Ground School Article Library

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• Training & Instruction75 articles
• Accidents & Safety65 articles
• Maneuvers & Flight Skills75 articles
• Weather & Atmosphere9 articles
• Aircraft & Equipment23 articles
• Communications & ATC16 articles
• Regulations (FAR/AIM)24 articles
• IFR & Instrument Flight19 articles
• Sensory, Vision & Physiology16 articles
• Cross-Country & Navigation4 articles
• History & Career9 articles
• General61 articles
• All articles A–Z396 total

Training & Instruction 75 articles

• A Training ProgramP I make a practice of having prospective students come to my home office for a couple of…
• A Training ProgramP I make a practice of having prospective students come to my home office for a couple of…
• About Studentsol li A student won #39;t learn from those they distrust BR li A student won #39;t…
• Advice to instructorsP Go down to lost and found and get your memory every time you have a senior moment P …
• Applicant SummaryYou must have an application for a rating form FAA Form 8710 1 a waiver form as required a…
• CFI Abuses of Student TimeThis problem is usually one of teaching style and respect BR 1 Coming to lesson…
• CFI HoursI took my intro flight a few days ago and when I asked my prospective CFI how many hours he…
• Commitment to Flyingol li You must be able to give priority to the time and energy required for learning to…
• Course ReversalP The course reversal is a new addition to the Private Pilot Practical Test standards After…
• Decisions, Decisions, DecisionsP Even the best instruction will not suffice if the student does not show good judgment The…
• Designing LessonsGiving flying lessons is much like building a tissue and balsa flying model of an airplane…
• Effective Criticism Requirements1 Student instructor awareness of what is being done wrong P P 2 Instructor analysis…
• Effective InstructionFirst of four elements is identification of the objectives�not the creation of them as…
• FAA Instructional FormatFAA instruction is based on early 1900 educational theory and practice Most learning is…
• Factors in Successful LearningP B 1 Time of year B BR Summer flying gives longer days but does not provide the most …
• Failed TeachingThe most dangerous aspect of flying and flight instruction is that the FAA Part 91 system…
• Getting the ATISP One of my readers asked that I expand of the following statement: quot;The student will…
• Good Judgementfont size 1 color 339966 b Good Judgement b font br P Even the best instruction will…
• Help Your InstructorP The more an instructor knows about you your background motivation finances and goals…
• Holding HeadingsA pilot not a student is expected to hold a heading The PTS allows a 10 degree or 20…
• InstructionInitially the ground instruction begins with basic background and theory The flight…
• Instruction as I do it...P I tend to be too intense in my instruction I want my students to succeed save money …
• Instruction use of MS Flight SimulatorI can MS Simulator be a helpful for my flight training i p At the end of WWII I…
• Instructional ConstantsA number of constants have been recommended Constants while not the only way to fly …
• Instructional FrustrationI must admit I am somewhat discourged with primary flight instruction Students that don…
• Judgement of LimitationsB The ability of a student to plan a safe flight or flying activity is determined by his…
• Judgment of LimitationsP The ability of a student to plan a safe flight or flying activity is determined by his…
• Keys For Successful LearningP B 1 Time of year B BR Summer flying gives longer days but does not provide the most …
• Learning From Your MistakesP A mistake is painful because we have been conditioned to experience humiliation and shame …
• Learning To FlyP There is no single way to get a pilot license Getting it is faster and cheaper if training…
• Learning To Fly YoungYou really don t need to go to a flying school to learn to fly The schools tend to be…
• Mad As Hell And Taking ItP In flying we react in an emergency as we first learned to react When we show anger we…
• Major CFI Applicant Problem AreasP middot; Not fitting lesson to student level BR middot; Too much talking without check on…
• Military InstructionInstruction that uses the stair step approach is predicated on the absence of surprises A…
• My First Month As A Student PilotH4 Week 1 H4 P FONT SIZE quot; 1 quot; Monday: Rain BR Tuesday: Rain BR ...
