Examining the safety of training during the pandemic
Can your flight school remain open during the coronavirus pandemic? The larger question is, should your flight school remain open during the pandemic? West Coast flight school owner Christopher Braun explains the reasons why he closed down his flight school, even as other facilities remain open. READ MORE ›
NEWS
FAA developing examiner system fixes, extends some deadlines
The working group studying the long-term structure of the FAA's designated pilot examiner system plans to meet in June to hear the recommendations three subcommittees are preparing to help make pilot practical testing more efficient and delay-free.
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FAA can't waive insurance requirements
The recent FAA decision to temporarily suspend enforcement of medical certificate lapses during the coronavirus emergency may not change insurance policy requirements. It's possible that flying without a current or valid medical certificate could jeopardize the validity of an airman's certificate, insurance industry officials said.
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Piper joins fight for coronavirus relief
Piper Aircraft prototyped a clear plastic face shield for a hospital on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic and quickly shifted some resources to manufacture personal protective equipment after the new product exceeded expectations. Piper's face shield includes materials usually used to make the seats and interiors for the Piper Pilot 100 and other training aircraft.
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EAA: AirVenture decision point in May
The Experimental Aircraft Association staff is working from home, and advising pilots not to expect any final decision about EAA AirVenture until May. EAA President Jack Pelton said the association is closely following the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as other government entities.
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Student pilot flies medical supplies to Va. rural hospitals
Student pilot T.J. Kim has been keeping up on his flight instruction during the coronavirus pandemic by flying medical supplies to rural hospitals. Kim and his flight instructor have delivered masks, respirators, and other medical equipment to critical access hospitals, averaging one flight a week, according to WSLS.com. Kim, who trains at Leesburg, said it’s a great way to continue flying while helping others.
In the March 31, 2020, survey we asked how many hours your flight school flew in March. One respondent said their airplane flew an average of 88 hours.
MARKETING
Don't forget to communicate
During the coronavirus pandemic, you need to manage your flight school and navigate through uncertain economic conditions. And you must also communicate with your customers and your staff, whether you are open or closed. READ MORE >
QUICK TIP
If you are giving or receiving flight training in an aircraft weighing under 12,500 pounds, whether you are a U.S. citizen or an alien, the Transportation Security Administration's alien flight training/citizenship validation rule affects you. AOPA has compiled easy to understand information on the parts of the rule that are relevant to flight training providers. Find information on applicability, step-by-step guidance to compliance, and answers to frequently asked questions online.
SAFETY
Accident Case Study: Communication breakdown
On February 29, 2012, a Cirrus SR22 plunged to the ground seconds before what would have been a normal landing at Melbourne, Florida. This AOPA Air Safety Institute case study reconnects the links of the accident chain and searches for lessons in the tragedy. Watch the case study here.