All posts tagged Proficiency

Nine Reasons to Request a VFR Flight Following

By | February 1, 2009 | Flight Training | 3 Comments

One of the most underutilized air traffic control services is the VFR flight following. Many pilots feel intimidated by air traffic control, while others simply don’t want the perceived hassle of a flight following. There are yet others who simply don’t understand what a powerful tool the flight following can be. Read on to see what you’ve been missing. Read more…

Crosswind Considerations

By | January 26, 2009 | Advanced Flying | No comments

Before flying in strong crosswind conditions, it is always a good idea to get some practice in beforehand.

Last Friday, I found myself fighting the first stiff crosswind that I had seen in months. As a result, my trusty Cherokee was blown off the centerline on landing, and I seriously considered making a go-around in those few seconds before touchdown. Don’t let this happen to you.

Instead, hunt for crosswind conditions to practice your technique on those lazy local flights. Consider the winds and find an airport with a good crosswind runway. If your home airport has two runways, it may be good practice to choose the least favorable one on occasion. Read more…

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