Aerotime
APRIL 3, 2025
Largely gone are the days when pilots had to manually control their aircraft from engine start-up to shut down by keeping their hands rigidly fixed on the controls at all times. As a result, the first autopilot was developed to introduce an element of control on the trajectory of airplanes. What is an autopilot?
Pilot Institute
MARCH 28, 2025
To fly an aircraft that weighs more than 12,500 pounds or a jet (regardless of weight), pilots require a type rating. no control surfaces). To fly an aircraft that weighs more than 12,500 pounds or a jet (regardless of weight), pilots require a type rating. What Is an Aircraft Category?
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Pilot Institute
JANUARY 3, 2025
Although modern airports utilize advanced weather monitoring systems, windsocks are still valuable because they provide immediate, visual feedback that you can rely on. As a private pilot, you may fly to or from airports that do not have advanced weather reporting systems. Let’s see how to figure out the wind direction.
Pilot Institute
NOVEMBER 23, 2024
Key Takeaways A flat spin is a dangerous, level-flight spin with reduced control effectiveness. A flat spin happens when the center of gravity shifts too far aft (toward the tail), and the aircraft’s rotation becomes more horizontal. Ready to become a safer pilot? Let’s get started! An aft center of gravity increases flat spin risk.
Pilot's Life Blog
JANUARY 12, 2025
However, flying a small plane often means operating at much lower altitudes, usually between 5,000 and 10,000 feet, depending on weather conditions, terrain, and air traffic. Flying a small plane at lower altitudes allows pilots to navigate visually and avoid the complexities of high-altitude air traffic control.
Pilot Institute
MARCH 7, 2025
And during these maneuvers, you need to: Act as the sole manipulator of the flight controls. Familiarize yourself with your aircraft, review your intended route, and assess the latest weather conditions. Weather Weather is no small factor in flying, and it has caused many accidents.
Plane and Pilot
DECEMBER 12, 2024
Aircraft or helicopters weighing more than 12,500-pounds, gliders, weight-shift control aircraft, powered parachutes, gyrocopters, UAS, or lighter-than-air aircraft are not included. The changes include the addition of fuel, weather, and mechanical cause categories, due to critical, ongoing safety efforts.
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