These are unique and frightening times. Every day we watch the COVID-19 virus spreading further out of control across the whole globe, killing many in a terrible fashion. Government authorities have shuttered “non-essential services” to slow the spread of this infection and “flatten the curve.” Here in NY State, a full lock-down starts tomorrow. Obviously, … Continue reading “Support “Essential Workers!” But #stayhome”
Scenario-based training has acquired a stigma in aviation though misuse. But if done properly, these experiences can be the most powerful tool in an experienced educator’s arsenal. And scenarios are the required core focus of all modern FAA ACS testing (what your good DPE is going to use during every evaluation). Every CFI must … Continue reading “Creating Productive Scenarios; “Struggle Zone””
Read More… SAFE CFI-PRO™ Handouts at the Frederick SAFE CFI-PRO™ included SAFE’s “Extended Envelope Training,” designed to rebuild basic skills and move pilots out of their comfort zones. Multiple DPEs told CFIs attending depressing tales of unprepared applicants, and each provided CFIs ways to improve student readiness. Presentations, and much of the break chatter, were … Continue reading “November 2019 e-News “Read More””
The FAA only specifies the absolute minimums (limitations) in their regulations and these are not recommended operating specifications. This might sound silly to many pilots, but some people have not gotten this memo. As one example, “one mile visibility and clear of clouds” in Class G airspace is an absolute legal minimum. All of aviation … Continue reading “Buffering “FAA Minimums” Aim For Excellence!”
The recently proposed NPRM creating a permanent CFI certificate (renewed by endorsement for recognized activity) misses many great opportunities to inspire and motivate our talented aviation educators (CFIs). With some simple modifications, CFI renewal could again be a powerful tool to recognize and build the professionalism of our aviation educators. This is critical because our … Continue reading “What the FAA Missed In CFI NPRM!”
Most CFIs log thousands of hours as PIC but unfortunately often do not personally fly enough to stay sharp. DPEs are even worse about flying on their own and maintaining their personal proficiency – and by regulation, a DPE does not log their flight time during tests as PIC. The FAA recently discovered that some … Continue reading “CFI/DPEs Need Proficiency Too!”
Read more…United United said it also plans to offer financing options to help new pilots afford initial training. The airline said it was working with financial institutions “with the goal of making attractive financing terms – such as industry-tailored grace periods and competitive interest rates – available to qualified individuals.” An airline said that the … Continue reading “March 2020 e-News: Read More”
In everyday flying, most pilots value a predictable, controlled flight (we are not talking about thrill-seeking “flying cowboy” stuff here). When you put the chocks on the wheels and there have been no “surprises” we usually succeeded in our mission. One flight last fall was notably different though, involving a wake turbulence encounter at 16K … Continue reading “Surviving Startle; More Training!”
A recent YouTube highlighted the difficulty pilots experienced flying in ground effect at #OSH22. Control in ground effect is definitely a weak area in pilot proficiency. Even in normal operations, 80% of accidents happen in the take-off and landing phase; low and slow (often with a crosswind too). Practice “centerline slow flight” for increased safety; … Continue reading “Practice in Ground Effect: “Centerline Slow Flight!””
I am in Florida presenting SAFE CFI-PRO™ to a flight academy here. Please read (and comment on) this very interesting give and take on spin recovery and the general topic of “technedure” – when a personal technique becomes an accepted – and passed on – procedure. (and a bit about aircraft manuals) First read Natalie Bingham … Continue reading ““Technedure” and Spin Recoveries”
