In-Flight Safety

Why Load Factors Matter to Critical Angle of Attack  Load factor describes the ratio of lift an aircraft must produce compared to its weight. In straight-and-level, unaccelerated flight, that load factor is 1G. However, the moment an aircraft enters a

Discover the Critical Angle of Attack  The critical angle of attack is the maximum angle between the wing’s chord line and the relative wind at which lift can be maintained. When this angle is exceeded, airflow separates from

De-Icing vs. Anti-Icing: What Every Pilot Must Know About Winter Aviation Weather  Winter flying brings beautiful skies, and some of the most unforgiving hazards aviation has to offer. Among the most misunderstood winter safety topics is the difference between

Risk Identification and Mitigation  A preflight briefing is only as good as the decisions it generates. AC 91-92 emphasizes that pilots must turn information into action through structured risk assessment. The goal is to understand

Pilot Compliance Overview – The Briefing Revolution  There was a time when the entire preflight weather briefing happened in one place—the phone call to Flight Service. Today, pilots live in a world of radar loops,

Zero Fuel Weight  Among the many numbers that pilots and dispatchers monitor before every flight, Zero Fuel Weight (ZFW) might not sound as dramatic as “maximum takeoff weight” or “landing weight,” but it’s just as critical. Understanding ZFW helps

Situational Awareness Operations  The role of situational awareness in flight safety is paramount, but the stakes climb even higher when helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft share the same airspace. Unlike a traditional single-type traffic environment, airports

Unlocking the Power of ATOMATOFLAMES for Safe and Successful Flight Operations  In aviation, safety is paramount. Pilots are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring a safe journey for their passengers, crew, and aircraft. One tool

A Brief History of “Mayday”  The term “Mayday” is one of the most recognized distress calls in the world. It was originally coined in the 1920s by Frederick Mockford, a senior radio officer at London’s

Is Helicopter Flight Training with NVGs  Helicopter flight training equips pilots for a wide range of challenging missions, and one of the most vital tools in nighttime operations is the night vision goggle (NVG). Originally

Pilot Training and Spatial Disorientation  Pilot training often emphasized the importance of maintaining situational awareness, but few threats are as insidious—or as deadly—as spatial disorientation. For generations, instructors have drilled into students the dangers of

Understanding the Critical Role of Angle of Attack in Aviation  In the realm of aviation, few concepts are as fundamental and yet as nuanced as the angle of attack (AoA). For professional pilots, a thorough

Among the various classifications of airspace, Class E airspace often requires a nuanced understanding because of its widespread nature and unique regulations. Whether you’re operating under VFR or IFR, knowing how to fly within, communicate

Mastering Autorotation in Flight Training  Autorotation is a cornerstone of helicopter safety flight training—an emergency descent technique that every student must master. When engine power is lost, autorotation allows the helicopter to safely descend and

Traditional Navigation Still Matters in Flight Training  In modern airplanes, it’s easy to get swept up by sleek touchscreen panels, real-time weather overlays, and the reassuring magenta line guiding every turn. While GPS and integrated

Flight Training to See and Be Seen  Mid-air collisions are among the most tragic and avoidable accidents in aviation. Despite technological advances, recent events—including the Potomac River mid-air collision between a regional airline and a

Class E Airspace  Navigating Class E airspace can be a routine part of flying and it’s essential to prioritize both safety and efficiency. Class E airspace comes with certain rules and unique challenges, requiring you

Building a Safety Culture in Part 135  In the world of Part 135 charter flying, safety isn’t just about procedures; it’s about people. While the FAA establishes the regulatory framework, it’s up to each operator

Flight Training and Ground Reference Maneuvers to Master Wind  Primary flight training is more than just learning to control an airplane—it’s about learning to think like a pilot. One of the most overlooked but absolutely

ATOMATOFLAMES  In aviation, safety and compliance are controlling. For pilots, understanding aviation acronyms is crucial for ensuring that every flight meets the necessary requirements. One of the essential acronyms that pilots should familiarize themselves with

Understanding Winds Aloft  When you’re a Part 135 pilot, planning and efficiency are the name of the game. One critical factor that can make or break a smooth flight is the winds aloft. These high-altitude

Navigating Contact Approaches  Contact approaches are an often under-discussed but vital part of aviation procedures, offering convenience and flexibility when conditions allow. Understanding when and how to execute a contact approach can streamline arrivals while

Land and Hold Short Operations Background  Land and Hold Short Operations (LAHSO) are ATC procedures designed to create a safe way to increase airport capacity. The savings in time and fuel add up when controllers

Situational Awareness and Flight Safety  Situational awareness (SA) is a cornerstone of flight safety, yet it’s often one of the first things to erode under stress, fatigue, or distraction. The FAA’s Risk Management Handbook defines

Careers in Aviation Background  For many professional airline pilots, the FAA-mandated retirement age of 65 feels premature. These pilots often say they feel sharper, more experienced, and more confident than ever. But regulations are firm,

Mastering SRM for Safer Skies  Unlike a crewed cockpit, where tasks and responsibilities are shared, single pilots shoulder every decision, every calculation, and every response. This is where Single-Pilot Resource Management (SRM) becomes a critical

GPS Operations  For Part 135 pilots, precise navigation is more than a convenience—it’s a necessity. From managing customer expectations to meeting FAA regulatory requirements, accurate navigation ensures the safety, efficiency, and reliability of operations. At

The Importance of Situational Awareness in Fixed Wing Training  Situational awareness (SA) is a vital flight skill, but unlike steep turns or short-field landings, it’s not something you can master in a single lesson. It

Situational Awareness Background  Losing situational awareness can be both gradual and dangerous. Here’s the good news: situational awareness can be restored—often quickly—if the pilot or crew recognizes the warning signs and takes decisive action. Whether

Background of TAWS  The Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) was developed in response to the alarming number of Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) accidents, which occur when an airworthy aircraft inadvertently collides with terrain

TCAS Background  Pilots are responsible for safely maneuvering aircraft through the skies and avoiding potential collisions. To assist with this crucial task, most have relied on the Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) installed in their

Essential Classes of Fire and Portable Extinguishers Training  Safety aboard aircraft demands uncompromising attention to detail, planning, and preparation. Among the many responsibilities of pilots and crew, understanding fire safety is paramount. Fire is one

CFIT Background  The General Aviation Joint Steering Committee conducted a study of General Aviation Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) accidents and found that an overreliance on automation was a precursor to many of these incidents.

