20h ago
In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Brandon Williams, a former fighter pilot and current airline captain, explore the role of mutual accountability and professional support within the flight instruction community. The conversation reframes accountability as a collaborative practice rooted in trust, respect, and a shared commitment to safety rather than enforcement or criticism. Sarah and Brandon discuss the value of effective debriefing as a cornerstone of continuous improvement, emphasizing how thoughtful reflection and constructive dialogue can enhance both instructional quality and pilot performance. They also address strategies for navigating challenging conversations, highlighting the importance of strong professional relationships in facilitating clear, productive communication. The episode further examines the role of openness and gratitude in receiving and delivering feedback, underscoring how a positive feedback culture supports instructor development and reinforces safety at every level. Throughout the discussion, the focus remains on the broader purpose of feedback in aviation: advancing professionalism, strengthening instructional standards, and promoting safer outcomes for the aviation community. Join NAFI today at https://nafimentor.org . Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Dec 9
Weather, holidays, and real life can bring flight training to a halt—but learning doesn’t have to stop. In this episode of More Right Rudder, Sarah Staudt sits down with instructor and airline pilot Nate Ehlers to share practical ways CFIs can keep students engaged during training disruptions. From chair flying and simulators to scenario-based training and creative ground lessons, this conversation offers real-world strategies to maintain momentum when flying isn’t possible. Ehlers also explains how flight schools can build camaraderie, use downtime to knock out knowledge tests, and even turn bad weather into valuable weather training. If you want your students to stay sharp, motivated, and progressing—even when the airplane isn’t moving—this episode is for you. Learn more about Nate and Backseat Pilot here: https://thebackseatpilot.com/ Thank you to Sporty's and Avemco for sponsoring this episode.
Nov 25
DPE John Boos and NAFI Program Development Manager Sarah Staudt dive into the power of scenario-based training to strengthen student judgment and decision-making. They discuss why rote memory—while valuable—is only the starting point, and how realistic simulations help students apply knowledge in meaningful ways. The discussion includes how AI can support instructors by generating scenario ideas, variations, and trigger events, all while emphasizing the importance of CFI curation to ensure accuracy, realism, and safety. This episode offers practical strategies for building stronger pilots through intentional scenario design, thoughtful evaluation, and smart use of AI as a creative tool—not a replacement for instructor expertise. Join NAFI at https://my.nafimentor.org. Use promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Nov 11
Host Beth Stanton, NAFI’s director of publications and editor, interviews Larry Bothe, retired designated pilot examiner (DPE), flight instructor, and longtime Mentor magazine contributor, for an in-depth look at the world of checkrides and flight training. Bothe expands on his recent Mentor article “Musings from a Retired DPE, Things you might like to know.” He shares his perspective on what examiners look for, tells a few checkride tales, and provides guidance on how instructors can better prepare their students for success. The conversation explores the evolution of DPE guidance and information, opportunities for professional development, and how effective instruction directly impacts aviation safety. Packed with real-world insights from decades in the cockpit, this episode is a must-listen for flight instructors, student pilots, and anyone passionate about aviation education. Join NAFI today at https://my.nafimentor.org . Use promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Oct 28
In this episode, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Jason Blair, a DPE and aviation author, discuss the ongoing DPE shortage in aviation, exploring its causes, implications, and potential solutions. They delve into the data surrounding DPE activity, the importance of effective communication and scheduling, and the challenges faced by flight training providers. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough preparation for checkrides, understanding experience requirements, and the role of instructors in ensuring student readiness. They also touch on innovative training tools and the importance of being well prepared for checkrides, including experience requirements, documentation, and aircraft airworthiness. Remember, you can save $5 on your NAFI membership with promo code PODSAVE5 at https://nafimentor.org Thank you to AOPA and Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.
Oct 14
In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's Program Development Manager, and Anthony Sypula, the Chief Flight Instructor of a large flying club and NAFI Master Instructor, discuss the importance of maintaining professionalism and readiness among flight instructors during industry slowdowns. They explore the current hiring landscape, the impacts of slowdowns on flight instructors, and techniques to maintain professionalism. The conversation also covers the significance of pass rates, turning slowdowns into growth opportunities, gaining leadership experience, and tips for new CFIs seeking employment. The episode emphasizes that professionalism is a long-term investment in one's career and reputation in the aviation community. You can download your own PDF copy of the presentation discussed in this episode here: https://nafimentor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CFI-Professionalism-Readiness-Presentation.pdf Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Sep 30
CORRECTION: This video states that there is a 3,000 weight limit for Light Sport Aircraft. That is incorrect. Under the new MOSAIC rule there is no weight limit for Light Sport Aircraft. In part two of this special episode of More Right Rudder, NAFI's program development manager and podcast host, Sarah Staudt, is joined by Bill Snodgrass for an in-depth review of the upcoming changes to Light Sport aircraft certification. Snodgrass is a sport flight instructor, private pilot, and voting member of ASTM. He, along with other volunteers, represented NAFI's interests during the MOSAIC rule-making process. Snodgrass continues to represent NAFI through his service on several ASTM committees. Become a NAFI member to enjoy our numerous member benefits. Join today at https://nafimentor.og
Sep 30
In this two-part series all about MOSAIC, host Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, is joined by Samantha Bowyer, an associate professor of aeronautics at ERAU. Bowyer is also an active NAFI volunteer who, with others, represented NAFI's interests during the MOSAIC rule making process. This first episode provides an overview of the MOSAIC rule then turns its focus to the changes for sport pilots and flight instructors. Tune in to learn all about new privileges, limitations, and training options available to sport pilots, sport pilot applicants, and their instructors. If you aren't yet a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your membership. Thank you to Avemco, Sporty's, and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Sep 16
In this episode of the More to the Story, a feature series on the More Right Rudder podcast, host and NAFI’s Director of Publications and Editor, Beth Stanton interviews Jason Miller, a seasoned flight instructor and founder of The Finer Points. Miller wrote Making Aviators in the July/August issue of Mentor magazine. They discuss the critical first 25 hours of flight training, the importance of establishing good habits early on, and the role of flight instructors in shaping competent aviators. Miller shares insights on teaching strategies, the significance of visual references, and the use of technology in flight training. The conversation emphasizes the need for quality instruction and resources to support both instructors and students in their aviation journey. NAFI members can access Miller’s article at https://my.nafimentor.org . If you aren't yet a NAFI member, join us today. Use the promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new or renewal NAFI membership at https://nafimentor.org . Thank you to AOPA, ForeFlight, and Avemco for sponsoring this episode.
Sep 2
In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, host Sarah Staudt speaks with Jeffrey Madison, an airline pilot and author, about the significance of NASA reports in flight training. They discuss how these reports can enhance decision-making skills for flight instructors and students, the importance of learning from real-life aviation incidents, and the value of sharing experiences through the NASA reporting system. Madison also shares anecdotes from his book, which aims to provide insights into common mistakes made by pilots and the lessons learned from them. Additionally, they highlight Madison's book YIKES! 100 Smart Pilots and the Dumb Things They Did Yet Lived to Tell About 'Em and the Victor Kilo Fund, which supports flight scholarships for under-resourced students in aviation. New or returning NAFI members can save $5 on a NAFI membership with code PODSAVE5 at https://nafimentor.org Thank you to ForeFlight, Sporty's, and AOPA for sponsoring this episode. Resources: Aviation Safety Reporting System website: https://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/ Aviation Safety Reporting System Advisory Circular: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1039459 YIKES the book and Victor Kilo Fund: https://www.victorkilofund.org/product/BuyYikesTheBook
Aug 19
In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt interviews Don Wykoff from Sporty's Academy about the modernization of Part 141 flight training regulations. They discuss the need for updates to reflect current technologies and training methods, the challenges faced by smaller flight schools, and the importance of quality assurance in pilot training. Wykoff emphasizes the potential for improved training outcomes and the role of technology in shaping the future of aviation education. Not yet a NAFI member? Join us at https://nafimentor.org Thank you to Sporty's, ForeFlight, and Garmin for sponsoring this episode of More Right Rudder.
Aug 5
In this episode of More Right Rudder, we welcome Sean Sherman, aviation technologist owner of Skeeter Enterprises, to demystify two increasingly relevant technologies in general aviation: RADAR and LiDAR altimeters. Whether you're a flight instructor looking to improve your students' understanding of new cockpit tools or a GA pilot exploring your next avionics upgrade, this episode will help you make sense of the options. This episode includes: The fundamental differences between RADAR and LiDAR technologies How each system measures altitude—and how that matters in real-world conditions Factors to consider when choosing the right technology for your aircraft and mission profile Instructional tips for CFIs incorporating these systems into flight training Safety considerations, including limitations, environmental factors, and failure modes If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's, AOPA, and ForeFlight for sponsoring this episode.
Jul 22
In this More to the Story episode of More Right Rudder, we explore the perspective of flight instruction without power—just heat, wind, and a whole lot of planning. Beth Stanton, NAFI's Director of Publications, sits down with Kim and Adam Magee, co-founders of The Balloon Training Academy and recent Mentor magazine contributors, to discuss the unique world of hot air ballooning. They dive into the key differences between powered and non-powered flight, including weather considerations, ground crew coordination, and risk management. The Magees share valuable tips every powered aircraft pilot should know—from how balloonists read the skies to what it really takes to launch, navigate, and land a balloon safely. And what to do if you encounter one at your airport. It’s an eye-opening conversation for any pilot ready to think beyond the engine. Learn more about balloon flying at The Balloon Training Academy: https://www.theballoontrainingacademy.com/ Thank you to our sponsors Sporty's and ForeFlight. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Anybody is welcome to join. You can save $5 on your new or renewal membership with code PODSAVE5.
Jul 8
The sky is changing—and so is the role of the flight instructor. In this episode of More Right Rudder, we’re joined by Chris Penningroth, former Air Force pilot and leader of NAFI’s eVTOL and Powered Lift Special Interest Group. Penningroth brings his unique perspective to a conversation about the emergence of eVTOL and powered-lift aircraft and what they mean for the future of flight training. We explore the growing demand for instructors in this cutting-edge sector, the challenges of developing new training materials and standards, and how AI could play a role in everything from instruction to aircraft operations. Someday, an eVTOL/powered-lift aircraft will arrive at an airport near you. Start getting ready for that day, today. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us at https://nafimentor.org. NAFI members have access to nearly a dozen Special Interest Groups, on a wide variety of instructional specialties. FAA eVTOL and Powered-lift Final Rule: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/11/21/2024-24886/integration-of-powered-lift-pilot-certification-and-operations-miscellaneous-amendments-related-to Thank you to Gleim Aviation and Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.