• My Kind of StudentP I want a student who responds enjoys and pays attention I enjoy sharing my love of…
• My Solos Take LongerThe first five students I taught had #39;things #39; happen during their first or second…
• Notes On LearningLearning to fly was still the greatest adventure of life The inner process of learning to…
• On Flight InstructorsAlmost anyone can learn to fly an airplane if exposed to the environment long enough and…
• On MotivationStudents will only learn if they want to Contrary to commonly held parent #39;s opinion …
• One CFI + One CFI = ProblemsOne several occasions I have flown with both experienced and inexperienced CFI for a number…
• Overview of the PTS75 of Applicant failures are due to instructor failure The Applicant must know that he is…
• Planned InstructionThe military is a leading exponent of programmed instruction Under such a program every…
• Postflight DebriefingThe postflight debriefing begins as a self evaluation by both student and instructor as to…
• Practical Test StandardsNOTE: All of the PTS material is greatly expanded in the instructional learning material BR …
• PreparationThe success of the instructional program is directly related to the willingness of the student…
• Scanning (instructor notes)P I suggest a scan process of having the student follow my finger as I point successively…
• Selecting Your InstructorP Your instructor is one essential leg to the flight training program An interview and…
• Self-Doubt is NormalP Every so often the instructor finds a student who is going through a phase of flying that…
• Student EvaluationP Evaluation is a teaching constant It begins when the lesson begins Continues throughout…
• TaxiingP Because of side by side seating the student pilot must be helped to find where to look for…
• Teaching 30 Years AgoThe following is a #39;Preliminary Talk Notes #39; that I made early on in my instructing…
• Teaching Ground ReferenceP More often than not ground reference is taught as though it were the end itself and not a…
• Teaching MemoryP The way an instructor presents material has a great influence on student retention of what…
• Teaching preceptsP li Docendo Discimus We learn by teaching When by yourself you are the instructor BR …
• Teaching The FAA WayI have never seen the 60 14 textbook I assume it is the revised Flight Instructor Handbook…
• Teaching To A Higher LevelP Because of the concentrated information that is being loaded on the student in the…
• The First SoloP There are many self induced stresses on the student prior to solo The student begins to…
• The InstructorI can teach you to fly in about five minutes but it will take the rest of your life to get…
• The LORAN SystemI instructed LORAN at 58th Bomb Wing Training School on Tinian Island of the Marianas during…
• The Nature of CertaintyIn my careers as a school teacher and flight instructor I have developed student…
• The Practical TestDetermines if applicant has had required instruction BR Determines if applicant can safely…
• The PTSEverything about the Practical Test is a given If you have studied the PTS you know what is…
• The Student As A ProblemOf great concern to the responsible instructor is the prospective pilot who is heavily…
• The Student As A StudentP How much does it cost Depends on motivation of student BR How long does it take 62…
• The Unteachable StudentI have found that my methods and I am incompatible with about 5 of my students This was…
• Time For First SoloThis method to safely soloing a student puts the burden on the student It is not the way I…
• Visualizing Your TrainingP A student pilot or any other pilot for that matter can practice flying even while not in…
• Viva la DifferenceWhere male and female students are similar: BR Individual differences of greater…
• What My Instruction Is NotB Flying is not the same as it was in WWI or WWII What worked then is unsafe now …
• What You Know, Gets In The Way of What You Don't KnowThe learning law of #39;Primacy #39; is what makes developing proper habits first build…
• Where's The Problem?When an instructor becomes upset over a student #39;s performance the student could well…
• Who is in charge?B Low time instructors have most of the #39;Who #39;s in Charge #39; kind of difficulty …
• Who's In Charge?P Low time instructors have most of the #39;Who #39;s in Charge #39; kind of difficulty …
• Why Ground Reference?P One of the weakest parts of flight instruction is the failure of the instructor to let the…

