Pilot's Discretion from Sporty's

New technology has made flying safer over the last two decades, but it hasn’t done much to prevent loss of control accidents. These are still the number one cause of fatalities in aviation, and according to upset prevention instructor Randy Brooks the only answer is better pilot training. He explains why upset training is different from aerobatics, why your first instinct should be to push, and why simulators aren’t a replacement for pulling Gs. Randy is also a longtime airshow pilot, so in the Ready to Copy segment he talks about flying formation aerobatics, what it’s like to perform an airshow in a glider, and flying the L-39 jet trainer.

• APS training courses: https://apstraining.com/
• Video of a UPRT flight: https://youtu.be/cVsicldklTY
• Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Is the post-pandemic boom over for the airlines? Industry analyst and former airline pilot Courtney Miller says the answer is both yes and no. He talks about which airlines are winning and losing in 2024, whether pilot salaries have overshot, and what to make of Boeing’s latest struggles. In the Ready to Copy segment, Courtney explains why oil prices don’t affect air fares, why the 737 MAX was not a mistake, and how to lie with statistics.

LINKS:

• Visual Approach Analytics: https://visualapproach.io/

• Boeing vs. Airbus safety: https://visualapproach.io/does-data-show-boeing-is-unsafe/

• Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Paul Harding bought a seaplane before he was even a pilot, but went on to log 14,000 hours flying on floats all around the Bahamas. In this fun episode, he shares the details of that fascinating career, with tips on flying seaplanes, learning to fly later in life, and exploring the Out Islands. In the Ready to Copy segment, Paul talks about flying with celebrities, how to determine wind direction without a windsock, and the best food to eat in the Bahamas.

LINKS:

• Paul’s articles at Air Facts: https://airfactsjournal.com/author/paulharding/

• Paul’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Sharks-Runway-Seaplane-Fifty-Year-Bahamian/dp/1911525239

• Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/online-learning/real-pilot-stories/no-go-around

• Podcast survey: ⁠https://sportys.survey.fm/pilot-s-discretion-survey⁠

A quarter of Cirrus customers are not pilots when they buy their airplane. Todd Simmons explains how the company succeeds with these non-pilots, including their focus on enabling a lifestyle instead of just selling specs, providing a complete ownership solution, and tackling safety head-on. Todd is also a passionate backcountry pilot, so he talks about the risks and rewards of that type of flying, including what he learned from being involved in a serious accident. In the Ready to Copy segment, Todd talks about the power of social media, the most important skill for safe taildragger flying, and which college football team in Georgia is best.

LINKS:

- The Cirrus Life: https://cirrusaircraft.com/cirrus-life/

- Todd’s Real Pilot Story: https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/online-learning/real-pilot-stories/no-go-around

- Recreational Aviation Foundation: https://theraf.org

- Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/online-learning/real-pilot-stories/no-go-around


Learning to fly is hard, but revolutionary new fly-by-wire technology just might change that. Matt Thurber, an experienced pilot and journalist, describes how Skyryse has modified a Robinson helicopter and why it could be big news for general aviation. Matt is well-placed to evaluate this new aircraft because he recently learned to fly helicopters, and he shares what that was like, including why rotary wing flight requires using all a pilot’s senses. In the Ready to Copy segment, Matt talks about the threat of GPS jamming, why hangar foam fire suppression systems are bad, and what it was like to hunt swordfish from a Super Cub.

LINKS:

• Skyryse: https://www.skyryse.com
• Matt’s article on helicopter flying: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2024-05-01/learning-fly-helicopters-guimbal-cabri-g2
• Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Operating a piston engine lean of peak can save fuel and reduce engine temperatures, but the topic is shrouded in mystery and even controversy. Flight instructor and YouTube pilot Martin Pauly breaks it all down in this episode, including what the tradeoffs are, why engine monitors matter, and when to watch CHT. Martin is also an expert on modern autopilots like the Garmin GFC 600, so he shares tips for getting the most out of these impressive avionics. In the Ready to Copy segment, Martin talks about what American pilots take for granted, how to make better aviation videos, and what it was like to fly in a B-29.

LINKS:

• Lean of peak video: https://youtu.be/h3bATVXMHQg
• Martin’s website: http://www.martin.aero/
• Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html
  

Modern avionics like glass cockpits and sophisticated autopilots demand a new approach to pilot training, what airline pilot and author Chris Lutat calls “automation airmanship.” He explains what that means, why the distinction between pilot flying and pilot monitoring matters even for single pilot operations, and why humans have an essential role—especially in the age of AI. Chris’s flying career began in the Coast Guard, so he also shares lessons learned there and how he’s giving back now as a mentor for cadets. In the Ready to Copy segment, Chris talks about the chances of single-pilot airline flights, what CRM really means, and his tips for handling sea sickness.

