilots with a supplementary tool to assist with position awareness while navigating visually in aircraft equipped with area navigation receivers. VFR waypoints should be used as a tool to supplement current navigation procedures. The
- [CFI Brief: Traffic Alerts](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-traffic-alerts/) - Cessna 1 – 2 – Alpha – Sierra – Alpha traffic 1 o’clock in three miles same altitude southbound. What, traffic? I’m pretty sure traffic doesn’t start till like 5 o’clock—3 mile backup, maybe there’s an accident? Well there’s no accident, but there’s a good chance there will be if you have no idea what
- [CFI Brief: Four-Stroke Piston Engine](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-four-stroke-piston-engine/) - The majority of general aviation aircraft use what’s referred to as a reciprocating engine. Mechanical energy is created through the back and forth movement (hence the name reciprocating) of pistons located in each cylinder which in turn drive a crankshaft that is directly connected to the propeller creating the required thrust. In the figure below
- [CFI Brief: Logging Instrument Approaches](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-logging-instrument-approaches/) - Federal Aviation Regulations and rules can get confusing, particularly those pertaining to instrument flight rules (IFR). One in particular I always found confusing, and at times up to interpretation, deals with when a pilot may log an IAP. As you know, logging instrument approaches is an important aspect in abiding by 14 CFR 61.57(c) which
- [CFI Brief: Gyroscopic Flight Instrument Questions](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-gyroscopic-flight-instrument-questions/) - Monday’s post gave us an introduction into the world of gyroscopic flight instruments and as we learned these include the attitude indicator, turn coordinator, and heading indicator also referred to as the directional gyro. Each one of these gyroscopic flight instruments functions based off the principle of rigidity in space. To put it more simply
- [CFI Brief: Knowledge Test Questions, Stalls & Spins](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-knowledge-test-questions-stalls-spins/) - As the angle of attack is increased (to increase lift), air will no longer flow smoothly over the upper wing surface but instead will become turbulent or “burble” near the trailing edge. A further increase in the angle of attack will cause the turbulent area to expand forward. At an angle of attack of approximately
- [CFI Brief: AIRVENTURE 2015](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-airventure-2015/) - We are just about halfway through AirVenture 2015! Team ASA has been having a great time so far networking, meeting our customers, and checking out all the cool planes and exhibits. Come on by if you have not yet had a chance, we are here in Hangar B, booth 2075-2079 to answer any questions and
- [CFI Brief: Pilot Certificates, What's Right For Me?](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-pilot-certificates-whats-right-for-me/) - Everybody starts off as a student pilot but the next step or progression to a higher level can be a bit confusing to some. You essentially have three choices: Private Pilot Certificate, Recreational Certificate, and Sport Pilot Certificate. Let’s break it down. The student pilot certificate outlined in Part 61 Subpart C is often co-issued by
- [CFI Brief: Looking at the Big Picture](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-looking-at-the-big-picture/) - This week you and I have been tasked with repositioning a Cessna 172 from the Savannah Airport (SAV) to Allendale County (88J) -- airports neither of us has ever flown out of. To begin our planning we have obtained the local sectional chart to gain all available information from this important resource regarding our planned
- [CFI Brief: Thunderstorms, BOOM!](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-thunderstorms-boom/) - For a thunderstorm to exist, you need two very basic elements: moisture and warm, rapidly rising air. This is why in the spring and summer months with the warmer conditions you tend to see an increase in thunderstorm activity. According to NOAA, at any given time across the world there are 1,800 thunderstorms occurring all
- [CFI Brief: W&B Terms](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-wb-terms/) - Part of your preflight duties as a pilot will be to determine the weight and balance of the aircraft. Trying to takeoff and fly with an aircraft over max gross weight or out of balance can cause drastic consequences on the airplane's ability to fly. Below are some of the terms that will be important
- [CFI Brief: Knowledge Exam Updates](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-knowledge-exam-updates/) - New FAA Knowledge Exams were released February 9. The Private Pilot test saw the most significant changes this test cycle. Questions being deleted covered outdated topics including automatic direction finder/nondirectional beacon (ADF/NDB); Radar Summary Charts; the En Route Flight Advisory Service (EFAS); medevac; and transcribed weather broadcasts (TWEB). The FAA will also delete from the
- [CFI Brief: AvGas](https://learntoflyblog.com/cfi-brief-avgas/) - AvGas, or “aviation spirit” as it is affectionately referred to in the United Kingdom, is the topic of discussion today. Aviation gasoline (AvGas) is derived from the same principles as motor gasoline found in car engines although with a much higher performance requirement. Why you ask? Well the reason is simple: aircraft engines are typically required
- [Choosing Your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)](https://learntoflyblog.com/choosing-your-certified-flight-instructor-cfi/) - Unlike your parents, you get to choose your flight instructor. So take advantage of this precious opportunity now. (And avoid therapy later.) Have you started your flight training yet? If not, why? Still looking for that perfect CFI? It's not uncommon for prospective student pilots to delay flight training months or even years, waiting for
- [Stop Doing What You Do So Well!](https://learntoflyblog.com/stop-doing-what-you-do-so-well/) - Are you a creature of habit when it comes to flying practice? Maybe that's not such a good thing. Anyone who's seen the inside of a gym can tell you: those with toned arms always have a weight in their hands, and those with killer legs are always squatting, extending, pressing, etc. And, it makes
- [What is the process of learning to fly?](https://learntoflyblog.com/what-is-the-process-of-learning-to-fly/) - There are a number of different paths that you can take, but all of them usually include the same checklist of things. To get started with this process, talk to a handful of pilots. They can either be friends of yours, folks from a local aviation club, or pilots in a trusted online community. Ask
- [Why learn to fly?](https://learntoflyblog.com/why-learn-to-fly/) - Flying can be for fun or practical purposes. Some people choose to make it a career. No matter the purpose, you'll find it to be exhilerating and adventurous. ASA Authors have told some of their adventurous stories. Here is a list of those blog posts.

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- [Account Profile](https://learntoflyblog.com/account-profile/) - [bigcommerce_account_profile]
- [Addresses](https://learntoflyblog.com/addresses/) - [bigcommerce_shipping_address_list]
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- [About Us](https://learntoflyblog.com/about/) - The Learn to Fly Blog is a place for current pilots, students, and future pilots to learn, explore, and share insights on the foundations of flight and flight training. Find out what it takes to become a pilot, learn the fundamental principles behind the wonder of flight, get test-taking tips, and more! For student pilots

