“Nobody can tell a PIC what to do at a non-towered airport,” is the common refrain from those who treasure their anti-authority stance. Many people believe this, too. Even though it is clearly untrue.
Politics for Pilots
Modifications Galore
In aviation the modification fever hit hard. There are few airframes or powerplants that haven’t been tweaked in some way to fit an owner’s preference. From the largest to the smallest we’ve made changes to suit our interests. It would take a whole book to provide even a glimpse of the full spectrum of alterations we’ve made over the years. A series of books. And we’re not done yet.
It’s Not About The Shoes, Even When It’s About The Shoes
It’s the little things — the things we assume are no big deal — that can get you.
A Deal That’s Bananas
Can a flight school realistically turn a zero-time individual with no aeronautical background into a professional pilot in less than six months?
A Dying Trade That’s A Golden Opportunity
Many believe a fabric-covering shop is an anachronistic symbol of the past. Yet, it is very much a reality of the now and a potentially lucrative business in the future — all based on a skillset few seek out, but thousands upon thousands of aircraft owners desperately need.
The Basics Aren’t Always So Basic
No matter how technologically advanced the world around us might become, the basics still have their place. And like the seaplanes I love so dearly, the Piper J-3 Cub is a simple, honest, straight-forward flying machine. It is timeless.
Looking for Loopholes? Your Engine Doesn’t Care About the Regs
Too often we might be inclined to find the exact term that’s missing. Some of us might interpret that to mean there is no rule that requires us to do the smart thing, the logical thing, the thing any sentient being with the will to survive knows is necessary. But we found a loophole: We don’t have to because the rule doesn’t say so. This is what is known in scientific and technological circles as dumb.
Social Media’s Gift to Aviation
Social media posts and YouTube videos that capture the art and science of aviation are beneficial for pilots, but also intriguing to non-pilots. And the more people who see aviation in a positive light, the better.
Be Prepared For The Bad Thing
Being prepared to handle the bad thing requires forethought. The only way I know how to do it is to sit down in a quiet place, let the imagination wander, and consider every negative possibility that comes to mind. This isn’t dark work. It’s liberating. The scenarios unfold to provide confidence.