San Carlos Flight Center

Challenges Flying to Oshkosh
2023-05-13 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
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 more seminars related to long cross-country trips and flight planning? Check out our series of flight planning presentations available in our Members Only Seminar Library. Click here for an example.

Each year, EAA holds the world’s most renowned airshow in Oshkosh. This event boasts thousands of unique aircraft, presenters, and new learning experiences. Ambitious pilots may consider flying themselves to the show. If it’s your first time, you may wonder what it takes to create a flight plan across the country, to fly one of the most challenging arrival procedures, and most importantly to land safely?
San Carlos Flight Center invites Oliver Coolidge, an experienced Oshkosh Pilot and CFI, and Private Pilot Obed Han to talk about how to fly safely and efficiently into the “world’s busiest airport”. For one week each summer, EAA members and aviation enthusiasts totaling more than 500,000 from more than 60 countries attend EAA AirVenture at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where they rekindle friendships and celebrate the past, present and future in the world of flight. “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration ” has it all when it comes to aircraft, you certainly won’t want to miss out. For many, arriving at Oshkosh is a rite of passage that can only be satisfied by being one of the more than 10,000 aircraft flying in, landing at what becomes the busiest airport in the world. It can be a challenging experience, but after attending this seminar, we are sure that you will feel more confident in your flying abilities.
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or an aviation novice, AirVenture has something for you. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn more about this event, and more importantly learn how you can safely and efficiently plan flight across the country, and arrive at Oshkosh. Experience AirVenture with us. Your spot along the flightline is waiting for you.

Oliver Coolidge started flying in 1969 and is a retired FedEx captain with over 14,000 hours of flying. He owns a vintage 1954 Cessna 195 and has a new project with a 1971 Beechcraft Bonanza G33 “straight tail”. He also is involved with the Flying 12 Club which has built their own RV-12. Chapter 20 was recently the recipient of an EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship which has awarded a $10,000 flying scholarship to a local young aviator.
Obed Han is a Private Pilot. He is an EAA James Ray Scholarship recipient and continues to advance in his training because of it. He is also involved within numerous aviation programs, including co-founding the local EAA Chapter’s Young Aviators program, participating in the RV-12 build, and volunteering as a mentor for VATSIM, virtually controlling airplanes across the Bay Area and training other ATC candidates.

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.

Hazards of Landing at Unimproved Airports
2023-05-17 19:00 - 20:30
This seminar will be held in person, 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.

Operating at new airports poses new challenges with exciting awards. Check out our “Destination” seminar series which is available in our Members Only Seminar Library. Available to view by clicking here.

Not all airports are well maintained, and as pilots, we need to know how to operate there safely. These airports pose new challenges and different operational considerations; however, these challenges present extraordinary access to outdoor recreation and the wilderness.
San Carlos Flight Center invites Terry Cross, a Private Pilot and Ambassador for the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) to highlight the hazards of operating at backcountry recreational airports. In this seminar, Terry will share what it takes to operate out of these airports safely. All pilots should be aware of the differences in operational technique when flying into or out of unimproved surfaces, in addition to differences present with limited communication receptivity and limited services. In addition to these safety considerations, he will also share how the RAF constantly works to preserve access to recreational airports, and improve the sustainability of unimproved airports, ensuring their accessibility for future pilots.
You never know when you might have to land at an unimproved airport, so all pilots should have the knowledge of what it takes to operate safely. Join us to learn more on this unique subject.

Terry Cross is an Ambassador for the Recreational Aviation Foundation in California. He is an outdoorsman and has been a private pilot since 1989. He has flown his Cessna 182 and 206 throughout the western United States, with forays into Canada and Mexico. He learned to fly out of the OAK north field and has been based at San Carlos since 1998.

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 the Bay Tour
2023-05-20 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.

Want to learn more about operations at local Bay Area Airports? Click here to watch a similar seminar available for Members on the Members Only Seminar Library.