LINKS:

- Automation Airmanship book: https://www.amazon.com/Automation-Airmanship-Principles-Operating-Aircraft/dp/0071815864

- Chris's article in AIN: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2024-05-01/if-you-believe-hype-we-should-all-be-looking-work

- Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Many pilots are intimidated by Air Traffic Control, but veteran controller Kevin Plante says “we’re just another set of eyes for you.” He explains the details of ATC in this wide-ranging episode, including how he handles IFR and VFR traffic differently, what the spacing requirements are for wake turbulence, and when it’s OK to speak plain English on the radio. Kevin is also a very experienced GA pilot, so he shares his perspective from the other side of the microphone, including how he plans a flight knowing what he does about routes and weather. In the Ready to Copy segment, Kevin talks about Special VFR, the one technology he wishes he had at the radar scope, and his favorite bourbon. 

LINKS:

- FAA Order 7110.65: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/atc_html/

- IFR Mastery: https://www.sportys.com/pilot-workshops-ifr-mastery.html

- Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Scheduling a checkride in 2024 might mean waiting three months. What’s going on, and how can applicants prepare for the big day? Longtime examiner Jason Blair shares a host of helpful tips is this episode, including: why DPEs are overwhelmed, what critical skill pilots need to demonstrate, what CFIs can do to support their client, and what technology can be used on the checkride. Jason also spends a lot of time flying cabin class piston twins, so he offers advice for new owners and explains why middle altitude weather can be a challenge. In the Ready to Copy segment, Jason talks about flight training stats, defensive flying tips, and whether you have to be in a cloud to log actual IFR.

- Jason’s blog: https://jasonblair.net/

- Article on the flight training boom: https://airfactsjournal.com/2024/04/what-a-difference-a-decade-makes-the-ga-boom-in-statistics/

- Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

A new generation of kids is entering the aviation industry right now, and that’s exciting for Amy Laboda. The longtime flight instructor and writer explains why today’s student pilots are different, how writing can make you a better pilot, and what new flight instructors need to succeed. Amy also shares the lessons learned from ditching a Cessna 210 off Key West, including the critical skill to practice and what survival gear matters. In the Ready to Copy segment, Amy describes a good passenger briefing, picks her favorite Van’s airplane, and shares what it’s like to live on an airpark.

• 
  
• 
  
• 
  

Kevin Garrison grew up riding his bike to the local airport, then built time flying freight before enjoying a 30-year career as an airline pilot. In this honest (and hilarious) episode, he shares what he experienced along the way, including: what you learn when you scare yourself in an airplane, how to be a good airline captain, and why habit patterns matter. He also urges pilots to have fun when they fly and explains why many pilots talk too much on the radio. In the Ready to Copy segment, Kevin busts an airline pilot myth, shares his favorite Boeing model, and describes how to be a good airport bum.

SHOW LINKS:

• Kevin's books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kevin-Garrison/author/B001KI6FCS
• Kevin's articles at Avweb: https://www.avweb.com/author/kevin-garrison/
• Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Are the latest headlines about slowing airline pilot hiring just a temporary pause or the start of a downward trend? In this episode, aviation career mentors Mike Martin and Sean Richey explain what the real state of the industry is. They also talk about the right approach to flight training, how to build time, and whether airline interviews still matter. Mike and Sean have lots of experience as corporate pilots, so they share tips from the world of private jets, including the different skills required for that type of job. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll hear about tough checkrides, how to be a good copilot, and the best airports in America.

SHOW LINKS:

• Pro-Pilot Playbook: https://www.propilotplaybook.com
• Boeing Pilot Outlook: https://www.boeing.com/commercial/market/pilot-technician-outlook
• Pilot Training+ Membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html
  

Having flown everything from aerobatic airplanes to airliners to seaplanes, Patrick Carter loves to apply the lessons from one part of aviation to another. In this episode, he takes us inside the world of Alaskan bush pilots to explain the skills they need to stay safe, how to evaluate off-airport landing sites, and how to manage changing weather. Patrick also talks about handling emergencies far from airports, as he learned first hand on a recent flight in a Super Cub. Patrick is an advocate for flying with video cameras, so he shares practical advice for mounting cameras externally and capturing audio. In the Ready to Copy segment, Patrick shares a helpful airline travel tip, his favorite aerobatic maneuver, and what he looks for on test flights after maintenance.