How SOPs Affect CFIT  Every aviation incident or accident has a connection to Human Factors and Crew Resource Management (CRM) in one way or another. Each link of the error chain can eventually be traced

TAWS Definition  The Terrain Avoidance and Warning System (TAWS) provides the flight crew with sufficient information and alerting to detect a potentially hazardous situation so the crew can take effective action to prevent a Controlled

Class B Airspace  Class B airspace plays a critical role in advanced flight operations, especially for professional pilots who frequently operate in and around complex, high-density traffic areas. Whether you’re managing commercial routes, flying corporate

Electronic Flight Bag – Thermal Runaway Dangers The NBAA reports that incidents involving smoke, extreme heat, or fire from lithium-ion batteries occur more than once a week on U.S. aircraft. It’s crucial for operators to

Single-Pilot Resource Management in Flight  Flying solo comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Single-Pilot Resource Management (SRM) is a critical skill set that boosts safety, efficiency, and decision-making. Whether you’re navigating a

The Importance of Corporate Aviation Security for Pilots and Operators  Corporate aviation security is a vital pillar of the industry, ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and assets. With a growing reliance on private and

Electronic Flight Bag Standard Practices  Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) use has become standard practice for pilots. The clutter and workload of paper charts is now a thing of the past and the efficiency of the

Corporate Aviation Security  Airlines seem to get all the attention regarding security warnings, but business aviation is a target for terrorist activity too. Corporate aviation security is an important part of keeping our skies safe

Performance-Based Navigation Background  Aircraft navigation specifications have traditionally been defined in terms of the kind of sensors and equipment used for navigation purposes. For example, ground-based navigation beacons or waypoints. When additional requirements for onboard

The Benefits of Online Aviation Training  In the fast-evolving world of aviation, staying ahead means embracing innovative solutions that enhance training and operational efficiency. For private aircraft companies, investing in online aviation training presents an

Helicopter Wire Strike Safety Statistics  Wire strikes continue to be a major cause of helicopter accidents, even with wire strike protection systems (WSPS), Obstacle Collision Avoidance Systems (OCAS), Electronic Flight Bags (EFB) and wire markers

The Benefits of Winglets  As experienced pilots, we understand the importance of maximizing efficiency and performance during every flight. Among the innovations that have significantly contributed to these goals are winglets. These aerodynamic extensions have

Electronic Flight Bag Purposes  In general terms, an Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) is a portable electronic display hardware intended primarily for flight deck or cabin use. It is also defined as any device, or combination

EFB Definition  An Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) is an electronic system with equipment and applications that store, update, display, and process functions to support flight operations. This means that pilots no longer must drag heavy

Contact Approach as an Option  In the vast world of aviation, pilots have various approaches at their disposal to ensure safe landings. One method is the contact approach. While not as commonly discussed as visual

Understanding Aircraft Operating Weight  As a pilot, understanding the intricacies of aircraft operating weight is crucial for safe and efficient flying. This concept not only affects flight performance but also plays a pivotal role in

An EASA safety plan modernizes the industry  The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is introducing a new five-year safety plan that supports the modernization of the European Aviation System in safety, efficiency, and the

Definition and Background of Single-Pilot Resource Management  Single-Pilot Resource Management (SRM) is the management of all onboard and outside resources available to a pilot before and during a flight to help ensure a safe and

What is the goal of an Aviation Safety Action Program? The purpose of the Aviation Safety Action Program is to enhance aviation safety through the prevention of incidents and accidents. The program encourages voluntary reporting

The History of TCAS  The original Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS I) was designed to reduce the risk of mid-air collisions by increasing pilot awareness of nearby aircraft. The system monitors the airspace

Takeoff or landing at an uncontrolled airport still has procedures  My boss wanted to see the sun’s total eclipse a few years ago, so we piled into the Gulfstream and headed to Tennessee, where the

What is a Hydraulic Lock?  A hydraulic lock is too much liquid in the combustion chamber. It often occurs after the shutdown of a radial engine, when some of the oil drains into the combustion

Aviation airspace may include more drones for unmanned aerial missions  Helicopters are not always ideal. They are expensive, and maintenance costs can be high. Additionally, their safety records are considered marginal in certain industries. But

Pilot training hours requirements matter  Republic Airlines asked for special consideration to lower the experience level of their new-hire first officers. They hoped the FAA would agree that their proprietary pilot training program was worth

The NTSB Recommends Changes to FAA Regulations Regarding PEDs  The use of personal electronic devices for nonoperational purposes is becoming a critical safety concern in aviation. The NTSB has recommended that the FAA regulations change

Flight Planning Update Eliminates Paper Charts  Exciting news for international flight planning! ForeFlight has introduced ocean plotting capabilities to their mobile app, eliminating the need for paper charts.   With oceanic plotting, pilots can easily:  Plan

Lessons from pilot training may have helped avoid accident  In a shocking turn of events, it appears that a recent Challenger upset had nothing to do with aviation weather, contrary to popular belief. While the

Pilot Training and Technology  Approximately every day, somewhere in the world, a plane is forced to divert due to smoke or fire in the cockpit. The Canadian Transportation Safety Board warns that pilots only have

Pilot Training Tips for Takeoff Rotation Rates  In the beginning of my pilot training, I had an instructor who believed that takeoffs should resemble rocket launches, even in a small aircraft like our 172. I

Pilot Training Tips for Takeoff Rotation Rates  In the beginning of my pilot training, I had an instructor who believed that takeoffs should resemble rocket launches, even in a small aircraft like our 172. I