Flying in the San Francisco Bay area is spectacular, a real privilege for local pilots. The Pacific Ocean, a dramatic coastline, beautiful hills, and many famous landmarks. As pilots, we are afforded a rare bird’s eye view that we long to share with our friends and family.
So what exactly is a “Bay Tour”? What airspace is present along the Bay Tour, and what new implementations will require pilots to take into account? Join SCFC Founder Dan Dyer to examine the airspace, explain the “Bay Tour” and how a pilot can accomplish one in the safest, simplest, most enjoyable manner.
In this seminar, he’ll review the various overlapping airspaces in the area, the territories for each local ATC facility, and the routings most commonly used by Flight Center pilots and suggested by ATC. You’ll learn what options are available to you even if SQL ATIS has the phrase “San Francisco is not taking surface area transitions.”
This is a thorough discussion of the regulations and procedures used in flying a San Francisco Bay Tour through Class B and C airspace. If you are new to the Bay area, want to imagine the different sights you’ll see, or just want to improve your understanding of local airspace customs and procedures, please join us for this popular seminar.

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 15 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

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.

FOG Lunch: Auburn
2023-05-21 12:00 - 13:30
Located at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Auburn Airport (AUN) displays a change of scenery from its Central Valley counterparts, with rolling hills and beautiful pine trees lining the field. Take advantage of the warming temperatures this May to visit this airport and sample the delicious cafe serving both breakfast and lunch during the outdoor dining season. Wings Grill and Espresso Bar is located right next to transient parking on the south side of the ramp and serves pilots both breakfast and lunch. On Sunday, May 21, let’s meet up for lunch at Auburn at 12 PM.
While not considered a mountain airport, pilots should watch the temperatures when operating at Auburn to ensure the density altitude does not affect your flight. If it is warm enough, density altitude can climb a few thousand feet above field elevation, so make sure to double-check your performance numbers on takeoff and landing.
As always, please RSVP below, and indicate if you can take passengers, so student and prospective pilots can participate, as well. We hope to see you in Auburn on May 21!

Contract Tower Program in Crisis – Failures of the FAA
2023-05-24 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.

The FAA Contract Tower Program was established in 1982 to lower the operating costs of air traffic control towers at some lower-volume airports by having decreased staffing levels provided by private companies. The program has since expanded to roughly half of the towers in the NAS. Now, across the Contract Tower Program, we’re seeing staffing crises and decreased service.
Join SCFC Owner Alessandro Franco as he discusses the steps (or lack thereof) that the FAA has taken to address these issues. We will compare staffing levels between FAA towers and contract towers, seeing how different staffing levels may provide different levels of safety and service. We will also explore inspector general reports and previous assessments of the failed program.
Tune in to learn about some of the safety concerns operating at airports with contract towers, how to stay aware, and what you can do to encourage the government to address the problems.
Alessandro Franco is a pilot and the Owner of the San Carlos Flight Center. Alessandro is the lead of all Flight Center operations, activities, and relations.

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.

I Just Got ForeFlight, Now What? A Beginners Guide to ForeFlight
2023-05-27 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 learning more about ForeFlight? Check out our growing ForeFlight Series of Safety Seminars available for viewing on our Members Only Seminar Library. Click here to watch how to plan a flight with ForeFlight.

Students and new pilots are increasingly flying with computer tablets, and using software that replaces paper charts and documents with the digital equivalents. These applications, such as ForeFlight, are extremely powerful and have a plethora of features. For a pilot just beginning to use ForeFlight, the choices and options seem overwhelming. Valuable features and capabilities can go undiscovered.
Join SCFC in inviting commercial pilot Brandan Dadoun to highlight some of the important first steps to take after downloading ForeFlight, and how to get started. In this seminar, he will cover a basic introduction to the application including the most efficient ways to use the software. With so many different customizations, subscription plans, and ways to do the same thing, it can be overwhelming for many. Some of these include how to set up performance profiles, weight and balance, how to use geo referenced charts, and set up your electronic logbook. After this seminar you will feel confident in your basic abilities to navigate the application and have the resources to continue to learn from.
ForeFlight can be quite overwhelming with features, however, due to time constraints we are unable to provide technical support to individual audience members.
If you are just beginning to explore the features of ForeFlight and want to deepen your understanding on how to effectively use these great tools, you will want to attend this seminar. Have your tablet handy and discover this powerful tool available for pilots.

Brandan Dadoun is a commercial multi-engine pilot and SCFC’s Seminar Coordinator. He has over 700 flight hours with extensive flying experience throughout the Western US in both piston and turbine-powered aircraft. In 2021, Brandan was awarded by the FAA for his achievements in promoting aviation safety. Outside of flying and presenting, he enjoys playing the saxophone and staying active.

