Podcasts about aopa

On February 4th 2026, AOPA announced their decision to replace Darren Pleasance as the organization's CEO & President after only one year in the position. This decision shocked the membership and the industry, because in a relatively short time, Darren had made a significant impact connecting with pilots everywhere and becoming a strong advocate for the general aviation community. This is Darren's first interview since leaving AOPA. We talk with Darren about the state of general aviation when he began his short tenure at AOPA, what he learned & accomplished over the past year, and his thoughts on the future of general aviation and the organizations that support it. Save up to 5% on Your AVEMCO Aircraft Insurance when you mention "SocialFlight"! “SocialFlight Live!” is a live broadcast dedicated to supporting General Aviation pilots and enthusiasts during these challenging times. Register at SocialFlightLive.com to join the live broadcast every Tuesday evening at 8pm ET (be sure to join early because attendance is limited for the live broadcasts). Aspen Avionics www.aspenavionics.com Avemco Insurance www.avemco.com/socialflight Avidyne www.avidyne.com Continental Aerospace Technologies www.continental.aero EarthX Batteries www.earthxbatteries.com Hartzell Engine Technologies https://hartzell.aero Hartzell Propeller www.hartzellprop.com Lightspeed Aviation www.lightspeedaviation.com Michelin Aircraft https://aircraft.michelin.com/ Phillips 66 Lubricants https://phillips66lubricants.com/industries/aviation/ Tempest Aero www.tempestaero.com Titan Aircraft www.titanaircraft.com Trio Avionics www.trioavionics.com uAvionix www.uavionix.com Wipaire www.wipaire.com

The founder and CEO of Savvy Aviation explains the need for on-condition maintenance for GA, the proper roles of aircraft owners and mechanics, his Inspection Authorization training course, and his new Aviation Masters podcast. In the news, American Airlines is under fire from pilots and flight attendants, AA's financial performance, the departure of AOPA’s CEO, a United Airlines lawsuit, and the Inspector General audit of air traffic controller training. Also, an Airplane Geeks host announces his new aviation podcast. Guest Mike Busch is the founder and CEO of Savvy Aviation, which provides aircraft owners, operators, and maintenance professionals with expert guidance grounded in data-driven, reliability-centered maintenance principles. Through maintenance management, education, and advocacy, Savvy helps the General Aviation community improve safety, reliability, and cost control. Mike Busch, Savvy Aviation founder and CEO. Mike argues that general aviation aircraft are often over-maintained, wasting both owners' time and money while straining already limited mechanic capacity. He believes the industry should shift its focus toward on-condition, or reliability-centered, maintenance. Mechanics, he says, need to be trained to think critically—not just follow the manufacturer's book. By applying reliability-centered maintenance and working on-condition, our existing mechanics could be more efficient. Mike also outlines what a healthy, collaborative relationship between owners and mechanics should look like. SavvyAviation has introduced the free, FAA-accepted SavvyCertified training course designed for mechanics studying for Inspection Authorization renewal. Mike reports that many aircraft owners signed up for the course and find it valuable. He also has a new podcast called Aviation Masters. Mike is a well-known aviation writer, teacher, aviation type club tech rep, aircraft-owner advocate, and entrepreneur. He assists aircraft owners with their maintenance problems through his lectures, articles, and books. Mike is a National Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year and has previously appeared in Episode 446 (April 5, 2017) and in Episode 667 (August 25, 2021). Aviation News Allied Pilots Association Delivers Scathing Ultimatum to American Management In a letter to the American Airlines Group Board of Directors, the Allied Pilots Association (APA) Board of Directors says, “Our airline is on an underperforming path and has failed to define an identity or a strategy to correct course” and “…it is the result of persistent patterns of operational, cultural, and strategic shortcomings.” “For more than a year, APA has voiced concerns regarding management's ability to turn the corner. Management has been given repeated opportunities to articulate a credible strategy and demonstrate measurable improvement. Those opportunities have passed without meaningful change. Despite repeated assurances, the operation continues to struggle under predictable stressors, exposing systemic weaknesses in preparation, execution, and decision making. These consequences are shouldered by our customers and employees every day. “ “These failures have negatively impacted the financial performance of our company and frustrated all stakeholders, to include shareholders, for far too long.” “American is no longer best in class financially, operationally, or in customer service. The pilots of American want our company to win and dominate the competition, not just survive and compete. Our careers are intrinsically tied to the fate and performance of this once-great airline.” The Allied Pilots Association (APA) is the collective bargaining agent for American Airlines (AA)  pilots. Founded in 1963 and representing more than 16,000 pilots, the APA says it is the world’s largest independent pilots' union. “Shame On You”: American Airlines Flight Attendants Call for Shareholder Coup to Oust CEO Unlike the APA, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) is calling for American Airlines’ chief executive, Robert Isom, to step down. In an internal memo addressed to Isom, APFA Chicago O'Hare base president Justin Patterson says, “I would like to say, sleeping on floors is NOT normal. Shame on you for trying to normalize this inhumane treatment. Doing the same thing on repeat and expecting different results [is] the definition of insanity.”  Patterson asks, “Do you intend on running this airline with piss poor planning and posting minuscule profits again in 2026?” And “This company failed more than just the Flight Attendants… they failed everyone who works here. American Airlines failed our shareholders. They were derelict in their duties to our shareholders.” APFA is the official crew union that represents more than 28,000 AA flight attendants. Passengers Left Stunned By Miniature Tray Tables on American Airlines New Long-Haul A321XLR American Airlines flight attendant Heather Poole has posted on X photos of the new Economy cabin tray tables. Table depth is half what you'd normally expect from a tray table. A standard laptop will overhang the smaller tables, and the standard AA long-haul meal tray will as well. The table does not fold out or extend. Pressure mounts on American Airlines CEO as carrier lags rivals In 2025, Delta Air Lines posted $5 billion in net income with a 7.9% profit margin. United Airlines posted $3.3 billion in net income with a 5.7% margin. American Airlines made $111 million last year with a 0.2% margin. AOPA's Hiring a Crisis Communications Firm AOPA's board has reportedly hired a crisis‑management firm on a $250,000 retainer to handle intense backlash over the abrupt departure of CEO Darren Pleasance on February 4, 2026. Off-Duty FAA Inspector Claims He Got Lifetime Ban from United After He Pointed Out Alleged Safety Concerns Paul Asmus said that after a May 2022 flight where he pointed out his safety concerns, United removed him from the flight and gave him a lifetime travel ban. Asmus is suing United for $12.75 million in damages. The civil suit claims loss of wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Asmus, an FAA Inspector but off-duty, claims that he noticed a “torn seat-back pocket at his assigned seat,” which “impaired the ability to secure and access the emergency briefing card” and a passenger standing in the aisle while the aircraft pushed back from the gate. Asmus believed that he had an obligation to report the violations he observed and took photographs for an FAA report. Audit Initiated of Air Traffic Controller Training at the FAA Academy The U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General announced the initiation of an audit. The Memorandum, Audit Announcement | Air Traffic Controller Training at the FAA Academy [PDF] (Project ID 26A3002A000), dated February 5, 2025, states that: “…the Academy is facing considerable challenges with training, including a shortage of qualified instructors, training capacity limitations, an outdated curriculum, and high training failure rates. Given the importance of increasing the number of certified controllers to safely manage the NAS, we are initiating this audit. The audit objectives will be to assess (1) FAA's efforts to address the Academy instructor shortages, training limitations, and trainee failure rates and (2) the Academy's progress with updating the air traffic controller training program curriculum.” The OIG plans to begin the audit “in the coming weeks.” The Office of Inspector General (OIG) works within the Department of Transportation (DOT) to promote the efficiency and effectiveness of DOT programs and operations and to detect and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse.  See the OIG Active Audits list. Mentioned Stories About Flying podcast from Rob Mark. Aviation is an industry brimming with adventure and discovery at every turn. Award‑winning aviation journalist and Airplane Geeks co‑host Rob Mark invites listeners to enjoy captivating stories from a lifetime of aviation. Drawing on more than 50 years of experience flying for airlines, corporate and charter operations, and teaching as a flight instructor, Rob also reflects on his early days as an FAA and U.S. Air Force tower and radar controller. Along the way, he'll share remarkable stories from fellow aviators and respected podcasters who bring their own perspectives to the fascinating world of flight. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.

