San Carlos Flight Center

VFR Chart Challenge
2024-01-31 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
How is your VFR chart IQ? Do you have average intelligence? Above average? Moderately gifted? Do you secretly read the Aeronautical Chart User Guide? Or are you a novice and want to broaden your VFR chart IQ?
Join us to put your knowledge to the test. We have a series of VFR charting oddities that will both broaden your knowledge as well as help you assess your overall VFR chart knowledge.
Will you walk away with 1st prize or be the 2nd runner up? Whatever your knowledge level you won’t want to miss this fun, educational and challenging seminar where you put your knowledge to the test.

Herb Patten is the Chief Pilot at the San Carlos Flight Center, a CFI and an FAA certificated advanced and instrument ground instructor who teaches private pilot ground school at San Carlos Flight Center. He is a commercial pilot with an instrument rating, has flown over 2,500 hours in more than 130 different California airports. He is the current chairman of the Upwind Foundation, famous for its Upwind Summer Scholarship Program. In 2023, Herb was named a Distinguished Flight Instructor by AOPA.
Dan Dyer is the founder of the San Carlos Flight Center, and has built the motto of Safety, Community, and Adventure for over 8 years. Dan was an instructor for 16 years, accumulated over 4,000 flight hours, and is the Bay Area’s local expert in crosswind landing instruction. He is known for finding simple and innovative ways to explain complex topics and regularly speaks on advanced ground school topics. Find out more about Dan at www.sancarlosflight.com or contact him at dan@sancarlosflight.com

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

The Two Systems I Had to Master to Become a Corporate Pilot: Aircraft Pressurization and Retractable Landing Gear
2024-01-27 12:00 - 13:30
Airplanes come in all shapes and sizes. As you advance in your abilities, you step up to faster, bigger airplanes. Along with increased payload and speed comes new systems. Two systems that are new on this journey are Pressurization and Retractable Landing Gear Systems.
Commercial pilot Brandan Dadoun returns to share how his knowledge of pressurization and landing gear systems was enhanced with experience in flying airplanes that actually depend on these critical systems. Brandan received his commercial rating in 2022 but since that time he has flown several advanced airplanes. He is going to shed light on pressurization and landing gear systems and take it from book knowledge to practical experience.
While not every pilot may operate this equipment, it can still be fascinating to understand its inner-workings and applicability on your next commercial flight. Or for those pursuing a commercial rating, the ACS requires knowledge of these advanced systems. Either way, join us to have an understanding of these fascinating aircraft systems.

Brandan Dadoun is commercial multi-engine rated and a corporate pilot flying the King Air 350. Brandan completed all of his flight training at SCFC and has been involved in the community since 2015. He was formerly the Events Manager at SCFC where he served in his role for many years. Outside of flying and presenting, he enjoys playing the saxophone and living an active lifestyle.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

Full Moon Flyers: Watsonville
2024-01-25 19:00 - 22:00
Join us for our monthly Full Moon Flyers dinner! This month, we will be doing a quick flight down to Watsonville to dine in Ellas at the Airport. The restaurant is conveniently located on the airport, simply park in the transient ramp right off taxiway D, and walk to the terminal building.
Looking to do a night cross country? Make a quick landing at Salinas (SNS), Monterey (MRY), or Hollister (CVH) on your way into Watsonville. These airports are just a few minutes away and makes it a great opportunity to log some night currency landings!
Make sure you RSVP so we get an accurate headcount! See you at 7PM on January 25!

Engine Failure After Takeoff
2024-01-24 19:00 - 20:30
Takeoff is a critical phase of flight that pilots should treat with a heightened awareness. The airplane is low to the ground, slow, and at a higher angle of attack. An engine failure in this phase of flight presents a serious challenge. What should a pilot do? When should a pilot consider turning back to the airport? When does the impossible turn become the possible turn?
San Carlos Flight Center invites Captain Brian Schiff to review the essential elements of the possible turn back to the airport. Brian will reveal the critical factors to consider when turning back to the airport is the better option and when it is not. He will also share what preparations pilots must make to avoid an impulsive decision to attempt to turn back to the airport, and when it is the more hazardous choice.
You will want to join us for this seminar if you have heard about the “possible” turn and want to learn the details of when to attempt this and when not to attempt this, along with the techniques to use when turning back to the field following an engine failure.

