Wet vs Dry Leases, Second Opinions, and Manifold Pressure Myths

This week on the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives into three major topics that affect pilots across the training and professional spectrum. First, he breaks down the difference between wet and dry leases — why it's critical to understand operational control, how to avoid illegal charter situations, and what lease paperwork needs to be in place. Then he addresses a crucial question: should you get a second opinion before a checkride? (Spoiler: Yes.) Finally, he tackles a deep-dive into manifold pressure gauge requirements, clearing up widespread confusion using ECFR archives and FAA history. Other topics include: Tips for MEI and Commercial Multi Add-On Checkrides Minimum takeoff fuel logic for commercial ops Partial panel IFR approaches: realistic failures Required checkride stall scenarios and types of hypoxia Thoughts on aviation YouTube channels Scenario-based checkride prep advice Join us live on YouTube or Discord next time, and submit your own questions at https://vsl.aero! Discord: https://discord.gg/YnkV4pxm Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & John's Co-Host Introduction 03:10 – Wet Lease vs Dry Lease Explained 12:48 – How Lease Agreements Can Protect You from Certificate Action 14:36 – Truth-in-Leasing Questions Pilots Should Ask 17:32 – Why Every Student Pilot Needs a Second Opinion Before a Checkride 22:12 – Virtual Mock Checkrides & New Coaching Services 23:26 – Manifold Pressure: Who Needs the Gauge and Why 28:02 – How Turbochargers & Superchargers Actually Work 41:46 – Using Historical ECFR to Find Manifold Requirements 50:20 – MEI and Multi Add-On Checkride Tips 01:01:32 – Logging Approaches: VMC vs IMC Clarified 01:03:46 – Commercial Checkride Scenario: Minimum Takeoff Fuel 01:10:46 – Partial Panel: What's Realistic Today? 01:16:20 – Stalls in Turns vs Straight Flight – What the ACS Requires 01:18:47 – Hypoxia Types: What You Actually Need to Know 01:21:00 – Closing Thoughts & Post-Show Discord Hangout Links: Truth in Leasing – AC 91-37B https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_91-37B.pdf Flying Light Twins Safely https://www.faasafety.gov/files/notices/2015/Nov/FAA_P-8740-66.pdf Airplane Flying Handbook – Chapter 13 (Multi-engine operations) https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/14_afh_ch13.pdf FAA Info for Operators 150-12 (IFR Approach Logging) https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/InFO15012.pdf