pilotscafe

GPS and RNAV approach terminology can be very confusing since modern RNAV procedures usually accommodate more than one type of navigational equipment (such as basic GPS, WAAS, LAAS or multi-sensor FMS) on the same chart. With older types of approach procedures, the specific equipment required is stated in the chart title. For example, you could only fly a “VOR RWY XX” approach with VOR equipment, or an ILS approach with ILS equipment.

There's no one-fit-all method to perform an approach briefing. A commercial operator may have a specific way to do it. But if you don't work for one, you need to develop your own approach briefing technique. The key is to set the aircraft and review all important information in advance, so the workload won't overwhelm you.

Morse code has been around for many years. In today's aviation it's primary use is for identifying radio navigation aids such as VORs, ILSs, DMEs or NDBs. The FAA and FCC no longer require you to know Morse for pilot training. In fact, it has been off the syllabus for decades. So, why learn Morse Code to begin with?

Starting tomorrow (September 30th 2010), the ATC radio phraseology "taxi into position and hold" will no longer be issued to aircraft at US airports. Instead, tower controllers will instruct pilots to "line up and wait" when cleared onto a runway prior to takeoff. This is part of a series of changes the FAA enacted in an effort to streamline procedures and regulations with other ICAO countries. Just a few weeks ago, the agency issued changes concerning runway taxi clearances. Under the ne...

Building flight time is one of the major challenges you'll face during your pilot's career. In this article, I'll cover some of the top ways to build your flight experience. In particular, there are a few types of flight times that you need to build, depending on your goals: Total flight time Pilot-in-command flight time Multi engine flight time, and Instrument flight time Cross country flight time. It seems to never stop as later in your career you'll need turbine time or 121 PIC ...

The new FAA runway taxi phraseology went into effect on June 30th, 2010. This article highlights the changes. Visit http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Notice/N7110.528.pdf for more information. You'll be issued a specific instruction to either cross or hold short of each runway on your taxi route. ATC will no longer let you cross multiple runways. Instructions to cross each runway would be given one at a time. The phrase "taxi to" will no longer be used for taxiing to departure runwa...