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THE PILOTS JOURNAL
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ALL ARTICLES


Obtaining Local Knowledge
Discover how to obtain local knowledge as a pilot. Enhance your skills and confidence while flying.
4 min read


Camping Under the Wing: A Unique Adventure Awaits
Camp under the wing and connect with nature like never before. Learn essential gear, safety tips, and ideal spots.
4 min read


Avoid These 6 Preflight Mistakes
Flying can be an exciting experience, but safety should always come first. Are you sure you're fully prepared before taking off...
3 min read


Top 14 Pilot Essentials
Pilot essentials may include a flashlight, sunglasses, headset, water, snacks, first aid kit, emergency equipment, proper identification...
7 min read


What is a Squall Line?
Have you ever heard the term "squall line" and wondered what exactly it means? Weather jargon can be confusing, but understanding what a squall line is can help you prepare for severe storms and stay safe during inclement weather. We will explore the definition of a squall line, the conditions that lead to their formation, and the potential hazards they can pose. By learning more about squall lines, you can be better prepared for severe weather events and mitigate any risks t
3 min read


Difference between a CTAF and UNICOM
CTAF and UNICOM frequencies are misunderstood by pilots. In this article we will break each one down an explain the differences. What is...
3 min read


Rarely Noticed VFR Chart Symbols
Have you ever set down and looked at a VFR sectional even a terminal area chart (TAC)? Of course you have. But, have you set down and really looked at a sectional chart? If you look closely at a VFR chart you may notice some symbols that we don’t usually see every day. Keep in mind these symbols may not be shown on your local sectional chart, they may also show up on terminal area charts as well. Let’s take a look at the ones found mostly in the Southwest area of the Unit
3 min read


CHOOSING THE BEST CROSS-COUNTRY VFR CHECKPOINT's
Are you a student pilot or a seasoned pilot, but don't get to fly as often? and you are having a hard time trying to pick good VFR checkpoints on a sectional chart for a cross- country flight, especially for the simulated cross country that the examiner will have you do on either your private or commercial pilot check ride? We have all been there, so we put together a few tips to help you out. What is a VFR checkpoint and a VFR waypoint? VFR checkpoints are geographical point
3 min read


NON-Pilot Passenger Briefing
Let’s set a couple of rules before we go flying. 1. Get in and shut the Hell Up! 2. Sorry we don’t have inflight services. 3. Just kidding! Let’s be serious now, non-pilot passenger briefings are extremely important & you should provide more details, much like the airline safety briefing Flight Attendants give us. However, of course, passenger pilots do not require such a detailed briefing. Here is another useful acronym: Yes! Another acronym, you can follow. It is SAFETY,
2 min read

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