The Pre-Flight Briefing - Pilot Shop Blog

This comprehensive 2025 guide walks you through the entire process of becoming a private pilot in the U.S., from researching reputable flight schools and obtaining your FAA medical certificate to completing ground school, flight training, and passing both written and practical exams. It provides expert tips for success, outlines common mistakes to avoid, and details the latest updates in pilot training, including advancements in simulator technology and new financing opportunities. With additional insights on pilot ratings, an interactive checklist, and curated resources, this guide equips aspiring pilots with the practical knowledge and confidence needed to take to the skies.

Aviation handheld radios are essential for every pilot, providing reliable communication and backup in case of panel radio failure. Whether you're a student pilot looking for an affordable, easy-to-use transceiver or an experienced aviator in need of a high-performance COM/NAV/GPS unit, this comprehensive 2025 guide breaks down the best options on the market. From compact digital kneeboards to robust base stations and panel mounts, we cover key features like battery life, frequency range, and durability to help you make an informed decision.

Our detailed reviews, comparison tables, and expert pro tips ensure that you'll find the perfect aviation radio to suit your unique needs—keeping you connected, safe, and efficient in the cockpit. Dive in to discover why investing in a quality handheld radio is a game-changer for modern pilots.

Discover the ultimate guide to the best pilot kneeboards of 2025—designed to keep your flight notes, charts, and digital tools organized and accessible in the cockpit. Whether you’re a student pilot looking for an affordable, lightweight solution or a seasoned aviator needing a premium digital kneeboard for complex aircraft, our comprehensive review covers everything from high-end leather folios to versatile hybrid designs.

Learn how to choose the perfect kneeboard based on key factors like battery life, device compatibility, and durability, and compare top models side by side. With expert pro tips and detailed product reviews, this guide is your go-to resource for streamlined cockpit organization and efficient flight planning.

Aviation handheld radios provide essential backup communication, pre-flight convenience, and a valuable learning resource for pilots of all levels. Whether you’re a student pilot mastering ATC calls or an experienced aviator seeking redundancy in the cockpit, a dependable handheld radio ensures you stay connected under any circumstances.

In our ultimate guide, we explore the top-rated handheld transceivers on the market, comparing must-have features like battery life, frequency range, and added functionalities such as GPS and Bluetooth. Discover which radio best suits your needs—from rugged budget-friendly models to advanced COM/NAV units—and learn practical tips to get the most out of your new aviation radio.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) formally defined TAA to modernize training requirements, so that pilots would have an alternative to traditional complex aircraft training(which was costly and at time hard to get).

In this article we'll help you understand everything you need to know about a technically advanced airplane.

Have you ever wondered how does a prop plane work? It's hard to believe that an airplane's propeller blades, which are much smaller than the aircraft itself, can generate enough force to move and lift and aircraft into the air. But there are certain fundamental aerodynamic principles at play that make this all possible.

In this guide, we'll explore how propellers work, their design, and the aerodynamic principles that make them so effective.

In 2025, pilot training has evolved with cutting-edge technology, updated regulations, and innovative teaching methods. Whether you’re pursuing a private pilot license or aiming for a commercial pilot rating, our guide covers everything from setting SMART goals and choosing the right flight school to mastering advanced flight simulators. Establishing a consistent training routine and staying current with aviation standards will help you build the skills and confidence needed to excel in the skies.

We also delve into essential topics such as risk management, effective study techniques, and the power of networking within the aviation community. Additionally, discover practical advice on financing your pilot training through scholarships and grants. Our comprehensive guide offers expert tips and industry insights to help you take the next step toward a successful aviation career.

Well, today, flying is one of the safest modes of transportation, but many travelers still wonder whether private jets offer a safer experience versus commercial flights with the airlines.

And yes, keep in mind that both private and commercial aviation stick to strict safety standards, but there are some differences that can influence overall safety.

In this article, we'll break it all down for you and compare statistics, along with examining the factors that contribute to the security of private aviation.

Thousands of aircraft fly over our heads every day, and most people don’t consider that. With so many planes flying daily, have you ever wondered how these aircraft stay safe and which one of them has the best safety rating?

In this article, we’re going to explore the top ten safest commercial aircrafts(and airlines) in the world!

If you're migrating from analog gauges or refining your instrument flying, learning how the HSI improves on traditional systems will make things easier and less stressful for you.

Let’s break down how it works and why it’s a valuable addition to modern cockpits.

In general aviation, speed epitomizes the pinnacle of engineering and performance innovation. Our comprehensive review, "10 Fastest Single-Engine Planes in 2025: Top Speeds, Specs & Expert Reviews," delves into state-of-the-art models from industry leaders like Mooney, Cirrus, Piper, and Cessna, showcasing how breakthroughs in aerodynamics, turbocharged engines, and advanced avionics are redefining single-engine performance. Whether you're a seasoned pilot seeking your next high-speed aircraft or an aviation enthusiast eager to explore the latest trends, this guide provides detailed specs, expert insights, and side-by-side comparisons to help you navigate the evolving skies.

If you examine the wings on almost any aircraft, you’ll first notice the aerodynamic shape that help all aircraft to have lift. But something you might not notice as easily is a design feature called “wash out”.

The purpose of wash out is to help make the aircraft more stable during a stall. But what does it look like and how exactly does it work?

We’ll answer all of those questions and more in this article!

Pilot proficiency, ongoing training, and accident prevention remain top priorities for the FAA in 2025, and the WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Program exemplifies this commitment by using a modernized, scenario-based approach to mitigate the most common accident causal factors. By blending web-based coursework with in-flight instruction, WINGS participants continually refine their aeronautical decision-making skills, maintain a higher standard of competency, and foster a culture of excellence among general aviation pilots. Whether practicing crosswind landing techniques or advanced IFR procedures, the program’s targeted activities help keep pilots current and confident, ultimately reducing the rate of preventable incidents in the national airspace.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is now available, redefining realism with advanced AI, photo-real graphics, and real-time data. Discover how its robust tools and immersive features can take your piloting skills to new heights—all from the comfort of your home cockpit.

Wearing sunglasses definitely looks cool, but as a pilot, it's important for you to protect your eyes. They're extremely valuable and keeping them healthy is important for a successful and long-lasting flight career. 

The type of sunglasses you wear can impact the health of your eyes, so it's vital to choose the right ones. 

Let's take a look at what to keep in mind when searching for your next perfect pair.

You're checking your METARS and TAFs when suddenly you encounter a word you might be unfamiliar with: "SPECI". But knowing what SPECI reports are is very important for pilots. SPECIs are issued whenever attention-worthy changes happen, like a sudden drop in visibility or a sharp shift in wind direction.

Come along, because in this article, we'll explain exactly what a SPECI is and what exactly it means for you as a pilot.