San Carlos Flight Center

Snow Command
2021-02-01 08:00 - 2021-03-31 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
It’s California and we do have snow in winter but you just have to know where. Hint: Have you had a mountain check out? Your mission is to find an airport with surrounding snow and take a selfie of either you, your plane or both and submit it to flyoutgroup@gmail.com. If you are not familiar with handling possible contaminated runways or have not had a mountain check out, seek out your friendly neighborhood flight instructor. Be safe out there.
And while you’re there, build a snowman. : )

Top Shelf
2021-02-01 - 2021-02-28 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
“Why top shelf? Because that’s where mama keeps the cookie jar.”
Many of us GA pilots who have been flying the Bay Area for years have flown through or under the SFO Bravo but have never flown over it. During the month of February, fly over the San Francisco Class Bravo and submit your favorite photo of the Bay Area from this altitude. At this altitude, you can see the entire Bay Area, and even into the Central Valley and beyond. See how many airline flights you can spot descending or departing the area, too. The unique angle is sure to provide a different perspective on the Bay Area, and you can see how small the region is compared to other cities around the globe. We’ll post these “satellite photos” for all to enjoy.

Airport of the Month, Paso Robles KPRB
2021-02-01 - 2021-02-28 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Located just north of LA Center’s Airspace is Paso Robles Municipal Airport, a busy non towered airport and convenient fuel station with the Paso Robles VOR on site. If you fly to the LA Basin, you will want to become familiar with it.
The Paso Robles Municipal Airport is a 1300-acre site approximately four miles northeast of downtown Paso Robles. Originally constructed in 1943 as the Estrella Army Air Field, the airport plays its own part in the history of aviation in the local area. It saw little military activity during the War, but its advent paved the way for the future of aviation in this area. Sherwood Field, located a few miles to the south, probably plays a more colorful role in the beginnings of aviation in the north county. The Estrella Field was transferred to the City of Paso Robles in 1973 and industrial and general aviation development has seen continued growth since that time.
Also Located next to the Paso Robles Airport at the end of RWY 31, is the Estrella Warbirds Museum which has long been one of the fastest growing non-profit museums in Central California. It is home to a vast collection of military artifacts, aircraft, vehicles and memorabilia. They are proud to be home of the incredible Woodland Automobile Display.

Training for a Commercial Pilot Certificate
2021-01-30 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

The path for all certificated pilots begins at the same place, as a student pilot. But after getting their private pilot certificate, a wide number of paths open. What is one way to take your flying career to the next level? Go for a Commercial Pilot certificate!
San Carlos Flight Center invites newly certified instrument-rated commercial pilot David Agranovich to discuss his experience training for his commercial certificate. In this seminar, David will highlight the steps he took to train and prepare for the Commercial checkride. He will review the prerequisite for the rating, the commercial maneuvers you must master, and the relevant knowledge that must be acquired. The commercial pilots license calls for extensive familiarity with all things related to flying, and it’s the applicants responsibility to ensure understanding in all areas.
For anyone looking to train towards their commercial pilot certificate, join us for this seminar to learn from a newly rated pilot and his first-hand experiences.

David Agranovich is an instrument-rated commercial pilot working on his instructor certificates. He’s normally found taking his 182 out for flights in the Sierras or running shelter dogs up the coast for Pilots and Paws. In his spare time, he works at Facebook leading their efforts to counter foreign interference in elections.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Ground School Refresher: Flight Instruments
2021-01-27 19:00 - 20:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

When pilots first start flying, they learn enough of the basic flight instruments to read and interpret them in flight. You have learned a bit more, but it may have been a while. In this Ground School Refresher, we’ll take a new and fresh look at the fundamental flight instruments, pushing maybe a little deeper than you did as a student. Join us for a review and maybe even to learn something new.
Can you answer these questions? What math is done to calculate altitude in a pressure altimeter? What is the formula used by the airspeed indicator? How can understanding the pitot-static instruments from a mathematical perspective help you troubleshoot instrument failures and faulty readings? Why the heck does the magnetic compass read incorrectly in banking turns? Why doesn’t the heading indicator tumble? In this safety seminar, an experienced SCFC CFI will answer all of these questions, along with any others you may have.
It is important for every pilot to have an understanding of their flight instruments, as many pilots rely on them throughout their flights. Join us to learn, review, or polish your knowledge on this important topic.

