By Mike Bliss We are all familiar with the fact that the FAA issues pilot certificates and Instrument Ratings. What might be less known to those working their way through the different levels of certification is the Type Rating. We know that a Private, Commercial, or ATP pilot certificate

by Mike Bliss Tips for cross country flying, don’t just use your Electronic Flight Bag(EFB) The Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) is truly a marvel in what it can do for a pilot. It can plan your route, calculate weight and balance, fuel burn, flight times, and even file the

Before taking the controls of an aircraft as a student pilot, you’ll need the appropriate medical certificate. There are three different classes of medical certification: First, Second, and Third. It’s important to understand which one aligns with your aviation goals. Whether you’re training for personal enjoyment or training for

By Mason Ross As pilots, we have to keep records of our flying experience “in a manner acceptable to the Administrator”. The FAA has outlined these requirements in § 14 CFR 61.51: Pilot logbooks.  The Oxford Dictionary defines a logbook as “an official record of events during the voyage

By Mason Ross It is finally time. You’ve completed the required dual instruction, solo flights, ground training, and written exam. Your flight instructor has endorsed you as “prepared for the practical test for the issuance of the certificate or rating” you’ve been training for. That endorsement wouldn’t be in

The More You Practice, the Better You’re Prepared Emergency preparedness isn’t just about reacting in the moment, it’s about training beforehand to recognize warning signs, think clearly under pressure, and respond with precision. For pilots, that readiness comes from a combination of hands-on flying and simulator training. But how

A pilot’s first solo flight is a major milestone filled with pride, excitement, and a touch of nervousness. For many students, it’s the moment everything clicks: all the ground school, dual flights, and practice come together, and you realize you’re ready to fly an aircraft completely on your own.

Exploring the Financial Path to Becoming a Pilot   Flight training is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your future. Whether you’re beginning your journey toward a private pilot certificate or working toward a career as an airline captain, the cost of training can feel

How You Learn and What You Learn Matters Most Choosing an airline career pilot program is a major decision. With countless schools promising fast-track options, low prices, and job placement guarantees, it’s easy to assume they all offer the same thing. But the reality is: not all pilot training

Choosing a career in aviation can be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make. But contrary to popular belief, becoming a pilot doesn’t just mean flying for the airlines. The aviation industry offers a wide range of professional paths, each with its own unique mission, pace, and

By Mike Bliss The FAA grants pilot certification under two separate regulations: FAR Part 61 and FAR Part 141. Both result in the same types of pilot certificates, but they differ in structure, required hours, flexibility, and cost. Any current Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) can train students under Part

by Mike Bliss Of the 5,000-plus civil-use airports in the U.S., only 10% have operating control towers.  Even if you regularly operate out of controlled airports, chances are you will still need to take advantage of non-towered airports for the convenient locations they may offer. Whether the term “uncontrolled”,