Video tip: how to fly with the Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot

This week's tip takes a look at the basic features of Garmin's popular GFC 500 autopilot, including how to turn it on and use airspeed, vertical speed, altitude and heading modes.

Video tip: How to use a sectional plotter to plan a cross-country flight

/
0 Comments
As you enter the cross-country planning phase of your private pilot training, you'll learn the skills required to plan long-distance trips using a VFR sectional, plotter, E6B flight computer and Navlog. This week's tip takes a look at the first phase of this planning process and shows how to use a plotter and sectional to measure the trip distance and determine the exact direction you'll need to fly.

Video Tip: How Airplane Pressurization Systems Work

/
0 Comments
High-performance airplanes and jets incorporate a pressurization system to provide a comfortable cabin environment for the flight crew and passengers. In this video, we'll show how this system works in piston-engine airplanes, like a Piper Malibu, and how the pilot control it from the flight deck.

Seaplane Training: Mastering Glassy Water Landings

/
0 Comments
One of the most hazardous landing conditions a seaplane pilot can encounter is glassy water. This week's tip shows how to perform a glassy water landing in beautiful Alaska.

Video Tip: Flying in Class E and G Airspace

/
0 Comments
The vast majority of airspace below 18,000' in the US is classified as either Class E or Class G and does not require communication with ATC to enter. This video explores how you can identify the boundaries of Class E and G airspace on a sectional chart and the operational considerations when flying in each.

Video tip: Airport runway signs and markings

/
1 Comment
All airports with ATC control towers in the U.S. (and many non-towered airports) use a standard set of pavement markings and elevated signs to call out important parts of an airport runway. In this video, we'll explore the location and meaning of each in a simulated 3D airport environment so that you'll be well prepared when operating at a large airport.

Pilot Tip: How to Communicate when Arriving at a Class D Airport

/
1 Comment
Flying to and from an airport in Class D airspace is one of the more common communication scenarios a pilot will encounter. While no two airports will function exactly the same, here are some key tips for confidence and success.

Video tip: Flying internationally (FARs, flight planning, eAPIS and US Customs)

/
0 Comments
One of the most rewarding trips you can take after earning your pilot certificate is leaving the U.S. and heading to new destinations in Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean. This week's video tip takes a look at what it takes to fly internationally, including flight planning, extra equipment requirements and how to file the required paperwork with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Pilot’s guide to reading VFR sectional charts

VFR sectional charts contain a wealth of information and are considered essential equipment for pilots of all skill levels. This week's tip dives into the symbols and markings used on these charts to help you get more out of the aviation data on your next flight.

Video Tip: Aerodynamics of a Wing Stall

During your flight training you will practice stalling the airplane to better learn the low-speed handling characteristics of the airplane, and how to recover if an unintentional stall occurs. In this video tip we'll look at how the airflow changes over the wing as it nears the critical angle of attack and eventually stalls.