Jul 1
Join us for a deep dive into SimVenture 2025, PilotEdge’s immersive virtual re-creation of flying into EAA AirVenture! This summer’s event, scheduled for July 11–13, puts you right in the cockpit as you fly the Fisk Arrival complete with landing on the colored dots, flagmen, parking, and departure. Throughout the event you'll receive air traffic instructions from the actual Oshkosh air traffic controllers. There's no better way to prepare whether this is your first time down the tracks or a seasoned veteran. The best part is it is all done from the safety of your home or flight school simulator. Even if you aren't flying to AirVenture this year, participating in SimVenture is a great way to sharpen your situational awareness skills and take on the challenge. This episode delves into the 2025 updates to the technology, "Fly-to-win" contest, and schedule followed by an encore presentation of our SimVenture 2024 episode. Read all about it at the link below and mark your calendars for July 11 - 13, 2025 to participate in SimVenture 2025. https://www.pilotedge.net/pages/simventure Thank you to Kevin from PilotEdge for taking the time to come on More Right Rudder.
Jun 24
In this inspiring episode of More Right Rudder, host Sarah Staudt sits down with Guinness World Record holder, and NAFI member, Rodrigo Silvestre Molina Diaz. This conversation is facilitated with translation assistance from Gus Sanchez of Stratus Financial. Diaz's record is the most flying hours by a flight instructor (male). From his early days in aviation to the milestones that earned him a place in the record books, Rodrigo shares what drives his passion for teaching, how he’s shaped countless pilots’ journeys, and tales of a Cherokee 140 with an eye-popping number of hours on the airframe. Check out Diaz's record on the Guinness World Records website here: https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/747294-most-flying-hours-by-a-flight-instructor-male Thank you to SiriusXM Aviation and Gleim Aviation for sponsoring this episode.
Jun 10
Join NAFI today: https://nafimentor.org 🎉 100,000 Downloads: A Milestone Reunion 🎉 To celebrate reaching 100,000 downloads, current podcast hosts Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Beth Stanton, NAFI's director of publications and editor, are joined by podcast founder John Niehaus. We reflect on the origins of the podcast, how it all began, and the unexpected journey that’s unfolded since. From humble beginnings to storytelling to evolution, this episode has it all. We also talk about what each host loves most about being part of the show, and the moments that have made it all worthwhile. As we mark this major milestone, we also look to the future—sharing ideas, hopes, and what’s next for the podcast and the growing community around it. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or just discovered the show, this episode is a celebration of how far we’ve come—and a thank-you to everyone who’s made it possible. Thank you to Sporty's and Avemco for sponsoring this episode of More Right Rudder.
May 27
In this episode, host and NAFI editor Beth Stanton sits down with renowned flight instructors Barry and Brian Schiff for an engaging conversation about their decades of experience. From memorable student stories to evolving training techniques, the Schiffs share insights, lessons learned, and a few laughs along the way. Plus, Brian Schiff announces his exciting new column, CFI Care, focused on practical advice, humor, and storytelling. Whether you're a student pilot or a seasoned CFI, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and a deep love for aviation education. Join NAFI at https://nafimentor.org Podcast listeners save $5 on their new or renewal membership with code PODSAVE5
May 13
If you aren't already a member, please consider joining NAFI: https://nafimentor.org New and returning members can safe $5 on their NAFI membership with code PODSAVE5 In this episode, we sit down with Wayne Bailey, an experienced Part 107 pilot, entrepreneur, and leader of the NAFI Drone Special Interest Group, to explore how flight instructors can successfully break into the booming drone industry. Bailey shares insights on getting started, making connections, business models, marketing strategies, and lessons learned from launching his own UAS business. Key Takeaways: ✈ How your CFI certificate gives you a competitive edge. 💼 Business models that work for instructors entering the UAS market. 📣 Marketing your services and landing your first clients. 💡 Lessons from Bailey's journey as a drone entrepreneur. Whether you’re looking to expand your flight school, start a side hustle, or pivot fully into the drone world, this episode is filled with actionable advice and expert tips.
Apr 29
This episode is the third and final installment in our series on upset prevention and recovery training (UPRT). Andrea Germanetti, an experienced airline captain and UPRT instructor, walks us through the benefits of instructors getting UPRT training and the lessons they can take back to their customers no matter what aircraft they're flying including resilience, competency, and confidence. The conversation also delves into preparing for upsets in IMC and a robust discussion on the integration of automation and automation management in UPRT. Join NAFI at: https://nafimentor.org Resources: IATA Guidance Material and Best Practices for the Implementation of Upset Prevention and Recovery Training: https://www.iata.org/contentassets/b6eb2adc248c484192101edd1ed36015/gmbp_uprt.pdf FAA Advisory Circular 120-111 - Upset Prevention and Recovery Training: https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_120-111_CHG_1.pdf IACO Airplane Upset Prevention and Recovery Training Aid for Transport Category Airplanes: https://www.icao.int/safety/loci/auprta/index.html FAA Airplane Flying Handbook - Chapter 4 - Maintaining Aircraft Control: Upset Prevention and Recovery Training: https://www.faasafety.gov/files/events/SW/SW03/2020/SW0399989/Maintaining_Aircraft_Control_-_Upset_Prevention_&_Recovery_Training_06_afh_ch4.pdf #flightinstructor #flighttraining #cfi
Apr 15
In the second episode in this three part series, this episode starts us on a journey of understanding the the ground theory portion of upset prevention and recovery training (UPRT). Leading this discussion is Andrea Germanetti, an experienced airline captain and UPRT instructor. This broad discussion includes flight dynamics, threat and error management, the element of surprise, and the importance of spin training. Thank you to Sporty's for sponsoring this episode. Join NAFI at: https://nafimentor.org Resources: IATA Guidance Material and Best Practices for the Implementation of Upset Prevention and Recovery Training: https://www.iata.org/contentassets/b6eb2adc248c484192101edd1ed36015/gmbp_uprt.pdf FAA Advisory Circular 120-111 - Upset Prevention and Recovery Training: https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_120-111_CHG_1.pdf IACO Airplane Upset Prevention and Recovery Training Aid for Transport Category Airplanes: https://www.icao.int/safety/loci/auprta/index.html FAA Airplane Flying Handbook - Chapter 4 - Maintaining Aircraft Control: Upset Prevention and Recovery Training: https://www.faasafety.gov/files/events/SW/SW03/2020/SW0399989/Maintaining_Aircraft_Control_-_Upset_Prevention_&_Recovery_Training_06_afh_ch4.pdf #flightinstructor #flighttraining #cfi
Apr 1
The first in a three part series, this episode starts us on a journey of understanding the concepts, theories, and benefits of Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT). Leading this discussion is Andrea Germanetti, an experienced airline captain and UPRT instructor. In this first episode, we explore what is UPRT, what is an upset, the value of flight instructors seeking UPRT, and how to select a quality UPRT provider. Thank you to Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.
Mar 18
Thank you to Avemco and iCom for sponsoring this episode! In this episode of The Writers Behind the Stories, NAFI Director of Publications and Editor Beth Stanton is joined by Joe Clark. With a lifelong passion for writing, Clark has been a frequent contributor to Mentor magazine. Listen to him tell his story on how he combined his passions of writing, flying, and teaching into a long career. This lively conversation starts with Clark's early career and moves through family struggles before settling into retired life instructing in his Aeronca Champ. Clark is also the owner of Bluewater Press. NAFI members receive 15% off all aviation fiction and non-fiction books from www.bluewaterpress.com . Be sure to visit the NAFI membership platform at my.nafimentor.org and navigate to the member benefits area to access the promotion code.
Mar 4
If you aren't a NAFI member yet, please join us at https://www.nafinet.org. Podcast listers receive a $10 discount on their new or renewal membership. The code is at the end of the episode. In this episode of More Right Rudder we welcome Kim Skipper from Avemco Insurance Agency. Skipper has been with Avemco since 1987 and is highly credentialed in the insurance industry. She's seen a lot of insurance claims. Throughout this conversation she'll tell us stories of the unusual claims and we'll discuss what flight instructors can do to educate pilots on tips and techniques to avoid these types of claims. Hang on until the end for some funny claims involving the animal kingdom. Thank you to AOPA and Avemco for sponsoring this episode!
Feb 18
In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast we are joined by Julean Thorpe. She is the manager of flight training security programs at the TSA. Thorpe and her team joined us at NAFI Summit in January 2025 at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. This episode was recorded live at the event. This conversation starts with a brief history of flight training security rules, and then moves into the current policy. We talk about the new website registration requirement and security coordinator position, changes to security awareness training frequency, and the new procedures for training non-U.S. citizens. NAFI thanks Thorpe and her team for taking the time to join us for this episode and all of their efforts to keep the CFI community informed. Join NAFI: https://www.nafinet.org TSA Flight Training Security Program: https://www.fts.tsa.dhs.gov/home Thank you to AOPA for sponsoring this episode:
Feb 4
Thank you to AOPA for sponsoring this episode. In this episode of More Right Rudder, we are joined by Justin Moore. Moore is an Army fixed and rotorwing pilot who transferred to the Coast Guard to pursue instructional opportunities. He's also a civilian flight instructor. Moore shares with us his five tips to improve your instruction. There is also lively conversation about our different experiences and the benefits of learning from others. If you aren't already a NAFI member, please consider joining us! Learn more at https://www.nafinet.org
Jan 21
Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, ASA and AOPA! If you aren't already a NAFI member, please consider joining us to support the continued production of this content. Podcast listeners receive $10 off their membership using code POD49 at https://www.nafinet.org . In this episode of the Writers Behind the Stories, NAFI Director of Publications and Editor Beth Stanton is joined by Cambrie Foster. Foster is a young, only 19 years old, and enthusiastic flight instructor. She has also built a significant social media following that she uses to help fund her flying. Listen to how Foster initially didn't think aviation was for her and transformed into a social media influencer. She shares the power of mentorship and some of the trials she's faced as a young, female flight instructor. Check her out on Instagram @flying.foster
Jan 7
If you aren't already a member, consider joining NAFI to support this and other great content: https://www.nafinet.org . Podcast listeners get $10 off a new or renewal NAFI membership with code POD49 on the NAFI website. Thank you to AOPA and Avemco for sponsoring this episode. https://www.aopa.org https://www.avemco.com In this episode of More Right Rudder we explore the FAA's new medical policies with senior AME, Dr. Keith Roxo from Wingman Med. You don't want to miss this engaging episode full of information to help you and your customers navigate the changing landscape of medical certification. The discussion starts with a deep dive on the new color vision testing requirement. Next, the conversation moves to the defer/deny policy. We review the policy in detail and spend time reviewing how to find an AME who can help and other options for sourcing medical application information. Useful Links: Podcast episode: The Legal Perspective on Medical Applications w/ Anthony Ison - https://youtu.be/q3gFchzuR5E FAA AME Guide: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide Wingman Med Blog: https://wingmanmed.com/blog/
Dec 24, 2024
Thank you to Avemco and AOPA for sponsoring this episode! Podcast listeners save $10 on your new or renewing NAFI membership with code POD49 at checkout on https://www.nafinet.org. It's been a busy year here at NAFI. Joining this episode of More Right Rudder are Karen Kalishek, our board chair, and Paul Preidecker, NAFI's president. In this fast-paced conversation we cover a lot of ground on what NAFI accomplished in 2024 and what we're looking forward to in 2025. This discussion includes membership growth, staffing changes, events, advocacy, and a review of our new and upcoming content. You also don't want to miss an update on our new website and membership platform coming in 2025.