Max talks with Matt Bergwall, Executive Director of the Vision Jet Product Line at Cirrus, about the just-announced Cirrus Vision Jet G3 (SF50 G3)—and before that, he offers an unusually personal look at what the AOPA President's job actually requires. Max opens by explaining that he interviewed for the AOPA President role twice and uses that experience to outline what makes the position difficult and consequential. In his view, the job is not simply "being the public face of GA." It demands relentless travel to connect with members, lawmakers, regulators, and stakeholders—while still maintaining a strong day-to-day presence at headquarters to lead a sizable staff. He also emphasizes the fundraising reality: membership dues matter, but major donors increasingly drive what's possible, especially as traditional advertising revenue has eroded across media. Max argues that regardless of opinions about leadership changes, AOPA's advocacy work and member services—like the hotline—can be meaningful to pilots, and he encourages continued support for the organization. He also describes the way top roles like this are typically filled: boards often rely on executive search firms and closed candidate pipelines rather than a standard "job posting" process. Then the focus shifts to the Vision Jet. Matt explains the G3 changes through a pilot-centric lens: what's different in capability, how it affects workload, and what it feels like in real use. One headline upgrade is cabin practicality. Cirrus designed the G3 so six adults can fit comfortably, while still maintaining seven seat belts. That might sound like a simple seating tweak, but Matt describes it as a serious engineering effort that required deep iteration with mockups, real-world body sizes, and attention to the small geometry problems that make the third row either tolerable or miserable. The end goal was not only more capacity, but a better experience for passengers in the back—especially when the airplane is used as family transportation rather than a four-person luxury machine. On the performance side, Matt notes that Cirrus increased the airplane's MMO by 0.01 Mach, which equates to roughly 7 knots of additional true airspeed in certain cruise conditions and can also help during descents and arrivals. He frames the gain as less about bragging rights and more about flow: small speed margins can matter when mixing with faster traffic in busy terminal environments. He also explains the "why" behind the change: rather than a dramatic redesign, the team "sharpened their pencils," did additional flight testing, and validated that the aircraft had enough performance and safety margin to raise the limit. Max asks whether that might also yield a slight range improvement, and Matt says it can—though it's hard to quantify cleanly—while still being a meaningful, felt benefit on colder days when the throttle might otherwise need to pull back. A major avionics headline is CPDLC / ATC Datalink. Matt describes it as a system long familiar to airlines, increasingly available in U.S. centers and at many larger airports for text-based clearances. The practical advantage is removing the most error-prone part of IFR communication: copying down complex clearances and route changes while juggling frequency congestion. With datalink, pilots can receive clearances as text, review them at their own pace, and—in many cases—push the routing or frequency changes directly into the avionics instead of re-typing and re-verifying everything manually. In flight, the system can reduce "did ATC call me?" uncertainty: messages arrive with a clear alert and are hard to miss. Max and Matt also touch on D-ATIS and planning advantages, including how having information in text can reduce repeated listening and make it easier to configure the airplane early. They also cover a string of real operational refinements that make the G3 feel more modern day-to-day: improved taxi situational awareness features, taxiway routing guidance, and more capable visual-approach tools that help pilots set up patterns beyond the common "straight-in" workflow. Inside the cabin, Matt describes seat mechanism improvements that make entry and adjustment easier and more intuitive, plus passenger comfort refinements aimed at making the airplane more usable across a wider range of missions. The result is a G3 that's less about one giant breakthrough and more about a stack of changes that compound: a truer six-adult cabin, modest but useful speed flexibility, and datalink and avionics upgrades that reduce friction during the highest workload moments of an IFR trip. Max closes with the practical ownership layer—what this means for buyers thinking about price and programs—so listeners can translate "new features" into real-world value. If you're getting value from this show, please support the show via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or Patreon. Support the Show by buying a Lightspeed ANR Headsets Max has been using only Lightspeed headsets for nearly 25 years! I love their tradeup program that let's you trade in an older Lightspeed headset for a newer model. Start with one of the links below, and Lightspeed will pay a referral fee to support Aviation News Talk. Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset $1299NEW – Lightspeed Zulu 4 Headset $1099 Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset $949Lightspeed Sierra Headset $749 My Review on the Lightspeed Delta Zulu Send us your feedback or comments via email If you have a question you'd like answered on the show, let listeners hear you ask the question, by recording your listener question using your phone. News Stories AOPA Seeks New President OIG To Audit Controller Training FAA Recommends More Spatial Disorientation Training For Pilots FAA Sets 25-hour Cockpit Voice Recorder Standard for New Aircraft Texas pilot sentenced for falsifying aircraft maintenance records Mentioned on the ShowBuy Max Trescott's G3000 Book Call 800-247-6553 Video of the Week: Free Index to the first 282 episodes of Aviation New Talk So You Want To Learn to Fly or Buy a Cirrus seminars Online Version of the Seminar Coming Soon – Register for Notification Check out our recommended ADS-B receivers, and order one for yourself. Yes, we'll make a couple of dollars if you do. Get the Free Aviation News Talk app for iOS or Android. Check out Max's Online Courses: G1000 VFR, G1000 IFR, and Flying WAAS & GPS Approaches. Find them all at: https://www.pilotlearning.com/ Social Media Like Aviation News Talk podcast on Facebook Follow Max on Instagram Follow Max on Twitter Listen to all Aviation News Talk podcasts on YouTube or YouTube Premium "Go Around" song used by permission of Ken Dravis; you can buy his music at kendravis.com If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.

WARBIRD RADIO - The 17th season of Warbird Radio is almost ready for takeoff, but some stories can't wait.In this special report, Matt Jolley sits down with Darren Pleasance for a candid conversation in the wake of the recent announcement from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Over the past year, Pleasance has been one of the most visible leaders in general aviation, and the news of change at the organization has sparked serious discussion throughout the aviation community.Beyond the immediate headlines, a larger question is emerging: what comes next for AOPA? If leadership believes the president should be closer to headquarters, many members are asking whether the Board of Directors should also move closer to reflecting the membership it represents. At a time when the freedoms protecting general aviation have never been more important, the need for a strong, unified voice has never been greater.In this special report, you'll hear a preview of Matt's conversation with Pleasance. The complete interview will be released as part of the 2026 season of Warbird Radio, which begins February 10th, 2026.This is a conversation about leadership, representation, and the future of general aviation—one you won't want to miss.#aopa #warbirdradio #generalaviation #warbirdsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Pilot Nicki returns to describe her 1948 Globe Swift and explain her plans to make a mid-life career change and become a professional pilot. In the news, the FAA Administrator says what to expect from the “brand new air traffic control system,” a bill to address ADS-B “misuse,” navigating around the debris field after a rocket failure, accelerating the MV-75 Tiltrotor program, flying the Qatari 747 as Air Force One, reduced security restrictions at Heathrow, and a private jet crash in Maine. Guest Nicki Hovanec just reached her goal of 1500 flight hours and now plans to make a mid-life career change and become a professional pilot. She fell in love with aviation at an early age and attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for Aviation at Daytona Beach, Florida. But 911 impacted Nicki's career trajectory and took her away from aviation. However, with encouragement from her spouse, she returned to aviation, obtained her pilot’s license, and will soon look to be hired by an airline. Nicki trained through independent flight schools and completed her solo in 2017, receiving her initial pilot’s certificate. She continued her training and completed additional certifications on various aircraft while progressing towards her goal of 1500+ flight hours. Nicki saved and borrowed funds to purchase a Cessna 152. Eventually selling that plane, she bought a 1948 Globe Swift tail-dragger, her current airplane. With 1,500 flight hours completed, Nicki now begins the job search for a professional pilot position, starting with the NGPA job fair. We’ll continue to follow her progress. A little history: In May 2017, Nicki sought our advice about starting flying lessons and making a career change to become a professional pilot. We encouraged her to keep us informed about her progress, and Nicki did so by sending us over a dozen recordings documenting her journey getting a pilot's license. We were happy to include those in our podcast episodes. Nicki and her 1948 Globe Swift. See: A Short History of the Swift Wikipedia: Globe GC-1 Swift 2026 NGPA Industry Expo, presented by United Airlines, February 5-6, 2026. FAPA.aero (Future & Active Pilots Alliance) Aviation News FAA's Bedford Provides Glimpse into U.S. ATC's Future At the monthly Aero Club of Washington, D.C. luncheon, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford talked about the “brand new air traffic control system.” He described: “Greater precision about… flight trajectories… [while] navigating through the airspace.” Many fewer handoffs flying through the system. A cultural shift away from focusing on takeoff to when a pilot wants to land.  Changing the innovation cycle to be more like Apple or Tesla. AOPA urges members to contact their representatives in Congress AOPA issued a call to action asking its 300,000 members to contact their senators and representatives in Congress and urge them to cosponsor the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act (PAPA). AOPA President Darren Pleasance said, “When the ADS-B mandate went into effect in 2020, the FAA said this important technology would only be used for safety and airspace efficiency. Instead, we're now seeing it used in ways that discourage adoption…The misuse of ADS-B is a step backward for aviation safety and erodes trust in our aviation system.” If passed, PAPA would prohibit the use of ADS-B data to assist in the collection of fees from pilots or aircraft owners and clarify that ADS-B data may only be used for its intended purposes of air traffic safety and efficiency. PAPA was introduced in 2025 by Rep. Bob Onder (R-Mo.) as H.R.4146 and Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) as S.2175. “We're Too Close to the Debris” On January 16, 2026, ATC instructed Caribbean flights to avoid the FAA's debris zone after a SpaceX Starship rocket exploded. Dozens of planes made sharp turns to avoid the danger zone, which was closed for 86 minutes. ProPublica says this made “pilots and passengers unwitting participants in SpaceX's test of the most powerful rocket ever built.” Army Punches Its MV-75 Tiltrotor Program Into Overdrive The Army wants to see the MV-25 testing this year and in service in 2027. Just twelve months ago, the Army targeted 2030. At the 2022 competition, service was expected in the mid-2030s. The MV-75 is the designation given to the U.S. Army's Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) tiltrotor. The design is based on the Bell V-280 Valor tiltrotor and will replace many of the H-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The V-280 demonstrator has flown, but not the MV-75 configuration. Qatari 747 to fly as Trump's Air Force One this summer In May 2025, the US government accepted the 747 jetliner donated by the Qatari government to serve as a new Air Force One. Modifications began in September. An Air Force spokesperson said in a statement that delivery of the aircraft is anticipated no later than summer 2026. Calling it a “VC-25 bridge aircraft,” the Trump administration intends this plane to serve as an interim Air Force One while waiting for the two 747s currently being modified by Boeing. The Air Force is expecting the first Boeing-modified 747 to be handed over in “mid-2028,” a delay of roughly four years. London’s Heathrow eases liquid and laptop rules after £1 billion security upgrade The airport completed a £1bn CT scanner upgrade across all four Heathrow terminals. This allows passengers to carry liquid containers up to two liters, and the removal of laptops from bags is no longer required. 7 dead, 1 seriously injured in plane crash at airport in Bangor, Maine, FAA says A Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 650 veered off the runway on takeoff and crashed at Bangor International Airport in Maine. There was snow at the time of the plane crash due to a large winter storm. See also: Private jet carrying 8 crashes at Maine airport, FAA says. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Brian Coleman.