Captain Brian Schiff is an ATP and CFII. Schiff is a highly-experienced pilot type-rated on a large variety of aircraft. He has a strong background in general aviation, holds several flight instructor ratings, and has been an FAA-designated Examiner. Schiff is an accomplished educator, known for simplifying complex procedures and concepts for his students. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Masters of Science Degree in Aviation Safety from the University of Central Missouri. Schiff is a regular presenter, an FAASTeam Representative, NAFI Board Member, has been published in many aviation publications.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

FOG Lunch: Sacramento Executive
2024-01-20 12:00 - 14:00
This month join us on our FOG lunch adventure as we head up to Sacramento Executive (SAC)! We will be dining at Aviator’s Restaurant, located just inside the terminal. Aviator’s serves a wide variety of breakfast and lunch options offered at reasonable prices. They are a great aviation themed restaurant with seating that offers great views of the ramp!
At 70 NM away, SAC is a chance for student pilots or commercial pilot applicants to gain some valuable cross country time. As always, even student pilots can join us with your CFI! If you are an instrument student, SAC is great to get some practice in with plenty of nearby airports offering a variety of different approaches.
Make sure you RSVP so we can keep an accurate headcount! See you at 12 noon on January 20!

In-Person Workshop: Under The Cowling (no livestream)
2024-01-20 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-01-20 10:30 - 12:00
This seminar will be held in-person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. This is an in-person only seminar, there will be no live stream or video recording.
Interested in some of our other presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

As a pilot, you learn about airplane engines and systems from the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. That information is supplemented by details from your specific Airplane Flight Manual. So what more do you need to know? You crank the starter and everything works. But how does it work and how do the various systems such as the fuel, induction, and ignition work together to keep the engine flying? Ever wonder how the fuel flows from the tank to the cylinders? Or what happens when the air intake filter becomes blocked? Or what are the purposes of those tubes coming out of the bottom of the engine?
Are you ready to take your airplane systems knowledge to the next step? San Carlos Flight Center invites A&P Charles Rudolf for a unique perspective on airplane engines and systems. In this in-person seminar, you will learn the details of the fuel, ignition, induction and more.
This in-person seminar will be conducted using a Cessna 172 with the engine cowling removed so you can get an up-close appreciation of the components of a typical, small single-engine airplane. Space is limited so don’t delay in signing up for this unique experience. You will walk away with a new depth of knowledge that most pilots don’t have.

Charles Rudolf is an A&P Mechanic at SCFC. Charles has been an active A&P for over 2 years and enjoys working on general aviation aircraft. He enjoys teaching others and is looking forward to speaking with the greater pilot community.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

IMC Club SQL
2024-01-17 19:00 - 20:30
NOTE: Since this event will involve active discussion, it will be held over Zoom and not broadcast via Livestream. Please RSVP by 12pm on Jan 17th to receive Zoom meeting info via email before the event starts. A recording will be made available to San Carlos Flight Center Web Members after the seminar has concluded.

Most pilots like analyzing scenarios and trying to answer the age old question of what would I do in that situation? Imagine if you could also hear the opinions of other pilots or get feedback on your approach to a situation. Well, that is exactly what the IMC Club provides.
Join the local EAA Chapter 20 IMC Club meeting to review a scenario and share in the discussions with fellow pilots. You will get an opportunity to hear other pilots’ analysis as well as the group critique of various solutions.
Whether you are a newly minted instrument rated pilot and anxious to learn from others or you are a seasoned pilot with experience to share, the IMC Club is a welcome home for both.
Learn more about IMC Club at http://www.eaa20.org/about.html

Brian Eliot is San Carlos Flight Center’s Assistant Chief Pilot and resident expert for IFR training and Garmin G1000 avionics. He has been flying since 1995 and received all his training in the Bay Area. Brian previously worked as a broadcast engineer, a software developer, and taught computer science at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He regularly presents at San Carlos Flight Center safety seminars and has a reputation for making complex concepts easy to learn and understand.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

GSR: Aeromedical Factors
2024-01-13 12:00 - 13:30
Human body dynamics are complicated on the ground, and really interesting when you take them up thousands of feet in elevation. The reduction in ambient air pressure can cause various impairments that directly affect safety of flight.
San Carlos Flight Center invites CFI Garrett Mifflin to review important Aeromedical Factors such as the four types of hypoxia, the impact of medicines and alcohol on the human body, and how the human eye and mind can be fooled by various spatial and visual illusions. He will also review other common aeromedical factors that should be considered whenever flying.
Come and join this seminar in the ground school refresher series to review the impact of flight on the human body and become a safer pilot.

