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

Many pilots are intimidated by Air Traffic Control, but veteran controller Kevin Plante says “we’re just another set of eyes for you.” He explains the details of ATC in this wide-ranging episode, including how he handles IFR and VFR traffic differently, what the spacing requirements are for wake turbulence, and when it’s OK to speak plain English on the radio. Kevin is also a very experienced GA pilot, so he shares his perspective from the other side of the microphone, including how he plans a flight knowing what he does about routes and weather. In the Ready to Copy segment, Kevin talks about Special VFR, the one technology he wishes he had at the radar scope, and his favorite bourbon.

LINKS:

- FAA Order 7110.65: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/atc_html/

- IFR Mastery: https://www.sportys.com/pilot-workshops-ifr-mastery.html

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

Scheduling a checkride in 2024 might mean waiting three months. What’s going on, and how can applicants prepare for the big day? Longtime examiner Jason Blair shares a host of helpful tips is this episode, including: why DPEs are overwhelmed, what critical skill pilots need to demonstrate, what CFIs can do to support their client, and what technology can be used on the checkride. Jason also spends a lot of time flying cabin class piston twins, so he offers advice for new owners and explains why middle altitude weather can be a challenge. In the Ready to Copy segment, Jason talks about flight training stats, defensive flying tips, and whether you have to be in a cloud to log actual IFR.

- Jason’s blog: https://jasonblair.net/

- Article on the flight training boom: https://airfactsjournal.com/2024/04/what-a-difference-a-decade-makes-the-ga-boom-in-statistics/

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