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [Ground School](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/ground-school/)
- [sUAS](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/suas/)
- [CFI Briefing](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/cfi-briefing/)
- [General](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/general/)
- [FAQ](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/faq/)
- [Learn to Fly](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/ltf/)
- [Aerodynamics](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aerodynamics-ground-school/)
- [Regulations](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/regulations/)
- [Weather](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/weather/)
- [Enroute Flight](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/enroute-flight/)
- [Navigation](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/navigation/)
- [Procedures and Airport Operations](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/procedures-and-airport-operations/)
- [Communication Procedures](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/communication-procedures/)
- [Weather Services](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/weather-services/)
- [Aircraft Performance](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aircraft-performance/)
- [Aircraft Systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aircraft-systems/)
- [Flight Instruments](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/flight-instruments/)
- [Editor's Picks](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/editors-picks/)
- [IFR](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/ifr/)
- [Human Factors](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/human-factors/)
- [CX-3 Flight Computer](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/cx-3-flight-computer/)
- [Ground Reference Maneuvers](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/ground-reference-maneuvers/)
- [Helicopters](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/helicopters/)
- [ASA](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/asa/)
- [Test Prep](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/test-prep/)
- [pilot training](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/pilot-training/)
- [aircraft mechanic training](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aircraft-mechanic-training/)
- [FAA](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/faa/)
- [ACS](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/acs/)
- [UAS](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/uas/)
- [Drones](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/drones/)
- [Aviation Law](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aviation-law/)
- [Shows](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/shows/)
- [FAA testing](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/faa-testing/)
- [aviation maintenance](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aviation-maintenance/)
- [FARs](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/fars/)
- [Safety](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/safety/)
- [FBO](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/fbo/)
- [Guest Blogger](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/guest-blogger/)
- [Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/certified-flight-instructor-crfi/)
- [Aviation Careers](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aviation-careers/)
- [Aviation Resources](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aviation-resources/)
- [Flight Computers](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/flight-computers/)
- [AIM](https://learntoflyblog.com/category/aim/)

## Tags

- [about](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/about/)
- [adventure](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/adventure/)
- [CFI](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/cfi/)
- [learn](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/learn/)
- [Aircraft](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aircraft/)
- [pilot in command](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pilot-in-command/)
- [Age](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/age/)
- [LSA FAQ](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/lsa-faq/)
- [Why Fly](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/why-fly/)
- [practice](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/practice/)
- [saving money](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/saving-money/)
- [Air](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/air/)
- [fun](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fun/)
- [safety](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/safety/)
- [feature](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/feature/)
- [Four Forces](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/four-forces/)
- [Lift](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/lift/)
- [Weight](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/weight/)
- [Drag](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/drag/)
- [Thrust](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/thrust/)
- [Private Pilot](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/private-pilot/)
- [FAA Exam](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/faa-exam/)
- [Test Prep](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/test-prep/)
- [Medical Certificate](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/medical-certificate/)
- [Axis](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/axis/)
- [Flight Controls](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flight-controls/)
- [Pitch](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pitch/)
- [Roll](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/roll/)
- [Rotation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/rotation/)
- [Yaw](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/yaw/)
- [aerodynamics](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aerodynamics/)
- [writen exam](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/writen-exam/)
- [Newton](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/newton/)
- [Newton's Third Law](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/newtons-third-law/)
- [Aeronautical Charts](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aeronautical-charts/)
- [charts](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/charts/)
- [Navigation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/navigation/)
- [sectionals](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/sectionals/)
- [ATIS](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/atis/)
- [Cessna](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/cessna/)
- [flying](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flying/)
- [learn to fly](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/learn-to-fly/)
- [radio](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/radio/)
- [airport](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airport/)
- [airport operations](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airport-operations/)
- [FAA](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/faa/)
- [flight training](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flight-training/)
- [landing](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/landing/)
- [takeoff](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/takeoff/)