Garrett Mifflin is a flight instructor at SCFC. He grew up in northern Utah near Salt Lake City. Every time he had the chance to fly on an airliner, he was glued to the window enjoying the views from the air. Following his graduation from the University of Utah, he spent some time in the fitness industry before pursuing his interest in aviation. He quickly realized that he loves flying and continued his training from private pilot to certified flight instructor. After becoming a CFI Garrett moved to the Bay Area and joined the Flight Center. He continues to enjoy flying to discover new views as well as to help others develop the skills that allow them to explore the skies.
During his spare time Garrett enjoys spending time with his wife and toddler as well as going hiking, camping, and snowboarding.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

What’s it like to fly the Young Eagles?
2024-01-10 19:00 - 20:30
Many young people have a passion for aviation and would be thrilled to get their first flight. One opportunity for them to do this is to participate in a Young Eagles event, where they can get to ride in a small plane, for free!. However, to fly as many children between 8-17 years of age as possible, there needs to be a sufficient number of volunteer pilots available to conduct these flights. Many pilots are interested in doing that but aren’t quite sure how to volunteer or if they do volunteer, what to expect.
This seminar will cover the procedures to safely conduct an EAA Young Eagles flight. Review passenger management techniques and get prepared to fly with EAA Chapter 20’s Young Eagles events at San Carlos airport.
If you are a pilot that has wanted to find a way to encourage young aviators, you will want to attend. Whether or not you volunteer for the upcoming event, you will come away with a detailed understanding on how to participate in a Young Eagles event.

Bec Sankauskas has been the EAA Chapter 20 Young Eagles Day Coordinator since 2022. She loves to work with the ground crew volunteers and encourage them to be the hosts and coordinate the logistics of the Young Eagles Day events, even while they are still Young Eagles themselves. She looks forward to having more incredible pilots from diverse backgrounds to volunteer their time and fly more Young Eagles in 2024. Outside of Young Eagles, Bec is the CEO of Bexouce International, a boutique consulting firm advising as interim COO to small and emerging businesses in Silicon Valley.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

Young Aviators Workshop
2024-01-06 09:00 - 13:00
Are you a teenager interested in aviation but not sure where to begin? Are you looking to share your passion with aviation with other like minded young people?
The Flight Center invites all high school students to attend this workshop to learn about aviation. This event provides you the opportunity to discover the steps of becoming a pilot and career options, how to read and interpret aviation charts used by pilots, hands-on experience with aircraft engines and systems, as well as aviation scholarship opportunities.
If you are a budding young aviator we welcome you to participate in this event. Lunch is provided.
This event is a workshop for high school students and not eligible for the Seminar Engagement Program.

ForeFlight for IFR
2024-01-03 19:00 - 20:30
ForeFlight is a great tool that many pilots use while flying. It has a lot of features and functionality that is applicable to VFR pilots. If you are instrument rated, you may know some of the key features that are applicable under IFR. But do you know how to effectively use the route advisor? Do you know how to use ForeFlight to help determine an appropriate alternate airport? Or ways you can use ForeFlight to visualize a hold?
San Carlos Flight Center invites Michael Dutton to explore how many aspects of IFR flights can be completed using ForeFLight. In particular, Michael will examine the Route Advisor, Aircraft Profiles, filing and amending flight plane, and other useful IFR information.
If you have been flying IFR for many years and want to understand how ForeFlight can do some of the tasks you normally do, join us to get an introduction to using ForeFlight for the IFR pilot. Bring your device with ForeFlight so you can follow along during the workshop.

Michael Dutton is a CFI, and CFII in fixed wing, with private pilot privileges in helicopters. He’s been flying and working at San Carlos airport for over ten years, first working for the Flight Center before moving on to Airport Operations and now as Flight Instructor. His past work experience also includes time with NASA and San Carlos Airport administration.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

Full Moon Flyers: Livermore
2023-12-26 19:00 - 22:00
Join us for our monthly Full Moon Flyers dinner at Livermore! Why get caught in traffic on 580 when you can make the quick hop over the hills into Livermore. After landing, we will be enjoying dinner at Beeb’s Sports Bar & Grill located just outside the airport.
You can even bring your friends and family for a Bay Tour at night! After dinner, pilots can also head over to Hayward or Oakland airports to maintain or renew their night currency. IFR student pilots can even shoot an ILS practice approach into LVK.
Please plan to have your aircraft secured and meet at Beeb’s by 7PM.
Remember to RSVP so we can get an accurate headcount. See you there!