Poor Crew Resource Management May Have Been a Factor in Accident  Accidents caused by failures in crew resource management (CRM) continue to occur. Investigators often attribute these accidents to factors like crosswinds or wet runways,

FAA Offers New Flight Planning Clearance Guidelines  In the past, flight planning and obtaining clearance was a cumbersome process that often led to delays, especially at busy airports. Pilots would spend precious time trying to

Crew Resource Management May Have Prevented Incident  Crew resource management (CRM) has a long history in aviation, but it is not a foolproof solution for safe flights. While it makes logical sense, we continue to

Streamlining International Operations with EAPIS  Gone are the days of endless stress and paperwork for international operations. Thanks to the revolutionary Electronic Advanced Passenger Information System (eAPIS), inputting and retrieving crucial travel information has never

Pilot training for smoke in the cockpit gets more realistic  Pilots who experienced the terror of smoke in the cockpit firsthand and lived to tell the tale consider themselves lucky. When smoke engulfs your vision

Pilot training for smoke in the cockpit gets more realistic  Pilots who experienced the terror of smoke in the cockpit firsthand and lived to tell the tale consider themselves lucky. When smoke engulfs your vision

Pilot training for runway excursions can help minimize occurrences  In the world of business aviation, runway excursions remain the top cause of accidents. According to the Flight Safety Foundation (FSF) 2022 Safety Report, out of

The FAA is not immune from trouble with keeping up with aviation changes   My local FSDO recently underwent a complete reassignment of personnel, much to the delight of the local pilots who live and fly

Save Lives with FAA Regulated Crash-Resistant Fuel Systems  Helicopters are often used in high-risk operations, and their design must be able to ensure maximum safety for passengers, pilots and crew. One of the most critical

Safely Navigating the Gulf of Mexico is Not Just for the Birds  With crystal-clear waters and stunningly beautiful scenery, the Gulf of Mexico is one of the world’s top destinations for recreational and commercial marine

The Importance of TAWS in Deteriorating Aviation Weather  As a pilot, you know how crucial it is to take every necessary precaution to ensure the safety of your passengers, crew, and flight. One significant risk

Why Checklists and CRM are Essential for Aviation Safety  Have you ever had the Low Fuel light come on during a flight? It’s a situation that can be both terrifying and dangerous. While it’s something

FAA Warns Pilots About Growing 5G Range in Aviation Airspace  It’s time to address the 5G elephant in the room. While it may seem like the issue has faded away, the truth is that the

CRM is Essential to the Safety of Flights  A Gulfstream GIV accident that occurred during takeoff at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport in 2021 is being attributed to a nose pin error and a lack of

Pilot Training for Bird Ingestion May Not Be Necessary for Modern Turbofan Engines  The infamous “Miracle on the Hudson” incident involving Canadian geese has taught us the importance of running through emergency checklists. Thankfully, revisions

Go Around or Missed Approach   In the cockpit, safely executing a go-around and missed approach is critical to successfully navigating potentially challenging scenarios during flight. As professional pilots, it’s essential to follow through on lessons

Pilot Training Could Evolve as Electric Aircraft Get an Assist  As the aviation industry continues to evolve, new technologies are emerging that are set to revolutionize the way we fly. One such technology is autonomous

Safeguarding Skies: Fatigue Risk Management and its Role in Aviation Safety  Flying in an airplane is already a risky venture, with many factors that can lead to disastrous outcomes. But one of the most serious

Crew Resource Management Can Change Flight Trajectory  Crew resource management (CRM) is vital in any aircraft. You may have heard the story of the crusty old pilot who gave his new first officer (FO) the

Flight Plan for Birds  Attention all rotorcraft pilots: The FAA is warning you to be aware of local bird populations and their migration patterns before filing your flight plan. It’s crucial to refresh your operational

Pilot Training with More Emphasis on Supply on Oxygen  The recent loss of a Cessna Citation 560 that broke into the restricted airspace of Washington, D.C. is heartbreaking, particularly if it was caused by inadequate

Circle-to-Land has its Benefits When Performed Correctly  Circle-to-land approaches at any airport are a challenge that most airlines prohibit. Overshooting the runway during a circling maneuver is a common issue as pilots struggle to accurately

Aviation Weather Ends with An Aircraft Caught in the Wires  Recently, a Mooney pilot became entangled in the power lines while attempting a GPS approach and blamed his altimeter. But the weather that night was

Tips and Tricks for Helicopter Pilots Flying Over Water  If you’re a helicopter pilot, you know that flying over water can be an exhilarating experience. Still, pilots of these flights must be especially aware of

Smooth Takeoff: Why Every Flight Needs a Strong CRM Strategy  Professional piloting has revolutionized because of the increased level of communication and collaboration among crew members. As a result, aviation safety is significantly improved –

The Importance of TAWS in Deteriorating Aviation Weather  As a pilot, you know how crucial it is to take every necessary precaution to ensure the safety of your passengers, crew, and flight. One significant risk

In Aviation Airspace, Birds and Aircraft Don’t Mix  Aviation airspace is a busy place where planes, helicopters, drones, sky divers, and birds share the same air. Unfortunately, not everything that flies is under positive control.