LINKS:

• Patrick’s article on Air Facts: https://airfactsjournal.com/2024/04/quick-land-to-quicksand/
• NFlight camera gear: https://www.nflightcam.com
• Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

New aerospace businesses seem to be launching every month, including electric ultralights, eVTOL air taxis, drone delivery services, and private space flight. As a longtime pilot and venture capitalist, Ben Marcus is the perfect person to sort through the hype. He explains which business models will work first, why Walmart is finding success with drone delivery, and what benefits GA pilots might see as a result of this investment boom. Ben also founded JetAviva, a popular airplane broker, so he talks about the light jet boom of the last 25 years and what it takes to transition from a piston airplane to a single pilot turbine. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll hear about common charging standards for eVTOLs, the best light jet on the market, and Ben’s favorite backcountry strip in Arkansas.

SHOW LINKS:

• The Moving World Report: https://up.partners/movingworld/
• The GameBird: https://youtu.be/pnFFyjkvDEg
• Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

A spur-of-the-moment airplane purchase presented David Tulis with the adventure of a lifetime: flying a 1953 Tri-Pacer across the country. He tells the story of this fun and challenging trip in this episode, including what it was like to cross the Rockies with a 135-horsepower engine, the value of mentors, and the appeal of vintage airplanes. David is also a highly accomplished photographer, so he explains why photos still matter in a world of videos and offers some practical tips for taking better in-flight photos. In the Ready to Copy segment, David tells us his favorite photo of all time, his best best tip for podcasters, and his opinion about famous Atlanta drinks.

SHOW LINKS:

• Tri-Pacer story
• Flying with reluctant passengers
• Pilot Training+ membership

Airports are missing out on $35 billion in economic impact because they're not well run - that's according to pilot and airport management expert Michael Jones. He explains the cause of this underperformance and why the structure of an airport management team is so important. Mike is also a longtime Cessna 210 owner, so he shares stories about this do-everything piston single, including the time he took one to 27,000 feet. In the Ready to Copy segment you'll hear tips for successful Young Eagles flights, what skills Mike learned as an air traffic controller in Vietnam, and the best golf course in the Carolinas.

SHOW LINKS:

- Mike's article at Air Facts: https://airfactsjournal.com/2023/12/g-a-airports-suffer-from-costly-mismanagement/

- PilotWorkshops at Sporty's: https://sportys.com/pilotworkshops

Earning an instrument rating can unlock new flying adventures, but only if you keep your skills sharp. In this episode, CFII Ryan Koch offers some tips for doing that, including: staying mentally engaged when you can’t fly, using scenarios instead of maneuvers, and simple techniques for improving your instrument scan. Ryan also talks about delivering remote flight instruction with flight simulators, including for avionics training and high school classes. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll hear how Ryan uses checklists during IFR flight, what he likes best about the Stearman, and his favorite guitarist. 

SHOW LINKS:

- IFR Procedures Manual: https://www.sportys.com/pilot-workshops-ifr-procedures-manual-digital-copy.html

- PilotWorkshops IFR Mastery Membership: https://pilotworkshop.com/products/ifr-mastery/?disc=36

When you go on tour with Frank Sinatra at age 21, it’s hard to be intimidated—so it’s no surprise Randy Waldman jumped into the exciting world of helicopters with both feet. In this episode he shares his unique aviation journey, from model airplanes to owning a Mooney to setting a speed record in a Bell OH-58. As one of LA’s most experienced studio musicians and an active helicopter CFI, Randy talks about the similarities between music and flying, including how pilots can develop feel, whether having a career plan B makes sense, and how to use all your senses. In the Ready to Copy segment, Randy shares the most challenging part of flying in LA, his favorite turbine helicopter, and the most underrated jazz musician.

SHOW LINKS:

- Randy’s website: https://www.jazzpilot.com

- Randy playing live: https://youtu.be/CrQStTecDk4

- Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

On his way to Sun ’n Fun 2023, the engine on Josh Harnagel’s Bonanza quit, leading to a forced landing in a cow pasture. While no one was hurt, Josh learned a lot from this harrowing experience. He shares those lessons in this episode, including why partial engine failures are hard to diagnose, why hope can kill you in an emergency, and what he has changed about his habits since the incident. Josh works at Redbird, so he also offers plenty of practical tips for using flight simulators to maintain proficiency, whether at the airport or at home. In the Ready to Copy Segment, you’ll hear the biggest marketing mistake flight schools make, the best Bonanza model, and Josh’s favorite Texas barbecue.