SCFC Holiday Party and Member Appreciation Night (no livestream)
2023-12-20 19:00 - 20:30
NOTE: There will be no livestream on Wednesday, December 20th. Please join us in person for the Holiday Party and RSVP below so have a headcount for food and drink. Due to the nature of the event, there will be no livestream. A recording will be made available over the holidays covering announcements made at the event.
At special moments during the year, the SCFC pilot community comes together to celebrate our shared adventures and achievements. On Wednesday, December 20th SCFC holds our annual Holiday Party and Member Appreciation Night. We’ll eat, drink, and revel together, and SCFC owner Alessandro Franco will share plans for how the club will grow and evolve to better serve our pilot community.
Learn about new additions to the fleet, big updates with our maintenance team, and our long-term plans for facilities when our building gets remodeled. We’ll also introduce changes to our safety seminar program, including our answer to the FAA WINGS program. Plan for about 20 minutes of presentation on 2024 plans with a lot of fun times before and after. Wear festive holiday attire, and come ready to celebrate the season.
If you haven’t yet met the rest of the Flight Center team, or you can’t remember what is the name of the pilot you’ve nodded “hello” to in the hallways, this is your time to meet and greet the extended SCFC community, and start the new year off right. Flight Center members should join us to learn the most up-to-date information about the club. All are welcome. If you are a pilot that flies somewhere else, or are lucky enough to own your own plane, we invite you to join us anyway to find out ways the Flight Center can be a part of your flying.

Radar Services and Operations
2023-12-16 12:00 - 13:30
What ATC services are available to a pilot? What resources, on the ground and installed in the aircraft, are required to provide those services? How does radar work? What can radar see and not see? How does ADS-B fit in? What is the correct radio technique pilots should use to request service?
These and other questions will be answered in this seminar about ATC radar services, known to pilots by many titles including “flight following.” Come to refresh or add to your knowledge of these important pilot resources.

Brian Eliot is San Carlos Flight Center’s Assistant Chief Pilot and resident expert for IFR training and Garmin G1000 avionics. He has been flying since 1995 and received all his training in the Bay Area. Brian previously worked as a broadcast engineer, a software developer, and taught computer science at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He regularly presents at San Carlos Flight Center safety seminars and has a reputation for making complex concepts easy to learn and understand.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

IFR Checkride Stories
2023-12-13 19:00 - 20:30
Pursuing the instrument rating can be extremely challenging. It takes lots of training, studying, and commitment from the student and their instructor to master all the necessary skills and build the confidence to fly under IFR. What are some successful approaches to tackling this rating? What should you expect during the training and practical test?
San Carlos Flight Center invites newly instrument-rated pilots Eric Firnhaber and Ritwik Ummalaneni to highlight their experiences pursuing the instrument rating. They will provide an overview of their training, the various tools, and resources they used to prepare, and also provide an insight into the instrument checkride and Airman Certification Standards
If you are an aspiring instrument pilot or a veteran aviator, join us to hear about what to expect and how to pass this checkride.

Speaker(s):
Eric Firnhaber has 275 flight hours and passed his instrument checkride in May of 2023. When he is not flying, Eric finds himself chasing his two young kids around in between working in Marketing & Communications at an AgTech company.
Ritwik Ummalaneni has 220 flight hours and passed his instrument checkride in September of 2023. When he is not flying, Ritwik works in Engineering at a Surgical Robotics startup.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

awdawd
2023-12-13 08:00 - 17:00
scasc

FOG Lunch: Willows
2023-12-10 12:00 - 14:00
This month join us on our FOG Lunch as we fly up to Willows-Glenn Airport (WLW). Enjoy a scenic flight up the valley before we dine at Nancy’s Airport Cafe. At decent prices, Nancy’s offers a wide variety of salads, burgers, and sandwiches.
Located about 120 miles north of SQL, just past Sacramento, this is a great opportunity for any pilots looking to build up some cross country time. Once you get to Vacaville, follow the I-5 for a straight shot up to WLW. It is also a great chance to squeeze in a Bay Tour before or after lunch.
Please plan to arrive at Willows by 12 noon. Nancy’s Airport Cafe is located right on the airport.
RSVP now to save your spot! See you there!