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.

Ground Effect Demystified
2023-05-31 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 learning more about advanced ground school topics? Check out more of these seminars available on our growing Members Only Seminar Library which is available for viewing by Web Members. Click here to view.

Anyone who has taken an interest in learning to land an aircraft has experienced the phenomenon of ground effect. Some try to describe the effect using the image of an air hockey table, where a disc of plastic levitates across the surface seemingly without drag. All aircraft experience this effect when near the ground due to an increase in lift and a decrease in drag. Combined, this results in a floating which extends the flare. But what really is happening?
San Carlos Flight Center invites SCFC Founder and former helicopter pilot Dan Dyer, who sees Ground Effect as the airplane version of an in-ground-effect hover. In this seminar, he will share how the surface of the earth gets in the way of airflow patterns around the airfoil in a predictable and understandable way. Although the diagrams that explain it involve a bit of vector math, it’s still something that any pilot can understand with a bit of effort.
If you’ve ever want to understand why your airplane floats the way it does, and are curious about the connection between ground effect, wake turbulence, and induced drag tune in for this ground school “deeper look” presentation.

Dan Dyer founded San Carlos Flight Center after a career as a helicopter and airplane flight instructor. He is passionate about how student pilots think and learn. As SCFC Director of Operation, he now spends most of his time now working with new flight instructors to fan their passion for teaching and to advance their effectiveness.

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.

Tour of the Southwest
2023-06-01 - 2023-06-04
This trip is FULL. If you are interested in joining our waiting list, email flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com

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 Class Bravo Airport. After landing, go where you desire whether that’s exploring the San Diego Skyline, visiting the gorgeous and vibrant Balboa Park, or stepping onto the USS Midway. Take in the sights on the way to lunch at Sedona Arizona (SEZ) where you will be greeted by the vast amount of large red rocks unique to this area. Finish your day by heading to the stunning Meteor Crater and spend the night at a private airport in Monument Valley, where you’ll experience unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. Starting with a tour of a Meteor Crater followed by a breathtaking visit to the Grand Canyon. After sightseeing, land at Harry Reid Las Vegas International Airport (LAS), making for three Class Bravo Airports. End your night with some fun in the vibrant culture of Las Vegas.
On Day 4, we’ll make our way back home via Bishop and Mammoth, posing the unique challenge of mountain flying with gorgeous views of the surrounding Sierras.
Fly in comfort in any of our C172s, C182s, or new C206 with one of our experienced instructors. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the beauty of the Southwest from a unique and exciting perspective. Stay tuned for more information on our website.
Deposit:
$500 deposit, per person (not per plane). This is a deposit towards aircraft rental and instructor time. This deposit is non-refundable within 2 weeks of the event. Please call the SCFC Front Desk at (650) 946-1700 to make your deposit.
Registration:
Registrations are not open yet. Check this page for more information in the coming weeks.
Questions:
If you have any questions, please contact the FOG Coordinator, Brandan, via email at brandan@sancarlosflight.com

Ground School Refresher: Airspace
2023-06-03 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 more ground school-related topics? Check out our entire catalog of “Ground School Refresher” seminars available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library. Click here to view.

Let’s face it, airspace is an imaginary concept. It is just a shorthand way to talk about the set of Federal Aviation Regulations that apply by location and altitude, and the impact they have on VFR flight. As confusing as you think the rules are, with a quick refresher, you’ll be back to full knowledge in no time.
If it has been awhile since you sat through ground school, you may be due for an airspace refresher. In this safety seminar, we will review the different classes of airspace that are found in the United States. We’ll cover their shapes, sizes, operating rules, and also cover special use airspace. Want an easy way to keep confusing Class G airspace rules memorized, use the Flight Center’s method that teaches there are 3 types of Class G airspace, Class G-low, Class G-mid, and Class G-high. Do you know the differences between them? Where would you look it up? What happens to Class D when the tower closes? How well do you know airspace?
This safety seminar is open to current and aspiring Private Pilots, and will be of particular interest to students pilots and those who are preparing for a flight review. You will leave the seminar with a renewed understanding, and probably a few memory aids to take with your on your next flight.