- [altimeter](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/altimeter/)
- [altitude](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/altitude/)
- [atmosphere](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/atmosphere/)
- [atmospheric pressure](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/atmospheric-pressure/)
- [density](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/density/)
- [density altitude](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/density-altitude/)
- [instruments](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/instruments/)
- [pitot](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pitot/)
- [power](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/power/)
- [E6B](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/e6b/)
- [flight computer](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flight-computer/)
- [video](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/video/)
- [video tutorial](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/video-tutorial/)
- [METAR](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/metar/)
- [weather](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/weather-2/)
- [weather services](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/weather-services-2/)
- [ATC](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/atc/)
- [phonetic alphabet](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/phonetic-alphabet/)
- [CX-2](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/cx-2/)
- [flight planning](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flight-planning/)
- [calculation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/calculation/)
- [en route](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/en-route/)
- [aerodynamic stability](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aerodynamic-stability/)
- [ASA](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/asa/)
- [aviation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation/)
- [stability](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/stability/)
- [aircraft engine](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aircraft-engine/)
- [aircraft systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aircraft-systems-2/)
- [engines](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/engines/)
- [kershner](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/kershner/)
- [flight instruments](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flight-instruments-2/)
- [FAA regulations](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/faa-regulations/)
- [regulations](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/regulations-2/)
- [climb](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/climb/)
- [Jason Blair](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/jason-blair/)
- [NAFI](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/nafi/)
- [upwind](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/upwind/)
- [upwind leg](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/upwind-leg/)
- [inversion](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/inversion/)
- [temperature](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/temperature/)
- [CG](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/cg/)
- [weight and balance](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/weight-and-balance/)
- [lattitude](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/lattitude/)
- [longitude](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/longitude/)
- [VOR](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/vor/)
- [ADF/NDB](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/adfndb/)
- [EFAS](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/efas/)
- [FAA Knowledge Exam](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/faa-knowledge-exam/)
- [TWEB](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/tweb/)
- [time](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/time/)
- [UTC](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/utc/)
- [zulu](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/zulu/)
- [AIM](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aim/)
- [alphabet](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/alphabet/)
- [communications](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/communications/)
- [emergency](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/emergency/)
- [phonetic](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/phonetic/)
- [radios](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/radios/)
- [gravity](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/gravity/)
- [load](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/load/)
- [turn](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/turn/)
- [engine](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/engine/)
- [ignition](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/ignition/)
- [magneto](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/magneto/)
- [airspeed](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airspeed/)
- [airspeed indicator](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airspeed-indicator/)
- [ASI](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/asi/)
- [maneuvers](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/maneuvers/)
- [spins](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/spins/)
- [certificate](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/certificate/)
- [pilot license](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pilot-license/)
- [sport pilot](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/sport-pilot/)
- [runway](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/runway/)
- [adiabatic](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/adiabatic/)
- [circulation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/circulation/)
- [climate](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/climate/)
- [cooling](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/cooling/)
- [heating](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/heating/)
- [wind](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/wind/)
- [TAF](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/taf/)
- [aircraft performance](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aircraft-performance-2/)
- [performance](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/performance/)
- [pitot-static](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pitot-static/)
- [vertical speed indicator](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/vertical-speed-indicator/)
- [VSI](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/vsi/)
- [hail](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/hail/)
- [lightning](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/lightning/)
- [thunderstorms](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/thunderstorms/)
- [aeronautical chart user's guide](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aeronautical-chart-users-guide/)
- [legend](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/legend/)
- [preflight](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/preflight/)
- [sectional chart](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/sectional-chart/)
- [symbols](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/symbols/)
- [topography](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/topography/)
- [VFR sectional aeronautical chart](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/vfr-sectional-aeronautical-chart/)
- [procedures](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/procedures/)