Private Pilot Bucket List
2023-12-09 12:00 - 13:30
Congratulations, you’ve earned your Private Pilot Certificate. What are you going to do now? More pattern work? Boring! More slow flight? Enough of that! Need some fresh, new ideas? If so, you are in luck.
There are so many reasons to fly and so many great flying challenges that await us, it’s a shame some pilots rarely push themselves beyond a $100 hamburger flight. Join CFI David Agranovich as he shares ideas for your next flights. His list of ideas contain unique destinations, airports that will build your existing skills, and destinations that offer nearby fun activities..
Join us for this eye opening discussion that will give you new, fun ideas for ways to use your pilot skills and share the wonder of aviation with family and friends.

David Agranovich is a CFI, and thoroughly enjoys teaching others. He has experience flying all across the Western United States and specializes in mountain flying and operating high performance aircraft. In his spare time, he works at Facebook leading their efforts to counter foreign interference in elections.

About San Carlos Flight Center:

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

GSR: Aircraft Engines and Systems (no livestream)
2023-12-06 19:00 - 20:30
NOTE: There will be no live stream on Wednesday, December 6th, due to a network maintenance in our area. We will still have in-person audience and a recording will be made available for Web Members later in the week.
Seminar Description:
Are you master of the systems in your aircraft? Do you understand the differences between the ignition system vs. the electrical system? When was the last time you refreshed your knowledge of engine principles or the induction system? If it has been a while or you just need a refresher, this is the place to be.
San Carlos Flight Center invites CFI Michael Dutton to talk about aircraft engines and the other systems used on most small general aviation aircraft. In this seminar, learn details about the ignition systems, electrical systems, carburetors vs. fuel injectors, constant speed propellers, and associated common failures that all pilots need to know. A competent pilot starts with a full understanding of their aircraft. In this seminar, Michael will give you the foundation you need.
Join us for this seminar to further your understanding of piston engines and common systems onboard single engine piston aircraft.

Michael Dutton is a CFI, and CFII in fixed wing, with private pilot privileges in helicopters. He’s been flying and working at San Carlos airport for over seven years, first working for the Flight Center before moving on to Airport Operations and now as Flight Instructor. His past work experience also includes time with NASA and San Carlos Airport administration.

About San Carlos Flight Center:
San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.
This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members are able to access most of our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

Q&A with Hayward ATC
2023-12-02 12:00 - 13:30
Hayward airport presents a number of unique pilot challenges. Its proximity to the Oakland airport is only one of them. The overlying Bravo and Charlie airspace combine with some unique surface operations to catch the uninformed pilot off guard.

San Carlos Flight Center welcomes Sean Mackey, the FAA’s Air Traffic Manager for Hayward Airport, to discuss how pilots can operate safely at and around KHWD. Sean will review important local procedures to help pilots avoid pilot deviations and comply with the noise abatement procedures. As manager, he is uniquely positioned to answer all of our pilot questions about Hayward operations.
If you are looking to get a deeper understanding of Hayward Airport operations or you just have a burning question to ask an FAA control tower manager, mark your calendar to attend this session. This is likely going to be a popular seminar so come early to get a good seat.

Sean Mackey is the FAA’s Air Traffic Manager for Hayward Executive airport. Sean was previously based at Buchanan Field Airport (CCR) and has the unique perspective of also being a Private pilot with tailwheel experience and an Instrument rating.

About San Carlos Flight Center:
San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.

SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.
This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

How to Ace your Flight Review
2023-11-29 19:00 - 20:30
This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

Is it that time again? Need to do a Flight Review but don’t want to sweat through the details? Do you really need to remember how the E6B works? Perform flight calculations by hand? State FAR verbiage from memory? Can you name the various VFR weather minimums?
CFI Dave Brenner will unravel what it takes to make your next Flight Review a walk in the park! This seminar will cover how to prepare for your Flight Review, the three ways to meet legal requirements for completing a flight review, when a Flight Review is required, and the standards you must demonstrate for the knowledge, risks and skills to complete a Flight Review.
The majority of pilots will need to do a Flight Review many times over the course of a lifetime of flying. Join us and be ready to tackle your next Flight Review.