Accidents & Safety 65 articles

• 1989 - 1993 US Accidents#133;Accident__________Deaths_ BR 1 Highway Accidents 228 000 BR 2 Murders …
• 1995 StatisticsMost flying decisions are easy if the decision is based upon safety Being safe does not…
• 1996 For 100,000 Hours of FlyingSingles 1 5 BR Twins 2 12 BR Homebuilts 2 of the flying and 10 of the accidents with…
• 1996 Statistics46000 accidents 25 involved drugs or alcohol 20 were caused by mechanical problems 27 had…
• 1997 Nall Reportli An accident as a judgment failure BR li Pilots only spot one third of ATC traffic…
• 1998 Nall Reportli B VFR flight into IFR conditions is the leading source of fatalities Judgment…
• 1998 Statisticsli B Over 20 of all G A fatal accidents had weather as contributing factor BR ...
• 1999 Nall Reportli B Landings are the source of most accidents but few injuries BR li For every mile…
• 1999 Was A Very Good Year1908 general aviation accidents BR 342 were fatal accidents BR 7 05 accidents per 100…
• Abnormal Situation TrainingB We do not want a first spin to be of the accidental kind We do not want a first…
• About AccidentsUse of shoulder harnesses in all seats will reduce major injuries by 88 and fatalities by…
• Accident Precipitating Causes 1991ul li Inadequate preflight and or planning BR li 1 4 of all accidents are caused by…
• Accidents By Experience LevelLess experienced pilots are more susceptible to accidents BR li Flying less than 10…
• Airline PilotsThe second most frequent cause of death among airline pilots prior to age 60 is a general…
• Alcohol1 In accidents from #39;78 to #39;87 6 of G A pilots had blood alcohol level of at…
• Are You FARs Ready?Requirements of 61 87 logged as satisfactory proficiency and safety BR Review of logbook…
• Bird StrikesA serious problem costing over $150 million per year in aircraft damage and occasionally a…
• Crash Survival#1 survival item is to let a responsible person know where you are going your route and ETA…
• Engine Failure Accidentsul li 22 of all accidents BR li 4 only partial failure BR li...
• Fatalities and Survivalul li 90 of people involved in ditching accidents survive BR li Only 1 out of every 6…
• Fatigue and FlyingP Acute fatigue occurs when a long period passes with a lack of sleep Chronic fatigue occurs…
• Fixed Gear Accidentsul li 1 in 7 accidents result in a fatality in fixed gear aircraft BR li 8 of 10 fixed…
• Fuel Accidentsul li The number one cause of engine failure is lack of fuel BR li 10 of General…
• Fuel Electric accidents1 Experience level of the pilot does not seem to matter in fuel related accidents BR …
• General Aviation Accidents1 51 of pilots were between 40 49 BR 2 71 were private pilots BR 3 52 had...
• General Aviation StatisticsOnly three out of every 1000 people in the US are pilots BR Out of 67 000 licensed…
• Historical Midairsul li 766 midairs 1807 fatalities BR li 44 of midairs have no fatalities BR li ...
• Homebuilt Statistics2 of planes are homebuilt #133;they have 10 of the accidents and are twice as likely to…
• Hood LessonsP Since hood work is emotionally and mentally tiring it is best to limit each session …
• IFR Rated Pilotul li 1 accident in 4 459 hours in IFR conditions BR li 1 accident in 61 900 hours…
• Instructional SafetyWhen teaching the safest possible flight operations you can show a student how poor…
• Midair Accidents In 10 Years 1983-94236 incidents BR ul li 132 accidents with 56 fatality rate BR li 3 air to air…
• More on Mid-Airsul li Over half of the people involved in midair accidents were survivors BR li The…
• Mountain Accidentsli 40 more than in flatlands BR li 155 higher at some airports ...
• Nice To Know Informationul li Multiply horsepower by 09 to give gallons per hour consumption with safety factor…
• Night Accidents1 Night emergency landings are 1 5 times as likely to result in a fatality BR 2 7 of…
• Night Flight (Discussion)Use of checklist BR Preflight BR Chart reading BR Hazards and precautions BR …
• Non-IFR Pilotul li 1 accident in 12 186 hours in IFR conditions BR li 1 accident in 94 819…
• ParkingP The number one region of aircraft accidents is getting into a parking space Some pilots…
• Recall Statisticsli 10 of what you read BR li 20 of what you hear BR li ...
• Restricted AreasP You should determine if area is quot;hot quot; or in use Hazardous area usually due to…
• Retractables1 One gear up landing occurs on average every day in the U S 5 of retractable accidents…
• Runway IncursionsP An incursion is when anything on the ground creates a collision hazard with an active…
• Spatial DisorientationP Spatial disorientation is the No 1 cause of military fatal accidents Even the best pilot…
• Stall Spin Accidentsul li 60 of stall spin accidents take place during the takeoff landing phases of…
• Statistics As of October 2001ul li If you are rushed for time you are eleven times more likely to make a mistake…
• Statistics on General Aviation Accidentsol li 51 of pilots were between 40 49 BR li 71 were private pilots BR ...
• StressP Human performance is mitigated by physical stresses such as fatigue fitness sleep food …
• Subtle FatigueP This problem often begins with a distraction that causes fixation on an instrument or…
• Taildraggers19 of fleet are taildraggers BR 6 to 29 of landing accidents P P ...
• Teaching EfficiencyI teach techniques that maximize safety economy of time and movement both for the pilot…
• The Risks of FlyingMost flying decisions are easy if the decision is based upon safety Being safe does not…
• Thoughts on Thoughtsul li Flying is not dangerous; crashing is dangerous BR li Flying is the perfect…
• Training AttitudesA casual approach to flying can be hazardous Flying requires considerable planning and…
• Universal AspectsSoundness of judgment BR Division of attention BR Airspeed and altitude limits BR Safety…
• VFR Midairs82 occur by one aircraft being overtaken from the rear BR 35 occur with convergence…
• Weather Accidents1 Ice accidents: One per year in California Indiana is worst with almost 2 a year 4 of the…
• What to Expect from FatigueReduced vigilance BR Increased temper excursions BR Reduced ability to concentrate BR …
• When A Pilot DiesTwo of my pilots have died in airplane crashes One I had advised to quit and I thought…
• Where Accidents Happenul li Only 8 of midairs are from head on 42 are between airplanes flying in the same…
• Why Accidents Happenul li 75 of accidents involve poor pilot judgment with reference to his ability …
• Why and When of Accidents1 One fourth of forced landings are related to maintenance or mechanical failure BR 2…
• Wind and GroundspeedP Turning as low levels from a crosswind path to a downwind path can be hazardous It leads…
• Wire Strikesli 1 accident in 20 is a wire strike BR li A wire strike will occur below 200 #39; AGL…
• Your CFI As A Hazardli 75 of flight training accidents related to improper gear operation occurs with CFI…