- [aircraft engines](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aircraft-engines/)
- [carburetor](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/carburetor/)
- [carburetor icing](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/carburetor-icing/)
- [fuel](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fuel/)
- [fuel induction systems](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fuel-induction-systems/)
- [fuel injection](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fuel-injection/)
- [fuel system](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fuel-system/)
- [how it works](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/how-it-works/)
- [icing](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/icing/)
- [vapor lock](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/vapor-lock/)
- [AME](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/ame/)
- [currentFeature](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/currentfeature/)
- [solo](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/solo/)
- [compass](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/compass/)
- [aviation weather](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-weather/)
- [dew point](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/dew-point/)
- [humidity](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/humidity/)
- [clouds](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/clouds/)
- [turbulence](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/turbulence/)
- [#OSH15](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/osh15/)
- [2015](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/2015/)
- [airventure](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airventure/)
- [oshkosh](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/oshkosh/)
- [enroute](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/enroute/)
- [magnetic north](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/magnetic-north/)
- [true north](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/true-north/)
- [angle of attack](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/angle-of-attack/)
- [cheese curds](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/cheese-curds/)
- [course](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/course/)
- [course correction](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/course-correction/)
- [dead reckoning](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/dead-reckoning/)
- [pilotage](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pilotage/)
- [radar](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/radar/)
- [transponder](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/transponder/)
- [stalls](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/stalls/)
- [gyroscopic](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/gyroscopic/)
- [requirements](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/requirements/)
- [AFM](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/afm/)
- [glide](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/glide/)
- [glider](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/glider/)
- [emergency procedure](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/emergency-procedure/)
- [gliding](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/gliding/)
- [flaps](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flaps/)
- [oil](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/oil/)
- [IFR](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/ifr/)
- [GPS](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/gps/)
- [pilot's license](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pilots-license/)
- [SPAR](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/spar/)
- [airshow](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airshow/)
- [expo](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/expo/)
- [fly-in](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fly-in/)
- [NOTAMs](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/notams/)
- [NTSB](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/ntsb/)
- [NTSB SA](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/ntsb-sa/)
- [NTSB SA-053](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/ntsb-sa-053/)
- [sun n fun](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/sun-n-fun/)
- [FAR](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/far/)
- [Midair](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/midair/)
- [National Airspace System](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/national-airspace-system/)
- [NextGEN](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/nextgen/)
- [airplane](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airplane/)
- [avoid turbulence](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/avoid-turbulence/)
- [clear air turblence](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/clear-air-turblence/)
- [cloud](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/cloud/)
- [fly](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fly/)
- [flying in turbulence](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flying-in-turbulence/)
- [jet stream](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/jet-stream/)
- [mountain wave](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/mountain-wave/)
- [stall](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/stall/)
- [what is turbulence](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/what-is-turbulence/)
- [danger zone](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/danger-zone/)
- [drone](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/drone/)
- [drone safety](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/drone-safety/)
- [kenny loggins](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/kenny-loggins/)
- [midair collision](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/midair-collision/)
- [UAS](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/uas/)
- [#osh16](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/osh16/)
- [drones](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/drones/)
- [intel](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/intel/)
- [remote pilot](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/remote-pilot/)
- [sUAS](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/suas/)
- [super bowl](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/super-bowl/)
- [aviation industry](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-industry/)
- [Becoming a Pilot series](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/becoming-a-pilot-series/)
- [NIFA](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/nifa/)
- [National Intercollegiate Flying Association](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/national-intercollegiate-flying-association/)
- [ASA booth](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/asa-booth/)
- [IGF](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/igf/)
- [Airport Markings](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airport-markings/)
- [Barry Schiff](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/barry-schiff/)
- [Math](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/math/)
- [VFR](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/vfr/)
- [Bob Gardner](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/bob-gardner/)
- [Air Traffic Control](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/air-traffic-control/)
- [mental math](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/mental-math/)
- [equations](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/equations/)