Aviation legend, educator, instructor, and author Dr. Paul Craig joins the gang to discuss the highly anticipated third edition of The Killing Zone - the book that's basically scripture for midlife pilots everywhere.With new publisher ASA, Paul's back with fresh data from 12,406 general aviation accidents proving that yes, the 50-350 hour zone still has significantly higher accident rates.We dive deep into his data-driven approach to accident analysis, explore how technology is creating pilot-induced distractions like GoPro fiddling and selfie-taking, and discover why mental health conversations have finally evolved beyond just "pilot stress." Paul explains how HIMS AMEs are changing the game for pilots needing help, and why scenario-based training beats practicing basketball fundamentals all day.Whether you're climbing Mount Stupid or think you've conquered it, Paul reminds us that every flight is different and deserves your full attention. Plus, hear his scariest moment involving recruiting football players, hydraulic failure, and emergency gear extension that sounded like the airplane was coming apart.Featuring abnormal contact with the ground, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving accident curse, and why Paul never tells ATC how an approach will terminate.Mentioned on the show:* ASA, The Killing Zone third edition: https://asa2fly.com/the-killing-zone-softcover/* Wingnuts Aviation, M91 Springfield Tenn: https://wingnutsaviation.net/* About ASA: https://asa2fly.com/about-us/* The Vegas Bravo Buster on VASAviation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUSUXnr4dSo* New York Times Presents 'Lie to Fly': https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/23/NYT-Presents/lie-to-fly-joseph-emerson-pilot.html* AOPA, Mike Busch, Quantifying Maintenance Risk: https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2025/november/pilot/savvy-maintenance-opinion-quantifying-maintenance-risk* Scarpazza, Quantifying the Risk of Accidents and Serious Incidents Due to Maintenance in General Aviation: https://www.savvyaviation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Risks-of-maintenance-to-GA.pdf* Paul Craig, Flight Times: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1685642306Visit www.midlifepilotpodcast.com to support the show, get merch, and download the free 23 page PDF "The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Midlife Pilot".

The crew has just released their comprehensive Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Midlife Pilot - a 23-page PDF packed with community wisdom from hundreds of pilots who started flying at 40, 50, 60, and beyond. Download it FREE at midlifepilotpodcast.com!This is the first episode in a three-part series walking through this game-changing resource that answers the question every aspiring midlife pilot asks: "How do I actually get started?" No more scattered advice - this is your roadmap from dream to checkride.What's in the Guide:The mindset shifts required for learning to fly in midlifeCommunity-sourced insights from real midlife pilotsLegacy-focused motivation beyond just "learning to fly"Actionable first steps that won't derail your journeyThis Week's Key Insights:"The willingness to suck is a challenge" - embrace being terrible at something newBrian's liberating "nobody cares philosophy" - your bad landings aren't as noticed as you thinkWhy community isn't optional - it's the difference between success and washing outThe critical importance of getting your medical strategy right BEFORE you start trainingReality Check Moments:Why your 23-year-old instructor might seem confused by your existenceThe humbling experience of task saturation (what's 8x8 again?)How existential dread during training is normal and survivableWhy being bad at flying initially doesn't predict your ultimate successPro Tips from the Community:Contact AOPA FIRST before making any medical decisionsUnderstand sport vs. private pilot privileges before committingFind your tribe - isolation kills aviation dreamsThis journey is about legacy, not just transportationComing Up: Parts 2 and 3 will cover training realities, milestone moments, and advanced midlife pilot strategies. The Ultimate Guide represents two years of community wisdom distilled into one comprehensive resource. Whether you're thinking about starting or helping someone else begin their journey, this PDF eliminates the guesswork and provides a clear path forward.Download your FREE 23-page guide at https://midlifepilotpodcast.com/#guide"Midlife is a state of mind, not an age" - and this guide helps you navigate both.Mentioned on the show:* Thaden Invasion: https://midlifepilotpodcast.com/thadeninvasion* PDF of the midlife starter kit is on the website, https://midlifepilotpodcast.com/* Million Air- BHM (cookies, wet bar): https://www.millionair.com/locations/bhm/* Rev2, student with task saturation video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnQLuGPLHN4* SISKIND - Nobody Cares. My Creative Manifest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Da4I2Y9v1Sk&t=1s* AOPA's medical resources (call them!): https://www.aopa.org/go-fly/medical-resources* Killing Zone, third edition, now available: https://asa2fly.com/the-killing-zone/* Opposing Bases OB418: Ice Chunks and Slam Dunks

Join NAFI Director of Publications Beth Staton as she welcomes guest Dr. Victor Vogel to this episode of the More to the Story series of the More Right Rudder podcast. Vogel is a highly respected physician, CFI-I, NAFI board member, and prolific contributor to NAFI's publications. In this episode, Stanton and Vogel discuss his contributions to aviation safety focusing on human factors and mental health. Together they explore Vogel's recent Mentor article on loss of control inflight and his newly published book, A Pilot's Guide to Risk Management and Judgment. The conversation emphasizes the need for better training and awareness of mental health as a human factor in the aviation community to enhance safety and support for pilots. Vogel's new book is available now from your favorite bookseller. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank yo to AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Brandon Williams, a former fighter pilot and current airline captain, explore the role of mutual accountability and professional support within the flight instruction community. The conversation reframes accountability as a collaborative practice rooted in trust, respect, and a shared commitment to safety rather than enforcement or criticism. Sarah and Brandon discuss the value of effective debriefing as a cornerstone of continuous improvement, emphasizing how thoughtful reflection and constructive dialogue can enhance both instructional quality and pilot performance. They also address strategies for navigating challenging conversations, highlighting the importance of strong professional relationships in facilitating clear, productive communication. The episode further examines the role of openness and gratitude in receiving and delivering feedback, underscoring how a positive feedback culture supports instructor development and reinforces safety at every level. Throughout the discussion, the focus remains on the broader purpose of feedback in aviation: advancing professionalism, strengthening instructional standards, and promoting safer outcomes for the aviation community. Join NAFI today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.  Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.  

Hear from aviation author Tom Young; plus David and Aliia discuss declassified Amelia Earhart records, proposals to restrict misuse of ADS-B data, a Cirrus trade-in program, the selection of Peraton to integrate ATC updates, and bipartisan mental health and medication bills backed by AOPA.

DPE John Boos and NAFI Program Development Manager Sarah Staudt dive into the power of scenario-based training to strengthen student judgment and decision-making. They discuss why rote memory—while valuable—is only the starting point, and how realistic simulations help students apply knowledge in meaningful ways. The discussion includes how AI can support instructors by generating scenario ideas, variations, and trigger events, all while emphasizing the importance of CFI curation to ensure accuracy, realism, and safety. This episode offers practical strategies for building stronger pilots through intentional scenario design, thoughtful evaluation, and smart use of AI as a creative tool—not a replacement for instructor expertise. Join NAFI at https://my.nafimentor.org. Use promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

Host Beth Stanton, NAFI's director of publications and editor, interviews Larry Bothe, retired designated pilot examiner (DPE), flight instructor, and longtime Mentor magazine contributor, for an in-depth look at the world of checkrides and flight training. Bothe expands on his recent Mentor article “Musings from a Retired DPE, Things you might like to know.” He shares his perspective on what examiners look for, tells a few checkride tales, and provides guidance on how instructors can better prepare their students for success. The conversation explores the evolution of DPE guidance and information, opportunities for professional development, and how effective instruction directly impacts aviation safety. Packed with real-world insights from decades in the cockpit, this episode is a must-listen for flight instructors, student pilots, and anyone passionate about aviation education. Join NAFI today at https://my.nafimentor.org. Use promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