Maneuvers & Flight Skills 75 articles

• Aborted TakeoffP once is enough BR It is all too common to have a seat slide back during initial takeoff…
• AnticipationThe ability to anticipate changes in control pressures required for a particular maneuver…
• As a Licensed PilotCross country time requires a landing destination and use of a navigational method No…
• Basic Maneuver TolerancesAltitude U U 200 feet BR Heading U U 10 degrees BR Speed U ...
• Before Takeoff CheckEmergency procedures review BR Door belts smoke engine BR POH distances and performance…
• Black Hole LandingP When it is very dark you are subject to illusions Your seat position may make you more or…
• Crosswind LandingsP I References: AC 61 21 Airplane Handbook and Flight Manual I P P Recommended…
• Crosswind TakeoffP The crosswind takeoff requires some timing skills that are not present in other landings …
• Cruise ControlP Learning to trim for level flight requires that you think in terms of setting as many…
• Diversion to AlternateAccurate immediate turn to estimated heading finds ground speed ETA fuel conditions flies …
• Downwind TakeoffP demonstration BR At controlled airports the non assertive pilot just goes where he is…
• EightsP Eights combine the skills acquired from doing left and right turns about a point and S…
• Emergency LandingBest glide U U 10 knots ...
• Emergency Trim UseIf the elevator is locked as with a control lock the use of trim will be backwards Any…
• FAR 61.43 Flight Testsa Perform pilot operations BR 1 Executing maneuvers within performance capability and…
• Flight Contradictionsul li The rudder is not used to turn the plane Rather it keeps the nose straight …
• Flight ReviewAll slow flight BR All stalls BR All landings BR Go arounds BR Steep turns BR …
• Forced Landingsli If altitude permits glide range may be increased if propeller is stopped BR li …
• Gaining ExperienceP Once reasonable proficiency in the four basics and landing procedures has been acquired it…
• Go-aroundPower to full BR Hold heading and altitude BR Milk flaps or to 20 degrees according to IAS…
• Ground ReferenceTurns around a point BR B 600 to 1000 feet 45 degree bank U U 100 feet U...
• Imminent StallsP The major difference between this stall segment and those proceeding is the quot;depth…
• Introduction to Ground ReferenceP During the time that I am practicing flap descents and go arounds I try to make at least…
• Keeping Anger in its PlaceP What turns a student the wrong direction can be the sudden onset of a series of failures …
• Landing IllusionsP You and every other pilot is susceptible to illusions When any of our three flight senses …
• Landings on FinalOver the fence Vref U U 5 knots or 1 2 Vso No exact POH figures BR B Soft field…
• Minimum ControllableNo maneuvers below 1500� BR Stall horn whimpering at all times BR Power added as required…
• Normal and CrosswindVy 10 5 knots ...
• OpinionWhere am I Where am I diverting to what direction is it Turn the airplane that direction …
• Opinion On TrimTrimming the airplane is something that comes with practice Like many others have said…
• Performance Sheet ASELCompute weight and balance with gross takeoff weight___________ Center of gravity location…
• Post Landing ChecklistWhen flaps C H mixture radio ...
• Post-LandingP Once on the ground Do not relax Hold the yoke back and properly positioned for taxi For…
• Post-startFlap setting BR Trim setting BR Mixture leaning BR Radios BR ATIS BR Engine…
• Power-off StallsNo lower that 1500 #39; BR Stabilized approach landing configuration full flaps BR Stall…
• Power-on StallsNo lower that 1500 #39; BR Takeoff configuration BR Induce stall with heading maintained …
• Pre-takeoffUses checklist BR Takeoff configuration BR Radio use and acknowledgments and compliance BR…
• Pre-takeoff ConsiderationsP B 1 Gross Weight and Center of Gravity B BR Gross weight is the empty weight plus…
• Private Pilot Currency3 landings in last 90 days before carrying passengers BR 3 full stop landing for night…
• Radio Communications at an Uncontrolled AirportStart listening well away from the airport Overfly above pattern altitude if you are…
• Rectangular PatternsP Under calm conditions almost any rectangle can be used If there is a wind the longest leg…
• River Flying with Steep TurnsP On some subsequent lesson it is well to select an upwind track along a very S shaped…
• S-TurnsP The two downwind and two upwind turns of the S turn combine the four quadrants of the left…
• Short Field TakeoffP The procedure requires performance that results in the shortest ground roll and the…
• Short Field TakeoffsRotate at Vx or as recommended BR Climb at Vx 10 or 5 knots to 50� BR Above 50� climb at…
• Short, Soft, and Rough TakeoffP Use the recommended flap setting either prior to takeoff or after reaching 30 40 knots The…
• Slow FlightNo maneuvers below 1500� BR 1 2 Vs1 at 10 and 5 knots BR Altitude within 100� and…
• Soft FieldIn ground effect to Vy remove flaps at 200� BR Climb at Vy 10 and 5 knots ...
• Soft-field TakeoffP Introduction BR The situation is a takeoff area of unlimited length but having a soft…
• Sources of Inadvertent Stalls Becoming SpinsB 1 Inadequate rudder application in steep climbs Climb power raises nose decreases…
• Spin Awareness (Discussion)Flight situations where spins may occur BR Recognize a spin and apply recovery technique BR …
• Spins - A HistoryAn unheralded aviation pioneer is British scientist F A Lindemann The Prof as he was…
• Spins Were A One Time Thing In 1914An unheralded aviation pioneer is British scientist F A Lindemann quot;The Prof quot; …
• Spiral DescentsP This particular maneuver is the most difficult of the ground reference maneuvers It…
• StallsP When we do stalls we are seeking recognition and prompt proper recovery You the student …
• Steep TurnsVa or POH entry speed into 360 turn with bank of 10 5 degrees of 45 U U 100 feet ...
• Takeoff FactorsP Many airports of the U S are long enough and wide enough for all G A aircraft Oddly …
• Takeoff NotesP While easy to accomplish the takeoff is a relatively high risk flight operation because of…
• TakeoffsAlignment BR Rotation and liftoff BR Drift correction BR Airborne alignment check BR …
• The Last Thing You LearnP If you make a good landing the yoke should be positioned for taxiing When you turn off the…
• The TakeoffP The runup is completed and the trim is set for takeoff We have used our pre takeoff and…
• Thinking Through PatternsP Depending on the student or airport weather conditions I will use paper diagrams and walk…
• Tie DownP Given a choice of where to tie down always face into the wind A crosswind tie down means…
• Timed TurnsP In VFR condition at level altitude cruise the standard rate bank is selected by using the…
• Traffic PatternsLocal rules BR Altitudes U U 100 and speeds U U 10 knots BR The idea of...
• TrimP Most aircraft have single axis trim for the elevator Airliners have three axis trim for…
• Trim Exercises (Instructor Notes)P To teach the effectiveness of trim try the following exercise The instructor should…
• Trim HistoryThe trim tab or servo trim was invented by Anton Flettner a German aeronautical engineer He…
• Trim instructionP The direction to move the trim and the proper instructional words to use are a common…
• Trim Tab InventorAlso known at the servo trim was invented by Anton Flettner a German aeronautical engineer…
• Trim UseP Correct use of the trim requires that control pressures be applied to hold the desired…
• Trimming Cessnas (instructor notes)P Cessna has engineered its trim so that certain changes in trim can be anticipated to…
• Turns About a PointP Some students do better if the point is selected at the intersection of to right angle…
• Uncontrolled Airport RadioP Start listening well away from the airport Overfly above pattern altitude if you are…
• Why Takeoff Pitch ChangesP The initial lift off attitude at Vso is slightly higher than that required for Vy best…

