The VSL Aviation Podcast

In this episode of Pilot Logbook, we dive into essential and intriguing topics every pilot should consider. We clarify the nuances of PDPIC and explore the proper ways to log PIC and Cross-Country time as a safety pilot. Next, we tackle the psychology of flying under pressure by analyzing two real-world cases of pilots panicking during emergencies. For a unique twist, we discuss the unconventional yet effective technique of launching flares for landing. Wrapping up with a casual general discussion, this episode offers a mix of practical advice, critical lessons, and engaging stories for pilots at every level.

Join professional pilot and DPE Seth Lake as he dives deep into the questions and concerns that pilots, instructors, and aviation enthusiasts bring to the table. Each episode features honest, no-nonsense discussions covering everything from FAA guidance and training best practices to advanced techniques and real-world insights. Whether you’re working on your next certificate, preparing for a checkride, or just seeking to sharpen your aviation knowledge, this show provides the straightforward answers and industry expertise you need to keep growing as a safe and confident pilot. Email me your questions at: sethlake@vsl.aero VSL Discord Server: https://discord.gg/46zt3N8ckx   CFI Study Group Discord Server: https://discord.gg/7XtMYVxW  

Welcome to the revamped weekly edition of the podcast! In this episode, I tackle listener questions about MEI (Multi-Engine Instructor) privileges and share tips for preparing for a multi-engine add-on rating. I also dive into a couple of engaging discussions from r/Flying Reddit threads that I’ve recently commented on. This new weekly format adds regular, bite-sized content between episodes of the longer-form ACS series, which is still in progress and not going away. These weekly shows are designed to keep the conversation going while I continue working on the more in-depth episodes you’ve come to enjoy. I hope you like this new approach—your questions and feedback are what keep the show fresh and valuable, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts! Tune in, and let’s explore these topics together.

In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake dives into Cross Country Flight Planning, a critical task in the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS). Seth breaks down the 2024 ACS updates, including the use of electronic flight bags (EFBs) like ForeFlight, and how to navigate the challenges of VFR flight planning. He also shares insights on risk management, altitude selection, fuel planning, and how examiners evaluate your skills during a check ride. Whether you're preparing for your check ride or looking to sharpen your flight planning skills, this episode has you covered.

Welcome back to VSL Aviation's series, where we delve into the intricacies of the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS)! I'm Seth Lake, your guide on this journey to mastering aviation standards. In Part 3 of our series, we'll dive in-depth into Task C - Weather Information. This episode covers the essential weather knowledge every pilot needs to ensure safe and effective flight operations. We'll also discuss the recent updates to the ACS document, effective May 31, 2024, and highlight the formatting changes in the latest version of the ACE Guide. This episode is a must-watch for student pilots, instructors, and aviation enthusiasts eager to enhance their understanding of weather information and stay updated with the latest standards. Join us as we explore this critical aspect of aviation, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to excel in your aviation journey. Don't miss out on this valuable addition to our comprehensive ACS guide! Chapters: 01:06-ACS Changes Overview 06:03-New ACS Format 06:48-New ACE Guide Format 09:29-Knowledge Topic 1 - Weather Sources 10:20-Knowledge Topic 2 - Weather Products 16:30-Knowlege Topic 3 - Meteorology 31:56-Knowledge Topic 4 - MFD WX 33:40-Risk Management Topic 1 - Go/No-GO 37:52 -Risk Management Topic 2 - Using WX equip 41:30-Weather Skills 1-3

Welcome back to VSL Aviation's series where we delve into the intricacies of the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS)! I'm Seth Lake, your guide on this journey to mastering aviation standards. In Part 2 of our series, we'll continue unraveling the complexities of Airworthiness Requirements. Building on the foundation laid in our first episode, we'll dive deeper into the critical aspects and regulations every pilot must know. This episode is essential for student pilots, instructors, and aviation enthusiasts eager to enhance their knowledge and ensure the highest safety and performance standards. Join us as we navigate through these pivotal regulations, equipping you with the understanding and confidence needed to excel in the aviation world. Don't miss out on this insightful continuation of our comprehensive guide through the ACS!

Welcome to the first episode of our new series at VSL Aviation! I'm Seth Lake, an experienced FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, and in this video, I'm going to break down the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS) like never before. This series aims to provide detailed insights and practical tips for aspiring pilots. Whether you're a student pilot, an instructor, or just an aviation enthusiast, this series will deepen your understanding of the ACS, helping you become a more knowledgeable and confident pilot. Stay tuned for more episodes where we'll dive even deeper into the world of aviation standards and training! Chapters: 00:50 - ACS Guide 01:40 - Part 61 Qualifications 03:35 - ACS Element Decoding 06:09 - Use of Written Test Report 07:40 - Checkride Script 10:22 - Introduction to Task A 12:32 - Scenario-Based Questioning 22:40 - BasicMed 25:25 - Private Pilot License (PPL) Limitations 28:13 - Discussion on Illegal Cost Sharing 46:40 - Closing Statements

Join Seth Lake, a designated pilot examiner, in this comprehensive Q&A session where we delve into key topics every aspiring pilot needs to know for their check ride and beyond. Packed with insights from my extensive experience, this video is an invaluable resource for pilots at all levels. Chapters: [01:35] - Inop Equipment for Checkride [02:55] - ACE Inop Equipment Guide [04:47] - Flight Manual Supplements [08:19] - ARROW vs. SPARROW [09:42] - AGI and IGI before CFI [11:36] - CFII Weak Areas [14:04] - Top 3 Hardest Checkrides [15:28] - Instrument Rating – Now What? [18:58] - CPL Holding Out [24:46] - Best time to get SES and Tailwheel [26:16] - Flaps at the FAF [30:33] - Instrument weak areas [36:05] - Instrument Checkride Endorsements [40:43] - Private Pilot Diversion [45:03] - Flight Manual Supps for LSA [46:09] - Commercial Pilot Requirements [47:40] - ACS vs PTS [51:11] - Sheppard Air Test Prep [53:23] - Private Carriage Vs. Common [1:00:00] - Pitfalls of DPE Gouge Whether you're preparing for your next check ride, looking to deepen your understanding of aviation regulations, or aiming to improve your flying skills, this video has something for everyone. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content like this! - Follow me on: - Discord: https://discord.gg/vkanc5ax - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vslaviation/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VSLAviation - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vslaviation?lang=en - Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/VSL_Aviation/ Your feedback is invaluable – drop your questions and comments below, and let's keep the conversation going!

In this highly informative video, we equip you with the essential know-how to confidently navigate an FAA ramp inspection. Whether you're a private pilot, commercial aviator, or part of an aviation team, understanding the FAA's ramp inspection checklist is crucial for a successful evaluation. Using the FAA Order 8900.1 as our compass, we take you through each stage of the inspection process, outlining precisely what FAA inspectors will be looking for. With this comprehensive guide at your fingertips, you can ensure your aircraft and documentation are in impeccable order, leaving no room for surprises during the inspection. Watch now and arm yourself with the knowledge to ace your next FAA ramp inspection! Don't forget to hit that like button and subscribe for more valuable aviation insights. Safe flying!

Join Seth Lake and Josh Campbell from  @FreePilotTraining  in a discussion on FAA Airworthiness Directives. This topic is a stumbling block for many new pilots, and our discussion will help you understand ADs better. Check out  @FreePilotTraining  for a ton of great free content! Check out the podcast website to find the interactive ACS for both commercial and instrument. https://vsl.aero/podcast Check my new Patreon page, where I will be adding a lot of exclusive content. https://www.patreon.com/sethlake