“Checkride Insights: Instrument Rating” is a fully annotated version of the FAA’s Instrument Rating Airman Certification Standards (ACS), enhanced with practical explanations, DPE insights, and real-world IFR scenarios.
Flight Training
Questions from the Cockpit: System Evolution
George, a commercial pilot in Iowa, writes: In a recent column about the history of flight training, you said that while flight training hasn’t changed much over time, systems have become more complex. Don’t we really still have the same systems? Other than instruments, aren’t airplanes pretty much the same? We have powerplant, fuel, electrical, pitot-static systems…”
Diamond DA-62 Training Program Lands at Raleigh Exec Jetport
The $6,999 four-day training program, which takes off July 6, 2026, includes eight hours of flight time and 12 hours of instruction.
Women in Aviation Opens 2027 Scholarship Program
Women in Aviation International has officially opened its 2027 scholarship program, offering over $200,000 to members pursuing flight training, engineering, and career advancement. Deadline to apply is Sept. 1, 2026.
Cirrus Debuts New Annual Flight Review Course
Cirrus has launched its new SR Series Annual Flight Review Course to promote continuous, structured pilot training. Designed as a half-day session with an instructor pilot, this program helps aviators master critical flight skills while simultaneously satisfying mandatory FAA requirements.
The Value Of An Hour
Some pilots have 1,000 hours of experience. Some pilots have one hour of experience repeated 1,000 times. I’ve heard this claim throughout my career in general aviation. But is it true?
Free Upset Recovery Webinar Series Launches
The Upset Prevention and Recovery Training Association, International’s free quarterly webinar series takes off June 17, 2026, with experts sharing guidance to help pilots and training providers reduce the risk of Loss of Control In-flight.
Picture of the Day: No Runway, No Problem
Chris Metscher submitted this photo and note: “Worked with Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base in Winter Haven, Florida, to get my seaplane rating. No runway, no problem, just pick a lake and land! What a blast and a return to good old stick and rudder flying. This is one of their 172s and one of their Cubs. What a ton of fun the week after the 2026 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo.”
Picture of the Day: Leading The Way Home
Richard Blamer submitted this photo and note: “Flying into Geauga County Airport (7G8) in Ohio on a night training flight in a PA-28-181. The LED lights on the new taxiway and runway lights blend with the glass in the panel, leading the way home.”