Dec 10, 2024
Thank you to the sponsor's of today's episode: AOPA and Icom! Join NAFI: https://www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners receive a $10 discount with code POD49 at checkout. In this episode of More Right Rudder we are joined by aviation professor Collin McDonald for an in-depth look at departure briefings. Most of us are doing the minimum, or no briefing at all, without realizing how critical these briefings can be in the event of an emergency. Collin takes us through his journey of developing an effective briefing beginning with his own experiences and data analysis. The discussion continues to include the many elements to consider in a briefing, how to customize briefings, and tools, tips, and techniques for improving your, and your students, departure briefings. Links: FAA Safety Passenger Briefing: https://www.faasafety.gov/files/gslac/library/documents/2015/May/102764/05-18-15%20Passenger%20Safety%20Briefing%20JulAug2014.pdf Richard G. McSpadden Report: https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute/accident-analysis/richard-g-mcspadden-report
Nov 26, 2024
Thank you to the sponsors of this week's episode: Over the past few months the FAA has announced two new final rules, revised several Advisory Circulars, issued a new Advisory Circular, and we're still waiting on official policy to update for DPEs and ASIs. Join NAFI Board Chair Karen Kalishek and NAFI Program Development Manager, Sarah Staudt, your usual host of More Right Rudder, as they explore these rule changes. This conversation covers the removal of CFI expiration dates from CFI signatures, a new definition of the word "passenger", CFI recent experience options, the expansion of CFI privileges in Part 61, and many other associated topics. Check out the links below for links to official sources and NAFI's short explainer YouTube videos. Links: Join NAFI - https://www.nafinet.org Removal of CFI expiration dates final rule explainer video: https://youtu.be/hLDTS9J9bsM New "passenger" definition and CFI privileges explainer video: https://youtu.be/nrRmft_y3Os CFI Signatures and Advisory Circulars explainer video: https://youtu.be/CAllLnYGIFI Removal of CFI expiration dates final rule: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/10/01/2024-22018/removal-of-expiration-date-on-a-flight-instructor-certificate-additional-qualification-requirements "Passenger" definition and CFI privileges final rule: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/10/02/2024-22009/public-aircraft-logging-of-flight-time-training-in-certain-aircraft-holding-special-airworthiness?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov Part 61: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-61?toc=1 Part 141: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-H/part-141?toc=1 Part 142: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-H/part-142?toc=1 FAA Airmen Inquiry: https://amsrvs.registry.faa.gov/airmeninquiry/ AC 61-65J: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1043278 AC 61-91K: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1043280 AC 61-98E: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1043281 AC 61-83K: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1043279 AC 61-145: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1042632
Nov 12, 2024
Join NAFI today! Listeners to More Right Rudder receive $10 off their new and renewal NAFI membership. Use the code POD40 at checkout on https://www.nafinet.org. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode of More Right Rudder. https://www.sportys.com/ https://aopa.org/ In this episode of the Writers Behind the Stories, NAFI Director of Publications and Editor Beth Stanton is joined by Joel Stoller. Stoller is a highly experienced aviator and instructor with nearly 50 years and more than 25,000 hours of experience. He is also a prolific writer sharing his knowledge and stories in a number of publications, including NAFI's Mentor magazine. Listen to his fascinating tale on how he got started in aviation, the people who played a role in his formation, and his passion for continuous education.
Oct 29, 2024
Join NAFI: https://www.nafinet.org Thank you to the sponsors of this episode of More Right Rudder, AOPA and Avemco. In this episode we're joined by Adriana Barragan who is a CFI and advocate of CFIs who want to start or run their own teaching business. She's the co-founder of ORKA, a service that provides CFIs with a learning, scheduling, and business management system for creating and sharing their training services. Our discussion includes a range of topics from communicating our offerings, determining value, setting the training pace, and using visuals to draw in customers. Links: https://www.aopa.org https://www.avemco.com/ https://www.flyorka.com Don't forget! Podcast listeners get $10 off their new or renewal NAFI membership. Use the code POD49 at checkout on https://www.nafinet.org
Oct 15, 2024
Episode 110 of More Right Rudder is sponsored by AOPA. In this episode we'll meet with two members of AOPA's Air Safety Institute. Jodee Patten is the chief flight instructor, eFIRC and Paul Deres is the Vice President, Operations at ASI. This episode is about the eFIRC and how the dollars CFIs spend on the course are directly reinvested into aviation safety. The eFIRC offers CFIs elective module options, access to expert CFIs for questions, and includes all FAA renewal paperwork processing. Be sure to check it out at: https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/cfis/flight-instructor-resources/cfi-renewal Podcast listeners get $10 off their new or renewal NAFI membership. Use code POD49 at checkout on https://www.nafinet.org/.
Oct 1, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using discount code POD49 at checkout on the NAFI website. This episode is sponsored by: Sporty's Learn more about the NAFI member discount at Sporty's on our Member's Discount page. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for joining us for another episode of More Right Rudder. In this episode we are joined by Bret Koebbe, Senior Vice President at Sporty's. Bret oversees Sporty's online course and video production teams. A key component in modern flight training is comprehensive ground knowledge and powerful study tools. This discussion starts with a look back at the evolution of ground schools and airman testing through the years. Then moves on to the characteristics and features CFI's should be looking for in a quality ground school to recommend to their customers. It wraps up with a review of Sporty's CFI portal. Sporty's CFI portal: https://www.sportys.com/cfi
Sep 17, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 Thank you to the generous sponsors of this episode, AOPA and Lightspeed. Check out AOPA's website for all the information on how they support CFIs. Be sure to visit Lightspeed's website to learn all about their exclusive offer for NAFI members. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode we are joined by Pat Brown , a long time NAFI member and DPE in Houston, TX. While I was at AirVenture this year I was asked daily how a CFI can go about reinstating their CFI certificate. It's a topic that's often overlooked in the CFI world that deserves some attention. With the information in this episode, you'll be able to confidently guide any expired CFI's who come your way looking for assistance to reinstate their certificate. Useful links: 14 CFR § 61.199 Reinstatement requirements of an expired flight instructor certificate. AC 61-65H FAA's Designee Management System - Your source for finding DPE's and their authorizations FAA guidance for DPEs (though also very handy for CFIs) on issuing, reinstating, and renewing CFI certificates - FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 5, Chapter 2, Section 11
Sep 3, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Sporty's Learn more about the NAFI member discount at Sporty's on our Member's Discount page. ------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of the Writers Behind the Stories, NAFI Publications Directors Beth Stanton is joined by Samantha Bowyer. Samantha is a highly accomplished aviation educator who is currently working as an associate professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She is the 2024 recipient of the Jack J. Eggspuehler Service Award, NAFI's highest honor. In addition to her contributions to MENTOR magazine, Samantha plays a pivotal role in planning and supporting NAFI's Summit conference. Learn more about Samantha by checking out here bio here: https://faculty.erau.edu/Samantha.Bowyer Learn more about NAFI Summit here: https://nafisummit.org/
Aug 20, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Lightspeed Aviation Learn more about the NAFI Exclusive Benefit combining the Trade Up Program and the CFI/Pro Pilot Program ------------------------------------------------------------------- Jason Depew joins this episode of More Right Rudder for an engaging discussion on gliders. We start the basics of how to obtain your glider ratings. From there you'll learn how you learning how to fly a glider will benefit your customers, rope breaks, and different types of gliders. We wrap up with a fun overview of the social slide of gliding. Check out these great resources Jason shares with our listeners: https://www.ssa.org/ - the SSA is the NAFI/AOPA/EAA of soaring. https://www.ssa.org/where-to-fly-map/ - This is the SSA's directory of glider operations in the US. It's the best way to find a nearby place to fly gliders. https://www.ssa.org/soaring-scholarships/ - The next best resource on the SSA website is their list of scholarships. https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/glider_handbook - The FAA's Glider Flying Handbook is a free PDF that goes nicely on an iPad and contains most of the knowledge a pilot needs to pass their checkride.
Aug 6, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: AOPA Learn more about their advocacy, education, and promotion of general aviation by clicking this link to their website. ------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode, we are joined by Anthony Ison of The Ison Law Firm and the Pilot Lawyer Podcast. Anthony has been involved in aviation from a young age, is a private pilot, and is now an attorney specializing in aviation medical law. This discussion includes a range of topics from best practices for CFIs guiding their customers into the medical application process to understanding the benefits of using quality sources of medical information. As a reminder, this discussion is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal or medical advice from any entity.
Jul 23, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Sporty's Learn more about the NAFI member discount at Sporty's on our Member's Discount page. ------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of Writers Behind the Stories, NAFI Publications Director Beth Stanton is joined by neurologist and aircraft health researcher Dr. Billy Hoffman. He is an affiliated assistant professor of aviation at the University of North Dakota John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Science. Additionally, he is an internationally invited speaker and writer on pilot health behavior and leads the Aerospace Medical Association Mental Health Research Subgroup. All of Dr. Hoffman's view expressed in this podcast are his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of any other organization. -Mental Health & Aviation Medical Clearances Aviation Rulemaking Committee Recommendation Report, April 1, 2024 https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/Mental_Health_ARC_Final_Report_RELEASED.pdf -Revised FAA guidance to AMEs on "uncomplicated anxiety, depression, and related conditions." May 29, 2024 https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Anxiety_Depression_Disposition_Table.pdf
Jul 9, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Lightspeed Aviation Learn more about the NAFI Exclusive Benefit combining the Trade Up Program and the CFI/Pro Pilot Program ------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode we are joined by Tammy Barlette, a U.S. Air Force instructor pilot veteran who translated her experiences into a mental performance course for pilots. Listen as we discuss her mental model, trade a few stories, and learn about her online course. Check out more information about Tammy and her course at https://tammybarlette.com/ .