In this episode of Aviation News Talk, we begin with the developing details surrounding the crash of UPS Airlines Flight 2976, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F cargo aircraft that crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville, Kentucky. The aircraft, tail number N259UP, was a 34-year-old MD-11F powered by three General Electric CF6-80 engines. Bystander video shows the left engine separated from the wing, with the wing engulfed in flames as the aircraft lifted off. ADS-B data indicates the aircraft climbed less than 100 feet before beginning a descending, left-turning roll from which it did not recover. The crew had already passed V1, meaning they were committed to takeoff and did not have adequate runway remaining to stop. In situations like this, flight crews may have no survivable option, and this accident may represent one of those rare but tragic scenarios. We also compare aspects of this event to American Airlines Flight 191, the 1979 DC-10 crash at Chicago O'Hare. While both accidents involved the loss of the left engine on takeoff, the failure chain in AA191 involved slat retraction due to damaged hydraulic and control lines—failure modes later addressed in the MD-11 design. The MD-11's slats are hydraulically locked to prevent unintended retraction, meaning the probable cause of this accident must differ in critical ways. After the accident analysis, we shift to a practical, pilot-focused conversation about landings with returning guest Dr. Catherine Cavagnaro, columnist for AOPA and highly respected flight instructor and DPE. Drawing on more than a thousand check rides, Catherine explains that the most consistent problem she sees is pilots flying final approach too fast. While pilots often worry about being too slow, the data shows that excessive approach speed is far more common and contributes to long landing rolls, excessive float, bounced landings, and pilot-induced oscillations. Catherine and Max discuss how a correct approach speed provides the right amount of energy to land smoothly and in control. More power and speed make it harder to manage the flare and to touch down where intended. Pilots also frequently fail to align the aircraft longitudinal axis with the runway before touchdown, particularly in crosswinds, due to hesitation in applying sufficient rudder and aileron. Catherine explains that as the aircraft slows, flight controls become less effective, so pilots should expect to use more control input in the final seconds before touchdown—not less. The conversation also explores landing accuracy, noting that pilots should strive to touch down within 200–400 feet of a target point—not "somewhere down the runway." Even on long runways, building accuracy pays dividends when landing at shorter fields or during check rides. A useful data tool Catherine recommends is FlySto (flysto.net), which allows pilots with modern avionics to upload flight data and analyze approach speed, pitch attitude, touchdown point, crab angle, rollout direction, and braking forces. By reviewing objective data, pilots can identify habits and improve their consistency over time. Whether you're teaching new pilots, returning to flying after a break, or simply want your landings to be more stable and predictable, Catherine's techniques offer actionable steps: choose the correct approach speed, use proper crosswind controls, flare to a nose-high attitude, and maintain precision with touchdown point selection. Together, the accident analysis and the landing discussion reinforce a core theme of this show: aviation skills improve with deliberate practice, continuous learning, and a deep respect for the realities of risk, energy management, and aircraft control. If you're getting value from this show, please support the show via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or Patreon. Support the Show by buying a Lightspeed ANR Headsets Max has been using only Lightspeed headsets for nearly 25 years! I love their tradeup program that let's you trade in an older Lightspeed headset for a newer model. Start with one of the links below, and Lightspeed will pay a referral fee to support Aviation News Talk. Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset $1199 HOLIDAY SPECIAL NEW – Lightspeed Zulu 4 Headset $1099 Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset $949Lightspeed Sierra Headset $749 My Review on the Lightspeed Delta Zulu Send us your feedback or comments via email If you have a question you'd like answered on the show, let listeners hear you ask the question, by recording your listener question using your phone. News Stories UPS MD-11 crashed almost after takeoff from Louisville airport FAA is set to start cutting flights to contend with delays and staffing shortages Archer Buys LA-Area Airport Jeppesen ForeFlight Unified Under Private Equity Ownership FAA acknowledges BasicMed form error Pilot injured when Piper hits fence Extreme turbulence bends Cessna 152 Blade to Launch Weekday Commuter Flights Between Manhattan and Westchester Mentioned on the ShowAmerican Airlines Flight 191 Analysis by Jeff Guzzetti Fly California Passport Program Catherine Cavagnaro YouTube Channel Ace Aerobatic School Buy Max Trescott's G3000 Book Call 800-247-6553 Free Index to the first 282 episodes of Aviation New Talk So You Want To Learn to Fly or Buy a Cirrus seminars Online Version of the Seminar Coming Soon – Register for Notification Check out our recommended ADS-B receivers, and order one for yourself. Yes, we'll make a couple of dollars if you do. Get the Free Aviation News Talk app for iOS or Android. Check out Max's Online Courses: G1000 VFR, G1000 IFR, and Flying WAAS & GPS Approaches. Find them all at: https://www.pilotlearning.com/ Social Media Like Aviation News Talk podcast on Facebook Follow Max on Instagram Follow Max on Twitter Listen to all Aviation News Talk podcasts on YouTube or YouTube Premium "Go Around" song used by permission of Ken Dravis; you can buy his music at kendravis.com If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.

In this episode, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Jason Blair, a DPE and aviation author, discuss the ongoing DPE shortage in aviation, exploring its causes, implications, and potential solutions. They delve into the data surrounding DPE activity, the importance of effective communication and scheduling, and the challenges faced by flight training providers. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough preparation for checkrides, understanding experience requirements, and the role of instructors in ensuring student readiness. They also touch on innovative training tools and the importance of being well prepared for checkrides, including experience requirements, documentation, and aircraft airworthiness. Remember, you can save $5 on your NAFI membership with promo code PODSAVE5 at https://nafimentor.org Thank you to AOPA and Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.  

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's Program Development Manager, and Anthony Sypula, the Chief Flight Instructor of a large flying club and NAFI Master Instructor, discuss the importance of maintaining professionalism and readiness among flight instructors during industry slowdowns. They explore the current hiring landscape, the impacts of slowdowns on flight instructors, and techniques to maintain professionalism. The conversation also covers the significance of pass rates, turning slowdowns into growth opportunities, gaining leadership experience, and tips for new CFIs seeking employment. The episode emphasizes that professionalism is a long-term investment in one's career and reputation in the aviation community. You can download your own PDF copy of the presentation discussed in this episode here: https://nafimentor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CFI-Professionalism-Readiness-Presentation.pdf Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode. 

In this two-part series all about MOSAIC, host Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, is joined by Samantha Bowyer, an associate professor of aeronautics at ERAU. Bowyer is also an active NAFI volunteer who, with others, represented NAFI's interests during the MOSAIC rule making process. This first episode provides an overview of the MOSAIC rule then turns its focus to the changes for sport pilots and flight instructors. Tune in to learn all about new privileges, limitations, and training options available to sport pilots, sport pilot applicants, and their instructors. If you aren't yet a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your membership. Thank you to Avemco, Sporty's, and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

In this episode of the More to the Story, a feature series on the More Right Rudder podcast, host and NAFI's Director of Publications and Editor, Beth Stanton interviews Jason Miller, a seasoned flight instructor and founder of The Finer Points. Miller wrote Making Aviators in the July/August issue of Mentor magazine. They discuss the critical first 25 hours of flight training, the importance of establishing good habits early on, and the role of flight instructors in shaping competent aviators. Miller shares insights on teaching strategies, the significance of visual references, and the use of technology in flight training. The conversation emphasizes the need for quality instruction and resources to support both instructors and students in their aviation journey. NAFI members can access Miller's article at https://my.nafimentor.org.  If you aren't yet a NAFI member, join us today. Use the promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new or renewal NAFI membership at https://nafimentor.org. Thank you to AOPA, ForeFlight, and Avemco for sponsoring this episode.  

Send us a textBrent Wright shares his experiences from the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) conference, highlighting innovations in 3D printing, data-driven technologies, and revealing his groundbreaking polar printer project for prosthetic sockets.• AOPA attendance exceeded 2,000 people with 165 exhibitors including 30 new vendors• Digital Showcase featured case studies for prostheses and orthoses using scanning technology• Blasingtech impressed with 3D printing capabilities, producing foot orthoses in 30 minutes• AI-designed scoliosis braces are outperforming experienced clinicians with better correction angles• Radii's socket design algorithms now match skilled clinicians in patient comfort and feedback• Tennr software helps clinicians identify missing documentation needed for insurance approval• Brent reveals the "Vortex" - a polar printer with non-planar toolpaths creating sockets in under 2 hours• Non-planar polar printing produces significantly stronger sockets than traditional layer printing• Vortex printers are already in production with three units being prepared for clinical testingSpecial thanks to Advanced 3D for sponsoring this episode!If you are interested in the Vortex DS1 please follow this link: Vortex DS1 3D Printer - Advanced 3DSupport the show

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, host Sarah Staudt speaks with Jeffrey Madison, an airline pilot and author, about the significance of NASA reports in flight training. They discuss how these reports can enhance decision-making skills for flight instructors and students, the importance of learning from real-life aviation incidents, and the value of sharing experiences through the NASA reporting system. Madison also shares anecdotes from his book, which aims to provide insights into common mistakes made by pilots and the lessons learned from them. Additionally, they highlight Madison's book YIKES! 100 Smart Pilots and the Dumb Things They Did Yet Lived to Tell About 'Em and the Victor Kilo Fund, which supports flight scholarships for under-resourced students in aviation.   New or returning NAFI members can save $5 on a NAFI membership with code PODSAVE5 at https://nafimentor.org   Thank you to ForeFlight, Sporty's, and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.    Resources: Aviation Safety Reporting System website: https://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/ Aviation Safety Reporting System Advisory Circular: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1039459 YIKES the book and Victor Kilo Fund: https://www.victorkilofund.org/product/BuyYikesTheBook 