Inkee Kim is a CFI at San Carlos Flight Center. Inkee began his aviation training in Korea, continuing his aviation career in Stockton, CA. After finishing private training, Inkee moved to Hillsboro, Oregon where he completed instrument, commercial, and flight instructor training at Hillsboro Aero Academy. He enjoys sharing quality flight instruction and aviation experiences with his students, and is determined to share the joy of flying with everyone.

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: Watsonville
2023-06-03 19:00 - 20:30
Come join the FlyOutGroup (FOG) on Saturday, June 3rd with a scenic flight to Watsonville (WVI)! An easy location to get to from the Bay Area, enjoy a quick hop over the Santa Cruz Mountains, and then descend over Monterey Bay. Park in Transient Parking, and we’ll all meet at Ellas at the Airport for dinner.
Ellas at the Airport is located in the WVI airport terminal and conveniently positioned right by the ramp of airplanes. This Italian-style restaurant is known for its great locally sourced eats from healthy salads to full-sized meals. No matter what your appetite is, you won’t be disappointed.
We’re excited for the event, and look forward to seeing you in Watsonville! As it’s a Friday evening, please RSVP below so we can give the restaurant a heads-up of our headcount.

Radio Communications 3: Non Towered Airport Communications
2023-06-07 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 the rest of our Radio Communications Series? More seminars like this are available to view in our Members Only Seminar Library. Click here to view more.

Flying in and out of the many airports in California requires a high degree of situational awareness and sophisticated radio skills. And yet, radio communication is rarely taught as a specific subject during private pilot training. Usually, new pilots just absorb what they hear on the frequency around them, both good and bad. Although some radio techniques are covered in ground school, rarely do student pilots get the time devoted to demystifying this often-confusing subject.
This seminar is the third in a series of SCFC’s Radio Communication Safety Seminars and focuses on non-towered radio communications. Although Federal Aviation Regulations don’t require pilots to make radio calls at non-towered airports, it is strongly advised for safety. This seminar will help newer pilots understand the structure of radio calls for non-towered airports and how to improve their own radio skills.
Herb Patten, Chief Pilot AGI and CFI and SCFC Founder Dan Dyer, will walk participants through a foundation of non-towered radio communication phraseology and use, from the basics through advanced. Learn how to make radio communication easier and safer for all pilots.
This will be an important seminar for pilots struggling with radio communications. If this is you, plan to attend. Build your confidence, and be the pilot you want to be.

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 15 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
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.

Aerobatic Flying
2023-06-10 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.

Are you interested in watching more seminars like this? Check out our recorded growing seminar library available for Web Members. Click here to view.

Embark on an extraordinary journey into the world of aerobatics, where the exhilaration of breathtaking maneuvers meets the unwavering commitment to safety at every turn. The world of aerobatics can be an exhilarating and captivating aspect within aviation. Aerobatics offers pilots the opportunity to fully understand the capabilities of their aircraft and themselves.
San Carlos Flight Center invites Air Transport Pilot Ross Ferguson and Aerobatic Pilot Kamryn Lamperchet to share how to get started with aerobatic flying. In this seminar, learn how to begin your aerobatic flying journey, what to consider when selecting an instructor and aircraft, and gain valuable insights into venturing into the world of competition aerobatics.
Whether you are wanting to perform aerial maneuvers or are considering entering the competitive arena, this presentation is ideal for you. By tuning into this seminar, participants will gain a solid understanding of the initial steps required to embark on their aerobatic journey, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Ross Ferguson, CFI. Ross has been a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Airline Pilot for more than 25 years. He has flown aircraft ranging from Ultralights to transport aircraft including many Airbus and Boeing jets. Ross has owned and operated his own aircraft and is currently a member of the US Yak-52 Aerobatic Team.
Kamryn Lamperchet is a new IAC competitor in the Yak-52 competing in Primary and Sportsman aerobatics.

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.

Unleaded Fuel
2023-06-14 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 safety seminars? Check out out growing library of over 500 Safety Seminars available for Members in our Members Only Seminar Library, available to view by clicking here.