Jun 28, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Garmin ------------------------------------------------------------------- Welcome to the SimVenture 2024 bonus episode! In this episode, we are joined by Kevin Meyers of PilotEdge to talk about the details of this year's SimVenture. It's a great overview of why and how you can participate, even if you aren't flying into AirVenture. There are also some fun new features to SimVenture this year you won't want to miss out on. Check out all of the details about SimVenture 2024 !
Jun 25, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Avemco Insurance Company Learn more about the NAFI CFI Insurance Plan ------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode, we have the pleasure of introducing Sarah Staudt, the new Program Development Manager at NAFI! Join us as we learn about what led Sarah to join NAFI and her plans for the future. Additionally, we bid farewell to John Niehaus, the previous Program Director, as he passes the torch to Sarah. Don't miss this exciting transition at NAFI!
Jun 11, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Lightspeed Aviation Learn more about the NAFI Exclusive Benefit combining the Trade Up Program and the CFI/Pro Pilot Program ------------------------------------------------------------------- In this edition of "Writers behind the stories," we are thrilled to turn the tables on John Niehaus, NAFI's "retiring" Director of Program Development, and interview him about his remarkable journey with the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI). For years, John has been instrumental in creating captivating content and developing innovative programs for NAFI members. Let's delve into his experiences and insights as he shares stories of his time with NAFI.
May 28, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Lightspeed Aviation Learn more about the NAFI Exclusive Benefit combining the Trade Up Program and the CFI/Pro Pilot Program ------------------------------------------------------------------- David Moorefield, Director of Flight Operations at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University joins us on the heels of his MentorLIVE presentation "Learning from Others' Mistakes" which was all about his philosophy of using accident reports to create scenarios for students. In this podcast, we will further elaborate on his thought process on how he creates his scenarios, how they work, and how he uses them to teach risk management and aeronautical decision making. Professor David Moorefield is the ERAU GAETZ Aerospace Institute’s Director of Flight Operations. He is 28-year veteran of the Air Force and Navy. He served as a maintenance technician on the C-141B and C-5A. As a Naval Aviator he flew the TH-57 Bell Jet Ranger followed by the SH-60B Sea Hawk with missions ranging from Anti-Submarine Warfare to Counter Narcotics Operations. He also flew the T-34C as a Primary Naval Flight Instructor and taught multiple ground school courses. After retiring in 2012, Moorefield flew in Helicopter Emergency Services in the Bell 206 and the EC-135. He later flew for Mesa Airlines Flying CRJ-700/900, and went on to work for Northrop Grumman as a Project Manager for the E-2D. Moorefield holds the ATP and CFI/I in both Rotary wing and Fixed wing aircraft. He has over 5000 flight hours and has an undergraduate degree from Embry Riddle in Professional Aeronautics and a master’s degree from The Naval War College in National Security and Strategic Studies.
May 14, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Sporty's May is Learn to Fly Month at Sporty’s. It’s a four-week celebration of learning to fly designed to inspire and help new pilots achieve their aviation goals. In addition to savings on popular pilot gear, Sporty’s Media Network will celebrate Learn to Fly Month with articles, videos, webinars and more. Visit sportys.com/learntoflymonth for more information ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Earn FAA Wings Credits for Listening: Click Here to take the Wings Quiz Mental health is a critical aspect of our overall well-being, and it is essential for pilots and others in aviation as well. Significant underreporting of mental health conditions is known to be widespread throughout the aviation industry. In this episode, we will review the signs and symptoms of mental illness and explore ways that pilots may self-report any mental health issues they may be experiencing. We will discuss how flight instructors can be alert to the signs and symptoms of mental illness, and we will explain how to remove the stigma that surrounds mental health issues. We will highlight reporting systems that are designed to maintain confidentiality while ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support while taking appropriate measures to ensure flight safety. Dr. Victor Vogel is a board-certified and fellowship-trained medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer prevention and treatment. He obtained his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine, completed his residency at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, and his fellowship in medical oncology at the Johns Hopkins Oncology Center. Dr. Vogel has also served as the National Vice President for Research at the American Cancer Society. A pilot since 1980, Dr. Vogel holds a CFII, AGI, and IGI. He has owned a Beech Sierra and for the past 15 years a Cirrus SR22. He has flown to 40 of the 50 states and serves as a FAASTeam Representative. He is a member of the IFR Magazine Editorial Board. In retirement, Dr. Vogel plans to become a full-time flight instructor and is the founder of Susquehanna STEM to the Skies, an educational foundation that will utilize a full-motion advanced aviation training device to introduce high school youth to aviation as a career opportunity.
Apr 30, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Avemco Insurance Company Learn more about the NAFI CFI Insurance Plan ------------------------------------------------------------------- Discover the vital knowledge every pilot should possess regarding takeoff rejects. Through insightful explanations and practical examples, this video aims to equip both experienced aviators and aspiring pilots with the necessary skills to make informed decisions during critical moments before takeoff. Philip Mandel earned his Private in 1981 followed by his Instrument rating, Commercial cert, CFI, CFI-I, MEI, AGI, and IGI certs and rating. He has owned airplanes ranging from a C-150 to a Piper Apache and is currently the proud owner of his 10th aeroplane, a Thorp T-18 (no, he didn't build it). Phil is an active flight instructor based at Starks Twin Oaks Airpark, 7S3, Hillsboro OR. He was the FAASTeam Rep of the Year for the Portland, OR FSDO in 2020 and 2021.
Apr 16, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Avemco Insurance Company Learn more about the NAFI CFI Insurance Plan ------------------------------------------------------------------- In this enlightening conversation, we talk to Gita Brown, a soloed pilot, classical musician, and yoga instructor, about the unique connections between aviation, music, and the art of yoga. Get ready to explore the correlations and discover valuable tips CFIs can incorporate into their flight training programs. Gita Brown is a writer, musician, pilot, and yoga educator from Massachusetts. head-shot-serious-34.jpg Gita’s writing has been featured in the Boston Globe, Integral Yoga Magazine, The Fix, and many other publications. She is an Integral Yoga Advanced Yoga teacher, and a licensed practitioner in Yoga for the Special Child®. For two decades she has been dedicated to making yoga accessible to people of all ages and abilities. In addition, she is a teaching artist and provides clarinet lessons to clarinetists of all ages. Mrs. Brown has degrees in music performance from the Eastman School of Music and the University of Michigan. In addition, she has a degree from Alverno College in music therapy. Mrs. Brown is also a certified Integral Yoga instructor-500 hours, and a Licensed Practitioner in Yoga for the Special Child®.
Apr 2, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Avemco Insurance Company Learn more about the NAFI CFI Insurance Plan ------------------------------------------------------------------- Now more than ever, the aviation industry needs flight instructors to conduct themselves as aviation educators. As the training pipeline accelerates and quality of instruction suffers in measurable ways, a cultural shift is required in how we view the profession, how we mentor new instructors, and how we conduct ourselves with and around students. "Good enough" isn't really good enough, and leaves little to no margin for safety or performance. Join career aviation educator Jason Archer for a solution-oriented discussion about how we can improve the culture of flight instruction by combating professional apathy, one instructor, and one interaction at a time. Earn FAA Wings Credit for listening: Click Here
Mar 19, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Avemco Insurance Company Learn more about the NAFI CFI Insurance Plan ------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of Writers Behind the Stories, we meet Steve Rutland, prolific writer for NAFI's Mentor Magazine and 11 time NAFI Master Instructor. Podcast host Beth Stanton engages Steve in an in-depth conversation about his fruitful career, pilot training experiences, and the evolution of the aviation industry. From his military to civilian rotor-craft and fixed-wing instruction experience, Steve's fascinating life offers a wealth of knowledge. Listen to his unique trials and tribulations, lessons drawn from half a century in the air, and a constant quest for excellence in flight instruction.
Mar 5, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 This episode is sponsored by: Avemco Insurance Company Learn more about the NAFI CFI Insurance Plan ------------------------------------------------------------------- Earn FAA Wings Credits for Listening: Click Here to take the Wings Quiz Flight instructors love aviation, and are fortunate to work in a field that elicits such passion. However, it's not enough to be content experts. Upper-tier aviation educators are just as passionate about growing and evolving as excellent teachers as they are pilots. Join flight school owner, university adjunct lecturer, and 4-time Master Flight Instructor Aaron Dabney as he highlights some of his top teaching lessons learned from his first decade in this profession. He'll also outline tips for sharing these strategies and tactics with newer instructors to help them be better, earlier.
Feb 20, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 To Purchase Jeff's Book Visit: https://www.amazon.com/Open-Air-Flight-Club-Yourself/dp/B08RLBYJFJ ------------------------------------------------------------------- Today's featured guest, is Jeff Jorgenson, award winning author and founder of Open Air Flight Club shares first-hand accounts of surviving a gyroplane crash. The discussions delve into the mostly-underestimated aspects of emergency flight situations and crash survival. In the chaos following the crash, Jeff shares how he dealt with various authorities, insurance companies, and pressing questions from the media.
Feb 6, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 Visit Airdocs: https://www.airdocs.net/ This episode is sponsored by: Sporty's Embark on an exciting journey with Sporty's this February! Join them in celebrating IFR Month, a thrilling four-week exploration of the challenges and rewards of instrument flying. Go to Sportys.com/IFR to learn more ----------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode we talk to Dr. Gregory Pinnell of Airdocs about the importance of CFIs discussing pilot medicals early on in their students' training. By doing so, students will be better equipped to make informed decisions about their aviation career, understand the potential roadblocks and training delays they may face, and be proactive in any medical concerns that arise. Dr. Gregory Pinnell is president of Airdocs Aeromedical Support Services, a multi-specialty group providing a variety of services to the aviation community. He has 23 years of aviation medicine experience and has been a pilot for 42 years. He is a Family Practice Physician and Senior Aviation Medical Examiner in Michigan. He served as a Chief Flight Surgeon and Commander for the 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron at Grissom Air Reserve Base, Indiana. He also served as Deputy Chief of Bioastronautics for Human Spaceflight Support at Patrick AFB working 23 Space Shuttle missions plus Soyuz support. He serves as an adjunct professor teaching Aviation Physiology and Human Factors at Western Michigan University College of Aviation. He is a board member for Civil Aviation Medical Association (CAMA), Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and AME Consultant to the Federal Air Surgeon.
