The Pre-Flight Briefing - Pilot Shop Blog

Your official source for all things aviation. Get expert pilot tips, in-depth gear reviews, training guides, and stories from our community. Read the briefing today!
Lost Comms on IFR Flight (What to do & Procedures to Follow)

Lost Comms on IFR Flight (What to do & Procedures to Follow)

Picture this, you have your IFR rating and you're on an IFR flight plan down to Florida for some sun and relaxation on the beach. You're not too far from your final destination, and you decide to get in touch with ATC, but you notice that something isn't quite right, you've lost comms. In this article, we’ll cover what to do if communication is lost during an IFR flight plan. We will discuss lost comm procedures and more!

9 min read
IFR
From Cockpit to Closet: 10 Stylish Gifts for Pilots

From Cockpit to Closet: 10 Stylish Gifts for Pilots

In the world of aviation, clothing isn't just about comfort and style; it's a reflection of a pilot's passion and values. Aviators enjoy wearing symbols that display their love for flying, and that's where the right clothing brand comes in.

In this article, we'll explore 10 stylish gift ideas for pilots that not only elevate their wardrobe but also celebrate their profound connection to the skies.

5 min read
Product Information
Bounced Landing: How to Recover (& Avoid Porpoise Landings)

Bounced Landing: How to Recover (& Avoid Porpoise Landings)

It happens to everyone, even the most experienced of pilots - a bounced landing. Although they can be unnerving, it's important to stay calm and know that with the right technique, you can recover from one and avoid them in the future.

Here's what you should know and do to help bounce back from one and land safely during your next flight.

6 min read
Aircraft
How Gliders Work: What Keeps Them In The Air (Complete Guide)

How Gliders Work: What Keeps Them In The Air (Complete Guide)

The realm of aviation usually focuses on powerful engines and roaring propellers, but there is also a quieter, more graceful type of flight, gliding.

Whether you're interested in becoming a glider pilot or simply curious about how it works, this article will answer the question of "How Do Gliders Work?".

7 min read
Aircraft
Bingo Fuel Meaning (Why The Term Isn't Used In Civilian Aviation)

Bingo Fuel Meaning (Why The Term Isn't Used In Civilian Aviation)

We want to welcome you aboard a fascinating journey into the world of aviation lingo! Together, we will be taking a closer look at a term that might sound mysterious to many of you: "Bingo Fuel."

While this phrase might evoke images of a lively game night with friends or family members, it holds a much more critical role in the world of aviation, specifically in military aviation.

In this article, we'll explore the meaning and significance of Bingo Fuel and shed light on why this intriguing term isn't commonly heard in the world of civilian aviation.

6 min read
Aviation History
Mach Tuck Explained: What Pilots Need to Know

Mach Tuck Explained: What Pilots Need to Know

If you aren't familiar with the word "Mach Tuck", don't worry. In this guide, we will explain what Mach Tuck is, why it happens, and how pilots can recognize and mitigate it before it becomes a serious issue.

Let’s explore the key points that, as a pilot, you need to know.

9 min read
Aircraft
Landing on the Edge: The 8 Most Dangerous Airports in the World

Landing on the Edge: The 8 Most Dangerous Airports in the World

Some airports are famous for their breathtaking views, but others are famous for making your heart race, before you even touch down.

These airports challenge even the most experienced pilots, thanks to their short runways, rough weather, or crazy locations.

Get ready, because we’re about to explore eight of the world’s most dangerous airports to land at.

4 min read
Training
High-Performance Endorsement: How To Earn One (Requirements)

High-Performance Endorsement: How To Earn One (Requirements)

The Beechcraft Bonanza, our beloved six-seat, single-engine aircraft, is still being manufactured by Beechcraft today, making it the longest continuously produced aircraft in history. If you aspire to fly or own this remarkable machine though, it's important to note that a high-performance endorsement is required.

In this guide, we will explain what exactly this extra endorsement involves, how to get it, and why it's worth obtaining. Let's go!

5 min read
Training
Vans RV-8 / RV-8A Airplane: Specs Of The Most Popular Kit Plane

Vans RV-8 / RV-8A Airplane: Specs Of The Most Popular Kit Plane

The Van's RV-8 is a two-seater, single-engine, low-wing homebuilt plane that has become quite popular in the aviation community. Developed in 1996, it is admired for its tandem seating and lengthy range of flight.

Come along with us as we investigate the timeless charm and unforgettable legacy of the Van's RV-8/8A!

5 min read
Aircraft
How to Become an Air Traffic Controller [Do You Qualify?]

How to Become an Air Traffic Controller [Do You Qualify?]

Do you have what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced aviation job where your actions and decisions can mean the difference between safety and tragedy for hundreds of people?

9 min read
ATC
Pneumatic De-Ice Boots (Key Features and Benefits)

Pneumatic De-Ice Boots (Key Features and Benefits)

When you hear "De-Icing Boot," you might picture something for your feet, but in aviation, it's referring to an anti-icing system.

In this guide we’ll cover how they work, why they’re useful, and how to maintain them so they keep doing their job. Let’s dive in!

4 min read
Aircraft
1500 Hour FAA Pilot Rule in Aviation (& How Long it Takes to Get)

1500 Hour FAA Pilot Rule in Aviation (& How Long it Takes to Get)

When you finally obtained your commercial pilot certificate it was a moment of great joy and accomplishment. You begin to envision the start of your airline career as a first officer, but that feeling quickly fades as your flight instructor reminds you of the 1500-hour rule for airline pilots. All the hard work and flight training is far from over at this point, and you must push even harder to reach your goal of becoming an airline pilot. We'll help you get there in this article!
9 min read
Career
World's Safest Aircraft (Top 10 In Each Category!)

World's Safest Aircraft (Top 10 In Each Category!)

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!

10 min read
Aircraft
Understanding the 4 Types of Turbine Engines

Understanding the 4 Types of Turbine Engines

Today, gas turbines are the most widely used form of propulsion, but there are different types and variations of this engine.

Modern gas turbines can generate tens of thousands of pounds of thrust or mechanical horsepower, allowing aircraft to travel faster, farther, and better than ever before.

In this article, you'll learn about the four main turbine engine types: turbojet, turboprop, turbofan, and turboshaft.

6 min read
Aircraft
Why VASI Lights Are Essential for Pilots & How They Work

Why VASI Lights Are Essential for Pilots & How They Work

Are you curious about how pilots line up their aircraft perfectly with the runway? Or maybe you're starting your own aviation journey towards becoming a pilot. Either way, learning all about the different runway lighting systems will benefit you greatly.

In this article we'll explore everything there is to know about VASI lights.

Let's start learning more about them!

5 min read
Training
Reinventing Experimental Aircraft with Veloce Planes

Reinventing Experimental Aircraft with Veloce Planes

As a private pilot, it's likely that one of your main motivations was to avoid the long lines at the airport and have the freedom to fly anywhere you desire. But did you know that you can also construct your very own aircraft?

Homebuilt aircraft are becoming more and more popular these days with several different experimental aircraft kits on the market.

I had the opportunity to interview the Owner of Veloce, Dr. Jamie Fettig on how he's revolutionizing the market by creating a twin-engine DIY plane kit!

Intrigued? Read on for more!

6 min read
Aircraft