SHOW LINKS:

• Video of Josh's landing: https://www.redbirdflight.com/landing/its-the-hope-that-kills-you
• Redbird flight simulators: https://www.sportys.com/flight-simulator/redbird.html
• AeroWear: http://aerowear.co

How much of the recent boom in private aviation will last now that the pandemic is over? Aviation analyst Brian Foley says about 10%, which is good for the industry but not enough to sustain some overly optimistic business models. In this episode, he talks about the current state of the market, the fate of Wheels Up, and Cirrus Aircraft’s plan to go public. Brian is also getting current as a pilot after 15 years, and he offers some realistic advice for other rusty pilots. In the Ready to Copy segment, Brian shares his famously blunt opinion about Sustainable Aviation Fuel, electric airplanes, hydrogen power, and the best-looking Falcon jets. SHOW LINKS: - Brian Foley Associates: https://www.brifo.com - Brian on private aviation trends: https://www.brifo.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Private-Aviation-Popularity-Falls-Back-To-Earth.pdf - AeroWear: http://aerowear.co

In this special year-end episode, host John Zimmerman sits down with producer Rob Reider for a behind-the-scenes look at Pilot’s Discretion. They talk about what traits make for a good guest, the two rules for podcast hosts, and tips for getting better audio. You’ll also learn the most popular Pilot’s Discretion episodes of 2023, what John and Rob’s favorite episodes are, and what lessons they have learned about flying after 66 interviews. In the back-and-forth Ready to Copy segment, they share the most famous pilots they’ve flown with, their nominee for most underrated airplane, and their favorite airports. SHOW LINKS: - Pilot’s Discretion archives: https://www.sportys.com/podcast - I Learned About Flying From That podcast: https://www.flyingmag.com/ilafft-podcast/ - AeroWear apparel for pilots: https://aerowear.co

From F-16 to 737 to Citation to Bonanza, Don Wykoff has flown a lot of different airplanes in his 50-year flying career. In this episode he explains how he stayed safe by approaching every flight with professionalism, using checklists the right way, and building training into simple trips. He also talks about losing the engine in his F-16, why pilot rest rules matter, and how to transition back to GA after a career flying jets. In the Ready to Copy segment, Don explains why he doesn’t like the GUMPS checklist, why he liked to hand-fly Cat III approaches in the 737, and what flight instructors can learn from airline pilots.

SHOW LINKS:

• Pilot rest rules: http://www3.alpa.org/portals/alpa/committees/ftdt/Guide-to-FTDT-Limits-6-A-ed-June-04.pdf
• LaGuardia visual approach: https://youtu.be/wxRFIneSTT4
• Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

After a lifetime of riding on airplanes, economist Patrick Chovanec decided to learn how to fly them. In this episode, he explains how a combination of Covid-19 and Microsoft Flight Simulator started him on a path to earning his Private Pilot certificate, and what he learned along the way. He explains how flight training can be lonely, why modern flight simulators are much more than a game now, and why airplanes are so expensive. In the Ready to Copy segment, Patrick shares the biggest myth in flight training, his preferred flight sim equipment, underrated countries to visit, and his favorite economics joke.

SHOW LINKS: 

• Patrick’s new book: https://www.sportys.com/cleared-for-the-option-a-year-learning-to-fly-book.html
• Patrick’s website: https://www.patrickchovanec.com
• Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html
  

The point of an accident investigation is “to find out what happened, so that we can prevent it from happening again,” says longtime airline pilot and former NTSB Chairman Robert Sumwalt. He shares what he's learned after decades of working this process, including: how pilots should read an NTSB report, why flight path monitoring matters, what professionalism means for GA pilots, and how flight data monitoring can improve safety. In the Ready to Copy segment, Robert talks about landmark accidents, why NOTAMs are often useless, and his favorite food from South Carolina.

SHOW LINKS:

- Robert's article at Aviation Week: https://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/safety-ops-regulation/time-refocus-get-back-basics

- Boeing Center for Aviation and Aerospace Safety: https://erau.edu/research/industry-collaboration/center-for-aviation-and-aerospace-safety

- Sporty's Pilot Training+ Membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Mist swirls as a yellow Cub touches down on a grass runway—Joe Costanza (better known as @Bananasssssssss on Instagram) is the man behind those viral videos, and in this episode he takes us behind the scenes. He explains why stick and rudder flying is a nice break from his day job flying an Airbus, how to have fun flying with kids (he has four), and the good parts of social media. He also shares his slightly controversial advice for new airline pilots and how training is changing to adapt to a new generation. In the Ready to Copy segment, he describes what it’s like to land on a grass strip, what the Cub teaches him about flying the Airbus, and how to take better aviation photos.