Jan 23, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships (new and renewing) by using Discount Code: POD49 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Curious to know what it's like to create weekly written content for NAFI publications? In this episode, NAFI Editor Beth Stanton and Chair Emeritus Bob Meder share their personal journeys in battling impostor syndrome while producing compelling content. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the dedication and effort that goes into delivering high-quality written material. Discover invaluable tips and tricks to overcome self-doubt and excel in your work! Robert “Bob” Meder completed his initial flight training in 1995 and earned his CFI in 2006. He went on to add single-engine and multi-engine instrument certificates. Recently he retired from a 40+ year career at a major railroad as the Director of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). While in this position, he worked directly with the FAA on regulatory issues for Drones and critical infrastructure companies. During this time, he continued to instruct. Bob has over 6,000 hours of dual instruction and enjoys training new flight instructors, challenging them to recognize the distinction between skill and critical thinking. He emphasizes that superior risk management, not just skill, is the key to safe flight training. He is a FAASTeam Lead Rep at the St Louis FSDO and was honored as the district and regional flight instructor of the year in 2009 and 2010. After nearly ten years as chair, Bob currently serves as Chair Emeritus on the NAFI board of directors.
Jan 9, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Podcast listeners can get a $10 discount to NAFI memberships by using Discount Code: POD49 Visit Wingman Med: https://wingmanmed.com/ NAFI Member's 20% off Medical Consultations: Click here for details! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode we talk to Dr. Keith Roxo of Wingman Med about how the FAA views pilots purely by the information they submit and how to avoid possible disqualifying pitfalls. Did you miss part 1 of this discussion? Listen Here Don't miss part 3 of this series during Keith's NAFI MentorLIVE Presentation January 17th! Dr. Keith Roxo is a TOPGUN trained adversary pilot turned Aerospace Medicine physician with over 2000 hours in high performance aircraft including the F/A-18, F-16 and F-5. He holds multiple military flight instructor qualifications, an airline transport pilot certificate and CFII. He is board certified in Aerospace and Occupational medicine and is a FAA Senior HIMS AME. Keith provides aviation medical consulting with Wingman Med.
Jan 1, 2024
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Scholarship Information: Apply Now! The NAFI/King Schools scholarship deadline is approaching on the 4th of January. Listen for information on the scholarship, how to apply, and a special thanks to King Schools for such a great program!
Dec 26, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Donate to the NAFI Annual Fund: Click Here In this special podcast, we gather to celebrate the conclusion of an eventful year - 2023 - and reflect on NAFI's incredible milestones. Join us as we express our gratitude towards our dynamic team, who tirelessly worked towards our mission. We also extend our sincere thanks to our amazing members, generous sponsors, dedicated volunteers, and loyal listeners for being the pillars of our success. Together, we've made a difference, and we can't wait to share our gratitude with you!
Dec 19, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org ----------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode NAFI Editor Beth Stanton interviews Fred Stahl, PhD to share his valuable insights from years of experience in the flight training industry, including his views on the importance of becoming an Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI) and what drives him to contribute to NAFI Mentor Magazine. Fred Stahl, Ph.D., began instructing pilots in 1992. He has worked both independently and at flight schools and has taught aviation ground school courses in various setting. From 2016 to 2018 Stahl was chief flight instructor at AOPA where he managed the organization's in house flight training and pilot proficiency programs. He resides in Frederick, Maryland.
Dec 12, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Visit Wingman Med: https://wingmanmed.com/ NAFI Member's 20% off Medical Consultations: Click here for details! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode we talk to Dr. Keith Roxo of Wingman Med about the importance of pilots having a good doctor, and how to utilize them and other resources to properly prepare for their pilot medical to achieve a successful outcome. Don't Miss part two of this discussion January 9th followed by Keith's NAFI MentorLIVE Presentation January 17th! Dr. Keith Roxo is a TOPGUN trained adversary pilot turned Aerospace Medicine physician with over 2000 hours in high performance aircraft including the F/A-18, F-16 and F-5. He holds multiple military flight instructor qualifications, an airline transport pilot certificate and CFII. He is board certified in Aerospace and Occupational medicine and is a FAA Senior HIMS AME. Keith provides aviation medical consulting with Wingman Med.
Nov 28, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org IT'S GIVING TUESDAY! Please consider supporting the NAFI Annual Fund. Click Here! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Discover the gripping account of flight instructor Nathan Ballard's encounter with a stupefied flight student. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges instructors may face during flight training and the invaluable knowledge gained from these intense situations. For more details and tips from Nathan, view his YouTube account of his experience here.
Nov 14, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Want to Earn FAA Wings Credit for listening? Click Here Watch the original MentorLIVE: Click Here ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Cross controlled: what does that really mean? Skidded turns: what really happens and how do we avoid them? When can a slip be a life-saving maneuver? I’ve stalled in a slip: “What now?” Can we turn in a slip? How can I control speed in a slip? What’s different between a forward slip and a side slip? What about slipping with flaps? Join Mark and Brian as they dig into these questions and separate fact from fiction. Mark King is a full-time flight instructor at a well-known Southern California flight school, CP Aviation in Santa Paula. Over 3000 of his 8000 hours of dual given have been devoted to emergency maneuver training (UPRT), tailwheel, and aerobatics. He holds an FAA Gold Seal flight instructor certificate with single, multi, and instrument ratings and Master CFI (Aerobatic) designation. Mark has extensive Alaska flying experience, has provided training for Federal, State, and County agencies in UPRT, and has taught UPRT and aerobatics in Europe. Mark is also a Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP) and an active member of the International Aerobatic Club and participates in competitive aerobatics in a Pitts S2B and flies a Beech Bonanza and a Cessna 140 for pleasure. Brian Schiff is a major airline captain. Schiff’s roots are deeply planted in general aviation where he has flown a wide variety of aircraft (97 types). His total flying time exceeds 20,000 hours. He is on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) and is a 35-year Gold Seal flight instructor and FAA Safety Team Representative.
Oct 31, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Want to Earn FAA Wings Credit for listening? Click Here Join us on a thought-provoking journey that intertwines aviation safety and personal growth. Explore the fascinating connections and uncover the valuable lessons worth embracing. Learn how aviation safety practices can shape our mindset, decision-making, and overall approach towards life. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to gain a fresh perspective through aviation safety! Gregory Feith is a former Senior Air Safety Investigator and “Go-Team” captain with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and has investigated well over 2500 general aviation, business/corporate and air transport (commercial air carrier) aircraft incidents and accidents worldwide during his 40 years as an aircraft accident investigator and aviation safety expert. He has won numerous NTSB and aviation industry awards including the Aviation Week and Space Technology Laurel Award in 1996 for his leadership in the investigation of the ValuJet DC-9 crash, the 2001 ERAU Distinguished Alumni Award for "extraordinary distinction and success in the field of aviation and achievements;" and the SAFE Association, Michael R. Grost Award for “outstanding contribution in the field of accident investigation.”
Oct 17, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: Sirius XM Aviation Weather Now through the end of the year get a $300 rebate and 3 months free of SiriusXM Weather Entertainment! Go to sportys.com/GDL52 to learn more -------------------------------------------------------------------- Learn new teaching techniques to help students better understand aviation weather and safely apply the knowledge in an operational capacity. Dr. Terry Lankford is a pilot, flight instructor, and weather educator. Gary Pokodner is Program Manager for the FAA’s NextGen Weather Technology in the Cockpit (WTIC) Program. In this role, Gary has been working to identify new research efforts related to bringing weather information into the cockpit.
Oct 3, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Guinness World Record holder and CFII Spencer Suderman discusses the importance of slipping stalls, spin phases, slipping to touchdown in crosswinds, turning slips, and the possibility of the “impossible turn”. Spencer Suderman is a CFII, air show pilot, and two-time Guinness World Record breaker for performing the most inverted flat spins. Suderman teaches upset prevention and recovery training and aerobatics in St. Augustine, Florida. His latest project is producing a video series for Sporty’s instructing Cessna pilots how to improve their basic airmanship skills. Suderman’s YouTube channel is filled with educational and entertaining videos: View Spencer's Youtube Page Spencer's Sporty's Youtube Series
Sep 26, 2023
Register for the NAFI Summit: www.NAFIsummit.org Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Ready to Take Your CFI Experience to New Heights? The National Association of Flight Instructors CFI Summit is Here to Make It Happen!" Whether you're an aspiring CFI, a seasoned veteran, or somewhere in between, the CFI Summit is where you should be. Learn all about the topics, themes, and speakers that will shape this year's event, and get inspired to improve your skills, network with peers, and grow in your career. Tune in today!
Sep 19, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org -------------------------------------------------------------------- Join NAFI Editor Beth Stanton in her latest installment of Writers Behind the Stories, as she interviews contributing author Patrick Howell about his aviation background and writing process. Howell is an expert on aviation safety, and his work has appeared in Mentor Magazine among others. Tune in to learn more about his experiences, inspirations, and writing tips. About Patrick Howell: Patrick Howell is a CFI/CFII/MEI, CSIP, and NAFI Associate Master Flight Instructor. He is a former B-52H Stratofortress instructor navigator. Howell teaches with Revv Aviation at KCBF in Council Bluffs, Iowa. When he’s not teaching, he’s remembering how to use his feet again in a 1947 Aeronca Champ. Howell is glad he’s finally found a use for that English degree he got in college.
