Checklists are the backbone of safety.  The simple answer to why we use checklists is that humans are both complex and forgetful and aircraft systems are complex.  Combine both and you’re definitely dealing with a situation for distraction.  In aviation, the simple, stupid stuff kills.  Distractions... [Read More]

Recently we wrote about a role model, the first woman pilot – Raymonde de Laroche.  Yes, she’s a woman but more importantly, a role model possessing the qualities any role model should have.  She survived horrific crashes, and still possessed talent and resilience born from a... [Read More]

There are compelling reasons to own your own piece of the sky. No more crowds, your own schedule, your own path to your own goals and memories. Add to that, sound financial reasons for aircraft ownership as well. Beyond the money saved on overnight trips,... [Read More]

Is hydrogen power the future of aviation? On January 19th, ZeroAvia flew the largest aircraft in the world powered by a hydrogen-electric engine. This marks the maiden flight of their hydrogen-powered testbed, a 19-seat Dornier 228 aircraft with a full-sized prototype hydrogen-electric engine on the... [Read More]

Aerobatic pilots like Sean D. Tucker and Michael Goulian are among some of the world’s top aerobatic performers. They showcase their technical skill and stamina with amazing feats every year in the skies. There are five general categories of maneuvers: horizontal and vertical lines, rolls, hammerheads, loops, and spins. ... [Read More]

Here’s a scenario that is a common concern for growing companies. Your company continues its rapid growth, including the opening of new branches in cities not serviced by the airlines. The advantages and efficiencies of transporting your executives and employees to these locations via private aircraft are... [Read More]

Why does an airplane get struck by lightning? Most of the time, flying through a heavily charged flight path, is just fine.  But, just the fact that the aircraft is there, tempts those pesky lightning bolts to pick a target. Actually, aircraft often initiate the... [Read More]

If Other Pilots Aren’t Flying, Should You Press Ahead? By Jason Blair, FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) The aviation community is a small world. In this environment, we each have the opportunity for positive influence on fellow pilots if we choose to use it. We... [Read More]

Mentors Can Help Safely Build Competence and Confidence By Susan K. Parson, FAA Safety Briefing Magazine Editor Let’s say that the ink is still drying on your freshly issued certificate or rating. You’re proud of the accomplishment, but you don’t feel even close to confident... [Read More]

What is the first step to becoming a pilot? Decide what you want to fly. FAA’s rules for getting a pilot’s license (certificate) differ depending on the type of aircraft you fly. You can choose among airplanes, gyroplanes, helicopters, gliders, balloons, or airships. If you... [Read More]