Aviation Career Foundation & PhilosophyDarren Pleasance's aviation journey began serendipitously at age 13 in Livermore, California, sparked by witnessing model airplane flying in a local park (02:32)Boy Scouts aviation merit badge provided first airplane flight experience with troop leader who was also a flight instructorAirport proximity advantage allowed daily after-school bicycle rides to Livermore Airport for hands-on learningMentorship network development through open hangar visits led to free flight instruction from CFI named DougAccelerated certification timeline: solo at 16, private at 17, commercial instrument flight instructor at 18College funding strategy utilized flight instruction income to pay for education expensesLife decision framework established early: "When faced with difficult decision, choose one that makes for better story" (07:03)McKinsey departure decision after 14 years applied this principle to join Google despite financial spreadsheet analysisAlaska bush pilot choice over completing engineering master's degree exemplified same philosophyCareer diversification approach created multiple aviation experiences: corporate jets, glider towing, competition aerobatics, bush flyingMedical Certification Challenges & AdaptationsColor vision deficiency discovery at age 16 during first medical examination created major career obstacle (09:16)Initial medical restriction: "not valid for night flight or color signals" threatened professional pilot aspirationsDemonstrated ability waiver process required FAA flight examination demonstrating ability to distinguish aviation-relevant colorsTesting requirements included: identifying plowed vs. unplowed fields, recognizing taxiway centerline lights, runway edge lights, beacon colorsAirline career impact: even with eventual first-class medical clearance, airlines wouldn't hire pilots with any medical history complicationsBlessing in disguise outcome: forced exploration of diverse aviation opportunities including John Travolta corporate pilot work, competition aerobatics, P-51 flyingCorporate Experience IntegrationMcKinsey consulting foundation provided comprehensive business function exposure across marketing, sales, finance, organizational strategy (05:58)High-tech specialization and sales/marketing focus opened door to Google global team leadership opportunity14-year tenure built expertise in helping management teams improve business performance worldwideDiverse client experience across multiple industries and business functions created versatile skill setGoogle and Cisco leadership roles combined with continuous aviation involvement maintained dual expertise (12:51)Weekend flying commitment included teaching aerobatics at Bedford Airport's Executive Flyers AviationCompetition aerobatics involvement led to EAA board connections and industry networkingP-51 flying experience enhanced aviation credibility and public profileAOPA Leadership Vision & QualificationsUnique qualification combination merged deep aviation passion with Fortune 500 business leadership experience (12:51)200+ employee organization requires substantial business management capabilitiesPublic speaking requirements for member events, donor relations, political advocacy, airport community relationsAviation credibility essential for representing pilot community interests and understanding operational challengesAdvocacy experience needed for communicating aviation value to non-pilot stakeholdersCurrent aircraft ownership maintains grassroots GA connection through Sea Ray amphibious aircraft and RV-6 ownership (15:11)Recent flying examples: Priest Lake, Idaho seaplane fly-in participation, formation flying with friendsBackcountry flying engagement demonstrates continued hands-on small aircraft experienceCost-conscious operations understanding through Rotax-powered aircraft ownershipComprehensive Member Service PortfolioBase membership value proposition at $89 annually provides extensive pilot support services (20:40)Pilot Information Center staffing includes deep maintenance experts available for technical problem-solvingInternational flight planning assistance covers Canada, Bahamas, and worldwide destinations with step-by-step guidanceAircraft purchasing support through aviation finance group connections and escrow service coordinationDocumentation and process guidance for complex aviation procedures and regulatory compliancePilot Protective Services enhancement for additional $85 annually adds critical legal and medical advocacy (21:43)Medical packet review service ensures special issuance applications meet FAA requirements before submissionLegal representation availability for FAA enforcement actions, violations, or incident responsesSpecialized expertise access for navigating complex regulatory interactions and protecting pilot certificatesRisk mitigation approach prevents multi-month delays from incomplete FAA submissionsMedical Certification Support & Modern ChallengesGrowing mental health certification complexity requires specialized AOPA medical services guidance (30:28)Young pilot medication history increasingly common for anxiety, depression, ADHD treatments during teenage yearsHistorical automatic disqualification being replaced with thoughtful case-by-case evaluation by FAADocumentation requirements becoming more complex but achievable with proper preparation and advocacyDr. Susan Northrup leadership as Federal Air Surgeon working to reduce special issuance backlogsProcessing timeline improvements under current FAA medical leadership showing measurable progress (30:28)Six-month to one-year timelines still common for special issuance cases with complex medical historiesBacklog reduction efforts ongoing but substantial volumes still creating extended wait timesProfessional pilot impact demonstrated through airline pilot medical deferral experiences requiring months of career uncertaintyLegislative Advocacy & Infrastructure ProtectionAirport infrastructure comparison highlights US aviation system advantages over international counterparts (35:56)5,000 public use airports in US with only 500 having control towers enables widespread GA access3,500 airports with instrument approaches create weather-independent national transportation networkGermany comparison: only towered airports permitted instrument approaches, severely limiting utility aviationEuropean model limitations restrict general aviation to VFR-only operations at uncontrolled airportsATC privatization opposition based on international precedent analysis and stakeholder influence concerns (33:32)User fee implementation in privatized systems creates barriers to flight training, safety practices, and airport utilizationAirline influence concentration through deeper financial resources shapes privatized ATC board decisionsAirspace allocation shifts favor commercial operations over general aviation access and utilitySafety degradation risks from reduced flight training frequency due to per-operation fee structuresEducational Programs & Future Pilot DevelopmentHigh school aviation program expansion reaching 30,000 students across 1,500 schools nationwide (23:49)Four-year curriculum structure provided free to participating schools regardless of economic constraintsTeacher training programs enable non-pilot educators to deliver aviation content effectivelyCareer pathway diversification beyond traditional airline pilot focus to include corporate, firefighting, medevac, bush flying opportunitiesProfessional development support helps students understand aviation industry breadth and alternative career pathsPilot shortage solution approach emphasizes local flight school importance over centralized training facilities (38:19)Military pilot percentage decline requires civilian-trained pilot pipeline expansion for airline recruitmentLocal flight school network at thousands of airports provides distributed training capacityAirport closure threat directly impacts airline pilot production capability and national transportation infrastructureMember Engagement & Growth StrategyFlight instructor advocacy role critical for membership growth and student pilot introduction to AOPA services (45:41)Historical membership introduction pattern: CFIs recommended AOPA alongside essential equipment and educational materialsCurrent engagement decline among flight instructors requires renewed education about AOPA value propositionStudent pilot free membership for six months provides risk-free introduction to organization benefitsCareer-long value proposition extends beyond private pilot training through professional aviation transitionsPublic advocacy responsibility for aviation community members to educate non-pilot population about airport importance (47:55)Medical evacuation services utilizing local airports for emergency patient transportFirefighting operations depend on airport infrastructure for aerial suppression activitiesEconomic development impact through business aviation supporting local employment and commercePilot training pipeline at local airports directly feeds airline industry personnel requirements

Send us a textWe catch up with Niles from Leonard Industries, our first-ever returning guest, as he reveals game-changing innovations in prosthetic and orthotic fabrication technology. This episode explores how new manufacturing tools are making fabrication faster, safer, and more consistent while helping address the industry's technical workforce challenges.• Leonard Industries has expanded by acquiring a machine shop with enhanced capabilities• Their revolutionary Wave Oven cuts heating time from 20 to 7 minutes using targeted infrared technology• The oven creates consistent results with wider work windows, eliminating the need to flip materials• Safety innovations include emergency stops, magnetic starters, and controlled heating• Multiple oven models accommodate different fabrication needs, from standard to large KFO applications• The "toast test" demonstrates heating consistency by showing how evenly bread slices brown• Leonard Industries will showcase their technology at the upcoming AOPA conference• The company has helped establish safer educational environments at O&P schools• Niles emphasizes making fabrication more accessible to new technicians through consistency and automation• Their aluminum construction ovens use less energy while providing more precise heating controlVisit the Leonard Industries booth at AOPA to see live demonstrations of their new fabrication technology, including the Wave Oven, dust collection systems, and fume extractors.Special thanks to Advanced 3D for sponsoring this episode.Support the show

Send us a textWe preview the upcoming AOPA National Assembly in Orlando, discussing what makes this prosthetics and orthotics trade show valuable for professionals across the industry.• AOPA (American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association) National Assembly happening September 3-6 in Orlando, Florida• 165+ exhibitors representing various aspects of the O&P industry • Educational tracks covering clinical, technical, business, and pedorthic topics• Up to 34 continuing education credits available in person, with 100+ hours of online content afterward• Hands-on technical laboratory for fabrication techniques and safety equipment demonstrations• Digital Showcase featuring case studies and workflow solutions from different vendors• Administrative Law Judge mock trial simulating insurance appeal processes• Strong 3D printing presence with 33+ companies showcasing additive manufacturing solutions• Notable exhibitors including long-established companies and first-time participants• Importance of consistency at trade shows for building relationships and trust in the industry• Networking opportunities that facilitate business connections and partnershipsJoin us at the Prosthetics and Orthotics Podcast booth where we'll be broadcasting live throughout the event!Special thanks to Advanced 3D for sponsoring this episode.Support the show

Send us a textBrad Matear, who oversees central fabrication for Shriners Children's hospitals, shares insights on the technical side of O&P, highlighting the critical shortage of trained technicians and pathways for advancing the profession.• Shriners Children's central fabrication serves approximately 19 facilities nationwide, dealing with complex pediatric cases that require exceptional technical skill• The field faces a serious technical talent shortage with 15-16 clinical schools but only 4 technical schools producing graduates• Technician compensation and recognition are crucial factors in retention, with approximately 30% attrition rate compared to clinicians• Digital fabrication including CAD/CAM and 3D printing represents the future for technicians, requiring new educational approaches• The Assistant Credential offers a promising middle path between technical and clinical roles, similar to the PT/PTA model• Technical education must evolve to include both traditional hand skills and advanced digital techniques• AOPA 2025 in Orlando will feature hands-on technical education including custom fabrication and alignment techniques• Proper disposal and recycling of materials remains a challenge, particularly for foam products used in fabricationPlease recycle your plastics as best you can and if you're an engineer with ideas for recycling carving foam, the industry needs your solutions to reduce landfill waste.Special thanks to Advanced 3D for sponsoring this episode.Support the show

In this episode of the Water Flying podcast, I have the great pleasure of sitting down with Darren Pleasance who recently became the CEO of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the largest aviation non-profit advocacy organization in the world.It has rewarding working with Darren on numerous advocacy issues, and could not be more thrilled to share his vast experiences, passion and vision for the future of AOPA under his leadership with our listeners.Please take this opportunity to learn more about Darren. I am sure that you will be glad you did, and you will walk away with a massive appreciation for the captain at the helm of AOPA.

In this episode of More Right Rudder, we welcome Sean Sherman, aviation technologist owner of Skeeter Enterprises, to demystify two increasingly relevant technologies in general aviation: RADAR and LiDAR altimeters. Whether you're a flight instructor looking to improve your students' understanding of new cockpit tools or a GA pilot exploring your next avionics upgrade, this episode will help you make sense of the options. This episode includes: The fundamental differences between RADAR and LiDAR technologies How each system measures altitude—and how that matters in real-world conditions Factors to consider when choosing the right technology for your aircraft and mission profile Instructional tips for CFIs incorporating these systems into flight training Safety considerations, including limitations, environmental factors, and failure modes If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's, AOPA, and ForeFlight for sponsoring this episode.

With Madi and "Madi's Dad" departing, Jim and Badger found some riff raff to tag along on this mini-episode. We catch up with a few of our most loyal listeners and supporters, and recap the Wednesday Night Airshow. Jim also talks about a post-Night Show skill challenge and how he will push those limits even further at the Saturday Night Show. We also chat about our interviews today with AOPA, an amazing up close vantage point of the Thursday Airshow, and more.Be sure to say hello if you see us at the show. We have plenty of stickers to go around too, so don't hesitate to seek us out and ask. Follow Us at OSHYou can follow us at the on facebook and instagram. Jim: @flymidwestjimAndrew: @thebadgerpilotOur Other Content:Badger Pilot on Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilot⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AeroExploration: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fly the Transition Podcast:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fly-the-transition/id1657873290⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe and Follow:Don't miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://flyingmidwest.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://facebook.com/flyingmidwest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Your support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠flyingmidwest.com/merch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Engage with Us:Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.

