Safety Publications/Articles

Take the online course: GPS for VFR Operations

Learn more in less time with this free, interactive online course. GPS is a great tool for pilots, but there's more to it than just the "Direct-To" button. This course offers a clear explanation of how the Global Positioning System (GPS) works and how you can use it to make your next VFR flight more efficient, enjoyable, and safe.

Topics include: Pros and cons of GPS, how WAAS works, types of GPS receivers, ASF guidance on receiver familiarization, GPS preflight and in-flight operations, why "direct-to" won't always work, how a GPS receiver can be your best friend in an emergency, how to avoid following the moving map straight into an airspace incursion, common GPS mistakes and how to avoid them, and ASF's Top Ten Bonus Tips for using GPS in VFR operations.

Complete this free Air Safety Foundation course and earn safety seminar credit in the FAA WINGS Program.

Take the minicourse: VFR GPS Guide—Garmin 430/530

Take the minicourse!

This self-paced, 15-minute online course is the first in a series of ASF minicourses on various panel-mount GPS units. Unlike traditional training courses, it focuses on the few functions regularly used by a typical pilot in VFR flight.

Note: This product does not qualify for safety seminar credit in the FAA Wings program.

Take the quiz!

Take the Sporty's Safety Quiz: GPS for VFR Operations

Don't get lost in space; take this quiz to learn more about using GPS for VFR operations.

AOPA Pilot's</i> Handheld GPS Buyer's Guide

Read it now!

AOPA Pilot's Handheld GPS Buyer's Guide

Whether you consider GPS (global positioning system) to be an important safety advancement or you view it as a crutch too many pilots have come to rely upon, you have to admit that this form of navigation has made getting from point A to point B easier. Because of GPS's popularity and the advancement of computer technology, several established companies have mature products on the market for handheld GPS units, and these are joined by a handful of new faces. Our guide helps you to understand GPS and the product features out there so that you can better determine what unit suits your style of flying best.