Dave Brenner, CFI, is a flight instructor at San Carlos Flight Center. His experience as a teacher and passion for aviation led him to become a flight instructor. Dave is recognized for his teaching abilities and enjoys making sure that his students are well-prepared for their aviation adventures.

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

Full Moon Flyers: Hollister (Seabrisa's Eatery)
2023-11-27 17:00 - 23:30
Join us for our this month Full Moon Flyers dinner on November 27! We will be flying down to Hollister and dining at Seabrisa’s Eatery. This a great opportunity to grab some night hours while enjoying some great food!
On the way down, soak in the gorgeous sunset over the coastal mountains before descending into Hollister Airport. Make sure to remain clear of the San Jose final approach course, and consider talking to NorCal Approach to have an extra set of eyes looking out for you. Park in transient parking, and then walk across the street to the local airport restaurant – Seabrisa’s Eatery! A local favorite for many pilots in the area, they’re known for their unique flavors and vegetables grown from many of the local farms. Please meet at the restaurant by 7PM.
After dinner, renew your night currency at Hollister or fly a few laps at SJC! With big runways, it’s easy to make the landings to a stop-and-go, and you’ll enjoy the challenge of flying alongside jet traffic.
Everyone is welcome to join us, so please RSVP below and we’ll see you at the event.

POSTPONED – GSR: Aeromedical Factors
2023-11-18 12:00 - 13:30
Due to a last minute scheduling issue, todays seminar has been postponed.
Please consider watching one of our previous presentations from our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

IFR Plate Analysis
2023-11-15 19:00 - 20:30
This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

Instrument approach plates pack an extraordinary amount of information into a very small space. However, if we can learn to categorize the details into those necessary for effective *planning* separate from those necessary for effective in-flight *briefing*, we can make even the first glance at a complex procedure less overwhelming.
In this seminar Daniel Stellini, CFII and United Airlines pilot, will guide us through a thorough analysis of the approach plates at one unique local airport, placing that discussion within the larger context of planning for and executing an IFR flight. Our recurring Approach Plate Seminars take an intensive look at a variety of approach procedures. No two sessions are alike and over the year we will try to cover all the varying nuances of instrument approaches.
Although tailored to instrument pilots and students, VFR pilots will find approach plates helpful in safely locating an unfamiliar airport especially at night. Similarly, both VFR and IFR pilots will benefit from this seminar as many concepts that will be discussed and information that will be reviewed are applicable to pilots of all ratings and operations.

Daniel Stellini is a CFII and a United Airlines pilot with extensive experience from Cessnas to Boeing 777’s. He is committed to developing safe and competent pilots, and is a Gold Seal Flight Instructor. In his freetime, he likes playing music, and teaching others how to become better pilots.

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

No Moon Flyers
2023-11-12 19:00 - 23:00
Every month, our Full-Moon Flyers goes on a night cross-country on the brightest night of the lunar cycle. It’s a great way to ease back into night currency. But when was the last time you did a night flight when it was really, really dark. On a night with no moonlight?
Join the SCFC Flight Instructor team on Sunday, Nov 12th at 7:00pm for a night flying experience designed to take pilots to local airports known for night illusions and tricky approaches. They could be hard to recognize because of limited ground lighting, or because the airports themselves tend to create landing illusions on final approach.
This will be a unique one of a kind training experience you won’t want to miss if you want, especially if you haven’t flown at night since you were a student pilot. Sharpen your night skills and you’ll have them to use two weeks later when you bring your friends along to the Hollister Full-Moon Flyers event.
The No-Moon Flyers training is space limited, so sign up now to reserve your spot with one of our instructors here at the flight center. Secure your spot by calling the front desk at (650) 946 – 1700 or send an email to info@sancarlosflight.com.

FOG Lunch: Petaluma
2023-11-12 11:00 - 14:00
This month, we will be trying out the newly reopened restaurant at Petaluma Airport (O69)! Located right on the field, Two Niner Diner recently reopened serving a wide variety of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. This event will be on Sunday, November 12.
Enjoy the views of San Francisco and Marin Headlands on the way up. You can even do a Bay Tour! This is a great and exciting way for student pilots to gain valuable experience and hours. You can even land at different airports on the way back to practice your skills!
After landing in Petaluma, we will park in transient parking near the airport terminal building. Please plan to meet at the Two Niner Diner by 12 noon.
Everyone is welcome to join us, please RSVP and we will see you there!

