The Pre-Flight Briefing - Pilot Shop Blog

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.

We all know the drill. Once the doors close on a commercial airline flight, all passengers are asked to place their portable electronic devices into airplane mode. The flight attendants then come through and extend a personal invitation to any stragglers who are still trying to sneak in that last second call or message.

Even pilots who already own their own aircraft may choose to rent for various reasons - whether it's to test out a new model or for a specific type of flight that their own plane isn't suitable for.

Naturally, the questions of "how do I rent a plane" and "how much does it cost" arise. Pilots looking to rent also want to know where to go and how to get the best deal on a rental.

In this article, we'll discuss all the important factors you need to consider before renting a plane.

Having the right gear is as important as knowing how to fly the airplane. A flight suit is an important piece of equipment that keeps you comfortable, and prepared for anything.

We'll explore what makes flight suits so special, where and how they’re used, and what to consider when picking one out for yourself.

So you want to take to the skies? Whether your dream is to become a commercial pilot or you simply want to soar through the clouds, you first have to decide between an airplane or a helicopter. Choosing one isn't just about what looks cool, there are pros and cons to both!

In this article, we'll delve into the advantages and disadvantages that come with each aircraft – so you can make the right decision for you.

The first time your flight instructor explains how to perform crosswind landings, you might feel absolutely petrified. Steering an airplane safely onto the runway centerline amidst wind gusts is no easy feat—even for experienced pilots.

But don't worry! In this article, we explore the world of crosswind landing techniques.

We know that it can be overwhelming at first to figure out which license is the best beginning or end goal based on your dreams for your future. That's why we've put together our comprehensive guide on pilot certificates and licenses!

Join us as we explore the different certification levels, the flight hours needed, and the nuances of each license. 

There is something that unifies all pilots together—an unwavering fascination with the wonder of flight and the multiple components that make everything possible. Among these components, aircraft wings stand out as a clear sign of the ingenuity of aeronautical engineering.

In this article, we will explore the diverse types of aircraft wings, delving into ten distinct designs that have left their mark on the history of aviation.

Ready fellow aviators? Let's dive in!

When you're approaching an airport for landing, visual aids matter for experiencing a safe touchdown. Among the most useful tools are PAPI lights (Precision Approach Path Indicator lights). PAPI provides instant feedback to pilots on their approach angle.

Let’s get into how PAPI lights work, why they matter, and how they compare to similar systems.

When you think about airline pilots, you probably picture crisp uniforms, calm confidence, and their ever-present luggage rolling behind them.

But have you ever wondered what makes pilot luggage so special?

Let’s get into what pilot bags are designed for and why their features might work perfectly for you, too!

If you've never heard of adverse yaw, it can catch you off guard during a turn when the plane’s nose pulls in the opposite direction, making the aircraft feel like it’s fighting against you.

It's alarming at first. But no sweat, we've got your covered. In this article, we’ll break down exactly how adverse yaw works and how it affects your ability to control your aircraft.

Let's get started!

Who else has struggled with finding the perfect aviation headset? Personally, I've tried out numerous options over the years - from ASA to a Kore headset purchased on Amazon, and even a David Clark headset. But let me tell you, it was a real struggle to find the ideal fit.

That is, until I discovered the Bose A30 aviation headset. After years of searching and testing, I can confidently say that this is the only headset I will ever use. Want to know why? Read on.

Unless you're a commercial pilot for an airline, the term "Pre-Departure Clearance" may be unfamiliar to you. But what exactly is it and how does it affect private pilots? Although it has some similarities to an IFR clearance, there are also significant differences.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about a pre-departure clearance, from what they are to how to request them.

When it comes to flight safety, there's a mantra every pilot—whether they're a 1000+hr seasoned pro or a budding student pilot—swears by: "IMSAFE." This isn't just another term from the FAA regulations manual, it's a foundational principle taught early on in flight training by every certified flight instructor.

In this article, let's take a deep dive into what IMSAFE is all about and why it's the secret sauce to help you fly safely.