Weather & Atmosphere 9 articles

• Aircraft PreflightP FAR 91 103 refers to weather airport data and POH information on aircraft performance FAR…
• Aviator's Liesul li The weather will be all right BR li We will be on time maybe even early BR ...
• Cold WeatherP Hot or cold temperatures affect the quality of the preflight In the winter as your body…
• Dealing with DelaysOne of the advantages of learning to fly in the fall is the greater probability of weather…
• Ground Radio to TaxiP Never transmit on the radio without practicing what to say while holding the microphone to…
• Obtaining Weather InformationI REFERENCES: AC 0 6 AC 00 45 AC 61 21 AC 61 23 AC 61 84 and AIM I BR...
• RunupP Use a run up checklist Always face the wind Engine cooling is the reason We are not…
• Systems MalfunctionUse of checklist BR Power loss BR Rough or hot engine BR Carburetor or induction icing…
• WindsockThe word sock is from the colloquial French meaning close in or conceal When an airport…

Aircraft & Equipment 23 articles

• 521 MaintenanceDuring WWII one of the very first airborne radar sets from England was code named the 521 …
• Airworthiness DirectiveP B AD Compliance Record B P P Aircraft No: Make: Serial Number P ...
• Carbon MonoxideP Is poisoning due to the exhaust fumes resulting from carbon burning with insufficient…
• Emergency EquipmentELT operation and ground activation BR Fuses breakers ...
• Engine LogsP B Overhaul B P P Does not change prior history Time is added as quot;since …
• Engine StartingClear start and after start with checklist BR Hand propping BR External source BR …
• First Flight PreparationsP 1 Schedule aircraft instructor BR 2 Aircraft keys BR 3 Read Owner #39;s Manual BR …
• Hundred Octane Aviation FuelInterestingly of all machines only airplanes have their own fuel BR BR In the late 1930s…
• Instructional sequenceP By the second flight the student should have previewed the aircraft manual The manual…
• Maintenance RecordsP The owner operator is responsible for all required maintenance inspections and logbook…
• Not Making Progress?P I doubt that there is a pilot flying who has not at one time or another felt the twinge of…
• Permanent RecordsP Total time on airframe engine propeller since last overhaul of items required to be…
• Pilot/Owner MaintenanceP Keeping an aircraft clean greatly improves both its appearance and its performance When…
• Preflight & Cockpit ManagementInspects using checklist BR Passenger briefing on belts and emergency procedures from…
• Private Pilot Sharing of ExpensesOnly direct operating costs of rental and fuel ...
• RepairsP The main difference between a 100 hour inspection and annual inspection is that the…
• Safe OperationUse of tow bar BR Why recommended procedures BR Post flight inspection ...
• Service Difficulty Reports (SDRs)P B SDRs B are a mechanics #146; report on maintenance problems These are collected by…
• The AircraftMake model serial number and quot;N quot; number can identify an aircraft You should…
• The Johnson BarOne unlikely aircraft feature was derived from the steam engine The Johnson bar was …
• The PlotterThe first aircraft plotter was invented by a Naval officer named Weems He adapted the much…
• WD-40 and CleaningP The use of WD 40 is not recommended on aircraft It is not recommended because only a light…
• Why Pilots Walk FunnyEver wonder why propeller pilots walk funny They do The P factor explanation from the …