Sep 5, 2023
The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) has recognized Lt. Col. Herbert W. (Bill) Powley, USAF (Ret.), as the 2023 inductee into the Flight Instructor Hall of Fame. Powley joins an elite group of individuals who have been recognized for their significant contributions to flight instruction. Powley graduated from the Air Force Academy and served more than 23 years as a fighter pilot, flight instructor, and test pilot, including two tours in Vietnam flying 347 missions in the F-4 and A-7. After his retirement from the Air Force in 1991, Powley continued to share his passion for aviation by volunteering his time to train pilots. He founded FLIGHT Foundation (Flight Lesson Instructional Grants Helping Teens) and has personally raised over $1.9 million. He has flown almost 12,000 students on more than 4,000 discovery flights, most of which were free. Powley has been an active member and leader in many aviation organizations, including the Air Force Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Experimental Aircraft Association and NAFI. In 2010 he received the A Scott Crossfield Aerospace Science Teacher of the Year Award from the National Aviation Hall of Fame. The Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame (TAHOF) created a special award to recognize him that same year (Tennessee Aviation Person of the Year). In 2011 he received Tennessee's highest aviation recognition -the Career Contributions to Aviation Award and, in 2013, was inducted into the Tennessee Aviation Hall-of-Fame.
Aug 22, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org NAFI Summit Information: https://nafisummit2023.org/ This episode is sponsored by: PilotSafety.org -------------------------------------------------------------------- Free for any instructor or future ground and flight instructor that wants to learn, AND HELP SHARE YOUR TIPS, along with the top tips from others, to help your learners become much safer pilots. Gary "GPS" Guy in the Pink Shirt Reeves, is a lead rep for the FAA Safety Team and the 2019 FAA National CFI of the Year with two decades and >8,300 hours of real-world experience.
Aug 8, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org NAFI Summit Information: https://nafisummit2023.org/ This episode is sponsored by: Icom Add Before Flight -------------------------------------------------------------------- The training you received to stay far away from thunderstorms is the wrong approach! It will lead you down the primrose path to falling into a deadly trap in the future. Yes, thunderstorms are dangerous, but it doesn’t take a supercell thunderstorm to ruin your day. The goal is to minimize your exposure to deep, moist convection. In this webinar, we will look at the seldom explored dangers of the towering cumulus stage of the thunderstorm life cycle. Founder of EZWxBrief , Dr. Scott Dennstaedt is a nationally-known expert in aviation weather. He has worked as a meteorologist for the last 40 years has a doctorate in Infrastructures and Environmental Systems from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). With a background as a meteorologist, commercial pilot, and experienced CFI with 4,000 logged hours over the last 25 years, he offers a unique approach to teaching general aviation pilots how to minimize their exposure to adverse weather. He is a widely published aviation author that includes his new book, The Skew-T log (p) and Me: A Primer for Pilots and is a contributing editor for FLYING magazine. In his spare time Scott volunteers as EAA's subject matter expert on weather.
Jul 25, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: Sirius XM Aviation Weather Get a 2 month FREE Trial of XM Aviation weather: aopa.org/siriusxm -------------------------------------------------------------------- Improve your customers’ training outcomes with these proven best practices and guidelines. This session focuses on practical, real-world techniques that make your simulator more valuable to both your customers and your business. Josh Harnagel currently serves as Vice President, Marketing for Redbird Flight Simulations , an Austin Texas-based flight training technology company. He oversees a team that is responsible for marketing, communications, and product development. He has held a number of key positions at Redbird in the 10 years he has been with the company and has been instrumental in the explosive growth that Redbird has experienced since its inception.
Jul 12, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: Sporty's NAFI members enjoy 20% off of select Sporty's training products and Sporty's eFIRC is free. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Don't miss this exclusive interview with air show pilot and CFI Spencer Suderman as he talks with NAFI Mentor Magazine Editor Beth Stanton about his aviation career. About Spencer Suderman: Spencer Suderman is not only one of the most exciting air show performers on the planet, he is also a Guinness World Record holder! On March 20, 2016, Spencer flew the Sunbird S-1x, an experimental variant of the Pitts S-1 biplane to an altitude of 24,500′ in the restricted airspace over the Barry M. Goldwater Range in Yuma, Arizona then entered an inverted flat spin. At an altitude of 2,000′ the recovery was initiated and the Sunbird smoothly returned to level flight at 1,200′. A new world record of 98 inverted flat spins crushed the previous Guinness World Record of 81 that Spencer set in 2014. Spencer began flying while in college in the late 1980’s and quickly advanced from private pilot to commercial pilot with an instrument rating. In 2002 he became a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to teach pilots how to be safer though upset recovery training. In 2006 Spencer performed in his first airshow and now holds an FAA unrestricted Statement of Aerobatic Competency (SAC) card allowing him to perform solo and formation aerobatics down to surface level. While working on his instrument rating in 2000, Spencer discovered that aerobatics are amazingly fun and quickly lost interest in merely flying straight and level. After attending numerous aerobatic contests in the Super Decathlon aerobatic trainer rented from a local flight school he moved up to the high performance Pitts S-2B. He’s been performing in air shows since 2006 and the plane was dubbed the “Meteor Pitts” because it shoots across the sky with its unique hot rod style flame paint scheme. Spencer’s air show performance uniquely showcases the capabilities of the Meteor Pitts Biplane with Intense gyroscopic maneuvers like the Double Hammerhead and the Inverted Flat Spin with its signature corkscrew smoke trail as the plane drops towards the ground at over 6000′ feet per minute spinning like a Frisbee! Spencer enjoys entertaining the audience with this amazing airplane and sharing flight with incentive rides. His enthusiasm for flight is infectious and he’s proud of the people that have been motivated to get involved in aviation. Spencer enjoys producing videos about flying that give the viewer a sense of being in the cockpit going along for the ride! Check out Spencer’s videos on Youtube When not flying Spencer works in information technology (IT) and lives in Florida with his wife, children, and two dogs. His educational background includes an MBA from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York. Education is the most important pursuit any human can undertake and Spencer speaks from experience when encouraging young people to pursue learning with passion.
Jul 4, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Episode Sponsor Pilot Edge, visit their website ( www.pilotedge.net ) for more information on SimVenture July 13th through 16th -------------------------------------------------------------------- Recurrent Training is a rerun of a previous episode of More Right Rudder For three years in a row PilotEdge has been proud to present SimVenture which is similar to the flight procedures associated with EAA’s famous EAA® AirVenture® Oshkosh™ ¹ and allows pilots to fly into Oshkosh, with actual Oshkosh air traffic controllers, using a flight simulator. Each year, over 10,000 aircraft flock to Oshkosh, Wisconsin’s Wittman Regional Airport for EAA’s AirVenture event. In order for Oshkosh’s airport to accommodate such an influx of air traffic throughout the week, EAA works closely with the FAA and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association to publish specific VFR arrival and departure procedures which pilots are required to follow. These specific VFR procedures are published in a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) and require pilots to conduct non-standard approaches and maneuvers into and out of the airport, while listening to fast-paced air traffic control and flying closer to other aircraft than most pilots have ever flown before. PilotEdge’s SimVenture event is similar to EAA’s actual AirVenture event thus giving pilots an experience that is comparable to flying into and out of Oshkosh using the real NOTAM procedures.
Jun 27, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: Icom Add Before Flight -------------------------------------------------------------------- Learn the top 5 mistakes that GOOD CFIIs make when teaching IFR. A must-attend class for any current or future instrument instructor that wants their students to learn more, finish faster, and be safer pilots. A special presentation hosted by NAFI with the 2019 FAA National CFI of the Year, Gary “GPS”, Guy in the Pink Shirt, Reeves Gary "GPS" Reeves, has >8,300hours as an ATP and Master Instructor. He is the 2019 FAA National CFI of the Year and trains clients all over the US.
Jun 13, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org In this fascinating video, we hear from Randall Williams about his experiences navigating the ocean as a sailor and the skies as a pilot. Discover the parallels between these two worlds and what it takes to excel in both. For more interesting stories from Randall, see his most recent NAFI NOTAMs blog post here.
May 30, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Visit Advancing Aviation at: https://advancingaviation.com/ Kimberly Dawn is a Canadian Class 1 Flight Instructor with international certifications in Aviation Training Management, Advanced Instruction and Virtual Classroom Instruction. Owner of Advancing Aviation and the Facebook Top Instructors and Students Group.
May 16, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: NAFI Summit 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------- This is a special new format for the MRR Podcast, hosted by NAFI Director of Publications and Editor Beth Stanton. With each release of a new Mentor Magazine (every other month), Beth will pick a regular contributing author to join the podcast and discuss their article, as well as their personal journey as flight instructors and what originally brought them to NAFI as members. About Boots: Boots is my full name. It’s not a nickname. I was born and grew up in Hollywood, California, which usually is enough of an explanation. It’s the only name on my driver’s license, FAA certificates and passport. I obtained my private pilot certificate in about 1968, my instrument, commercial and multiengine about three years later, and my CFI, CFII and multiengine CFI around 20 years ago. I also obtained my A&P certificate with an IA about 25 years ago. Most of my flying was based at the Van Nuys Airport (KVNY), and I owned a Cardinal RG for about 10 years. I’ve flown in many parts of the world, including Central America, Africa and Europe, but never actually flew or wrenched for a living. I was on the Rare Bear racing team when we were winning at Reno. I am still active as a flight instructor and live in Knoxville, Tennessee.
May 9, 2023
Hosted by NAFI Director of Publications and Editor Beth Stanton. "The Writers Behind the Stories" series will feature guests who author the articles in NAFI's Mentor magazine. With each release of a new Mentor magazine (every other month), you will get to know the people behind the pens as Beth interviews authors on the podcast. You will discover the stories behind the stories as writers discuss how they came up with the ideas for their articles and why they decided to finally write them down. You will also learn about their journey as flight instructors and what they've learned along the way. You won't want to miss these informative and entertaining episodes as you get a sneak peek behind the editorial curtain. NEXT WEEK'S EPISODE GUEST: Mr. Boots
May 2, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: Avemco Insurance Company -------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode we welcome Assistant Underwriting Manager at Avemco Insurance Company Luke Barnette to discuss all things insurance, and more specifically flight instructor liability insurance. What is it? Why should you consider having it? And how to keep yourself protected? We also discuss what happens if you have a claim, and how the process works behind the scene to help the pilots navigate a stressful time. For those not familiar, Luke explains some common misconceptions behind aviation insurance, and flight instructor liabilities. Finally, Luke opens up the Avemco claim files to discuss some of the interesting situations they have had reported Luke Barnette is Assistant Underwriting Manager for Avemco Insurance Company . Luke joined Avemco in 2007. He says "what I love about Avemco is the great diversity of people you get to deal with. There are the young folks just starting out in aviation, the people who fly for business, and the older pilots who've been flying for decades. It's a wonderful mix." He devotes his free time to hunting and fishing in the woods and lakes of Maryland.
