The Pre-Flight Briefing - Pilot Shop Blog

Vortex generators (or VGs) are small aerodynamic devices that enhance the performance of aircraft, wind turbines, and even some ground vehicles.

When they energize the boundary layer and delay flow separation, they help improve the lift, control response and stall characteristics.

Want to know more? Let's explore how vortex generators work.

The mixture control is what can help to maximize the performance of your aircraft. Learning more about carbureted engines can help if you trying to manage your fuel economy, and avoid engine damage.

In this guide let’s explore how mixture controls impact your engine’s performance and what you need to know about fine-tuning the fuel-air ratio for various conditions.

The Pitot-static system powers critical flight instruments like the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and VSI, but in general aviation aircraft, it's more prone to failure due to limited redundancy. Failures caused by ice, debris, or human oversight can lead to misleading readings and dangerous situations. This article explores how to identify and prepare for these scenarios.

Being a pilot is so much more than just steering a plane, it means that you are committed to safety, preparedness, and meeting the strict pilot currency requirements. You want to ensure that you're not just capable, but fully equipped to navigate the skies and provide a danger-free experience for those onboard.

Pull out your logbooks, because it's time to check if we're set to take on the responsibility of carrying passengers, and reignite the passion for flight.

Shall we begin?

When it comes to aviation communication, airband radios are essential tools for ensuring safety and effective coordination between pilots and ground control.

In this Icom A25 review, we'll dive into the features and differences among Icom's handheld airband radio models: the Icom A25C Sport, Icom A25C, and Icom A25N.

This will help potential buyers make informed decisions when choosing the right radio for their needs.

It used to be that if you wanted to earn your commercial pilot certificate (CPL) with single-engine rating or your certified flight instructor certificate (CFI) with single-engine rating, you had to fly a complex plane for your check ride.

Visually stunning and filled with deadly power, thunderstorms are one of the most fascinating and dangerous weather phenomena you are likely to encounter as a pilot. An estimated 40,000 thunderstorms pop up around the globe on a daily basis, so your odds of having to deal with one are reasonably high.

For those who have always dreamt of becoming a pilot, this article is for you. We'll address the most common questions that aspiring pilots have about obtaining their student pilot certificate, which is the first step towards achieving that coveted solo flight.

So you've made the decision to pursue your private pilot license. Maybe you took a discovery flight, or perhaps you have a family member who is already a pilot. Either way, the aviation bug has bitten you and now you're eager to dive into everything aviation has to offer.

And while there are different options available, some people want to fast-track their training so they can focus on more advanced skills for a career as a pilot.

Don't worry, we'll help you!

Choosing the right $1,000+ pilot headset is a high-stakes purchase, but this 2025 buyer's guide simplifies it all. The article demystifies the crucial difference between ANR (Active) and PNR (Passive) noise reduction and explains exactly which plug type (GA dual, LEMO, U-174) is needed for different aircraft.

The views from the cockpit are magnificent, and no matter how well we describe them to our friends and family back on the ground, it is hard to paint the picture. Imagine being able to take them all along for the ride. Now we can do just that when we record our flights using an airplane camera.

The Bose A30 is the gold standard in GA. If you've been waiting to upgrade, this is the moment. From Nov 26–Dec 24, 2025, buy a Bose A30 and get a free $119 Bose speaker plus 10% off a second headset. Get all the details and FAQs inside.

Night flying requires more than basic VFR skills. This guide breaks down FAA night rules, human-factors risks, illusions, lighting systems, and the essential procedures every pilot must follow for safe night operations.

While fog may seem harmless on the ground, its different forms can reduce visibility in very different ways. This guide explains the seven main types of fog that affect pilots and how to recognize when they could complicate your next flight.

As a pilot, keeping an eye on the weather is just part of the job, especially when it comes to changing weather fronts. Cold, warm, stationary, and occluded fronts can each bring their own set of challenges for turbulence, icing, visibility, and flight planning.