Sydney Rapp is a flight instructor at San Carlos Flight Center, and started flying at age 18 in her hometown of Dallas, Texas. She attended Saint Louis University where she earned her B.S. in Aeronautics and became a CFI/CFII/MEI during her senior year of college. After over two years of teaching in the Saint Louis and DFW areas, Sydney has gained valuable experiences she shares with her students to promote safe and fun flying. She is excited to be living in the Bay Area and teaching at SCFC.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Insights Into Effectively Using 1800WxBrief.com
2021-01-23 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

Pilots routinely use services from ATC but we often underestimate the benefits we can obtain from another service provided by the FAA, Flight Service Station (FSS). Talking to a briefer from FSS can be invaluable in helping us understand weather, get updated information and generally help improve our decision making process. But when was the last time you used FSS and are you familiar with the number of improvements that have been made to the service they offer?
San Carlos Flight Center invites Bay Area pilot Rares Vernica to talk about how he utilizes FSS to make better preflight and inflight decisions. He will highlight a number of the new features provided by FSS including the interactive map and local area knowledge enhancements. The seminar will also include a review of the mobile interface as well as mobile options for receiving updated weather as well as opening and closing flight plans.
If you haven’t used FSS recently, join us for this seminar which will bring you up-to-date and include a number of tips and tricks to get most out of the services provided by FSS.

Rares Vernica is a certificated pilot based at Reid-Hillview airport and an avid aviation learner. He has a PhD in computer science and works in the IT industry. Rares is also a volunteer with the Santa Clara County Search and Rescue team.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

G1000 Idiosyncrasies
2021-01-20 19:00 - 20:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

The G1000 instrument panel for small aircraft has been certified as a class III EFB (no paper required in the cockpit) for years. Pilots trust the G1000 avionics as a reliable source to deliver information while in-flight; but there are many intricacies that many pilots do not know about. Safety requires a full discussion of some specific choices Garmin made in system design, to prevent encountering something the pilot was preferred for.
San Carlos Flight Center invites King Air Captain and check airperson Ben Taber to discuss the idiosyncrasies related to the G1000 avionics. In this seminar, Taber will highlight things that pilots should be aware of while operating planes equipped with these avionics. The G1000 often has airspace lines that aren’t depicted on the MFD, flight plan entry restrictions, invalid weather depictions, no radio altimeters, and countless other complications while operating under IFR.
Join us as you learn about these new things that might’ve never appeared to you while flying this aircraft.

Captain Bennett Taber is a check airman and training captain with over 20 years and 17,000 hours of air charter experience throughout the western United States. His first 500 hours of flying were conducted in Alaska. 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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Overview of Instrument Training
2021-01-16 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

With the ability to fly through the clouds, and fly in various weather conditions; the opportunities for an instrument-rated pilot are endless. Pilots with this qualification can fly to more places at ease, but not without training and preparation.
San Carlos Flight Center invites instrument-rated, private pilot Travis Bender to provide an overview of his instrument training experience, and what to expect for any pilot interested in obtaining the rating. In this seminar, Travis will highlight the different ways he studied for the written exam and prepared for the FAA checkride. Travis will also show how he used various resources such as flight simulators, chair flying, and listening on the radio to help him excel throughout his training.
If you are interested in obtaining your instrument rating, join us for this unique opportunity to learn more about what the training entails, and how one pilot succeeded.

Travis Bender is a private pilot with an instrument rating in airplanes, and an Upwind Scholarship alumni, who learned to fly at SCFC. An avid adventurer, he loves flying to new areas and discovering fun places to fly. Travis currently attends the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington, when he is not in the air.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Blades of Glory: What Every Pilot Should Know about Propellers
2021-01-13 19:00 - 20:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

Is this tiny nick on the propeller an airworthiness item? How perfect does the paint need to be to keep the propeller balanced? If my propeller isn’t completely broken, do I still need to send it to the shop? San Carlos Flight Center has invited Samantha Bloodhart of Sullivan Propellers for an enlightening and educational presentation to promote awareness of safety related propeller and propeller governor issues.
Sam will review basic propeller knowledge for pilots, including design differences between the major manufacturers, fixed pitch vs. constant speed operation, realistic evaluation of propeller condition before flight, and the inherent dangers of deferring propeller (or any other aircraft) maintenance. She will discuss some of the common propeller Airworthiness Directives that are owner-operator responsibility (not just mechanics). Finally, she will explain the differences between overhaul, dynamic balancing, and other major types of propeller/governor service. This is all supported with numerous photos and years of anecdotes (some amusing and some amazing).
Propellers are an essential part of flight, and pilots should gain a better understanding about them. If you want to gain more knowledge about what keeps you flying, we encourage all pilots to attend.