SHOW LINKS:

- Bananasssssssss on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bananasssssssss/ - Joe's advice for new airline pilots: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cw7g2awuBZy/ - Buy a model of Joe’s Cub: https://www.wright-bros.com/2024-limited-edition-piper-j-3-cub-die-cast-model.html

Loss of control accidents are a problem, but longtime pilot and engineer Ed Wischmeyer says there simply isn’t a miracle cure. He explains why angle of attack indicators, stabilized approaches, and energy management are all overrated—and the concept he teaches pilots instead. As he says, “You want pilots to have a large comfort zone, so that when they’re flying in normal operations they’re not anywhere near the boundaries of their comfort zone.” In the Ready to Copy segment, Ed talks about the most absurd FAA regulation, how to prevent runway incursions, why slow flight is underrated, and flying the AirCam.

https://airfactsjournal.com/author/edwischmeyer/

- Expanded Envelope Exercises video: https://youtu.be/7C2xfFNb1sQ

- Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

As a professor, Sidney Dekker has spent his career studying safety processes in industries like healthcare and mining. As a pilot, both for an airline and in his Carbon Cub, he has put those theories into practice. In this thought-provoking episode, you'll hear what he's learned, including: how much risk pilots can actually quantify, why we should study what went right and not just what went wrong, and what it means to drift into failure. You'll also learn about the beat up Cessna 172 he restored, whether autopilots are a positive or negative for safety, whether pilots should read accident reports, and what an "automation surprise" is.  

LINKS:

- Sidney's website: https://sidneydekker.com/

- Drift into Failure: https://www.amazon.com/Drift-into-Failure-Sidney-Dekker/dp/1409422216

- Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

When the airplane engine quits over a remote part of Canada, your options are limited. For Tom Comet and his friend, this was just the start of an incredible adventure—one packed with lessons for all pilots. In this riveting episode, he shares how they reacted to their emergency, where they chose to land, and what survival gear made a difference during a long, cold night on a lake. As a UAS pilot and former circus performer, Tom also talks about flying $150,000 drones for TV and creating huge pyrotechnic displays, including the lessons learned about risk management. In the Ready to Copy segment, you'll hear why the Cessna Skymaster is an underrated airplane, tips for learning to ride a unicycle, and why Tom found himself juggling chainsaws.

SHOW LINKS:

- Tom's article at Air Facts: https://airfactsjournal.com/2023/08/my-lake-rescue-in-northern-ontario/

- TomAir YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@tomairtv

- Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

The headlines about eVTOL aircraft are optimistic right now, but veteran aviation reporter Elan Head says there’s a lot of work to be done: "the customers don't really exist." In this episode, she dives deep into the world of advanced air mobility, including the current state of the market, what military applications might look like, and what the drone industry can teach eVTOL companies about FAA certification. Elan is also an experienced helicopter instructor, so she talks about what the industry should learn from the Kobe Bryant crash and why Safety Management Systems are overrated. In the Ready to Copy segment, she tells us her prediction for when eVTOLs will really be flying, the strangest helicopter she’s ever flown, and the best place to visit in Belize.

SHOW LINKS:

- Elan's articles at The Air Current: https://theaircurrent.com/author/elan1073068/

- K-Max helicopter video: https://youtu.be/sev6v6d9bKk

- Sporty's radios: https://sportys.com/radios

More privileges for Sport pilots and more affordable light airplanes—that’s the promise of MOSAIC, a sweeping new proposal from the FAA this summer. Industry expert Dan Johnson has been tracking this reform for years, and he gives us a behind-the-scenes tour in this episode, including which legacy airplanes will now be available for Sport pilots and what new airplane designs might emerge. Dan also talks about timing for the final rule, the LSA safety record, and why ultralights are overlooked. In the Ready to Copy segment, he shares his favorite airplanes from AirVenture 2023, why he loves the AirCam, what he’d change about the FAA.

SHOW LINKS:

Dan’s website: https://bydanjohnson.com/

MOSAIC proposal: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/07/24/2023-14425/modernization-of-special-airworthiness-certification

Sporty’s radios: https://www.sportys.com/avionics-and-radios/aviation-radios.html

The FAA medical is just another check ride and pilots should prepare for it the same way. That's according to Dr. Keith Roxo, an aviation medical examiner and former Top Gun adversary pilot. He shares plenty of practical tips in this episode, including: what to do if you’re unsure of an answer on the application, why some pilots are stuck in medical limbo for over a year, what SODA and CACI mean, and how the FAA is handling mental health issues these days. Keith also talks about flying the F/A-18 and F-16, and how Top Gun taught him the difference between a standard and a technique. In the Ready to Copy segment, you'll hear why color-blindness isn’t a disqualifying condition, whether BasicMed has been successful, and what Keith's favorite aviation movie is.

SHOW LINKS:

- MedXPress simulator: https://wingmanmed.com/medxpress-simulator/

- Avoiding adverse drug interactions: https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/2022-01/Avoiding_Adverse_Drug_Interactions.pdf

- Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html 

Tim Decker’s flying career includes almost every segment of aviation, including military, fractional, airline, and even airshows. He applies safety habits from each of these jobs to his flying in his Cirrus SR22, and shares some of those in this episode. He explains the difference between minimum fuel and emergency fuel, when it’s smart to declare an emergency, and why instructors must embrace scenario-based training. He also talks about the concept of factored landing distances and shares how to calculate them in ForeFlight. In the Ready to Copy Segment, Tim tells us what it’s like to land a U-2 in a crosswind, two key lessons he learned from flying airshows, and the key differences between a career as an airline pilot and fractional pilot.