Apr 18, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: NAFI Summit 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------- Everything we do learning to fly, we do for a reason—but it’s not always the reason you might think. In this program we’ll look at two Federal regulations and two training maneuvers and explore the real reasons they exist and are taught. The goal is to develop insights that will make it easier to present these topics to your students and clients, and to reinforce the relevance of knowing these rules and maneuvers as they apply to everyday flight. The topics we’ll cover include: • VFR flight visibility and cloud clearance requirements • The Lazy 8 Commercial Pilot maneuver • Minimum safe altitudes • The VMC Demonstration for pilots of piston twins Thomas P. Turner is an ATP and Flight Instructor with CFII and MEI ratings. A NAFI Flight Instructor Hall of Fame inductee, Tom has over 4,600 hours with 2,600 dual given, specializing in type-specific transition and recurrent training in high performance singles and light twins. He is the 2010 National FAA Safety Team Representative of the Year and the 2008 FAA Central Region CFI of the Year, and holds a Master’s Degree in Aviation Safety. Tom directs the education and safety arm of a 9,000-member pilots’ organization and publishes the free FLYING LESSONS Weekly blog at www.mastery-flight-training.com. Tom writes, lectures and instructs extensively from his home at THE AIR CAPITAL--Wichita, Kansas.
Apr 4, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: Sporty's NAFI members enjoy 20% off of select Sporty's training products and Sporty's eFIRC is free. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Starting and running a flight school without losing your shirt can be a challenge. Learn directly from a flight school owner, the secret of his success. Everything from the wild potential of the freedom of part 61 training to the formal and highly regulated career track world of part 141 including accepting VA benefits for primary training, will be covered in this talk. Tim Poole is Co-Owner and Chief Everything Officer of GT Aviation, LLC . He holds Commercial ASEL and AMEL pilot certificates with Instrument rating, and is an FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic with Inspection Authorization privileges. He's the guy some call "crazy" for operating a flight school inside the most restrictive airspace in the US -- the Flight Restricted Zone around Washington, DC. Aside from flight school ownership, Tim has spent the last 20+ years as a federal contractor supporting various DoD and federal Intelligence Community customers. When not flying or turning wrenches, he currently serves as President of Cyber Technology Services, Inc.
Mar 21, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This episode is sponsored by: Sirius XM Aviation Weather Get a 2 month FREE Trial of XM Aviation weather: aopa.org/siriusxm -------------------------------------------------------------------- Today's Guest is Founder and CEO of ICARUS Devices Nick Sinopoli ( https://www.icarusdevices.com/ ). We discuss with Nick what the ICARUS view limiting device is and how he developed the idea and working prototype. Listeners can get a 10% discount of ICARUS devices through April 21st using discount code NAFI. The ICARUS Device uses Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) film to electronically alter the pilots visibility, bringing the power of a simulator into your aircraft. The app allows the instructor to surprise their students with degraded visual conditions. Instructors can control the transition rate and track simulated IMC time. The ICARUS Device will be to able integrate hypothetical weather scenarios into your tablet’s flight program. Once airborne, the visor will mimic whatever scenario you made up on the ground, all in real time. Austin native Nick Sinopoli is the Founder, Inventor and Managing Partner of the Icarus Device, which he patented in 2016. After a friend perished in an aviation accident, Nick was determined to make a revolutionary invention that would teach pilots to survive flight into low visibility. His creation is the most advanced flight training tool ever imagined. A dual rated aviator, Nick has had a lifelong love of aviation. He graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering. Nick has logged time in Cessna, Piper and Cirrus aircraft, as well as gliders, Bell 206, EC145, T-6B and UH-60A/L/M variants. In his free time he enjoys flying, running, restoring old cars and spending time with his four nephews.
Mar 7, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org For more information on Aerox Oxygen Systems and to learn more about their products see: www.aerox.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For this episode, we sit down with President and CEO of Aerox Oxygen Systems Scott Ashton to discuss common misconceptions of aviation oxygen, the history of the 12,500 O2 regulation, and why commercially available canned "shots" of oxygen can do more harm than good when used in the cockpit. Just remember "It's Toxic to be Hypoxic" About Aerox: From portable systems to highly engineered systems on Part 25 aircraft, Aerox® has a system for you to deliver high performance at an economical cost. Since 1981 we have been providing the aviation industry with innovative solutions for all of its oxygen needs. While our comprehensive website is representative of many of the products that Aerox offers, if you don’t see exactly what you are looking for, please contact us. Aerox is certified to ISO9001:2015 and AS9100D. We offer a wide array of TSO oxygen masks and PMA oxygen cylinders in both Kevlar and Steel and operate FAA Repair Station YXQR567B We offer a complete line of stock or custom systems, parts, and accessories. We are a provider of OEM systems, serving Diamond, Agusta, Piper, and many others. We can also design any kind of emergency or portable system, for use in the air or on the ground. Contact us to let us know how we can help you. Aerox is family owned and operated by the Ashton Family. CEO Scott Ashton is an aerospace engineer and an accomplished pilot with an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate. He s rated in airplanes, gliders and helicopters. He is also an active flight instructor and FAAST Team rep. Scott was also President of the New England Air Museum and is a board member and volunteer pilot for PALS SkyHope.
Feb 21, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Happy 60th Episode with brand new opening music and an end to Season 1 of the Podcast! To celebrate we welcome Andrew Kisela and Graham Bostrom to the MRR Pod. Graham and Andrew are prime examples of how flight instruction helps build a solid foundation for accelerating your career to other aspects of aviation, Part 121 Airline and Part 135/91 Corporate flying respectively. They share their thoughts on the aviation industry as a whole, how they achieved their goals in the profession, and how their time as flight instructors played and continues to play a pivotal role in their growth and success as aviators.
Jan 31, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Vist San Carlos Flight Center: https://sancarlosflight.com/ Join the movement, officially finish your CFI today: https://sancarlosflight.com/training/cfi-finishing-school Join our talk with Dan Dyer of San Carlos Flight Center to discuss their unique program they call "CFI Finishing School." Described as a "deep dive into aerodynamics until you absolutely can understand it, and more importantly can teach it. A program that creates a real understanding, beyond the rote answers required for the FAA Knowledge Test." SCFC goal is to also show you tips for how flight instruction should unfold in the aircraft to make your students reach their full pilot competency. What first fundamentals are critical to a student’s first few flights? How you can take even basic maneuvers and use them to make your students better at landing? Why the sequencing and grouping of flight education is important. It’s a whole week of things you should have learned but likely weren’t taught in your quick CFI program. Director of Operations at SCFC, Dan Dyer has dedicated much of the last two decades to aviation, first in helicopters and then in airplanes. He has been an instructor for more than 15 years, and is known for his effective safety seminars. Dan originated SCFC’s founding principle and motto: safety, community, and adventure. His enthusiasm for learning has helped to make SCFC the fastest growing flight school in the Bay Area.
Jan 24, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Send your column questions to rightseat@nafinet.org Get to know the aviation experts behind NAFI Mentor Magazine’s brand new column, the Right Seat! Labeled as “Dear Abby” for pilots, consider Jen Watson, Dana McIlwain, and Josh Watson as your lifeline when you’re stumped by a question or need some advice. Learn about how this brand new column came to be, how you can participate by getting your questions answered, and what drives each of these three to pursue excellence in their fields.
Jan 10, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org This is something you either have never or very seldom heard. Several accidents have occurred as a result of helicopter wake turbulence to fixed wing aircraft. This session will the impact of helicopter wake turbulence on fixed wing aircraft both in the VFR environment and the IFR environment. Ned Parks' aviation roots date back to his cousin, Oliver Parks who started the 1st certified aviation school in the US in 1927. He flew UH-1 helicopters in the Army, and has run several full service FBO’s. He holds ATP/CFII and is rated in both fixed and rotor wing. Ned is FAASTeam member with 4,700+ flight hours. He owns Aegis 360 Consulting, a global provider of staff development services, business consulting, and strategy. He also runs WWW.ThePilotsGrind.com a web site and blog dedicated to learning something new in aviation over a cup of coffee.
Jan 3, 2023
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Scholarship Information Link: https://kingschools.com/king-schools-nafi-scholarship-information Special Thanks to King Schools for their continued Support of NAFI and our Members!
Dec 27, 2022
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Everyone thinks they are a safe pilot. Yet pilots continue to crash airplanes, for the same reasons again and again and again. As instructors, we’re not consistent in how we teach pilots to maximize their chances of an accident-free lifetime of flying. A shift in the way we teach safety concepts can make a huge difference in accident rates. Safety isn’t a strategy, it is an outcome. It is the result of developing and maintaining mastery and command of the airplane, the environment and yourself. This presentation goes far beyond telling pilots what not to do to avoid mishaps; it inspires positive motivation and provides specific techniques and ideas you can teach your students to use on every flight, so they can develop mastery and command for a lifetime of flying. Thomas P. Turner is an ATP and Flight Instructor with CFII and MEI ratings. A NAFI Flight Instructor Hall of Fame inductee, Tom has over 4,600 hours with 2,600 dual given, specializing in type-specific transition and recurrent training in high performance singles and light twins. He is the 2010 National FAA Safety Team Representative of the Year and the 2008 FAA Central Region CFI of the Year, and holds a Master’s Degree in Aviation Safety. Tom is Chairman of the Type Club Coalition Transition Training working group. In addition, he directs the education and safety arm of a 9,000-member pilots’ organization and publishes the free FLYING LESSONS Weekly blog at www.mastery-flight-training.com. Tom writes, lectures and instructs extensively from his home at THE AIR CAPITAL--Wichita, Kansas.
Dec 13, 2022
Join the NAFI family here: www.nafinet.org -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Karen Kalishek is a Designated Pilot Examiner, three time NAFI Master Instructor, CFI, CFII, MEI, CFI-G, AGI, IGI, FAA Gold Seal Instructor and FAASTeam Lead Representative. She holds an ATP certificate and has ASES and Glider Commercial privileges. In 2019, Karen was honored to received the National FAASTeam Representative of the Year award. She has held officer positions in and is actively involved with several aviation organizations. She is also a Major in the Civil Air Patrol, serving as a CAP volunteer flight instructor, check pilot, examiner, mission pilot and cadet orientation pilot. She is an independent flight instructor, has a particular fondness for antique aircraft and enjoys spending quality time with her RV-6. Before becoming a full-time flight instructor, she was an executive in the banking industry, taught graduate school, and as president of her own corporation, spent over 20 years providing international consulting services in 37 countries.