IFR Currency – The Devil in the Details
2023-11-08 19:00 - 20:30
This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

There is a thin overcast layer at 800 at your destination and you are ready to fly the ILS which shouldn’t be too hard with the light IFR conditions, but are you legal? What is that regulation about IFR currency and what are the specifics?
Join Herb Patten, Chief Pilot at San Carlos Flight Center, for this “Devil in the Details” review of IFR currency. In this seminar Herb will take an in-depth look at the regulations instrument rated pilots must follow to maintain their IFR currency (e.g., six approaches within the last six months). What counts as an approach? What are the requirements for tracking and holding?. What is meant by “holding”? Can these tasks be flown in a simulator?
Don’t let the lengthily-worded regulations confuse you. This seminar should help you “clear the approach” as we clarify some of the ambiguity in the regulations.

Herb Patten is the Chief Pilot at the San Carlos Flight Center, a CFI and an FAA certificated advanced and instrument ground instructor who teaches private pilot ground school at San Carlos Flight Center. He is a commercial pilot with an instrument rating, has flown over 2,500 hours in more than 130 different California airports. He is the current chairman of the Upwind Foundation, famous for its Upwind Summer Scholarship Program. In 2023, Herb was named a Distinguished Flight Instructor by AOPA.

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

Shelter Cove Trip Recap
2023-11-04 12:00 - 13:30
This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

Shelter Cove (0Q5), is perhaps the most remote and hidden airport in California, with cliffs on one side of the town, and the Pacific Ocean on the other three sides. The one-runway airport is located at the center of Shelter Cove’s small commercial district, where visitors can find restaurants, shops, and access to other local attractions.
SCFC invites Private Pilot Thomas Woneis to recap his recent flight North up the coast to Shelter Cove. He will talk about his cross-country flight planning and route selection to remain clear of terrain and special use airspace, and what it is like operating at the small airport. With any cross-country flight, planning for weather and emergencies takes on special importance and Thomas will discuss his approach in conversation with CFI Dan Dyer.
If you are planning a day-trip or weekend-trip to Shelter Cove, or just curious about flying to airports along California’s Lost Coast, come attend this seminar!

Thomas Woneis, has 80 flight hours and passed his private pilot checkride in August of 2023. When he is not flying, Thomas enjoys golf and hiking.

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.

Flying Safely At Night
2023-11-01 19:00 - 20:30
This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. Web Members will still be able to access our seminars online, both live and recorded. Click here to learn more about the transition.
Interested in watching more of our presentations? View our growing library of over 500 recorded safety seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library, available by clicking here.

On November 5th, Daylight Savings Time will end, and with it comes early nightfall. For those of us who work a regular 9-5 schedule, early nightfall means an increase in night flying time. How current are your night skills? Maybe it’s time to focus on what is different between day VFR and night VFR flight.
Obviously, less ambient light adds challenges for anything requiring eyesight. This includes preflight inspection, taxi safety, obstruction avoidance, IMC recognition and avoidance, cockpit resource management, and a number of other things. Most familiar to pilots is probably the differences in landing. The sight picture of a normal approach to a runway is very different with reduced external visual cues from night. Flashing lights can help or hurt pilot attention and recognition.
So should night flight be avoided? Not necessarily. Night flight brings with it reduced ATC workloads, often calmer winds, cooler temperatures that help performance, and the ability to spot traffic from farther off. Your decision about flying at night can be aided by attending a Night Flying Refresher seminar like this one.

Herb Patten is the Chief Pilot at the San Carlos Flight Center, a CFI and an FAA certificated advanced and instrument ground instructor who teaches private pilot ground school at San Carlos Flight Center. He is a commercial pilot with an instrument rating, has flown over 2,500 hours in more than 130 different California airports. He is the current chairman of the Upwind Foundation, famous for its Upwind Summer Scholarship Program. In 2023, Herb was named a Distinguished Flight Instructor by AOPA.

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation through safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2023 as a Distinguished Flight School for the third year in a row.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Our seminars are free to watch when attended in person at our facility in San Carlos but live streaming and viewing recorded seminars are exclusively available to members. Click here or contact an SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access to our web library of over 500 recorded safety seminars and live-streamed content.
