The Pilot’s Way
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Embarking on Multi-Engine Adventures
I’m embarking on my multi-engine flights. The FAA CPL mandates 10 hours in a “complex airplane”. It means retractable gear, constant speed prop and flaps. Now it changed, but in 2018 this requirement was still in effect. I was set on obtaining the Multi-Engine (ME) rating anyway, and decided to accrue my complex hours in…
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Chasing Tranquility: Embracing an Early Morning Flight to Apopka Airport
The summer weather in Florida presents challenges, but early morning flights usually offer a serene escape from turbulent clouds and thunderstorms. Today I chose one of those mornings to fly. Although visibility was not perfect compared to later in the day, it remained acceptable. I cherish these morning flights for their tranquility, cooler temperatures, and…
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Exploring Aerial Beauty on a Sightseeing Flight
Today, I decided to unwind and embark on a sightseeing flight. Upon departure, I climbed to 5500 feet, following the coastline. The landscapes were truly breathtaking, undoubtedly worth experiencing from the skies. The air was serene, particularly at that altitude. While I spotted some cumulus clouds, they were distant, and I encountered no turbulence. As…
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Conquering the FAA CPL Written Exam
Today marks the accomplishment of passing my CPL written exam. It was relatively easy since I was well-prepared. Initially considering Sheppard Air as the best option, I found it too expensive, and eventually chose ASA Prepware, Gleim, and AviationExam due to their cost-effectiveness and one-month subscription option. In my assessment, AviationExam stands out, yet during…
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Waiting Reward: Perfecting Landings
Thunderstorms and heavy rain dominated the morning, prompting me to seize the opportunity for some much-needed rest. However, Florida’s weather is famously unpredictable. By early afternoon, the rain subsided, clouds dispersed, and the skies turned favorable for flying. Upon reaching the airport, I discovered new puddles resembling lakes. Despite this, the runway and taxiways were…
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Practicing Crosswind Landings: Gainesville
Flight time building is a fantastic period, especially the cross-country segment: you simply enjoy flying and have fun. Of course, it involves a significant amount of planning, preparation, and studying, but it provides a wonderful opportunity to explore new places while gaining more experience. Summer in Florida is challenging. It’s not just sun and clear…
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A Day of IFR Adventures in the Cessna 172: Palatka Airport
Today, I had initially planned to embark on the trip using our small Cessna 150. Unfortunately, it’s undergoing maintenance due to compass and landing lights issues. While I prefer the cost-effectiveness of the Cessna 150, being the only one in our school means if I want to fly today, I’ll have to book a Cessna…
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FAA CPL Long Cross-Country Flight
Every FAA CPL candidate should complete at least one long cross-country flight with one leg over 250 nautical miles, as outlined in 14 CFR § 61.129. Today marked the completion of my long cross-country flight: KCGC-KMTH-KIMM-KCGC, covering more than 6 flight hours with a single refueling stop. Initially, the ceiling was around 1500 feet for…
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A TOMATO FLAMES
Before every flight we have perform a preflight check, and for flying VFR (visual flight rules) during daytime there is list of equipment which must exist and must be operational. The entire list is stated in § 91.205, and there is an acronym for simplify our lives: A TOMATO FLAMES. Once filled out it looks…
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Navigating Florida Skies: Weather Challenges in VFR Flying
Currently, I mainly fly without GPS, so I decided to enhance my situational awareness. Firstly, I ordered an iPad for use with ForeFlight (which works only on Apple devices). In the end, I chose FltPlan Go instead, but for visual flying they provide very similar functionality. Planning and flying with any Electronic Flight Bag (EFB)…
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