Flight Attendants Play an Essential Role in Flight Safety  During flight, aircraft and passenger safety and security is the number one priority. But how do airlines ensure that passengers remain safe during flights? The answer

Flying through mountain passes can provide a unique and exciting experience for travelers…and pilots. With the right planning, pilots can safely navigate their way around terrain that may be difficult to traverse in other types

IFR Mountain Flying  IFR (instrument flight rules) flights are governed by rules that direct all aspects of flight operations – from communication with air traffic controllers to maintaining a safe altitude. Pilots must have a

Laser strikes are rare, but still a risk of which to be aware  Although laser strikes are rare occurrences, pilots should be aware of the risks they can present during flight, and how to protect

Preparing for a safe helicopter flight to and from oil rigs  Flying a helicopter close to or around an oil rig can be incredibly rewarding and provide unique experiences that could only be achieved via

Spatial Disorientation and How to Help Reduce or Avoid It  Spatial disorientation is a crucial safety issue for pilots, as it can lead to catastrophic consequences if not addressed. Spatial orientation is the ability of

Instrument approaches add another layer of safety to pilot navigation  Navigating an airplane or helicopter safely to its destination requires a thorough understanding of the various instrument approaches used in aviation. From visual flight approaches

Pilot training like a pro isn’t only for the simulators  We’ve all flown imperfect approaches, scrambling to get back on profile in time to salvage the landing and save face with the boss. There may

Crew resource management for the Captain who owns the company  I recently saw a job advertisement for a co-pilot position that would include flying the right seat for an owner/operator. For some reason, the position

HEMS pilot safety is a topic at EASA  When I think of helicopter safety, the first thing I usually think of is helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) operations. Yes, there are many more uses for

Crew Resource Management is important for all flights and crews  It’s been over 30 years since I worked with this man, but I’ll never forget flying with the Captain with no concept of Crew Resource

SMS aviation requirements changing for Part 135 and 145 operators  When I left my EMS Chief Pilot job many years ago, Safety Management Systems (SMS) aviation was gaining traction. None of us knew what it

ILS approaches are being phased out by newer technology  I’m wondering how much longer pilots will request ILS approaches in marginal weather. Like NDB, ILS is rapidly losing popularity compared to the RNAV approach and,

Special bulletins can supplement pilot training  I hate when I call for “flaps up” just a little late and end up with the overspeed warning blaring in my headset. Those darn jets accelerate so fast

Crew resource management was used, but the aircraft still crashed  Crew resource management has done wonders for aviation’s safety record, but it doesn’t always save the day. Yes, learning to use the resourcefulness of each

Pilots should avoid underestimating mother nature’s power  With all the tools and technology available to pilots, it is upsetting that we are still flying through thunderstorms. But, when will we learn that aviation weather is

Aviation airspace is getting congested  It’s all over the news lately – people are back to flying, and they’re back in droves. So much so that the congestion of aviation airspace is becoming a hot

SMS aviation programs can benefit more than just flight crews  Safety management systems (SMS) aviation programs are growing in popularity, not just because they are mandatory for Part 121 operators but also because they work.

TCAS alerts are most helpful when followed  I wonder if the phase of flight makes a big difference in the reaction time of a pilot getting a TCAS alert. For example, do we snap to

Aviation weather not the cause of accident that took place during snow and ice  I admit it; I was surprised when I read the final report on the 2019 PC-12 accident that claimed the lives

Check your flight plans at Teterboro Airport  The first time I filed a flight plan into and out of Teterboro, NJ, I messed up the departure. I was a brand-new EMS pilot, flying an unfamiliar

Aviation airspace isn’t large enough for two aircraft at one point in time and space  I love pancake breakfasts. There’s nothing like waking up early on a beautiful, clear day and heading to the airport

Single pilot resource management can help all levels of pilots  NTSB and witnesses don’t know the circumstances that led to the accident. Possibly, he was either in a hurry or felt rushed and became distracted.

Your flight plan now includes checking for 5G interference  The next time you file a flight plan, you might want to check the new Airworthiness Directives (ADs) issued by the FAA to protect against 5G

Cockpit video recorders are on the list for part 135 operations  Video recorders made the NTSB’s Most Wanted List. This is a big deal. The NTSB wants video recorders on all passenger-carrying commercial aircraft. I

Flight plan with noise reduction in mind  My neighbor recently bought the most obnoxiously loud 4-wheel ATV, and he’s not afraid to use it. He is not a good neighbor. It reminds me that as

Aviation airspace is looking toward the future of vertical takeoff and landing vehicles  Vertical takeoff and Landing (VTOL) vehicles (manned and unmanned) will soon be a big part of our aviation airspace, and it’s time

Pilot training introduces pilots to preflight checks  The preflight inspection is one of my hot buttons during pilot training for a new airplane. Unfortunately, it seems like it’s always an afterthought. After a fundamental review

Realistic pilot training for smoke and fire is critical   Every time I go to pilot training, I cheat. The instructor inevitably asks me if I want to don my oxygen mask and smoke goggles, and

Pilot training with an emphasis on flying the aircraft  To all of you lone pilots out there, my utmost respect. I’ve been there, and I know how difficult it can be when things go wrong.

The FAA is discussing energy management  When I think of energy management, I think of getting behind the power curve or finding myself in the dreaded coffin corner, but there’s a lot more to it

Pilot training teaches runway safety checks for all pilots  On the one hand, pilots are a trusting bunch. We must be. Many things are out of our control; we don’t manufacture our planes or engines,

After maintenance, and before filing a flight plan, perform a pre-flight inspection  Most professional pilots know the drama often associated with getting a plane out of maintenance. It isn’t pleasant when multiple delays are the

Are the FAA regulations regarding pilot rest enough to prevent fatigue?  I’ve been out of the airline world for over a decade now, but it doesn’t take much to bring me back to the memories

Crew resource management receives an artificial helping hand  I remember when I was first introduced to crew resource management (CRM) during one of my recurrent airline classes. What a fantastic concept it was at the

Circle-to-land and runway incursion pilot training could use a more realistic approach  When experienced pilots continue to make fatal mistakes while executing routine circle-to-land approaches, it might be time to stop and wonder why. There

Go-around pilot training can help remove the stigma of failure  “Cleared for the visual,” he said. I snapped off the autopilot and pointed the nose toward the runway. I was high and fast, at idle

What could happen if you flew an ILS approach without a visual backup?  Last week, I had an eye-opening experience while flying from Arkansas to the Dekalb-Peachtree Airport in Georgia. The weather was VFR, but

Your North Atlantic Track flight plan may get simpler  It’s fun when my non-aviation friends look up at the contrails in the sky and ask me how pilots know where they’re going. “There are highways

Pilot training ad nauseum for pitch trim runaway could save your flight  I don’t usually walk away from pilot training with a heightened sense of apprehension, but this time I did. I’m used to recurrent