San Carlos Flight Center was proud to work with Rabbit Aviation to be the first flight school in California to have aircraft running on unleaded fuel in its fleet. California and the SF Bay Area are often the leaders on environmental issues, and aviation fuel should be no different. Join us to find out what is happening in the quest to remove lead from aviation fuel.
A few years ago, San Carlos Airport received undeserved attention when reports of unusually high levels of lead were measured by improperly-placed monitors only a few feet from the aircraft runup area. The misunderstanding added momentum to efforts already underway by Rabbit and other at San Carlos Airport to speed the arrival of unleaded fuel for sale. San Carlos Flight Center participated in early testing and soon obtained the STCs to operate a portion of planes in its fleet on unleaded fuel. As awareness of the true situation at San Carlos Airport became known, the airport has gone from being falsely reprimanded about lead to being a recognized leader in the effort.
Dan will also discuss the safety and practicality of using unleaded aircraft fuel. Many planes will fly on both types of fuel, but authorization and inspection is required to make the switch. Obviously fuel is a critical component to safe engine operation and using the wrong type of fuel can cause serious engine damage. Improper fuel can even cause the engine to fail during flight. Knowing your fuel facts is a compulsory preflight inspection safety point, and something every pilot should consider important.

Dan DeMeo, owner of Rabbit Aviation, leads this discussion about the use of unleaded fuel in aircraft engines. He will review the history of why the aviation industry has been so slow to adopt unleaded fuel, what has happened so far in the unleaded fuel market, the future of leaded aviation fuel, and what San Carlos Airport has done to get ahead of the trend.

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 Safety Seminar on Saturday, July 17
2023-06-17
There will be no Safety Seminar on Saturday, July 17th. Please join us back for our next seminar on Wednesday, June 21st at 7 PM.
– SCFC Seminar Planning Team

FOG Lunch - Lodi Airport Cafe 1O3
2023-06-18 12:00 - 13:30
On Sunday, July 18th at 12 PM join us for lunch at the Lodi Airport Cafe located at 1O3. This restaurant is located on the field and is known for its variety of locally sourced artisan food options that are sure to satisfy your palette.
Be sure to do a thorough briefing before departing for Lodi. In addition to its narrow runway, this airport tends to have active skydiving operations over and within the vicinity of the airport. Please plan to arrive at Lodi Airport just before 12 noon and walk over to the restaurant to meet with any other attendees. Upon landing, exit to the north side of the field and taxi to the parking spots near the end of the hangar rows. The restaurant is a short walk away from parking.
Consider bringing a safety pilot along for this lunch event – a variety of airports within the vicinity of Lodi have many instrument approaches to reset your currency.
As always, please RSVP below and indicate whether or not you have room onboard your plane. We hope you enjoy your lunch in Lodi.

IFR Departure Procedures
2023-06-21 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 learning more about advanced instrument related topics? Check out more of these seminars available on our growing Members Only Seminar Library which is available for viewing by Web Members. Click here to view.

IFR departures are one of the most poorly-understood and under-taught topics in IFR flight. The process of getting safely from the surface, avoiding surrounding obstacles, to the safety of the en route IFR structure, all while operating at maximum performance configuration, lower speeds, and high pitch attitudes can be daunting. IFR airports can have many different departure procedures. Do you know which one you can expect?
In this safety seminar, CFI Brian Eliot will review the selection of instrument departure procedures. He will provide a publication roadmap to these procedures and review the critical safety items, as well as what to typically expect in common practice. This program is a must for pilots working on their instrument rating, or working to stay current with instrument departures.

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.

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.

Flight Instrument Failures
2023-06-24 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 learning more advance topics? Check out our growing seminar library available to Web Members on our Members Only Seminar Library. Click here to view.

The flight instruments are a rich source of information for pilots. They are used both in visual weather conditions and instrument conditions, but are essential in instrument conditions. Most of the time they just work, but what happens when they don’t?
A key to understanding how flight instruments can fail is to first have knowledge of the underlying design and operation of the systems. The next step is to look at failure points and then understand how these failures will manifest themselves on the flight instruments.
This seminar will explore the inner workings of the flight instruments with a focus on points of failure and the resultant impact on the flight instruments. Join us to learn more about these essential systems and the failure modes.

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.

Arcana from the AIM
2023-06-28 19:00 - 20:30
This seminar will be held in person, 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 learning more from Captain Bennett Taber? Check out his growing series of Safety Seminars on a wide array of topics and professional flying tips. His seminars are available in the Members Only Seminar Library available to view by clicking here.