Nov 29, 2022
Join the NAFI family here: www.nafinet.org -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Age-related changes in cognitive functions essential for flight include perceptual processing, some aspects of memory, and psychomotor control. Cognitive functions not clearly affected by age involve information processing, problem-solving, decision making, and time-sharing. Flight instructors must be able to assess the possible negative effects of aging and assist the older pilot in maintaining both proficiency and safety. We discuss how this can be done. Dr. Victor Vogel is a board-certified and fellowship-trained medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer prevention and treatment. He obtained his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine, completed his residency at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, and his fellowship in medical oncology at the Johns Hopkins Oncology Center. Dr. Vogel has also served as the National Vice President for Research at the American Cancer Society. He became a private pilot in 1980, progressing to CFI in 2019 and CFII in 2020. Dr. Vogel is also an AGI and IGI. He has owned a Beech Sierra in the past and most recently a Cirrus SR22 for the past 15 years. He has flown to 40 of the 50 states and serves as a FAASTeam Representative for the Harrisburg FSDO. He is a member of the IFR Magazine Editorial Board. Nearing retirement, Dr. Vogel plans to become a full-time flight instructor and is the founder of Susquehanna STEM to the Skies, an educational foundation that will utilize a full-motion advanced aviation training device as a means to introduce high school youth to aviation as a career opportunity.
Nov 15, 2022
Join the NAFI family here: www.nafinet.org More information on this episode's sponsor King Schools: Kingschools.com -------------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode we talk about a document NAFI sends out to future CFI checkride applicants that has some tips and tricks to instructional success and checkride success. NAFI Program Director discusses these tips and adds some input on what he has found helpful for CFI candidates he has trained previously.
Nov 1, 2022
Join the NAFI family here: www.nafinet.org Watch the original interview: TBD More information on working for Western Michigan University as a flight instructor: https://wmich.edu/aviation/jobs/whycfi -------------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode we talk to former NAFI events contractor and collegiate faculty instructor at Western Michigan University. We talk about the differences between collegiate 141 and other types of flight schools and what might make that route the right thing for a perspective pilot. We also chat about the benefits of working for a college as a flight instructor and what led Kyle to a career as a academic instructor in aviation and how to follow in his footsteps if you feel it might be right for you. Kyle Jehnzen holds a faculty specialist position at WMU and instructs in its fleet of Cirrus and Piper aircraft, providing a wide array of flight training from initial training to end of course commercial pilot 141-stage checks. To date, he has over 1,500 hours of dual given in both aircraft and FTDs. Along with flight instruction, Jehnzen teaches two sections of aviation meteorology for WMU’s aviation flight science and aviation management majors, as well as one section of the senior capstone class for aviation management students. He also holds ATP privileges for AMEL, commercial privileges for ASEL, and an FAA gold seal instructor with CFII, MEI, and IGI certificates. After having moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan in 2007 Jehnzen decided he really liked the area and has lived there ever since. He lives with his fiancé, Jaclyn, only a few miles from the NAFI office. He said Living in the area led him to the opportunity to work at the NAFI booth at both Sun-n-Fun in 2014 and Oshkosh in 2015 and allowed him to meet many of the people that make this organization a great advocate for flight instruction.
Oct 18, 2022
Join the NAFI family here: www.nafinet.org Watch the original interview: https://youtu.be/hm1BYs_7-Pw Visit the episode sponsor Flying Eyes' website: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------- High performance and complex aircraft present challenges both unique and rewarding to transitioning pilots. Teaching pilots to fly these aircraft must be done carefully to provide maximum utility while focusing on safety. This presentation covers the components of a thorough transition training program which prepares pilots to fly high performance and complex aircraft safely and effectively. Philip Mandel earned his Private certificate in 1981 followed by an Instrument rating, Commercial pilot, CFI, CFI-I, MEI, and more recently, AGI and IGI certs and ratings. Through the years he has owned airplanes ranging from a C-150 to a Piper Apache. He is currently the proud owner of his 10th flying machine, a Thorp T-18 (no, he did not build it). Phil is a flight instructor based at Starks Twin Oaks Airpark (7S3) near Hillsboro OR. He is the 2020 Portland, OR FSDO FAASTeam Representative of the Year.
Oct 4, 2022
Join the NAFI family here: www.nafinet.org Watch the original interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJnklO32i0g&feature=youtu.be Visit Rod Machado's website and online storefront at: https://rodmachado.com Don't forget to join Rod Machado’s CFI affiliate program: https://rodmachado.com/pages/rod-machados-cfi-bgi-product-affiliate-program -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Today's guest Rod Machado has taught... hundreds to fly from the right seat as a Certified Flight Instructor thousands as a classroom instructor 350,000+ through his over 400 aviation articles 100,000+ through his training materials Several million with his flight lessons on MS Flight Simulator Rod... ... has degrees in Psychology and Aviation Science ... is Airline Transport Pilot rated with all fixed wing-flight powered instructor ratings ...started instructing student pilots full time in 1973 ...taught grounds schools often to classrooms of 200 starting in 1975 ...has taught many hundreds of aviation safety seminars—US, Canada & Europe ...has taught hundreds of Flight Instructor Re-validation Clinics—US, Canada & Europe ...10,000 hours flying were earned the HARD WAY—ONE flight instructor hour at a time ...co-wrote and co-anchored ABC’s Wide World of Flying for five years ...was the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's National Flight Instructor Spokesman for 15 years (AOPA is the largest aviation association) ... asked by Microsoft to design the lessons and be CFI voice for MS Flight Simulator ...was a columnist for AOPA Pilot magazine for 18 years ...was a columnist for Flight Training magazine for 25 years ...personally writes and illustrates all of his own training materials—unlike some who put their name on employee's work ...uses humor like no other to help you remember the lessons ...has Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido black belts and 20 years experience in Gracie Jujitsu (Maybe why Rod never has difficulty collecting his instructor fees.)
Sep 20, 2022
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Watch Full Video Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQkRLVW6cTI Learn More about Joli Lucas Here: https://www.jolielucas.com/index.html ------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTO THE ALLIGATOR'S MOUTH: PSYCHOLOGY OF PERSONAL FLIGHT MINIMUMS This workshop centers on the psychology of personal minimums. Like any healthy examination of relationships, we will focus on: Why we create them, Why we commit them to paper (or not), When we fudge on them, What we learn from them, and What we hope never to again experience. Drawing on interviews with a wide range of folks from newly minted Private Pilots, through pilots of all experience levels, Flight instructors, and Designated Pilot Examiners. Pilots of all genders, and flight experience from low hundreds to tens of thousands of hours. As one DPE pondered, "How far do I put my head in an alligator's mouth before I can get it out?" Let's start an honest discussion on ways that we can keep ourselves safe in the airplane or on the ground. Because in the end, cheating on your minimums is cheating on yourself. About the Presenter: Jolie Lucas makes her home on the Central Coast of California with her mini-Golden, Mooney. She is a Mooney owner, licensed psychotherapist, and instrument-rated Commercial Pilot working on her multi-engine rating. Ms. Lucas is a nationally-known aviation presenter and aviation writer. Jolie is the Vice President of Region 4 for the California Pilots Association.
Sep 6, 2022
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Episode Sponsor: Gleim Aviation ( https://www.gleimaviation.com/ ) Join us for our conversation with Art Hayssen Owner of Hayssen Aviation Mountain Flying Adventures ( https://www.mountainflyingtraining.com/ ) as we discuss tips and advice for learning mountain flying and getting into mountain flying flight instruction. Art shares some of his stories of flying at high altitude airports and what he did to break into the business teaching this type of niche flight instruction.
Aug 23, 2022
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Watch This Presentation on YouTube" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-9Bz_Q8u6A This Episode's Sponsor Flying Eyes: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/ Enter Discount Code NAFI on checkout to safe 10% off your order! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Flight Instructors are the foundation to the flight training community. The quality, proficiency, knowledge, skill and professionalism of our industry for decades to come depend on the quality of our Flight Instructors NOW! Ten Things Every CFI Should Know will present you with some wisdom gained from the experiences of others to make you a better flight instructor. You don't have to be an CFI to appreciate the lessons learned. Andrew Dow is a 6-Time NAFI Master CFI, 5-Time Master Ground Instructor, Designated Pilot Examiner, CFII/MEI. Andrew currently works as an Assistant Professor of Aviation at Quincy University and is an independent Flight Instructor specializing in aircraft insurance checkouts. Brian Schiff is a major airline captain. Schiff’s roots are deeply planted in general aviation where he has flown a wide variety of aircraft (97 types). His total flying time exceeds 20,000 hours. He is on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) and is a 35-year Gold Seal flight instructor and FAA Safety Team Representative.
Aug 9, 2022
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Watch this presentation here! Earn FAA Wings Credits for listening: https://www.faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/CourseLanding.aspx?cID=546 Learn more about the transition from the “Sage on the Stage” teaching model to the “Guide on the Side” method. They will discuss the five steps of effective collaborative critique: Replay, Reconstruct, Reflect, Redirect, and Review. Susan Parson is an active general aviation pilot and Master instructor and serves as Special Assistant, FAA Flight Standards Service, is editor of FAA Safety Briefing magazine, and lead on the ACS project. She holds an ATP certificate, ground and flight instructor certificates with instrument, single engine, and multi-engine land ratings. She instructs for her Leesburg-based C182 flying club and the Civil Air Patrol. Susan authored several online training courses and over 80 GA safety articles. Paul Preidecker is chief flight instructor and examiner for a regional airline, has 7,500 hours, an ATP Certificate and type ratings in the CL-65 and Do-328. He’s a simulator and line check airman, FAA Aircrew Program Designee, and FAA Designated Observer with 6,800+ hours of instruction given in Part 61 and Part 121 operations. He volunteers on the NAFI Professional Development Program committee and in many other capacities with industry and the FAA and serves as a member of the NAFI Board of Directors. An accomplished aviator and teacher, Paul aims to contribute to aviation safety blending accepted best practices between GA and Part 121.
Jul 26, 2022
Join NAFI: www.nafinet.org Check out Beth's "Bad Ass Pilot Babes Podcast" Here Pilot, Author, Podcaster, and NAFI's brand new Director of Publications and Editor Beth Stanton joins the More Right Rudder Family! Beth shares with us her background, the details of how she became NAFI Editor, and how she feels about working for NAFI.
Jul 15, 2022
Andy Watson, Author of "The Pilot's Guide to Air Traffic Control" shares a special tip for flight instructors in the practice area.