SHOW LINKS:

- FAA guidance on minimum fuel: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/media/atb2012-1.pdf

- U-2 landing video: https://youtu.be/txVHB8k0rTI

- Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Pilots think about accidents all wrong, according to author and retired airline captain Steve Green. In this thought-provoking episode, he explains why you can't predict every accident, why protecting margins is the key to safe flying, and why pilots must have an overarching strategy beyond just following the checklist. He also argues for more detailed systems knowledge and for maintaining two situational awarenesses (one for the pilot and one for the automation). In the Ready to Copy segment, Steve talks about surviving an airplane crash, whether ice bridging is a myth, and what to carry in your survival kit.

LINKS:

• Steve's book (including a free chapter)
• Steve's articles at Air Facts
• Steve's article on the Colgan crash
• Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership

Flight simulators boomed in 2020 and have barely slowed down since, but many pilots don’t use all the available tools for flight training. Kevin from PilotEdge has watched it all unfold over the last decade and he explains what flight sims are good for (and what they aren't). He talks about how Microsoft changed the game, whether you can log simulator time, and how virtual ATC plug-ins can make training more realistic. Kevin also created SimVenture, and he describes how pilots can prepare to fly to the world’s busiest airport by talking to real AirVenture controllers during this live online event. In the Ready to Copy segment, he tells us his favorite flight sim airplane, what upgrade he wants to see from sim developers, and whether AI will ever replace human controllers.

SHOW LINKS:

• SimVenture
• PilotEdge video intro
• Sporty’s flight sim gear

You have to be both realistic and optimistic to run an airline - that's according to retired Alaska Airlines CEO Bill Ayer, an industry veteran and experienced GA pilot. He offers wisdom from his four decades in the airline business, including why safety must be a data-driven activity, where the real pilot shortage is, and how to manage the tradeoffs between efficiency and safety. He also shares leadership lessons, explaining why "hope is not a strategy" when you're running a business and what young people can do to build a career in aviation. In the Ready to Copy segment, Bill tells us his favorite airplane to ride on as a passenger, whether you should drink coffee on an airliner, his opinion of supersonic airliners, and why aviation culture is so welcoming.

SHOW LINKS:

- Alaska Airlines history: https://www.alaskaair.com/content/about-us/history

- Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Designated pilot examiner, kitplane owner, scuba diver, wing walker, world traveler, black belt in taekwondo - NAFI Chair Karen Kalishek has done it all, and she shares the lessons learned along the way in this wide-ranging episode. She explains the worrying trend she is seeing as a DPE, with a rising failure rate and a lack of systems knowledge among applicants. She also talks about the importance of the pilot in command mindset, how to find a good flight instructor, and learning to fly while raising kids. Karen has plenty of stories from her many adventures, including a wing walking class she did to honor a distant relative who first performed in 1918. In the Ready to Copy segment, she talks about circus training on the trapeze, the best places to dive, lessons from Japanese weaponry training, and eating deep fried ants in the Amazon. SHOW LINKS: National Association of Flight Instructors: https://www.nafinet.org/ Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

From flight instructor to airport planner to B-1 pilot, Tom Curran has seen a lot in his aviation career. In this special Learn to Fly Month episode, he explains what he learned along the way and shares some advice for new pilots. As he says, “It’s worth it, but expect it to have some challenges.” Tom talks about failing checkrides (he's done it), flying both the F-15 and the B-1 in the Air Force (he's done that too), and managing engine failures (yup, he's also done that). In the Ready to Copy segment, Tom gives his nominee for the worst maneuver in the ACS, talks about planning an airport on the side of a cliff in Telluride, and compares fly fishing to being a pilot.

SHOW LINKS:

• Tom's articles on Air Facts: https://airfactsjournal.com/author/tomcurran/
• Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Pete Muntean grew up in an aviation family but suffered a terrible tragedy when his mother died in an airshow crash. In this inspiring episode he describes how he persevered in his aviation journey, including flying competition aerobatics and training pilots in Kenya with Patty Wagstaff. As a regular contributor for CNN, Pete spends a lot of time on TV reporting on aviation topics, so he also discusses recent airline runway incursions, his method for explaining complicated topics to the general public, and how to give better interviews. In the "Ready to Copy" segment, Pete talks about flying with the US Air Force Thunderbirds, the craziest aviation story he's ever reported on, and whether aerobatics is more like ballet or auto racing.