Communications & ATC 16 articles

• A Need to communicateP What is the only question an instructor can never answer It is the unasked question Many…
• ATC Problems in Decending Orderol li Non adherence to clearance FAR #39;s or published procedures BR li Erroneous…
• Communication, ATC & RadarAcknowledgment and compliance BR Uses appropriate ATC procedures BR Emergency and NORDO…
• Controlled Airport RadioP B There are several essentials to good radio work B P P B The first essential is:…
• Descending Mechanical Failure Frequency1 Clogged fuel system BR 2 Throttle mixture control BR 3 Oil line BR 4 …
• FAR Violations In Decending Orderol li Careless or reckless operation BR li Compliance with ATC clearances and…
• Good InstructionCommunication BR Knowledge and ability to explain BR Ability to demonstrate BR …
• Ground ReviewAll frequencies BR Sectional use BR FARs BR Aircraft manual one in aircraft required …
• Introduction to The RadioP I introduce the ATIS frequency 124 7 the alphabetical sequencing order of information…
• Light SeriesP The light gun is used by ATC towers in the event of radio failure to move and sequence…
• Names And WhatBell decibel BR Morse code BR Doppler frequency change BR Mach speed of sound BR …
• Phonetic Alphabet and Time ZonesIn 1914 the U S Army adopted a phonetic alphabet but Spanish pronunciations created…
• Prevention of taxiing problemsP Communicate BR Use airport diagram BR Get ATC help early BR When in doubt ...
• Radio Q-HistoryThe Q codes were developed when communications wasn #39;t as good as now and Morse code…
• Teaching Airplane EnglishI am in the process of #39;re treading #39; two pilots who have radio problems They are…
• Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR)P Broadcast by ATC to warn air traffic to remain clear of areas such as open air affairs …

Regulations (FAR/AIM) 24 articles

• Additional EndorsementsHigh performance aircraft over 200 hp BR Complex aircraft Gear and flaps BR Tail wheel…
• Aeronautical KnowledgeFor FAR 61 35 a 61 105 b and 61 107 b BR B I certify that I have reviewed _______ home…
• Aircraft LogbooksMaintenance records of aircraft and engine must be available to the examiner FAR 91 3 The…
• Airworthiness Directives (ADs)P FAR 91 403 a requires that an AD compliance record be kept Some AD are one time and…
• Areas of Required KnowledgeRequired logbook endorsements with date and time BR BR Preflight BR Flight Procedures…
• CategoryNormal Category is a certification category This category has a maximum G loading of 3 8…
• Certificates and DocumentsI FONT SIZE quot; 1 quot; REFERENCES; FARs 43 61 and 91; AC 61 21 AC61 23; Pilot #39;s…
• Command AuthorityFAR 91 3: quot;The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for and is the…
• Equipment and Survival GearELT battery life FAR requirements operation ...
• FAR 61.35(a)(f) and 61 105(a) Aeronautical knowledgeI certify that I have given name the ground instruction required by FAR 61 105 a 1 through…
• FAR 61.39(a)(5) Completion of Prerequisites for PTI have given name flight instruction in preparation for a type test within the preceding…
• FAR 91 aircraft equipment required DayVFR minimum equipment: airspeed altimeter compass tachometer fuel gauge oil…
• In Possession for CheckrideLogbook BR Medical Student certificate BR Sectional Must be current BR Aircraft engine…
• InspectionsP FAR 43 11 a b Type description date total time signature certificate type and…
• Medical CertificationP You do not need a medical certificate until you fly by yourself It is suggested that you…
• Operating Without a MEL (Minimum Equipment List)P B Minimum Equipment List B P P Most older aircraft have been certified without a…
• PaperworkEndorsements: BR ol li Your student license must be endorsed for each type of aircraft…
• Pilot in Command TimeThere are five different ways to get logable pilot in command PIC time according to FAR 61…
• Private Pilot EndorsementsAn instructor�s endorsement indicates that he feels you have been instructed in and are…
• Sequence of Decision for AirworthinessIs it required by FAR 91 2095 or 91 213 d 2 ii BR I If not I Is it required...
• Student Logbook RequirementsStudent solo license endorsements for each type aircraft BR Student solo cross country…
• Take Practical TestFAR 61 105 and 61 125 BR Private or commercial pilot must receive and have logged ground as…
• Test After Failure67 FAR 61 47 Re testing within 30 days after first failure BR I have given name …
• What to expect on your first soloP Solo preparation began on the first flight Now the FARs require specific paper work …