Crew resource management can start before flight Crew resource management (CRM) can help a crew get through an abnormal or emergency event during flight. The non-flying pilot is flipping back and forth through the QRH,

SMS aviation programs can better help keep business operations safe I may have an idea why business SMS Aviation Programs and ASAP reporting are lagging behind airlines and general aviation. That’s not to say that

CFIT pilot training is for all levels of pilots  I was reading about the newly updated FAA pilot training video that discusses avoiding Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) accidents, and I was surprised by the

Pilot training for clear weather days can help avoid accidents too  I’m always surprised when I hear about an accident on a day that is clear and a million. Isn’t that when flying is at

The FAA is reviewing Class C airspace changes in PA  I had always assumed the airspace system in the United States was pretty much all figured out. If anything, I can see the FAA eliminating

Even pilot training done well won’t prepare us for the most unexpected  A pilot friend was about 100 feet in the air on a beautiful, sunny day when his seat rolled back on the tracks

A group of pilots has taken pilot training into their own hands  As I’m packing my bags to head to recurrent pilot training, I must admit the last thing I’m thinking about is what I’m

Part 135 Operators can stay on top of, or ahead of the curve  When I made the move from airline pilot to Part 135 Charter, I knew I was in for a steep learning curve.

GPS navigation jamming in some areas is causing issues for some pilots  An airport in the north country of New York has had GPS issues since the invention of GPS navigation. I’m not kidding you.

There are other options when performing and circle-to-land in bad weather  Another fatal Learjet accident that seems to be directly related to the circle at the end of a GPS or ILS Approach. On December

5G GPS navigation disruption is a concern as more airports update their networks   It feels like I’ve been talking about GPS navigation disruptions for a while, but now that the 5G network rollout is nigh.

Piston twin pilots have a pilot training course to upgrade to smart rudders Have you heard what pilots say about the Navajo? They say when you lose an engine, the other one will only take

Pilot training, when done well, can change an emergency outcome   At the end of my last recurrent pilot training lesson, my instructor gave me an unwelcome surprise. We were 10,000 feet over Atlanta when all went suddenly

Class G airspace seems more crowded with drones  The FAA has announced that drone operators have permission to fly their drones farther than line of sight AT NIGHT. It’s bad enough that they’re flying around

Pilot Training Can Include Having Difficult Discussions  I’m not sure if we appreciate recurrent pilot training for the gem that it is. For most of us, it’s a week of systems and simulators, and then we’re

Aviation airspace may stop seeing so many lasers during flights   It amazes me that the authorities can locate the offenders in a laser attack on an aircraft. Think about all the aviation airspace up there; the

Crew Resource Management matters for all flights   “BFAT” is The phrase that my FO lovingly says to me before each takeoff – Crew Resource Management at its finest. No, he’s not reminding me to stop at Dunkin

Safety management systems are included in the NBAA’s safety strategies 2021/2022 list  It’s that time of year again when pilots and operators start thinking about saving lives next year based on what the NBAA has observed this year. It doesn’t seem like the

Flight planning your taxi route  What pilot hasn’t had to stop taxiing at an unfamiliar airport long enough to regain his or her bearings and find their way to either the FBO or the active

Crew Resource Management is essential and Garmin has a computer to help pilots  My only spontaneous engine failure was in a Turbo Commander with two equally qualified pilots on board, myself and my co-worker. Unfortunately,

Pilot training extension and exemption effects being seen  My boss is the kind of guy who notices everything. I mean EVERYTHING. Somehow he can see a tiny little warning light from the back row of

Is pilot training all you need to knock the cobwebs off? Boy, it’s been a while since I’ve flown. I’m not going to lie – I’m a little concerned about my first trip post-Covid. It’s

Pilot training can only do so much for an in-flight fire Is there a pilot alive who doesn’t live in fear of the dreaded inflight fire? Besides not being able to breathe, smoke reduces the

Your First Class Medical shouldn’t cause your blood pressure to rise I’ve always wondered if the nurse at my FAA First Class Medical knew that I was belly breathing in a desperate attempt to lower

SMS Aviation Regulations May Be Cost-Prohibitive for Smaller Companies Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) programs have been in use for over 15 years; it’s not a new idea or concept. However, what IS new is

There’s more than one type of pilot when aviation weather or mechanical stressors arise Do you have the right stuff to fly an airplane? I’m not talking about whether you used to sit at the

Make an ILS approach with your eyes out the window The first time I saw a Head Up Display, I was an observer in a Mad Dog (MD-80) Simulator in the 90s. It looked like

Safety management system use is being urged by NTSB It’s rare to hear about accidents involving modern business jets these days. The advanced avionics, technology, and excellent pilot training are second to none and have

Wire Strikes Prevention CTS has expanded our training program to feature training by adding a new Wire Strikes Prevention subject. This course is geared toward pilots and crew members who fly near wires and wire structures.   

Single pilot resource management may soon be on the way for long-haul, heavy aircraft flights My transition from an Airbus 320 to a Turbo Commander was certainly an eye-opener. I went from sitting 20 feet

Companies work to create monitoring AI for aviation airspace Not too long ago, some friends of mine planned a fly-in breakfast trip for their local flying club members. They all woke up early on a

Single Pilot Resource Management for commercial pilots? Single Pilot Resource Management (SRM) is about to get real. Not that it wasn’t already real and crucial for the thousands of single pilots who benefit from the

CTS has recently refreshed our Flat-light, Whiteout, and Brownout course. The updated course brings fresh graphics and content and now includes scenario-based events for students to learn from for each condition.  The course includes a

Electrical fire pilot training for all aircraft may benefit from new electrical aircraft technology Nothing brings terror to a pilot quite like the thought of an in-flight fire. Even a fire while still on the

Bell helicopters deal with collective handle breaks and metal fatigue in newer helicopters I remember being surprised in pilot training several years ago when we practiced the jammed aileron procedure in the sim. The checklist

HAI wants to help with pilot training to lower the amount of aviation accidents caused by human error Recently there was a helicopter accident in my hometown. An Army Blackhawk went down in a field,

What will an ILS approach be like if the controller is miles away from the airport? Remote Air Traffic Control is finally here and we should probably get used to it. Yes, I realize that

As companies look toward helping the environment, NBAA offers a flight plan for sustainability The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) is getting serious about leading the way for environmental sustainability within aviation. They just introduced

Know your aviation airspace before you enter Waaaaay back in my freshly minted private pilot days, I remember how happy I was to check off one of the requirements for earning my commercial pilot’s license.

