I Was a New Private Pilot, Flying Small Aircraft In Busy Airspace
The Night I Flew a “Heavy” … Make that a “Cessna Heavy” Shawn Arena This article is similar in nature to the previous flight experiences that I have documented for you. As a newly minted private pilot, this experience taught me how to successfully navigate the fast-paced ground and air portions of flying small aircraft into one […]
The Dangers of a Falsified Pilot Logbook
Avoid rattlesnakes and falsified flight log books. Each has a nasty disposition and sharp fangs that bite. Vern Weiss In August 2012, a Federal Court in Des Moines, Iowa sentenced a pilot to 4 years probation and fined him for falsifying his pilot logbook hours when going for an FAA instrument rating.1 Federal court! We’re not […]
Can You Fly For Compensation With a Private Pilot Certificate?
A Private Pilot Certificate doesn’t necessarily preclude earning money in aviation. Vern Weiss “No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as pilot in command of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire, nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command of an […]
When Is a Private Pilot Ready to Fly With Family and Friends?
Dr. Mary Ann O’Grady Prior to making the decision to take family and friends flying, a new or recently licensed private pilot should carefully review the appropriate FAA Regulations under Sec. 61.113, Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command as follows: (a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (h) of this section, no person […]
The Cessna Training Program: Flight Training the Cessna Way
Shawn Arena So you have decided to not only begin flight training, but have focused on using Cessna aircraft and their associated Training Program. First a caveat – regardless of the type of aircraft and program selected, the main goal is training you safely, efficiently, (and as in this case) the use of a specific […]
Accelerated Flight Training Versus Regular Flight Training
Dr. Mary Ann O’Grady When considering enrollment in a flight training facility that offers “accelerated flight training” courses that allow you to earn your private pilot’s license or other ratings, such as instrument, commercial or CFI/CFII (flight instructor) within a reduced timeframe [seemingly] in an attempt to save you time and money, reflect upon these […]
Different Pilot Licenses Explained: Sport, Recreational and Private Pilot
In the fixed wing airplane world, pilots often refer to their pilot’s license as a “certificate”. Essentially, both terms mean the same thing and are interchangeable (although, technically, they are slightly different). For the purposes of this article, we intend “certificate” and “license” to represent the same “pilot status”. According to AOPA, the most accurate description of […]