IFR & Instrument Flight 19 articles

• Fitting The HoodP The hood should be fitted prior to engine start Note that the attitude indicator has both…
• Holding Patterns IFRThe shape of the holding pattern was based upon a requirement that older gyro …
• How We Got Pattern A and Pattern BThese patterns have been for many years a part of the Instrument Flying Handbook as among the…
• IFR Flying FaultsP Initially VFR to IFR flight results in over controlling especially when making corrections…
• IFR ManeuversStraight and level control U U 200 feet of altitude U U 20 degrees of heading U…
• Illusions - IFR for VFR pilotsP The purpose of IFR training is to be able to read interpret the instruments and fly…
• MEL Decision SequenceP The pilot recognizes inoperative instruments or equipment P P B Question: B P …
• Military Operational Areas (MOA)P ATC may fly IFR flights through if radar separation possible Because of military…
• Minimum Equipment ListP I Reference FAR Part 91 I P P P Knowledge of required instruments and equipment for…
• Run-upControl check BR Engine check BR Instrument settings BR Uses checklist BR Airspeed …
• Shirt TailsThere has been a long tradition in aviation related to cutting off the shirt tails of newly…
• Special Use Airspace (SUA)P Not on charts but often mentioned by VOR Tower broadcasts Locally by Livermore ATIS to…
• Standard Rate TurnsP All banks under the hood are at standard rate Standard rate turns requires two minutes to…
• The CockpitP Using the tape recorder I go over all the instruments and controls I pay particular…
• Unusual AttitudesP During the proficiency phase of hood work #39;unusual attitudes #39; should be practiced …
• Utilizing Hood TrainingP The FAA integrated mix of VFR and IFR instruction is a violation of the very instructional…
• VFR to IFR OptionsP What to do If you #39;re on top do the four C #39;s Climb communicate confess comply …
• VOR trackingTunes and idents station BR Holds altitude within 200� BR Locates position using radials…
• Would You Believe That You Can...ul li Be a non instrument rated pilot and fly in VFR condition of top of overcast at…

Sensory, Vision & Physiology 16 articles

• Bits and Piecesul li Tolerance to lack of oxygen decreases proportionately with age BR li …
• Flying With Your SensesOne of the reasons I teach flying with a very limited selection of power settings airspeed…
• HyperventilationP Stress anxiety and fear cause hyperventilation The person begins abnormal rapid breathing…
• HypoxiaP An adult will breath in 3 000 gallons by volume of air per day This includes 600 20 of…
• Illusions - Natural IllusionsP B Rain B BR Rain gives the illusion of being higher than you actually are Combined…
• Illusions - Vertigo SimulationP B Materials: B BR 1 An open lawn space at least 15 #39; by 15 #39; BR 2 A...
• Introduction to IllusionsP What ever the illusion it will take a few moments for you to get reoriented If the…
• Night IllusionsRunway and approach light illusions will always be a problem if you are in an unfamiliar area…
• Practice IllusionsP B Autokinesis B BR On a dark night fly toward a single light Student is to stare …
• Preliminaries to FlightP 1 Medical student license br 2 Flight Training Handbook BR 3 Student Pilot Guide 4 …
• Private Pilot LegalityLicense in possession BR Current medical BR Flight review or additional rating …
• Private Pilot RequirementsAt least 17 read write and speak English 3rd class medical written test oral test …
• Society of Automotive EngineersIn 1917 the SAE had an Aeronautical Division which diagrammed and identified the stick…
• The Joys of FlyingGetting through your checkride successfully gives rise to a sense of elation and…
• VertigoP Unrecognized spatial disorientation is caused by some combination of channeled attention …
• You and IllusionsP 1 Illusions can and do occur to everyone BR 2 Proper planning for strange airport…

Cross-Country & Navigation 4 articles

• Cross-Country PlanningI REFERENCES: AC 61 21 AC 61 23 AC 61 84 Charts A FD AIM I BR ...
• Military Training Routes (MTR)P If you find that your flight will intersect an MTR route be sure to have P P the FSS…
• Pilotage and Dead ReckoningCourse within 3 nautical miles BR Altitude U U 200� BR Arrival within 5 minutes BR …
• The CompassThe ancients recognized the pole star as being a constant reference for determining…

History & Career 9 articles

• A History of MeasurementUnder the Roman Empire Rome became the center of the western world All roads led to Rome…
• A History of Running LightsI have developed a possible sequence for the development of red and green running lights on…
• Advice From Over 30 Years AgoB The performance of any complex activity such as flying an airplane requires the…
• Age as a Factor In FlyingP The average General Aviation pilot was 39 years of age in 1990 Pilots over 60 have 2 1…
• Its About Time...The next major step in aviation measurement came from the Greeks about 2500 years ago The…
• Pilot Error 50 Years AgoP In December of 1947 an Air Force study released the following analysis of pilot errors that…
• The Second SoloP The first solo is deceptive in that it overcomes much of the tension related to quot;can…
• What's NewWith so much history in the past I would like to take you into the future: BR I am most…
• Written TestsPrivate Pilot Written Test figures: P P 1997: Total tests taken 32 981 92 1 passed the…