Pilot training and women in the aviation industry were encouraged at the recent virtual WAI  Pilot training isn’t the only thing that has moved online this year; aviation conferences have moved their events to the

GPS navigation is essential to aircraft and some companies will not let anything interfere with it The 5G cellular network is supposed to be all the rage these days. Phone companies are inundating us with

Flying ILS approach entirely without any forward facing windows are on the way NASA and Lockheed Martin introduce their new X plane designed to fly without a forward facing window. That’s right. WITHOUT a forward

Single pilot resource management will be a bit more manageable thanks to upgrades I remember the first time I flew a plane with autothrottles. I was a rookie pilot with UsAir and it was pure

Your aircraft performance is best when limits and calculations are followed There are few things in life more satisfying than reaching rotation speed, gently pulling back on the yoke, and letting your aircraft effortlessly fly

Part 135 operators have the opportunity to receive human traffic awareness training The Blue Lightning Initiative (BLI) was created by the Department of Homeland Security and other government agencies to raise awareness about human trafficking.

Pilots can benefit from Crew Resource Management during checklist procedures How many times have you done a simple walk around? Just a routine preflight, starting here and ending there. A hundred times? A thousand? And

The FAA moves closer to integrating drones into aviation airspace The drones are coming. The FAA’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration Pilot Program (IPP) is a wrap. The 3 year initiative was designed to test and

When experiencing a dual engine failure in flight, pilot training and communication helped these pilots stay calm In my 30 years of flying professionally, I’ve lived through a handful of engine failures, but only one

I made the unfortunate mistake of landing on a closed runway in the middle of the night many years ago and it still haunts me to this day. Yes, I checked my flight plan and

Aircraft performance with a hydrogen engine may be coming to a small aircraft near you On September 24, 2020, ZeroAvia flew the first commercially viable aircraft powered by their new hydrogen propulsion system and the

Aircraft performance is getting a little closer to getting a little closer Who hasn’t looked up in wonder at the V-shaped pattern of geese when they’re migrating? Even non-aviation people may glance skyward in amazement

It’s hard to maintain CFIT avoidance with TAWS disabled What’s the expression they say when you do something foolish and you don’t know it until someone points it out to you? “Egg on your face,”

Aviation weather will be easier to navigate thanks to a new radar system Not much bothers me after 40 years in aviation. I’ve seen the engine failures, the maintenance issues, the diversions. But I have

Crew resource management is just as important now as before the pandemic hit as more Captains may find themselves in the right seat As the aviation industry struggles to recover from the devastating effects of

Pilot training can’t protect against everything, but Airbus Helicopter is trying to change that Every time I see a solid black line through the EMS wings on social media, my heart skips a beat. It

Autonomous aircraft will change the course of pilot training…eventually I was watching 60 Minutes the other day and one of the segments was on driverless trucks. I’m not going to lie…it terrified me. Watching the

The FAA looks to clear drowns out of aviation airspace It looks like the FAA is getting a little tired of “rogue drones” wandering into the aviation airspace near airports. After several collisions and many

Lights! Camera! And if the lights are right, the only action is a successful takeoff when weather is not ideal I still remember getting the phone call late one winter night many years ago. My

Low visibility aviation weather will be easier to see through with new technology One of my favorite things to do as an airline pilot was to autoland the Airbus. It never ceased to amaze me

Aviation weather cameras may make it easier for pilots in Colorado to anticipate weather conditions I remember the exact moment that I learned about the installation of live cameras that would display the ramp and

NBAA looks to help Part 135 business aviation pilots and companies get back in the air If you’re one of the hundreds of pilots who have lost their Part 135 (or 91) Corporate or Charter

Pakistan’s recent crash has us wondering if pilot training can correct complacency and poor judgment of experienced pilots By now I figure everyone has heard about the disaster unfolding in Pakistan regarding nearly one third

Underwater egress pilot training may be a lifesaver There are two things about pilot training that terrify me. One is something I’m fairly certain I’ll never have to do – the high G centrifuge training

Girls in Aviation Day was virtual this year, but the message of introducing more young women to pilot training is still strong Women in Aviation International (WAI) is about to celebrate the 6th annual Girls

Helicopter pilot training that combines upset and advanced instrument flight is ready We don’t usually say the words “helicopter” and “aerobatics” in the same sentence, but that may be about to change. Helicopter instructor, Chuck

Pilot training for fixed wing pilots may finally include more coverage of night vision systems Back in the day when I was flying single-pilot EMS operations in mountainous terrain at all hours of the night,

Time spent on your flight plan and money spent on fuel could be saved by adding an electrical track system to aircraft taxiing Aircraft Towing Systems (ATS) Worldwide is about to break ground on an

A pilot training accident leaves some wondering why the instructor didn’t intervene I often read accident reports and try to imagine how I would have handled the emergency, despite the fact that I have no

Making sure the inside of your cockpit is clear of debris may be a simple pilot training tool to help prevent incidents Pilot training covers a variety of subjects that have to do with preparing

So in the midst of this Coronavirus pandemic and the grounding of airplanes everywhere, I was thinking about my night currency. I suppose it should be the least of my worries, but still, I was

Visualizing your IFR flight plan is getting easier Filing an IFR flight plan into a busy airport with multiple approaches and complicated arrival/departure procedures is a little easier for pilots flying with Garmin avionics. Version

Aviation airspace is not as crowded as it once was, neither are ATC towers ATC Zero (Air Traffic Control Zero) means the FAA is unable to safely provide the published ATC services within the aviation