Think you know the insides and outs of the FAR and the AIM? Many pilots are familiar with the basic guidance provided in these sources, however there are many intricacies detailed in the seldom read pages of the AIM. There are numerous procedures, and techniques covered within the depths of the AIM that might be useful someday.
Have you ever heard of a cruise clearance? How about a through clearance? Vibal? If you have never heard of them to begin with, or if your palms sweat if someone presses you about this, then it’s time for you to expand your piloting knowledge and discover the full extent of the AIM. San Carlos Flight Center invites Ben Taber ATP and Check Airman of Dreamline Aviation to share with pilots how they can become safer, more efficient, and uncover some of the mysteries within the AIM.
Attend this seminar to raise your AIM IQ by 20 points as you broaden your knowledge on the AIM and understand how to utilize some of these arcane procedures.

Capt. Bennett Taber is a check airman and training captain with over 35 years and 19,000 hours of air charter experience throughout the western United States. His first 500 hours of flying were conducted in Alaska and has over 14,000 hours of King Air time. Captain Taber manages flight operations and charter sales for Dreamline Aviation in the San Francisco Bay Area and is a Dreamline Training Captain in Beech King Air aircraft.

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.

Destination Catalina Island
2023-07-01 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 learning about more exciting destinations? Check out our growing Members Only Seminar Library with over 500 recorded presentations, many which include highlighting unique and aeronautically challenging destinations. Click here to view.

Catalina Island, off the coast of Southern California, offers stunning Pacific island vistas, miles of hiking trails, and a tiny runway perched precariously on the top of a dynamited mountaintop. With the beautiful surroundings and scenery, pilots can easily get distracted from what’s below.
To better understand the flight challenges associated with this airport, San Carlos Flight Center invites Commercial Pilot Brandan Dadoun to discuss what pilots need to know when flying into Catalina. In this seminar, he will cover what unique flight planning considerations are needed when venturing to Catalina, including local arrival and departure procedures, open water flying considerations, route selection for IFR and VFR pilots, and transiting the LA Special Flight Rules area. He will review weight and balance, fuel planning, and discuss the facilities, services, and associated fees at the Airport in the Sky (KAVX) atop the island. There are lots of things to do once you are there, and he will share some of those highlights.
Catalina can serve as a perfect day trip for most pilots, but for those willing to do the advance planning and safety management. Join us for this unique opportunity to understand Catalina Airport operations, and how you can fly there safely.

Brandan Dadoun is a commercial multi-engine pilot with over 700 flight hours. He has extensive flying experience in both piston and turbine-powered aircraft. Brandan has been part of the SCFC community since 2015 and is currently the SCFC Event Manager where he oversees all Flight Center events, including its Safety Seminar Program and FlyOutGroup. In 2021, Brandan was awarded by the FAA for his achievements in promoting aviation safety. Outside of flying and presenting, he enjoys playing the saxophone and staying active.

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 Dinner – Lampson Field Airport
2023-07-03 19:00 - 20:30
This July, see beautiful Clear Lake from the air with a flight to Lampson Field (1O2)! Lampson is located just south of Lakeport, and views of the lake can be seen on downwind while in the pattern. The airport is relatively quiet, and is a great place to practice landings after a cross-country flight.
At the airport, enjoy lunch or dinner with fresh, local ingredients from Red’s at the Skyroom. This restaurant features West Coast fare with a variety of entrees and drinks for you and your passengers. With patio seating, this is a great place to replenish after a training flight or as a break on a long cross-country trip to the north. After your meal, venture around the ramp area to see a collection of vintage aircraft from a variety of eras
The airport also has an RNAV approach if you want to practice your instrument skills, and features 100LL fuel at a self-serve pump. Pilots flying out of this airport should consider density altitude due to the increased elevation and habitually high temperatures seen in the summer months.
If you visit Lampson and Red’s at the Skyroom, please let us know how it is!

Maintenance Logbooks Made Easy
2023-07-05 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.

Aircraft records are significant for safety and legal reasons. Maintenance and inspections are meticulously recorded in more aircraft logbooks, such as airframe, engine, propeller, and sometimes avionics. Pilots need to understand the details of aircraft logbook entries to validate the airworthiness of the airplane before flight, especially after the plane has returned from servicing.
Preparing for a checkride is one instance where the pilot-in-command needs to know every piece of the aircraft’s airworthiness. When was the last annual inspection? If 100-hour inspections are required, when was the last 100 hour inspection done? Has the work been logged appropriately in the maintenance records. Are all the airworthiness directives complied with? Being able to read and interpret maintenance logbook entries is the only way to confirm the aircraft is airworthy.
In this seminar, join Chief Pilot Herb Patten as he examines aircraft maintenance logbook entries and highlights what you need to pay attention to as a PIC. We encourage any pilot to attend.