Episode 391 Show Notes   Topic of the show: In this episode, RH and AG revisit a recent ATC radar and radio outage to explore why some facilities/pilots can't simply "call Center" when everything fails. They break down the structural differences between co-located and remote sectors and why redundancy didn't work as expected. We also discussed a listener's question about what happens when multiple aircraft are on conflicting courses: who has to move out of the way.   Feedback 1. SGAC Patron AD asks how controllers decide who to move out of the way when a conflict requires the controller to make a move.    AG and RH will be recording a live episode of Opposing Bases at AirVenture 2025, hosted by AOPA! Saturday, July 26 at 10am, AOPA Pavilion.  Join us for a live recording, audience Q&A, and plenty of laughs. After the show, we'll head next door for a Meet & Greet at the AOPA 39 Lounge. Come say hi—we'd love to meet you!   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on the website.  Keep the feedback coming, it drives the show! Don't be shy, use the “Send Audio to AG and RH” button on the website and record an audio message. Or you can send us comments or questions to feedback@opposingbases.com.  Music bumpers by audionautix.com.  Third party audio provided by liveatc.net.  Legal Notice The views and opinions expressed on Opposing Bases Air Traffic Talk are for entertainment purposes only and do not represent the views, opinions, or official positions of the FAA, Penguin Airlines, or the United States Army.  Episodes shall not be recorded or transcribed without express written consent. For official guidance on laws, rules, and regulations, consult an aviation attorney or certified flight instructor. 

From ATC modernization to the new MOSAIC rule to unleaded avgas, AOPA is involved in all the key issues for pilots. New President Darren Pleasance shares his opinion on each of these topics and explains what role his organization is playing. Darren is a longtime pilot, flying everything from aerobatic airplanes to warbirds, so he also shares many lessons learned from his 8000+ hours. In the Ready to Copy segment, Darren talks about flying a P-51 solo, pursuing innovation at Google, and kiteboarding.- AOPA advocacy: https://aopa.org/advocacy- Darren's book: https://darrenpleasance.com/book/- PilotWorkshops Mastery: https://pilotworkshop.com/products/vfr-mastery/- New Air Facts podcast: https://airfactsjournal.com/podcast/

Max Trescott welcomes aviation columnist, aerobatic instructor, and DPE Dr. Catherine Cavagnaro to explore smarter ways to plan cross-country flights. The conversation is inspired by Catherine's June 2025 AOPA article titled “The Benefits of Getting High,” which argues that pilots often default to lower cruising altitudes or direct GPS routes without considering efficiency or safety trade-offs.Catherine explains that pilots should dig into their aircraft's POH (Pilot's Operating Handbook) to find performance charts that highlight how altitude affects both time and fuel efficiency. For her Bonanza, she found that the highest true airspeed at 65% power occurred around 7,000 to 8,000 feet, but fuel efficiency kept improving all the way up to the service ceiling. Using a sample 650-NM trip, she shows that cruising at 12,000 feet—despite a longer climb—saved enough fuel to eliminate a fuel stop, making the total trip time shorter.   They discuss how terrain, restricted airspace, and drop zones make GPS direct routing risky or impractical, especially across mountain ranges. Catherine shares how Victor airways, often dismissed as outdated, still provide safer terrain routing and proximity to emergency airports. Max adds real-world examples, including dangerous direct flights through the Sierra Nevada that ended in CFIT accidents. He outlines three major cross-country paths—northern, central (I-80 corridor), and southern—each with their own altitude and weather considerations. The two agree that pilots often forget how minor route deviations can vastly improve safety with negligible time penalties. Catherine uses a mathematical analogy involving railroad tracks expanding in the sun to illustrate how small vertical detours can stem from large lateral gains. They also dive into the importance of using supplemental oxygen—not just at legally required altitudes but even as low as 9,000 feet. Catherine explains how oxygen concentrators work, how they eliminate the need for tank refills, and how much better she feels after using them on long flights. Max echoes the sentiment, comparing it to the dramatic improvement that came with noise-canceling headsets. Together, they underscore how improved oxygenation can enhance alertness, decision-making, and post-flight fatigue levels. When it comes to safety, Catherine highlights the “5 Fs” checklist she uses for personal go/no-go decisions, emphasizing that fatigue is the hardest one to self-assess. She emphasizes building “outs” into every flight plan, from not booking hotels in advance to carrying backup airline tickets in case weather or fatigue prevent safe continuation. Max shares a similar experience of aborting a leg from Reno when he realized how exhausted he was just after takeoff. They also cover inflight considerations like maneuvering speed and turbulence. Catherine explains that because true airspeed rises with altitude while calibrated airspeed (which affects structural stress) stays lower, flying higher can reduce aircraft stress during turbulence—provided pilots understand how those values relate. Finally, they joke about snacks in the cockpit—Catherine once flew past the Grand Canyon while munching a chocolate croissant from a bread-baking class. The lighthearted close reinforces the theme: safe flying is not just about skill, but about preparation, flexibility, and a little indulgence to make the journey enjoyable. For any pilot planning a summer trip—or just wanting to sharpen their cross-country thinking—this episode is a goldmine of practical tips, insightful math, and hard-won wisdom. If you're getting value from this show, please support the show via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or Patreon. Support the Show by buying a Lightspeed ANR Headsets Max has been using only Lightspeed headsets for nearly 25 years! I love their tradeup program that let's you trade in an older Lightspeed headset for a newer model. Start with one of the links below, and Lightspeed will pay a referral fee to support Aviation News Talk. Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset $1299 Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset $949Lightspeed Sierra Headset $749 My Review on the Lightspeed Delta Zulu Enter to WIN a Lightspeed Delta Zulu® ANR headsetAviation News Talk is excited to partner with Lightspeed for a quarterly giveaway of a Delta Zulu headset! Enter once and be eligible for all four giveaways in 2025! Send us your feedback or comments via email If you have a question you'd like answered on the show, let listeners hear you ask the question, by recording your listener question using your phone. Mentioned on the Show Catherine Cavagnaro YouTube Channel Ace Aerobatic School Buy Max Trescott's G3000 Book Call 800-247-6553 Free Index to the first 282 episodes of Aviation New Talk So You Want To Learn to Fly or Buy a Cirrus seminars Online Version of the Seminar Coming Soon – Register for Notification Check out our recommended ADS-B receivers, and order one for yourself. Yes, we'll make a couple of dollars if you do. Get the Free Aviation News Talk app for iOS or Android. Check out Max's Online Courses: G1000 VFR, G1000 IFR, and Flying WAAS & GPS Approaches. Find them all at: https://www.pilotlearning.com/ Social Media Like Aviation News Talk podcast on Facebook Follow Max on Instagram Follow Max on Twitter Listen to all Aviation News Talk podcasts on YouTube or YouTube Premium "Go Around" song used by permission of Ken Dravis; you can buy his music at kendravis.com If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.

A Kentucky tornado damages the Beech T-34 community, ATC woes continue in Denver, the Klein AirCar logs flights, $2.2 million AOPA scholarships are awarded, and Garmin releases SmartCharts. Plus, hear how drone first responder Matt Sloane is helping keep police safe. ⁠@dtulis⁠ ⁠@loubelle⁠

On January 1st, Darren Pleasance took over as AOPA's CEO and President becoming the 6th CEO of AOPA over the past 85 years. Darren's story echos that of many in the aviation community, from model planes to being a ramp-rat at the local airport, hoping to exchange labor on the ground for time in the air. Darren soloed at 16, got his private at 17, and his Commercial, Instrument and CFI at 18 while also going to college for his degree in mechanical engineering. Darren currently flies a SeaRey, an RV6, a Piper Meridian, a North American T6 and a North American P-51. “SocialFlight Live!” is a live broadcast dedicated to supporting General Aviation pilots and enthusiasts during these challenging times. Register at SocialFlightLive.com to join the live broadcast every Tuesday evening at 8pm ET (be sure to join early because attendance is limited for the live broadcasts).Aspen Avionics www.aspenavionics.com Avemco Insurance www.avemco.com/socialflight Avidyne www.avidyne.com Continental Aerospace Technologies www.continental.aero EarthX Batteries www.earthxbatteries.com Hartzell Engine Technologies https://hartzell.aero Hartzell Propeller www.hartzellprop.com Lightspeed Aviation www.lightspeedaviation.com McFarlane Aviation www.mcfarlane-aviation.com Michelin Aircraft https://aircraft.michelin.com/ Phillips 66 Lubricants https://phillips66lubricants.com/industries/aviation/ Tempest Aero www.tempestaero.com Titan Aircraft www.titanaircraft.com Trio Avionics www.trioavionics.com uAvionix www.uavionix.com Wipaire www.wipaire.com

The California avgas fuel ban is overturned, the new DOT chief pledges swift ATC modernization, Notam modernization is coming this fall, aircraft owner data-hiding is available, and AOPA organizes a national aviation safety standdown. Plus hear from CFI and social media standout Leah Froehlich about tips and tricks she uses to teach flight students.