General 61 articles

• About QuestionsP A friend was hauling a body from a remote location in Canada Only a caretaker was around…
• Absolute AltitudeAbsolute altitude is obtained by the use of radar The first radar altimeter was the A N…
• AirportMarkings symbols colors local rules BR Diagram ...
• Alert AreasP High volume military flight areas are classified as Alert Areas Basic VFR requirements…
• Are You Ready?In the real world of life some things are done too soon Getting married having children …
• Area FamiliarizationP I have instructed at a largely general aviation airport CCR with two sets of dual runways…
• Associated Airport (Two Mile final into CCR 19R)Clyde as it exists now is two small rows of homes along one side of a railroad spur track…
• Buchannan Field (at Concord, California)Within the immediate vicinity of Buchannan Field Concord CA there have been over seven…
• Buying the FarmIn the `20s #39; barnstormers would travel the countryside to small cities and set up an …
• Calming Flying AnxietyP Anxiety is generalized fear Your body prepares you to run fight or act to protect…
• Changing YouP You begin flying with an attitude that may or may not be compatible to the reality required…
• CoffeeP Half of the American population is addicted to coffee 25 drink ten or more cups a day …
• CourtesyP Airport courtesy extends beyond the rules of right of way Don #39;t use strobe lights on…
• DehydrationP Human need for 2 4 quarts of water a day You become thirsty with a deficit of 1 5 quarts…
• Determining Performance and LimitationsP I REFERENCES: AC 61 21 AC 61 23 AC 61 84 Airplane Handbook and Flight Manual I P …
• Different Miles and How They Came to BeUnder the Roman Empire Rome became the center of the western world All roads led to Rome…
• Ear BlockP Caused when the Eustachian tube becomes blocked Earblock or sinus blockages can cause…
• Emergency ProceduresUse of checklist BR Emergency descent BR Situations where required BR Advantage of using…
• Fear of FlyingAn Opinion on Fear B BR I have concerns with fear as it relates to flying I realize …
• Ground Procedures - Taxiing RenewalP By the time we solo we should be using power and brakes with great restraint Minimum power…
• Growing Up As A PilotIt takes more than time to grow and mature as a pilot Judgment cannot be measured just by…
• Important Side Notesol li The Law of Firsts Haviland #39;s quot;The first time you do you shouldn…
• It's About JudgementP In flying there are as many ways to gain skill and experience as there are pilots Time…
• It's About TimeA sailing ship #39;s speed over a nautical a mile was historically measured by means of a…
• Knowing KnowHe who knows not and knows not that he knows not is a fool shun him BR He who...
• Lost ProceduresMaintains original heading BR Identifies available landmarks BR Uses Navaids and contacts…
• MeasuresAs pilots we are generally unaware and or uneducated as to the debt that aviation owes to…
• MedicineP Any over the counter medication whose name ends in quot;ine quot; should be checked in a…
• Most dangerous thing in aviation:P B quot; B A pilot with a tool box quot; or quot;A politician with a good idea quot; …
• Music and FlyingI don #39;t know that anyone has ever equated music to flying by comparing the skills of a…
• NutritionP Food when converted into glucose is the source of brain energy Glucose cannot be stored …
• On Checklistsol li Flying an airplane requires that a series of relatively complex procedures A…
• Operation of Airplane SystemsP I FONT SIZE quot; 1 quot; REFERENCES: C 61 21 AC61 23 FONT Airplane Handbook and…
• Parking and TiedownUse of checklist ...
• Passenger Boarding InformationWelcome aboard this non commercial flight in the vicinity of San Francisco We will be…
• Phillips Head ScrewsJohn Henry Phillips of Mass patented his double slotted screw in 1932 The very similar…
• Pilots Are SpecialP A pilot has overcome his fears He has replaced superstition with rational thinking and…
• Pitot Tube InventorThe pitot tube was invented by Francais Pitot a French physicist and dentist born in 1695 …
• Procedures and TechniquesEvery phase of flying requires a series of procedures from pre flight to shut down With…
• Prohibited AreasDon #146;t fly here ever White House Personal residence of President Area within 5 miles…
• Reaction and AnticipationP In searching for an appropriate place for this material I was surprised at how often the…
• Service BulletinP Issued by manufacturer about service problems and solutions The solution is not mandatory…
• Shoulder Harness1 As of 1975 4 out of every 5 people ever killed in airplanes since the Wright brothers…
• Side Notes1 The Law of Firsts Haviland #39;s quot;The first time you do you shouldn #39;t have …
• SleepP The most common cause of diminished alertness and proficiency is lack of sleep This…
• SmokingP The smoking of tobacco is a form of self imposed physical and psychological stress that…
• SmoothnessPiloting skill is usually poorly defined unless the smoothness factor is included It is…
• Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR)As pilots we are generally unaware and or uneducated as to the debt that aviation owes to…
• The Competence of IncompetenceWith the advent of a new study as to what constitutes competence there is a new fear by the…
• The Development of AviationProgress in aviation has been a dynamic proof of the Chaos theory Government in all its…
• The E-6BThe E 6B was more created than invented by Phillip Dalton in the early 1930s It was…
• Tight Grip VS Light TouchP The left hand has only two useable digits while flying The forefinger is behind the yoke…
• Unusual Attitude RecoveriesNose up Recover with pitch down add power level wings BR Nose down Recover with reduced…
• Warning AreasP Same as Restricted area but over international waters beyond 3 mile P P limit of our…
• Way To Go...The pole star was recognized by the ancients as being a constant reference for determining …
• Wearing Thin PantsIn many respects flying an airplane is much like riding a horse A horse goes where its…
• Where To Go; What To DoP You can find whom to interview by talking to people around the airport Pretty soon certain…
• Why We SquawkDuring WWII the British developed a top secret 10 x 10 x 10 radar transceiver It would…
• WifferdillI #39;m told that quot;wolferdale quot; is an aviation perhaps military aviation term…
• Wildflife AreasP Throughout the U S the states and federal government have placed altitude restrictions on…
• Yoke ControlP The third skill of taxiing is the use of the yoke which needs to be positioned so that a…

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