Pilot training with more surprise may help avoid in-fight mistakes A friend of mine is working on a presentation for an aviation course and he wanted me to review his powerpoint before he turned it

No matter your altitude at an uncontrolled airport, you can’t go wrong looking out for other aircraft A while back, I was waiting for a friend at a small, uncontrolled airport when I overheard a

For 2019 Part 91 fatalities exceeded Part 135 by a wide margin, what does training have to do with it? A few months ago I read an article about the disturbing record number of fatalities

Contact approaches – what are they, and are they worth it? Does anyone really know what a contact approach is? Does anyone really care, or even ask for one in real life? I certainly haven’t

E3 pilot training adds exposure to areas pilots may not usually fly The FAA has published its new guidance for pilot training deadlines in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. We can all breathe a

The ability of an SMS to identify and eliminate hazards in corporate aviation may get a boost According to the FAA, the definition of a Safety Management System (SMS) is a “formal, top-down, organization-wide approach

Single-pilot resource management can be lonely and stressful I flew single pilot for an air medical operation for over 10 years and I can promise you, it’s a very lonely place to be when things

Aviation weather briefings that include smoke and ash in wildfire areas can help keep the smoke out of your eyes Flying over or through the smoke and ash of a major wildfire is something that

Unidentified drones in aviation airspace will now be more identifiable with a new FAA rule to track drones Last year, unidentified drones were flying in groups of ten or more in Colorado…at night. The FAA

ILS approach safety may increase with advances to head-up display technology I saw a car commercial the other day that described the safety benefits of its Head-up Display (HUD) technology and I remember thinking it

Avoiding RAs in RVSM Airspace I just read an article about how a triple Resolution Advisory (RA) event recently occurred in RVSM Airspace. I honestly don’t know why this doesn’t happen daily – one thousand

Flying into an uncontrolled airport certainly isn’t an ideal time for radio failure I experienced my first radio failure the other day. It was more like total radio static – but it was enough that

Crew Resource Management when it works well, works well Quick. You just landed. You press on the brakes and…nothing happens. No brakes, no airbrakes, no reverse. Nothing. What’s your next move? What would you do?

Crew Resource Management may include listening to your gut Imagine screaming down the runway at 100 knots, fully expecting the nose to lift off, but nothing is happening. Now imagine that you’re the pilot not

Pilot training classes don’t account for flight experience There is a new trend in pilot training that I had the chance to witness first hand in my initial Falcon 2000 Type Rating class. I must

Pilot training for rejected takeoff works best when you follow through on your own briefing There I was, halfway through initial pilot training for the Falcon 2000. It was rejected take-off day in the simulator,

Pilot training that includes the controllability check can help ready pilots for mid air incidents Have you ever considered what you would do if you suddenly became a test pilot in the aircraft you have

FAA warns pilots of increased laser strikes from holiday displays infecting aviation airspace I love driving around in my car during the holidays, looking at the beautiful laser light displays in the neighborhoods near my

What do you do when not all pilot training is the same for something like aborted takeoffs? Ask 100 pilots the question, “Who has the authority to call for an abort?” and you may get

“BFAT” When it Comes to Single Pilot Resource Management  It’s tricky transitioning from being a part of a 2-pilot crew to being all alone up there. Most of my career was spent as an airline

An ILS approach taken casually can end in disaster When flying an ILS approach to minimums, situational awareness is critical. But when you’re flying an ILS approach to minimums with inoperative equipment, you better know

Pilot training may have been a while ago, now may be a good time for a Vmc Rollover refresher The news report said that the King Air pilots were confused about what was happening to

Uncontrolled Airport Radio Communications Confession time…I am the laziest pilot in the world when it comes to uncontrolled airport radio communications. I’ll be busy doing a checklist or programming the FMS as we taxi for

Sun glare can lead pilots to the wrong airspace – Class D! Oh boy. Another crew landed at the wrong airport (ACN: 1513320) and as luck would have it, the airport was in Class D

Pilot training experience should be taken seriously before releasing control of a flight Have you ever read an accident report that left you wondering about the chain of events that led up to the accident,

Include approach lighting in your briefing to avoid huge landing mistakes Quick! How do you know for sure which side of the runway the VASI/PAPI is on? And more importantly, when flying an ILS approach

Takeoff minimums under Part 91 are not always as safe as they are legal Pilots operating under Part 91 rules may legally take off with no forward visibility. Anyone with the proper qualifications and ratings

Clearing up the Class E Airspace Cobwebs Class E airspace is the most common airspace in the United States, but it’s also the trickiest to understand. Class E airspace typically extends up to, but not

A Class D Airspace Refresher Full disclosure: it’s been a long time since I’ve looked at a sectional chart. Back in the day, it was pretty routine to have a crumpled up High Altitude IFR

Stressors of flight include laser strikes from the ground Laser strikes on aircraft are up 250% since the FAA started tracking this information in 2010. Because of this, the FAA has put out a resource

GPS Navigation Changes With the January 1, 2020 deadline for ADS-B out certification just around the corner, pilots will be required to assess how their GPS Navigation position reporting avionics will perform PRIOR to takeoff

Flight planning without reading NOTAMs may cause you to miss that one quirk at an airport My phone buzzed at 2 AM and I fumbled for the light, desperately trying to wake up and comprehend

Crew resource management can help you be ready for anything in flight Things can go south fast in an airplane. In a blink of an eye you can find yourself scrambling to save your aircraft,

It’s a bird…flying right towards you – both the FARs and the AIM say your responsible to know it’s there already Wait. Did I read that right? According to both the FARs and the AIM,

Aviation flight planning gets help with a new app  The boss wanted to go to Telluride for a ski trip last winter. No problem, I thought. A little aviation flight planning and off we’d go.

Flight planning is getting easier with online flight apps With all of the aviation apps available these days, it’s hard to know which ones make the most sense for the type of flying you do.