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.

Air Traffic Control Panel
2023-07-08 12:00 - 13:30
This is a unique opportunity to hear from Bay Area Air Traffic Controllers in person including those from local facilities, NorCal TRACON, and Oakland Center.
It’s important for pilots to put a face to the voice they hear over the radio. During this panel have a chance to hear directly from controllers, strengthen the pilot-controller relationship, learn more about air traffic operations, and emphasize the importance of safe practices. Join us for this special event, get your questions answered, and enhance the safety of Bay Area Airspace.
This event will take place in person at San Carlos Flight Center at 795 Skyway Road, Suite A, San Carlos 94070. Space is limited so please RSVP by clicking the “Sign Up” button below. Unable to attend in person? Sign up as a Web Member to stream this presentation live, or watch its recording at a later date. More information on our Web Membership is available by clicking here. We invite you to stick around afterward and join us at our SCFC BBQ. If you plan on attending the BBQ please RSVP separately by clicking the link here.
Due to the large expected turnout for this event, registration is required. Only register if you plan to attend in person. SCFC Staff will be checking-in attendees the day of.

SCFC BBQ
2023-07-08 13:30 - 15:00
The San Carlos Flight Center invites all of its members and their families to join us for our second BBQ of the summer season. Join us for an afternoon full of food, drink, snacks, sweets, and activities for everyone.
We hope to see you here outside our main office at 795 Skyway Road, Suite A, San Carlos at 1 PM. Please RSVP below by clicking the “Sign Up” button below.
The BBQ is preceded by an Air Traffic Control panel where we invite pilots to learn from controllers and strengthen the pilot-controller relationship. If you are interested in the panel, please RSVP for the event separately by clicking the link here.

NO Safety Seminar on Wednesday, July 12
2023-07-12 19:00 - 20:30
There will be NO Safety Seminar this Wednesday, July 12th. Please tune in for the next seminar on Saturday, July 15th.

Capturing the View: Safety Tips from a Professional Aerial Photographer
2023-07-15 12:00 - 13:30
This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. For this seminar, we will be streaming the live feed from our presenter’s off-site location to in-person attendees. The presenter himself will not be in-person at SCFC. 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.

Our view from the sky is like no other. As pilots, we are fortunate enough to capture these moments through our own eyes, but how can we safely photograph these views?
San Carlos Flight Center invites Mark Holtzman, Commercial Pilot and CEO of West Coast Aerial Photography to share how to capture photos from the sky safely. For most pilots, taking pictures with our handheld devices may suffice, yet even then, safety considerations must be considered. In this seminar, Mark will share what pre-flight planning elements are required before every photography mission including the importance of two-crew and delegation of photographer and pilot duties, air traffic control coordination, and selecting a safe area to transit for photography work. With thorough pre-flight planning, a photo mission can be extremely rewarding. Mark will conclude his presentation with a showcase of some of his best work from over the years.
The world of aerial photography allows us to capture the world from above. We encourage all pilots who have ever taken or plan to take photos from the sky to join in on this presentation.

Mark Holtzman is a California native with over 25 years of experience as both a photographer and pilot. Mark has had a love for photography from a very young age. Similarly for flying, where at age 17 Mark got his pilot’s license and has been flying ever since. In 2000 he combined his two passions, aviation and photography to start West Coast Aerial Photography. Since then he has been highly sought for his work across the globe.

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.

Ground School Refresher Weather Theory
2023-07-19 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 learning more about ground school related topics? Check out more of these seminars available on our growing Members Only Seminar Library which is available for viewing by Web Members. Click here to view.

Weather can play a huge factor in any pilots pre-flight planning and actual flight. Weather is a complex subject that can affect an aircraft’s performance, ability to generate lift, along with many other things. From the subtle forming of clouds, to thunderstorms and microbursts, how can you stay safe in the air?
San Carlos Flight Center invites CFI Nathanial Green to cover the topic of weather theory. In this seminar he will provide a general outlook on weather and how it is created, how the coriolis effect affects weather, how to detect adverse weather patterns, fog, and much more. Be more confident on your next flight knowing that you have made the right decisions for your flight.
If you have ever had difficulties trying to grasp the complexities of weather, then this is the seminar for you.

