Tag: USA

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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)…

  • Mastering the Art of Tailwheel Landings

    I am continuing my tailwheel training. I’ve discovered that taxiing in the Citabria is not as challenging as it initially seemed, but it still demands smooth, gentle and precise manipulation of the pedals. There are two distinct landing methods: the first involves maintaining a nose-high attitude, allowing the tailwheel to touch down first, and then…