Samantha Bloodhart moved to the Bay Area in 1994 from Ohio to open Sullivan Propeller Specialists with her partner Brian Sullivan. Sullivan Propeller has been in business in Hayward since we opened, now 23 years. She is a licensed FAA Repairman. Currently she is the voice of Sullivan Propeller – handling most of the administrative tasks as well as front-line on customer service. Samantha is also the primary administrator for our Repair Station and handles all the FAA requirements/compliance issues as such. Bloodhart founded Sullivan Propeller in 1994, along with Brian Sullivan.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

The Chemistry of Combustion: A Molecular Look into Aviation Fuel
2021-01-09 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

One of the first tasks a student pilot learns is to make sure during the preflight check that the proper fuel is loaded into the airplane. This is a critical step since having the wrong fuel onboard leads to engine malfunction and failure. Sadly, misfueling accidents continue to occur on a regular basis. But what is it that differentiates aviation fuels and why is it critical to have the proper fuel for the airplane?
In this seminar, join us as San Carlos Flight Center invites AGI Michel Vidal-Naquet as he gives a high level overview of the different fuels used in aviation: how fuel is produced from crude oil, what are the chemical differences between the grades of Avgas and Jet-fuel, and what is the chemistry of combustion and its relation to aircraft engine design. We will also address other issues such as the use of lead and discuss some misfueling accidents.
The seminar will lead to a deeper understanding of aviation fuel characteristics, and raise awareness about the critical importance of the fuel pre-flight check.

Michel Vidal-Naquet is an advanced and instrument ground instructor, and an instrument rated, commercial pilot with over 700 flight hours. He started flying in 2013 after settling in the Bay area to work as a computer scientist and engineer. His passion for aviation began during his early childhood when his family first took him on international flights. He brings a scientific point of view to his flying, and is always learning.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Tips for Using ForeFlight for a VFR Pilot Beginning Instrument Training
2021-01-06 19:00 - 20:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

ForeFlight, the iPad based electronic flight tools app, provides a lot of information for pilots to use both on the ground and in-flight. For VFR pilots that have mastered the functionality of ForeFlight relevant to VFR operations, is a different approach required?
If you are a Private Pilot beginning instrument training, you may be feeling a little lost in the fog of how to effectively use ForeFlight for your instrument training. What taps bring up the instrument approach chart? How can you use ForeFlight to plan and file an instrument flight plan?
In this seminar, SCFC Chief Pilot Herb Patten will provide guidance for VFR pilots wanting to get the most out of ForeFlight, as they begin their instrument training. Tune in with your iPad at the ready so you can follow along.
Although we have many seminars devoted to ForeFlight use, this should be an interesting and new approach specifically for instrument students. Find out how to use ForeFlight to become cleared to depart and not have to go missed in your training.

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 1,500 hours into at least 120 different California airports. He is the current chairman of the Upwind Foundation, famous for its Upwind Summer Scholarship Program. In 2015, Herb was named a Master Instructor by the National Association of Flight Instructors.

San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) is the SF Bay Area’s most dynamic flying club, committed to building general aviation throughh safety, community, and adventure. AOPA has consistently recognized SCFC in their Best Flight School survey, most recently in 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Destination: San Diego
2021-01-02 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

San Diego, a city known for its warm temperatures, beautiful skyline and picturesque views is a perfect place for pilots to visit. With decent flight planning, and consideration, a memorable trip awaits you in San Diego; a great cross-country destination from the Bay Area.
San Carlos Flight Center invites CFI Kyle Smathers and student pilot Macario Namie to discuss their recent flight training adventure to Palomar, an airport closely located to San Diego. In this seminar, they will cover the various weather conditions encountered during their flight, operations in LAX class B airspace, and how they used the flight to meet the training requirement for a long cross-country flight. Long flights require planning, but often things don’t go to plan. For trips to coastal cities, you’ll need to factor in the possibility of coastal fog affecting your planned departure.
Join us for a unique opportunity to hear from both sides of the cockpit as the trip unfolds into a learning experience for all.