SHOW LINKS:

• Pete on CNN: https://www.cnn.com/profiles/pete-muntean
• Why Pete flies (video): https://youtu.be/BPoh1hH__2Q
• Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

“A well trained pilot flying a well maintained airplane with an instrument rating and with fuel in the tanks is the least possible risk in private aviation,” according to Aviation Safety magazine editor Jeb Burnside. That doesn't mean other types of flying are unsafe, though, and in this episode he explains what risks pilots should worry about, including weather, fuel exhaustion, and engine failures. Jeb also talks about his days on Capitol Hill, lobbying for general aviation interests, and the lessons he learned there. In the "Ready to Copy" segment, he tells us whether pilots read too many accident reports, what his most controversial aviation opinion is, and where he comes down on the Coke vs. Pepsi debate.

SHOW LINKS:

• Aviation Safety Magazine: https://www.aviationsafetymagazine.com/
• Uncontrolled Airspace podcast: http://www.uncontrolledairspace.com/
• Sporty's PJ2+ Radio: https://www.sportys.com/pj2-plus-com-radio.html

Steve Thorne (aka Flight Chops) is one of YouTube's original aviation stars, and he's learned a lot over the last decade—about flying and about himself. In this episode, he explains why a post-flight debrief matters, how to do a good one, and why he shares his videos with over 350,000 followers. He also talks about his weather decision-making process, especially on those "gray area" days like the one he encountered flying to Sporty's recently. In the "Ready to Copy" segment, Steve offers a tip for making better videos, shares his favorite strategy for handling nervous passengers, and explains why drumming and IFR flying are similar. SHOW LINKS: Flight Chops YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@flightchops Steve's website: https://flightchops.com/ Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Two airliners narrowly missed each other on a foggy runway in February, the federal NOTAM system crashed in January, and Southwest Airlines suffered an operational meltdown in December. Are all these stories related, warning signs for an industry about to break, or are they just random stories that are misunderstood by the non-aviation media? Veteran aviation reporter Jon Ostrower shares his opinion about recent safety lapses and explains why changes in the media business resulted in a loss of aerospace expertise. Jon also talks about his new project to build a mobile flight sim controller and makes his predictions about many hot topics in aviation, including: electric airplanes, autonomous airliners, the 1500-hour rule, single pilot airline flights, and much more.

SHOW LINKS:

The Air Current: https://theaircurrent.com

Yawman Arrow: https://yawmanflight.com

Sporty's Pilot Training+ Membership: https://sportys.com/pilottraining

We're closing out IFR Month with an episode that's packed with practical flying tips. Experienced instructor and IFR Magazine contributing editor Elaine Kauh shares her advice on a variety of topics: when to cancel your IFR flight plan, why takeoff briefings are so important, how to manage glass cockpits, and when to introduce the autopilot during training. She also talks about her experience as a tailwheel instructor and corporate pilot, and the unique challenges both roles bring. In the Ready to Copy segment, Elaine explains whether it's ever safe to do a zero/zero takeoff, which vintage taildragger she likes best, and what artist best captures the spirit of flight.

SHOW LINKS:

IFR Magazine: https://www.ifr-magazine.com

Sporty's Instrument Rating Course: https://www.sportys.com/sporty-s-instrument-rating-course-online-app-and-tv.html

Is instrument flying easier or harder than it used to be? Hall of fame flight instructor Tom Turner says it's easier, but only if you know how to use all the tools properly. As part of Sporty's IFR Month, he talks about plenty of instrument topics, including training tips, how to stay IFR current, and when to use the autopilot. He also shares data from his decades of research on engine failures and gear-up landings, some of which may surprise you. In the "Ready to Copy" segment, Tom talks about the airplane renter's code of conduct, the worst advice new pilots get, and whether it's ever OK to get out of an airplane with the engine running.

SHOW LINKS:

Tom's weekly email: https://mastery-flight-training.com

Aircraft Renter's Code of Conduct: http://www.thomaspturner.net/Aircraft%20Renters%20Code%20of%20Conduct.htm

Sporty's Instrument Rating Course: https://www.sportys.com/instrument

How do you write a book about a transcontinental air race from 100 years ago? First you buy an airplane and fly the route yourself. That's exactly what John Lancaster did for his new book, The Great Air Race. He explains what this outrageously ambitious event was all about, where you can find signs of the race today, and what it was like to retrace the steps in his LSA. He also talks about the rewards of taking long trips in light airplanes, the prospects for modern air races, and life as a foreign correspondent. In the "Ready to Copy" segment, John talks about get-there-itis, his favorite anecdote from the book, and where to get the best food in the Middle East.

