It’s the day that every pilot awaits; the transition from student pilot to certificated private pilot. For most, the FAA Practical Test or “checkride” is viewed as a terrifying but necessary right of passage. A Designated Pilot Examiners (DPE) must test each student thoroughly on their aviation knowledge, control and mastery of the aircraft, and
Four months after receiving his pilot’s license, SCFC member Bob Turcott embarked on a multi-week, around-the-country solo flight. In this presentation, Bob will cover topics such as reasons to consider making such a trip; suggestions for low-hour pilots to develop the necessary proficiency; useful gear; cool airports; his worst decisions; helpful attitudes; and a few
SCFC member Jerry Birn was living vicariously through the cross-country adventures of his friend, SCFC member Bob Turcott, as Bob winged his way across America in BYF41 (N1483L). Then out of nowhere, lightning struck (figuratively), Bob tore his achilles and the plane was stuck on Cape Cod. Recognizing a unique opportunity, Jerry flew the plane back to San Carlos
CFI Herb Patten ground school student into the SCFC maintenance hangar for a closer look at airplane engines and systems, including details of the fuel, ignition, induction and more in this in-person workshop. This is your chance to look "under the cowling" in a way that goes deeper than your common preflight inspection. As a
Join SCFC Women in Aviation for our monthly meeting on January 31st from 11:00-12:00! We will be doing vision boards for the new year, discussing volunteer opportunities, and enjoying bagels and fresh fruit. Come join us to kick off the new year with community and connection! Anyone and everyone is welcome.
This month, join us on Saturday, January 31st, for dinner at Tarpy's Roadhouse in Monterey! Whether you take the coastal route or over Highway 17, the flight down is an easy one from the Bay Area. Monterey Airport doesn’t have a transient parking ramp, but we will park at the Del Monte Aviation FBO. After
Every flight presents its own unique challenges and risks. As pilots, our responsibility is to identify these threats and find ways to mitigate them. Threat and Error Management (TEM) is an overarching safety management approach that assumes pilots will naturally make mistakes and encounter risky situations during flight operations. This model, along with many others,
On Friday, February 6th, make the quick hop over the Santa Cruz Mountains to Half Moon Bay for lunch, where FOG enjoy the much-acclaimed restaurant, Pilot Light right on the field. The flight is quick from points around the Bay Area but is much faster and less stressful than navigating the traffic on Highway 92.
Pilots are human, and humans make mistakes. It’s a part of life. But pilots sharing stories of the things they messed up in the past can be powerful way to help others think about the error chain and maybe prevent themselves from making that same mistake. In this way, hangar talk can save lives. San
Experience the ultimate adventure with the FlyOutGroups Tour of the Southwest. This 4-day trip will feature flying to the best of the Southwest United States posing unique challenges with stunning awards. Start with a delicious lunch at Catalina Island (AVX), followed by a breathtaking approach into San Diego Lindbergh Field (SAN), a large yet accommodating