Max discusses engine-out scenarios and best glide strategies, prompted by listener feedback on Episode 372, which analyzed the crash of a Bonanza B35B (N2UZ) that suffered engine failure at 7,500 feet near Charlottesville, VA. Although the pilot did many things correctly, he overshot a long field and crashed. Max highlights choices that might have improved the outcome, such as flight following and alternate route planning. Listener emails, read by Aviation News Talk intern Kelly, offer insights and experiences. Karen Larson shares how a conversation about the episode helped her husband safely land a T6 with a failed engine. David Dismore and Nico Ghilardi emphasize the value of practicing power-off landings, especially from high altitudes. Daniel Switkin points out that glide range rings in EFB apps may not always be reliable, referencing an AOPA test. Carter Boswell inquires about glide differences between windmilling and stopped props. Max references Peter Garrison and Tom Turner for technical insight. Bozzie Boswell from Australia introduces the AvPlan EFB app, which offers planning features to keep routes within gliding range of airports. Max underscores the importance of preparation, practice, and situational awareness to improve survival chances during engine-out emergencies. If you're getting value from this show, please support the show via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or Patreon. Support the Show by buying a Lightspeed ANR Headsets Max has been using only Lightspeed headsets for nearly 25 years! I love their tradeup program that let's you trade in an older Lightspeed headset for a newer model. Start with one of the links below, and Lightspeed will pay a referral fee to support Aviation News Talk. Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset $1199 Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset $899Lightspeed Sierra Headset $699 My Review on the Lightspeed Delta Zulu Send us your feedback or comments via email If you have a question you'd like answered on the show, let listeners hear you ask the question, by recording your listener question using your phone. News Stories Air traffic controller charged with assaulting colleague in DCA tower FAA Says its Sending Counselors to the Control Tower at National Reagan Airport Swiss military jet crash: air traffic controller found guilty Pilot in Alaska who survived a night on a frozen lake being investigated Former Alaska pilot responsible for near mid-air collision sentenced Stalker pilot takes plea before trial begins Man who flew drone over Vandenberg Space Force Base sentenced Mentioned on the Show Buy Max Trescott's G3000 Book Call 800-247-6553 Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset Giveaway Oceano Airport and Off Highway Vehicles on Ocean DunesMax's FLYING Magazine article: Skyryse One helicopter Video of the Week: Testing Glide Rings in three EFB apps Peter Garrison's FLYING article: Gliding, Props AvPlan EFB App with Airport Glide Range Overlay Tom Turner's FLYING LESSONS newsletter Free Index to the first 282 episodes of Aviation New Talk So You Want To Learn to Fly or Buy a Cirrus seminars Online Version of the Seminar Coming Soon – Register for Notification Check out our recommended ADS-B receivers, and order one for yourself. Yes, we'll make a couple of dollars if you do. Get the Free Aviation News Talk app for iOS or Android. Check out Max's Online Courses: G1000 VFR, G1000 IFR, and Flying WAAS & GPS Approaches. Find them all at: https://www.pilotlearning.com/ Social Media Like Aviation News Talk podcast on Facebook Follow Max on Instagram Follow Max on Twitter Listen to all Aviation News Talk podcasts on YouTube or YouTube Premium "Go Around" song used by permission of Ken Dravis; you can buy his music at kendravis.com If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.

Max talks with Dr. Tony Kern about human error, airmanship, and the hidden threats pilots pose to themselves. Tony shares how his passion for understanding error began with the tragic loss of two of his former B-1 bomber students in 1992. The crash, attributed to "a failure of airmanship," prompted him to research the elusive meaning of that term—work that eventually led to his book Redefining Airmanship. Beyond medical transport, they assist military veterans by flying them to camps designed for rehabilitation, as well as special events like Major League Baseball games. They also provide commercial airline tickets, through partnerships with JetBlue and Southwest, as backup transportation. Tony emphasizes that even the best pilots are “one decision away from disaster” and discusses how errors often don't result in negative outcomes, which falsely reinforces bad habits. He introduces the concept of a “personal fingerprint of error” and advocates tracking errors—both in and out of the cockpit—to identify behavioral patterns. The conversation also touches on complacency, fatigue, and how inexperienced team members can sometimes better sense danger than veterans. He recalls the Thirtymile Fire as a case study in poor decision-making and leadership under stress. Tony concludes by stressing the instructor's responsibility not to pass along a faulty product, and encourages pilots to be relentless students of their own behavior. He also shares resources from his company, Convergent Performance, and his books, podcast, and LinkedIn newsletter. If you're getting value from this show, please support the show via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or Patreon. Support the Show by buying a Lightspeed ANR Headsets Max has been using only Lightspeed headsets for nearly 25 years! I love their tradeup program that let's you trade in an older Lightspeed headset for a newer model. Start with one of the links below, and Lightspeed will pay a referral fee to support Aviation News Talk. Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset $1199 Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset $899Lightspeed Sierra Headset $699 My Review on the Lightspeed Delta Zulu Send us your feedback or comments via email If you have a question you'd like answered on the show, let listeners hear you ask the question, by recording your listener question using your phone. News Stories Airline pilot demand back to pre-pandemic levels AOPA leads national GA safety campaign Laser strikes down from record 2023 Airline pilot fined after RAF intercepted flight Two United Pilots Forget Passports Before International Flights Mentioned on the Show Buy Max Trescott's G3000 Book Call 800-247-6553 Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset Giveaway Dr. Tony Kern's Convergent Performance company Only Human with Dr. Tony Kern podcast Dr. Kern's Books Blue Threat: Why to Err Is Inhuman Redefining Airmanship Flight Discipline Going Pro: The Deliberate Practice of Professionalism Darker Shades of Blue: The Rogue Pilot Armored Knight The Ghost of Nathan Hale Dark Wind by Buck Myles (Tony Kern) 13 Bullets: A Blue Walker Action Thriller Series by Buck Myles Free Index to the first 282 episodes of Aviation New Talk So You Want To Learn to Fly or Buy a Cirrus seminars Online Version of the Seminar Coming Soon – Register for Notification Check out our recommended ADS-B receivers, and order one for yourself. Yes, we'll make a couple of dollars if you do. Get the Free Aviation News Talk app for iOS or Android. Check out Max's Online Courses: G1000 VFR, G1000 IFR, and Flying WAAS & GPS Approaches. Find them all at: https://www.pilotlearning.com/ Social Media Like Aviation News Talk podcast on Facebook Follow Max on Instagram Follow Max on Twitter Listen to all Aviation News Talk podcasts on YouTube or YouTube Premium "Go Around" song used by permission of Ken Dravis; you can buy his music at kendravis.com If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.

In this episode, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), sits down with Fanny Schultea, MS, MSED, CPO/L, FAAOP(D), executive director of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research. They dive into the remarkable growth of the O&P Foundation over the past two years, spotlighting significant donations and pledges from ABC and AOPA. Fanny also shares how the community can engage with the Foundation through volunteering, donations, and providing valuable feedback. The conversation explores the Foundation's core program areas—education, research, and professional awards—and their vital impact on clinicians and the O&P profession at large.   O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.

"Freedom to go broke." The guys dive deep into the bittersweet reality of aircraft ownership—from the freedom it provides to the unique challenges it presents. Brian compares airplane ownership to marriage, Ted discusses his aversion to suction cups, and Ben reveals he's "fully funded on my pro rata share" of an eventual engine overhaul. They discuss the importance of finding a trusted mechanic, the joy of spontaneous lunch flights, and why "squawk and walk" is something renters do, not owners. As Brian puts it, "I'm a visitor in this socioeconomic space," but the rewards are worth the challenges.Mentioned on the show:* Ghost Dog: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghost_Dog:_The_Way_of_the_Samurai* Jim Jarmusch: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Jarmusch* Open Source GA- "squawk and walk": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4smAzSqNG4o#t=2m40s* Coleal interpretation- AOPA: https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2023/august/pilot/savvy-maintenance-legal-interpretations

If you aren't a NAFI member yet, please join us at https://www.nafinet.org. Podcast listers receive a $10 discount on their new or renewal membership. The code is at the end of the episode. In this episode of More Right Rudder we welcome Kim Skipper from Avemco Insurance Agency. Skipper has been with Avemco since 1987 and is highly credentialed in the insurance industry. She's seen a lot of insurance claims. Throughout this conversation she'll tell us stories of the unusual claims and we'll discuss what flight instructors can do to educate pilots on tips and techniques to avoid these types of claims. Hang on until the end for some funny claims involving the animal kingdom. Thank you to AOPA and Avemco for sponsoring this episode!

AOPA pushes back on ADS-B misuse, Cirrus says 'no' to G100UL, the rag-wing Piper AD is finalized, and government layoffs affect the FAA. Plus, we talk with Sentimental Journey award winning Vagabond owner Nathan Hauser.

Mike Ginter leads a team of 7 aviation safety experts at AOPA, working tirelessly to reduce the general aviation accident rate by providing free educational resources and supporting initiatives that improve flight safety and grow the pilot population. Mike served for 27 years as a U.S. Naval Aviator logging 555 carrier landings, with 213 of them at night, and over 5400 flight hours in various military and general aviation aircraft during his 40-year flying career. He earned his private pilot certificate in high school flying Grumman Cheetah's and Tigers, owned a Navy SNJ-5 version of the T-6 Texan for 12 years, and currently owns a Beech A36 Bonanza and Cessna 172K. Mike served as president of the North American Trainer Association, which is the type club for T-6 and P-51 aircraft, and spearheaded AOPA's General Aviation DC Flyover last year. “SocialFlight Live!” is a live broadcast dedicated to supporting General Aviation pilots and enthusiasts during these challenging times. Register at SocialFlightLive.com to join the live broadcast every Tuesday evening at 8pm ET (be sure to join early because attendance is limited for the live broadcasts). Aspen Avionics www.aspenavionics.com Avemco Insurance www.avemco.com/socialflight Avidyne www.avidyne.com Continental Aerospace Technologies www.continental.aero EarthX Batteries www.earthxbatteries.com Hartzell Propeller www.hartzellprop.com Hartzell Engine Technologies www.hartzell.aeroLightspeed Aviation www.lightspeedaviation.com McFarlane Aviation www.mcfarlane-aviation.com Phillips 66 Lubricants https://phillips66lubricants.com/industries/aviation/ Tempest Aero www.tempestaero.com Titan Aircraft www.titanaircraft.com Trio Avionics www.trioavionics.com uAvionix www.uavionix.com Wipaire www.wipaire.com

