Checklists

Verbalizing ‘pitch, power, trim’ is one of the main things to remember.

Pilot checklists are only good when used at the right time.

Pilots truly miss their airplanes during annuals and love them more afterward.

Mistakes are part of the learning process. Expect to make some as you learn to fly, or when you pursue additional certificates and/or ratings.

Examining the why and the how of the obsequious tool that is one of the first things a pilot learns is how to use.

Smashed bugs and other bits of debris can mar an airplane’s appearance and aerodynamics.

The main purpose is to ensure specific items are inspected correctly, and memorization never
hurts.

I am different when someone is flying with me for the first time. Even more so if that person shows an interest in or fear of aviation. I feel responsible for my passenger’s continued fascination or for assuaging their anxiety. I do this by exhibiting a high level of proficiency from preflight through tie-down. I […]

OK, picture some far-in-the-future archaeologist exploring an area that ancient maps call North America and stumbling on an odd-looking site—long strips of concrete radiating out from a once-paved, open area. Combing through the ruins of a nearby structure, he unearths a barely discernible, crumbling document covered with peculiar characters. If only there were accompanying hieroglyphics, […]

PM: “Making power, power is even.” PM: “Airspeed alive.” PM: “80 knots.” PF: “My yoke.” PM: “Your yoke.” PM: “V₁.” PM: “V_R.” PM: “Positive rate on two.” PF: “Gear up.” PM: “Selecting gear up.” PM: “Gear is up.” PM: “Clean wing speed.” PF: “Clean the wing.” PM: “Cleaning the wing.” PM: “Wing is clean.” PM: […]