- [shortcuts](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/shortcuts/)
- [learning to fly](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/learning-to-fly/)
- [pilot training](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pilot-training/)
- [aircraft mechanic training](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aircraft-mechanic-training/)
- [studies](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/studies/)
- [gifts](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/gifts/)
- [holidays](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/holidays/)
- [MOSAIC](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/mosaic/)
- [light-sport aircraft](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/light-sport-aircraft/)
- [LSA](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/lsa/)
- [Commercial Pilot](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/commercial-pilot/)
- [cold weather](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/cold-weather/)
- [oral exam guides](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/oral-exam-guides/)
- [RID](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/rid/)
- [ACS](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/acs/)
- [PTS](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pts/)
- [AUVSI](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/auvsi/)
- [Xponential](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/xponential/)
- [reauthorization](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/reauthorization/)
- [aviation law](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-law/)
- [weather SIGWX](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/weather-sigwx/)
- [significant weather](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/significant-weather/)
- [SIGWX](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/sigwx/)
- [weather forecast](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/weather-forecast/)
- [forecast charts](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/forecast-charts/)
- [pitot-static system](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pitot-static-system/)
- [aircraft instruments](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aircraft-instruments/)
- [AoA indicator](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aoa-indicator/)
- [aviation shows](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-shows/)
- [booth](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/booth/)
- [checkride](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/checkride/)
- [practical flight test](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/practical-flight-test/)
- [practical test](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/practical-test/)
- [oral exam guide](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/oral-exam-guide/)
- [pilot](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pilot/)
- [FAA testing](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/faa-testing/)
- [AWC](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/awc/)
- [Graphical Forecasts for Aviation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/graphical-forecasts-for-aviation/)
- [Aviation Weather Center](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-weather-center/)
- [GFA](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/gfa/)
- [Bill](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/bill/)
- [Law](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/law/)
- [Federal Aviation Administration](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/federal-aviation-administration/)
- [congress](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/congress/)
- [Federal Aviation Regulations](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/federal-aviation-regulations/)
- [FAR-AIM](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/far-aim/)
- [composite](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/composite/)
- [amt](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/amt/)
- [advanced composite](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/advanced-composite/)
- [aviation maintenance technician](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-maintenance-technician/)
- [NORAD](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/norad/)
- [Santa](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/santa/)
- [tracker](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/tracker/)
- [Holiday](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/holiday/)
- [Christmas](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/christmas/)
- [weather radar](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/weather-radar/)
- [air taxi](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/air-taxi/)
- [AAM](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aam/)
- [pilots](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/pilots/)
- [demographics](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/demographics/)
- [air traffic controller](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/air-traffic-controller/)
- [airport procedures](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/airport-procedures/)
- [SAFECON](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/safecon/)
- [competition](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/competition/)
- [aviation championship](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-championship/)
- [FBO](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fbo/)
- [fixed base operations](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fixed-base-operations/)
- [student pilot](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/student-pilot/)
- [aviation career](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-career/)
- [part 108](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/part-108/)
- [mental health](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/mental-health/)
- [human factor](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/human-factor/)
- [Certified Flight Instructor](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/certified-flight-instructor/)
- [high school](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/high-school/)
- [STEM](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/stem/)
- [high school aviation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/high-school-aviation/)
- [aviation high school](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-high-school/)
- [flight school](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/flight-school/)
- [de-icing](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/de-icing/)
- [ice](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/ice/)
- [ant-icing](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/ant-icing/)
- [aviation careers](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-careers/)
- [careers](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/careers/)
- [resources](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/resources/)
- [organizations](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/organizations/)
- [DETER](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/deter/)
- [time-speed-distance calculation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/time-speed-distance-calculation/)
- [fuel burn calculation](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fuel-burn-calculation/)
- [fuel consumption](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/fuel-consumption/)
- [circular slide rule](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/circular-slide-rule/)
- [aviation navigation tools](https://learntoflyblog.com/tag/aviation-navigation-tools/)