Learning to fly is hard, but revolutionary new fly-by-wire technology just might change that. Matt Thurber, an experienced pilot and journalist, describes how Skyryse has modified a Robinson helicopter and why it could be big news for general aviation. Matt is well-placed to evaluate this new aircraft because he recently learned to fly helicopters, and he shares what that was like, including why rotary wing flight requires using all a pilot’s senses. In the Ready to Copy segment, Matt talks about the threat of GPS jamming, why hangar foam fire suppression systems are bad, and what it was like to hunt swordfish from a Super Cub.

LINKS:

• Skyryse: https://www.skyryse.com
• Matt’s article on helicopter flying: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2024-05-01/learning-fly-helicopters-guimbal-cabri-g2
• Sporty’s Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html

Operating a piston engine lean of peak can save fuel and reduce engine temperatures, but the topic is shrouded in mystery and even controversy. Flight instructor and YouTube pilot Martin Pauly breaks it all down in this episode, including what the tradeoffs are, why engine monitors matter, and when to watch CHT. Martin is also an expert on modern autopilots like the Garmin GFC 600, so he shares tips for getting the most out of these impressive avionics. In the Ready to Copy segment, Martin talks about what American pilots take for granted, how to make better aviation videos, and what it was like to fly in a B-29.

LINKS:

• Lean of peak video: https://youtu.be/h3bATVXMHQg
• Martin’s website: http://www.martin.aero/
• Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html
  

Modern avionics like glass cockpits and sophisticated autopilots demand a new approach to pilot training, what airline pilot and author Chris Lutat calls “automation airmanship.” He explains what that means, why the distinction between pilot flying and pilot monitoring matters even for single pilot operations, and why humans have an essential role—especially in the age of AI. Chris’s flying career began in the Coast Guard, so he also shares lessons learned there and how he’s giving back now as a mentor for cadets. In the Ready to Copy segment, Chris talks about the chances of single-pilot airline flights, what CRM really means, and his tips for handling sea sickness.

LINKS:

- Automation Airmanship book: https://www.amazon.com/Automation-Airmanship-Principles-Operating-Aircraft/dp/0071815864

- Chris's article in AIN: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2024-05-01/if-you-believe-hype-we-should-all-be-looking-work

- Sporty's Pilot Training+ membership: https://www.sportys.com/sportys-pilot-training-plus.html