Nathaniel Green is a CFI at San Carlos Flight Center. He attended Utah Valley University where he completed all his training and certificates, graduating with a Bachelors in Aviation Science. Nathaniel finds flying to be one of the most exhilarating and challenging decisions one can choose. Nathaniel is beyond excited to take students through a similar journey of learning how to fly and becoming a pilot.

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.

In-Person Workshop – Under the Cowling
2023-07-22 12:00 - 13:30
This in-person workshop will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. This in-person workshop will not be live-streamed so the only attendance will be in-person.
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.

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

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.

FOG Lunch - San Luis Obispo
2023-07-23 12:00 - 13:30
This July, venture down the Salinas Valley to San Luis Obispo (SBP) and enjoy brunch at the Spirit of San Luis Restaurant. Known for their California fare, their omelets, scrambles, and hamburgers sample local ingredients and are served alongside an excellent outdoor view of the airport ramp and runways.
On the flight down, travel down via Monterey Bay, the Salinas Valley, and then descend over the rolling hills south of the Paso Robles VOR. San Luis Obispo Airport also has a variety of instrument approach procedures, including an ILS, RNAV, and VOR approach. This is a great opportunity to fly down earlier in the morning and log a few approaches for currency or practice with a safety pilot or CFII, and then treat yourself to some great food afterward. On the return flight home, treat your passengers to a flight up the Central California Coast if you’d like, with gorgeous views of Big Sur, the coastline, Bixby Bridge, and more.
Please plan to arrive at the short-term transient parking a few minutes before noon, which is located on the northwest side of the control tower. Leave the ramp, and the restaurant is a two-minute walk to the north.
As always, please make sure to RSVP and book your plane early! We look forward to seeing you at the Spirit of San Luis!

NO Safety Seminar on Wednesday July 26
2023-07-26
There will be NO Safety Seminar on Wednesday, July 26th at 7 PM. We invite you to attend our next safety seminar on Saturday July 29th.
We apologize for the last minute cancellation and look forward to seeing you at our next presentation.
-SCFC Seminar Team

In-Flight Vigilance: Stall Spins and Weather Product Awareness – CANCELLED
2023-07-26 19:00 - 20:30
This seminar has been cancelled due to a last minute presenter cancellation. Please tune into our next seminar on Saturday, July 29.

This seminar will be held in person at SCFC, attendance is free and open to all. For this seminar the presenter is unable to present in person, instead, he will present virtually to in-person audiences in our classroom. 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.

As pilots, we need to be aware of ourselves, aircraft, and things happening around us during every phase of flight. Throughout training, pilots are drilled into a variety of different areas. Notably, pilots must safely analyze weather products and stay vigilant in stall and spin awareness. While pilots are taught these things in primary training, why do these two factors contribute to nearly 25% of all fatal accidents?
San Carlos Flight Center invites Dr. David Strahle, CFI-AI and national spokesperson to talk about what he believes is the true reason behind the majority of these accidents and how to re-direct future training efforts towards reducing these fatal events. Over the years Dr. Strahle has seen accidents caused by these factors and how they could have easily been prevented. This discussion will revolve around recently identified negative changes to the color representation of NEXRAD images and how to deal with this setback affecting both your iPad and panel mounted systems. He’ll also cover the true reason behind the occurrence of stall and spin accidents. He will conclude how government investigative agencies may have inadvertently steered attention away from the actual factors contributing to these accidents and how we can prevent these accidents from happening again.
Join us if you are a pilot who is looking to get back into flying with safety in mind. This will also be of interest for those wanting to learn more about weather products, aerodynamics, stalls, spins and recovery procedures. If you are eager to learn beyond what is covered in the Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge you will appreciate David’s approach to these topics.

Dr. David Strahle is a CFI and Commercial Pilot, and is a nationally recognized spokesperson who has educated thousands on a variety of different aviation topics. Mainly, he has been referred to as the “Father of Datalink”, as Dr. Strahle wrote the initial research papers on transmitting weather into the cockpit in 1969 and continues to provide ongoing assistance in the development of datalink.

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.