SHOW LINKS:

John Lancaster's website: https://www.johnlancasterauthor.com

The Great Air Race book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1631496379/

Sporty's Pilot Training courses: http://sportys.com/discover

As a former meteorologist and a 25,000-hour airline captain, Doug Morris loves to talk about weather—but he's worried most other pilots don't share his love. He talks about the most misunderstood weather concept, whether forecasts are getting better, and why pilots might actually have too many weather tools. He also shares stories from his days flying in Atlantic Canada's famously bad weather, and weighs in on the Boeing vs. Airbus debate (he has logged a lot of time in both). In the "Ready to Copy" segment, Doug talks about the most underrated weather tool, the most interesting airport in Canada, and what it's like to see the Northern Lights from an airplane.

SHOW LINKS:

Doug's weather book: https://www.pilotweatherbook.com/product-page/pilot-weather

This Is Your Captain Speaking: https://www.amazon.com/This-Your-Captain-Speaking-Stories/dp/1770415858

Sporty's Pilot Training app: http://sportys.com/discover

GA is booming, and new Flying magazine owner Craig Fuller says this isn't just a passing fad. He explains why he believes the industry is experiencing a renaissance right now, with a new generation of pilots attracted by YouTube and a new generation of aviation businesses funded by venture capital. He also shares why he's such a believer in print magazines, what the new business model is for media companies, and how a fly-in community is part of his strategy. In the Ready to Copy segment, Craig talks about Top Gun, a potential eVTOL bust, and the lessons aviation can learn from the trucker shortage.

Show Links

Flying magazine: https://www.flyingmag.com

The Fields fly-in community: https://www.flythefields.com

Sporty's Pilot Training app: http://sportys.com/discover

There are four major causes of general aviation accidents, according to NTSB Vice Chairman Bruce Landsberg. He reviews the latest safety trends, from VFR-into-IMC accidents to engine failures, and offers his tips for staying safe. He also shares some surprising statistics about the possible role of ADS-B traffic in reducing midair collisions, and explains why flight data monitoring should be adopted by far more GA pilots. In the Ready to Copy segment, Bruce talks about angle of attack indicators, whole airplane parachute systems, flight simulators, and even his time as a missile launch officer in the US Air Force.

Show links:

NTSB safety alerts: https://www.ntsb.gov/advocacy/safety-alerts/Pages/safetyalerts.aspx

NTSB on flight data monitoring: https://www.ntsb.gov/Advocacy/mwl/Pages/mwl-21-22/mwl-as-02.aspx

Sporty's Pilot Training app: https://sportys.com/discover

Scott Manley has been described as a scientist, a gamer, an astrophysicist, a software engineer, a DJ, and a YouTube star. He brings all of those unique skills to his latest adventure: learning to fly. He explains what drew him to aviation, why the written test was easy for a physicist, and what it's like to train in an SR20. He also offers some tips for using flight simulators during flight training and shares which programs are his favorite. In the Ready to Copy segment, Scott talks about riding the zero-G "vomit comet," what he thinks about Navy videos of possible UFOs, and whether you can see a laser pointer from the International Space Station.

Scott's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxzC4EngIsMrPmbm6Nxvb-A

Riding the vomit comet: https://youtu.be/M67YP-f-LyI

Sporty's PJ2+ COM Radio: https://www.sportys.com/pj2-plus-com-radio.html

As a London-based airline pilot, Mark Vanhoenacker has traveled the world—and along the way he became a bestselling author. He explains how he stays curious as he travels, what "airplane mode" means for your brain, and why long-haul flying can be a lonely experience. He also describes the unique personalities of the Boeing 747 and 787, including what it's like to sit two stories above the runway and why he loves flying with a HUD. In the Ready to Copy segment, Mark shares the best overnight destination for an airline pilot, why "wilco" is useful in everyday life, and what he thinks of Moby Dick.

Imagine a City: https://www.amazon.com/Imagine-City-Pilots-Journey-Across/dp/0525657509/

Skyfaring: https://www.amazon.com/Skyfaring-Journey-Pilot-Mark-Vanhoenacker/dp/038535181X/

Mark's website: http://markvanhoenacker.com

Sporty's Pilot Training app: https://www.sportys.com/sporty-s-pilot-training-app.html

What do helicopter flying and mountain climbing have in common? Jessica Meiris is both a professional helicopter pilot and a record-setting rock climber—she says it's all about thinking ahead and working as a team. She shares the incredible story of how she got into aviation, the latest trends in helicopter safety, and tips for overcoming challenges with the FAA medical. She also explains what "energy management" means for pilots and the lessons she's learned about mountain weather. In the Ready to Copy segment, Jessica picks her favorite helicopter, tells airplane pilots how to avoid rotor wash from nearby helicopters, and explains what her favorite place to climb is.

US Helicopter Safety Team: https://ushst.org

Jessica's award: https://rotormedia.com/jessica_meiris_hai_michelle_north_scholarship_for-safety/

Sporty's Pilot Training Courses: http://sportys.com/discover