GPS Navigation Jamming It’s easy to take GPS navigation for granted, especially since it is becoming such an integral part of modern day aviation. GPS disruption, however, is a growing problem that needs to be

Pilot training that involves physical training Physical strength is rarely an issue in pilot training these days. Because of hydraulics and fly-by-wire systems, modern aircraft can often be flown using just your fingertips, but it

Increased use of electronics leads to increased battery fires and the need for more flight training Flight training in today’s electronic environment would not be complete without a discussion on the dangers of lithium ion

Flight planning and communication with flight dispatchers play an important role in aviation safety Flight dispatchers play an integral role in aviation safety. They are employed by a company or airline and are imperative to

The Life of Your iPad Battery The life of your iPad battery is something you probably don’t think about too much when considering flight performance, that is until you’re at that “uh-oh” moment. I notice

CFIT avoidance Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) continues to prove a very real issue in aviation despite continued advances in both pilot training and aircraft technology. In fact, the statistics surrounding CFIT incidents are alarming.

ODPs place significant responsibility on pilots Obstacle Departure Procedures (ODP) are underutilized aviation tools – possibly a result of how unfamiliar and uncomfortable many pilots are with them. If obstacles in a departure area require

Planning, managing, and using resources can help avoid unforeseen aircraft accidents Single-pilot resource management (SRM) is the art of managing all onboard and outside resources available to a pilot before and during a flight to

Keeping up on Pilot Training If I had to pick my least favorite part of recurrent, it would have to be aircraft performance. It’s usually one of the last things we talk about and it

Crew Resource Management and Aeronautical Decision Making An interesting new piece of information has been published about the Lion Air 737 Max 8 accident last October and it is yet another reminder of the life

A Better Understanding of Aviation Weather Clouds play an important role in aviation weather and serve as vital indicators to pilots. It’s imperative to be familiar with the different cloud types and more specifically, what

This week’s blog entry on the critical engine is for our piston and turboprop audience. In single-engine operations, your only engine is the “critical” engine. However, for multi-engine aircraft, the critical engine is commonly defined

When to stay and when to go When progressing through flight training in the military, a go-around was one of the first maneuvers I learned. At the same time, we are taught that taking a

Remaining safe in the air Midair Collisions (MACs) are one of the greatest threats to pilots even though they are oftentimes preventable. Indeed, by recognizing MACs as a threat and defining and utilizing the see-and-avoid

What to do in the Event of a Bird Strike Birds are a significant threat to aviation and their presence presents many potential hazards. A bird strike may be so small that it goes completely

How to make yourself a better, safer pilot. Radio communications are a huge part of a pilot’s daily life. From getting the ATIS broadcast prior to taking off to receiving ground clearance for parking, the

It was a dark and snowy night… Our non -tower destination would require an approach through a mountain pass, with an equally precise missed approach back out through the mountains, if necessary. With 2 hours

Part 135 or 91 Temperatures matter beyond OAT Are there really that many ways to measure temperature in an aircraft? And are they all equally important? Now that the temperatures have started to plummet, a

Are you communicating properly with your cabin crew? When it comes to cockpit-to-cabin communication (and vice versa) it’s important to be open and transparent, but sometimes that’s not always how it happens. To hit on

NOTAMbiguity. Although the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other like-minded safety-conscious bodies try to keep airmen as safe as possible, sometimes the way they go about it isn’t the most beneficial or conducive to

Too many cooks in the… cockpit? Whether you call him George, Mike, or Otto, having assistance in the cockpit for long flights or heavy workload situations can be extremely helpful and sometimes necessary. Read on

Does autorotation training do more harm than good to future pilots? We’ve all heard that practice makes perfect, but what if practicing an emergency procedure is more dangerous than the emergency itself? In 2011, the

Don’t shut down, even if the engine does. Although emergency situations of any kind aren’t easy, the scariest of all may be loss of power during flight. Keep reading to learn how to mentally prepare

Cool, Calm, and Collective. Earlier this week we brought you a blog on how to better prepare for emergency procedures. Now, we wanted to share with you some tips on how to remain calm when

Tips for Pilot Emergency Preparedness. A 2015 study tested pilots in a Boeing 747 simulator on the pilots’ emergency preparedness. The case study revealed that “all eighteen pilots performed impeccably, providing the correct response for

“Put yourself in the customer’s shoes but never lose your authority,” says one aviation industry insider on difficult passengers. As flight crewmembers, you have to be prepared for all types of scenarios when dealing with

Brushing up on SID and STAR ATC Communications On February 21, 2018, the NBAA posted an article asking operators to pay more attention to SID procedures, particularly those at Teterboro (TEB) and Henderson Executive (HND)

Hot, Hot, Hot Refueling As many pilots know, refueling the aircraft while the engines are still running, also known as “hot refueling,” can potentially be a high-risk situation without properly trained personnel. Although hot refueling

Cool temperatures, Uncool hazards As temperatures across the U.S. seem to be dropping, it only seems appropriate to write about Arctic Flying (since most of the U.S. feels like the Arctic currently). With this particularly

Back to the Basics with the FAA The FAA has issued a series on going “Back to Basics” of aviation. One of the articles in the series features How to Talk like a Pilot. In

Accident Prevention, One Load at a Time The Forklift Truck Operation Standard follows OSHA guidelines to prevent accidents in the workplace. With 85 forklift related fatalities per year, it is important to recognize and follow

High Altitude, High Risk  Decompression sickness (DCS) is a condition derived from exposure to low barometric pressures, creating bubbles of inert gases (usually nitrogen) throughout the body. Although DCS can manifest itself in many ways,

Preflight planning, enroute efficiency Lowered service ceiling. Shortened cruising range. Decreased maneuverability. These are just a few results of improperly loading an aircraft due to miscalculation of weight and balance. Below are common weight and

Identifying Drones In-Flight Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as ‘drones,’ have increasingly become a concern for the civil aviation world. Although the new technology is a real highlight from

Fly Smart, #FlySafe The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is attempting to significantly reduce the amount of accidents and incidents related to Loss of Control (LOC) through their #FlySafe campaign. Some contributing factors to LOC are: