As an educator I believe in rigorous discussions. You can define rigor as not having one answer, that there is ambiguity, it leads to more questions. Rich complex discussion occurs when there is nuance. Unfortunately, flight training can become dogmatic, always focusing on the correct answer for the written test, and the ACS standard on …
Author Archives: Brig Williams
How Airplanes Fly
Basic Aerodynamics Made Easy Understanding flight is critical for all pilots. Even after ground school, there are still misconceptions about the science of lift, and new pilots typically have only a rote understanding sufficient to pass the exams. Recreational drone and Part 107 sUAS pilots may have even less appreciation for aerodynamics and lift. Educators …
Disorientation
October 15 is Throw Back Third Saturday with the retro screening of the FAA classic film DISORIENTATION. It is Throw Back Third Saturday with this month’s screening of the retro 1974 classic FAA film Disorientation. Spatial orientation defines our natural ability to maintain our body orientation and/or posture in relation to the surrounding environment (physical space) at …
…and all the trimmings.
As a young boy, I was enthralled with the movie The Right Stuff, and enjoyed the book later in life too. One theme was the “steak diner and all the trimmings” for the pilot who would break the sound barrier. Interestingly, it was trimming that finally solved the problem of the X-1, and it was …
The Startle Response
Understand how to mitigate inappropriate response to sudden onset emergencies. NOTE: 5 min live stream intro / may be fast-forwarded The General Aviation Steering Committee (GAJSC) System/Component Failure work group recommends training and education in coping with events that startle pilots in order to mitigate inappropriate response to sudden onset emergencies. The Startle Response seminar will emphasizing …
Understanding Checklists and Flows
From the Private Pilot ACS: Use of ChecklistsThroughout the practical test, the applicant is evaluated on the use of an appropriate checklist.Assessing proper checklist use depends upon the specific Task. In all cases, the evaluator should determine whether the applicant appropriately divides attention and uses proper visual scanning. In some situations, reading the actual checklist …
Five Things to Change in Your Pilot Training
Learning to fly is challenging and rewarding. However, for 5 out of 6 student pilots, it becomes daunting. That’s right, only 1 in 6 students pilots earn their certificate. So you want to be a Pilot? covers some simple things you can do to help put the odds in your favor. This article covers specific …
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Pearson Field Part 93 SFRA
Due to the close proximity to Portland International Airport, Pearson Field has a Part 93 Special Flight Rules Area to help ensure safe operations. The training will cover airspace and best practice. Thank you for your continued commitment to proficiency.
Short Field Operations Seminar
Encore Presentation for the Oregon Pilots Association – Troutdale March 8th Please view the video presentation before the live Question and Answer on March 8th Scroll Below the Change Log to request FAA Wings credits Change Logs: W27 (Woodland State) is no longer the flyout location. I am no longer associated with the chapter as …
Staying in Neutral
As an educator I truly believe that mistakes are proof of learning. Unfortunately in aviation, mistakes can be costly, and that is why practical exams are so demanding, and have exacting standards. The short field landing is one, if you land short of your spot, you fail, and I know this the hard way. My …