When it comes to precise navigation, it’s a no-can-do for pilots if they are to ensure safe departure and arrival at their destination. Presently, there are different methods that help aviators in performing this function. Pilotage and dead reckoning help aviators to continually determine a flight’s location. While pilotage uses visual references, dead reckoning makes […]

Long-haul commercial flights often demand overnight travel to maximize efficient schedules between destinations separated by vast distances. Like we discussed in a previous post about what pilots do on long flights, some journeys span overnight hours. These trips mean passengers board at night and touch down the following morning. Whew!  Flying long hours through the […]

Flying an airplane involves understanding the complex interplay of forces that act on an airplane in flight. One of the first maneuvers students learn is how to properly turn the plane. Mastering the forces responsible for turns is essential for navigating to destinations.  Turning skillfully relies on comprehending how specific force inputs cause the airplane […]

As an aspiring pilot, there are many essential components of aviation that must be understood to safely and efficiently navigate aircraft. Learning about navigation aids like VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) is crucial for maximizing available features and ensuring a smooth flight experience. Today’s post will delve into what VOR is in aviation by examining its […]

When traveling, there are different types of commercial flights available like domestic flights, international flights, and chartered flights. However, not everyone is familiar with the differences between these options. Today, this post will focus on explaining what a domestic flight is and providing additional details about this type of in-country air travel.  Before you dive […]

Travelers today have more flight options than ever before. While commercial airlines remain the standard choice for most, each type of air transportation comes with unique strengths and limitations.  Private aviation through aircraft charters is growing significantly in popularity as an alternative to commercial transportation or fractional ownership. Charter flights deliver flexibility and amenities not […]

There is something truly special about flying an aircraft. As the pilot, you are trusted with the invaluable responsibility of safely transporting passengers through the sky. While commercial airlines require an airline transport pilot license with thousands of hours of experience, light aircraft and private planes can also be flown – as long as you […]

In any industry, establishing standardized metrics and procedures is vital for progress and safety. Standards provide a common baseline that manufacturers can rely on when designing products, and practitioners can reference to benchmark professional responsibilities. This is especially important in the aviation sector. In aviation, standardized metrics are crucial due to aircraft performance being impacted […]

Becoming a pilot requires dedication and discipline. There are defined certification requirements set forth for those seeking to operate aircraft, whether privately or commercially.  The pilot certification process involves earning different license types from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This can include private, commercial, and airline transport pilot (ATP). Each license allows pilots increasing privileges […]

The weather is one of the most unpredictable elements that pilots must contend with. Likewise, one of the major concerns for many travelers is whether their flights may encounter thunderstorms. Thunderstorms pose an immense challenge for pilots due to their volatile nature. With powerful updrafts and downdrafts that can top 100 miles per hour, thunderstorms […]