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast we are joined by Julean Thorpe. She is the manager of flight training security programs at the TSA. Thorpe and her team joined us at NAFI Summit in January 2025 at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. This episode was recorded live at the event. This conversation starts with a brief history of flight training security rules, and then moves into the current policy. We talk about the new website registration requirement and security coordinator position, changes to security awareness training frequency, and the new procedures for training non-U.S. citizens. NAFI thanks Thorpe and her team for taking the time to join us for this episode and all of their efforts to keep the CFI community informed.  Join NAFI: https://www.nafinet.org TSA Flight Training Security Program: https://www.fts.tsa.dhs.gov/home Thank you to AOPA for sponsoring this episode:

From dodging Atlanta traffic to landing sweet courtesy car upgrades (hello, BHM Millionair FBO's Mercedes), Ben breaks down how flying personal aircraft can transform business travel. While Ted needs "a grandmother in every town" thanks to sport pilot restrictions, and Brian ponders partnership puzzles, Ben proves that sometimes the best business tool is a Cessna. "I would pay $200 to be in a time machine any day of the week," he notes, though maybe skip the time machine demos with clients - one passenger's "dashboard painting" experience suggests some business meetings are better kept on terra firma. Join the crew for a hilarious yet practical look at mixing business with GA, where the real luxury isn't the courtesy car, it's skipping I-285 traffic.Mentioned on the show:* EP24 - Everything About Flying Clubs with Drew Myers from AOPA: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/midlifepilotpodcast/episodes/EP24---Everything-About-Flying-Clubs-with-Drew-Myers-from-AOPA-e1ou9h1/a-a8laq3o* Brian's new video, "Flying Sideways: When Aviation Truth Meets Internet Expertise | A Visit to the Swift Museum": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73LnW1e0UbQ* Lake Lanier: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Lanier* Ft. Moore (previously Fort Benning): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Moore* BHM Million Air: https://www.millionair.com/locations/bhm/* Wendover Productions: The Economics of Private Jets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYPrH4xANpU* The Economics of Everyday Things- Private Jets: https://freakonomics.com/podcast/private-jets/Support the show on Patreon: www.midlifepilotpocast.com

WARBIRD RADIO – We sit down with Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) President Darren Pleasance for an in-depth conversation about the vital role AOPA plays in the aviation community. As the leader of America's largest aviation advocacy group, Darren not only works on behalf of pilots in Washington, D.C., but he's also a dedicated warbird pilot himself, flying the T-6 Texan and the legendary P-51 Mustang.AOPA's mission extends far beyond advocacy, and in this special episode, Darren highlights key programs that directly impact warbird operators. From safety initiatives to pilot resources and preservation efforts, AOPA is committed to ensuring these historic aircraft remain in the skies for generations to come.Joining the conversation is Mike Ginter, AOPA's Senior Vice President of the Air Safety Institute. A former T-6 owner and retired U.S. Naval Aviator, Mike brings decades of experience to the discussion. And he's got big news—an exciting announcement rolling out this summer that will benefit warbird pilots and general aviation enthusiasts alike.Don't miss this must-hear episode of Warbird Radio. Tune in now, and be sure to sign up for our newsletter at WarbirdRadio.com so you never miss an update!QUICK LINK: https://www.aopa.org/#aopa #warbirdradio #warbirds #aviationsafetyinstitueSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations

Thank you to AOPA for sponsoring this episode.  In this episode of More Right Rudder, we are joined by Justin Moore. Justin is an Army fixed and rotorwing pilot who transferred to the Coast Guard to pursue instructional opportunities. He's also a civilian flight instructor. Justin share's with us his five tips to improve your instruction. There's also lively conversation about our different experiences and the benefits of learning from others. If you aren't already a NAFI member, please consider joining us! Learn more at https://www.nafinet.org  

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, ASA and AOPA! If you aren't already a NAFI member, please consider joining us to support the continued production of this content. Podcast listeners receive $10 off their membership using code POD49 at https://www.nafinet.org. In this episode of the Writers Behind the Stories, NAFI Director of Publications and Editor Beth Stanton is joined by Cambrie Foster. Foster is a young, only 19 years old, and enthusiastic flight instructor. She has also built a significant social media following that she uses to help fund her flying. Listen to how Foster initially didn't think aviation was for her and transformed into a social media influencer. She shares the power of mentorship and some of the trials she's faced as a young, female flight instructor. Check her out on Instagram @flying.foster

Learn how new AOPA President Darren Pleasance is combining his business and aviation backgrounds as he guides the 85-year-old association into the future. And join Ian and David as they break down why the FAA recommends AOA for all aircraft; a new color vision test; additional changes to aviation leadership; and an eVTOL company with high hopes that hit significant headwinds. Plus, aviation predictions for 2025!

Mark Baker retires from AOPA after highlights that include thousands of pilots flying under BasicMed; almost 100,000 students learning about aviation careers; and a vow to earn his instructor certificate. Plus Ian and David discuss ownership of a seized Wright Model B, an Alaska turkey drop, the "Citizen of the World's" final flight, GAMA numbers, and the Texas warbird collision.

Jason Schappert is a highly accomplished pilot and entrepreneur who's dedicated his career to making aviation more accessible. He's not only a certified flight instructor and airline transport pilot, but also the founder of MzeroA.com, an online platform that offers comprehensive flight training resources. Jason's passion for teaching shines through in his eight aviation books and his popular YouTube channel, where he shares his expertise with aspiring and experienced pilots alike. Jason's journey in aviation began at a young age, and he quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional skills and dedication. He was recognized as AOPA's Top Collegiate Flight Instructor and received numerous awards for his outstanding teaching abilities. His commitment to aviation safety and education has led him to develop innovative training programs, including the Future Pilots Flight Academy for young aviation enthusiasts. Beyond his work as an instructor, Jason is also a successful entrepreneur. He founded MzeroA.com, which has grown into a leading provider of online ground school courses. The company's interactive learning style and comprehensive curriculum have made it a popular choice for pilots around the world. Jason's entrepreneurial spirit has also led him to produce the Flying Again film, which encourages pilots to return to the skies after a break from flying. In recent years, Jason has expanded his reach even further by partnering with the University of Arizona to offer his aviation training courses to a wider audience. He's also embraced social media as a powerful tool for sharing his knowledge and connecting with fellow aviation enthusiasts. You can find him on TikTok as @moola.copilot, where he shares his insights on aviation and offers advice to aspiring pilots. Jason Schappert's dedication to aviation education and his entrepreneurial spirit have made him a respected figure in the aviation community. His work has helped countless pilots achieve their dreams and has contributed to a safer and more accessible aviation industry. For More Info: https://www.tiktok.com/@moola.copilot

Episode 360 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week's show, RH and AG will make their pitch to the powers above to make Universal Flight Following Light a real safety feature in the NAS.  Why would both pilots and controllers benefit from this product?  How would we roll it out in the NAS?  We also discuss how sectors are divided, traffic alerts, and more of your fantastic aviation feedback.    Links: Technique: What's the frequency? By Tom LeCompte https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2018/january/pilot/technique-whats-the-frequency     Timely Feedback: 1. Patron RW shared an AOPA article about air to air frequencies https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2018/january/pilot/technique-whats-the-frequency 2. Patron RR gives a little more information about his pipeline flying days under the Charlies of America. 3. Patron 1DG used “We love ATC” in the flight plan remarks and shared the response.   Feedback   1. SGAC Patron SA shares his thoughts on the show and his situational awareness.  Thank you! 2. Patron ACF shares audio of a recent traffic alert and wants to know how it could have gone better. 3. Patron JKC wants to know why sectors are divided sideways.   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on the website.  Keep the feedback coming, it drives the show! Don't be shy, use the “Send Audio to AG and RH” button on the website and record an audio message. Or you can send us comments or questions to feedback@opposingbases.com.  Music bumpers by audionautix.com.  Third party audio provided by liveatc.net.  Legal Notice The views and opinions expressed on Opposing Bases Air Traffic Talk are for entertainment purposes only and do not represent the views, opinions, or official positions of the FAA, Penguin Airlines, or the United States Army.  Episodes shall not be recorded or transcribed without express written consent. For official guidance on laws, rules, and regulations, consult an aviation attorney or certified flight instructor. 

Improper Hoisting... GA Helps!... New Guy at AOPA... Boeing... Unleaded... UCAP Evolving... Valerie's List. All this and more on Uncontrolled Airspace Podcast. Recorded Oct 24, 2024. (37:44) [#742] [UCAP1096] {20}

Episode 342 Show Notes   Topic of the show: We are live from EAA AirVenture 2024 and hosted by AOPA!  On this episode, we introduce ourselves to our live audience and answer their questions about airspace, communication with ATC, and flying!  This was a really fun episode and we want to thank Patron JP (“JEF” from O-Bingo), AOPA for hosting the live show in their giant venue, all of our amazing Patreon supporters, and all of the attendees for making this our biggest live audience ever.  We had a blast!  Thank you for making this a special event!   Timely Feedback: 1. SGAC Patron RLH talks about DPE roles on checkrides 2. Patron CH expands on the Hudson Corridor 3. Patron SH explains new add ons 4. Patron DD asks about airline pilot currency 5. Patrons BS, EC, AJ, JEF, and TT send a very nice note about our show.  Thank you for your amazing support!   Feedback: Live questions from the audience!  Thank you for attending our 5th live show at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh!   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on the website.  Keep the feedback coming, it drives the show! Don't be shy, use the “Send Audio to AG and RH” button on the website and record an audio message. Or you can send us comments or questions to feedback@opposingbases.com.  Music bumpers by audionautix.com.  Third party audio provided by liveatc.net.  Legal Notice The views and opinions expressed on Opposing Bases Air Traffic Talk are for entertainment purposes only and do not represent the views, opinions, or official positions of the FAA, Penguin Airlines, or the United States Army.  Episodes shall not be recorded or transcribed without express written consent. For official guidance on laws, rules, and regulations, consult an aviation attorney or certified flight instructor.