Kyle Smathers started flying in 2011 and is passionate about aviation. Kyle graduated from SJSU with an Aerospace Engineering degree, and now works as a CFI at San Carlos Flight Center. He is a Commercial: ASEL, Instrument Airplane Pilot. He offers training in Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, High performance transition, Complex transition and Flight review.

Macario Namie is a recently certificated private pilot. After he obtains his certificate he plans to make frequent trips to the San Diego/SoCal area to visit family and friends; he thought bringing his CFI along while he was still a student was a great way to become acquainted with the complex area.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Webinar
2021-01-02 08:00 - 17:00, 2020-12-02 08:00 - 17:00 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:

New Airport of the Month – KPTV
2021-01-01 - 2021-01-31 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
2021 brings in a new year and FOG would like to explore a new airport every month. If you have been to our choice, investigate another and fill us in.
This month, Porterville Municipal Airport (KPTV) is our choice. The airport was opened in September 1942 as Porterville Army Airfield and was used by the United States Army Air Forces Fourth Air Force as a training base during World War II. Located between Fresno and Bakersfield, it’s a great place to stop and refuel on a flight between the Bay Area and the Southwest. The proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains is also a sight to see, as descending to Porterville from altitude affords pilots a great view of the mountains on a clear day. For instrument pilots or students, Porterville has a handful of approaches to practice, as well.
It’s an easy place to land and fuel and the gas is inexpensive. Check it out and let us know your thoughts. We think you’ll use it in the future.

IFR Pilots Assemble
2021-01-01 - 2021-01-31 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
IFR Pilots assemble! Your mission is to fly down to Southern California anytime this month and complete at least ONE Tower Enroute Control (TEC) Route of your choice. While TEC routes are prevalent on the East Coast, there is a handful of them in Southern California. The large-number of major airports scattered close to each other along the Pacific Coast presents a unique opportunity to fly under TEC. Instead of viewing LA from a high-altitude, try a TEC route the next time you’re traversing the area. The views will be better, and you won’t have to worry about airspace while under instrument flight rules.
Take a screenshot of the FlightAware tracking and send it to flyoutgroup@gmail.com Let’s see how many TEC routes we can do as a group.

NO Safety Seminars Dec 23, 26, 30
2020-12-23 08:00 - 2020-12-31 17:00 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
There will be no safety seminars on December 23rd, 26th, nor 30th. Have an enjoyable, and safe holiday season with your family this year.
We are looking forward to welcoming you back to our seminar program in the new year.
-SCFC Seminar Team

Airport Signs and Markings
2020-12-19 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

Pop quiz: What is the new ICAO standard marking for a taxiway approaching a runway? What is the difference between a relocated threshold and a displaced threshold and what does that indicate to pilots? What is a runway approach holding sign and what are pilots expected to do?
Most pilots have an operational knowledge of the most common runway signs and markings, but if you travel to a larger airport, are you knowledgeable about some of the less common signs and markings? If it has been awhile since you sat through ground school, you may want to join us for a refresher on airport signs and markings. In this safety seminar, we will review the common markings and signs as well as delve into other less common but still important signs and markings.
This safety seminar is open to current and aspiring Private Pilots, and will be of particular interest to student pilots and those who are preparing for a flight review.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Operating at Non-Paved Airports
2020-12-16 19:00 - 20:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

There was a time when all airports didn’t have asphalt, pavement, or concrete. Nowadays it’s hard to think about operating at an airport without paved ramps, taxiways, and runways. But if you come across one, will you know how to operate safely?.
San Carlos Flight Center invites Chief Pilot Herb Patten to discuss operations at unpaved airports. Sure you were taught soft field takeoff and landing during your private pilot training, but how does that compare to operating on a real soft field like a grass runway. Learn effective techniques for approaching an unpaved runway including what to expect on landing, rollout and taxing along with what hazards exist on unpaved runways. We will also discuss the details of airports with unpaved runways that are in close proximity to San Carlos.
If you are ever interested in what it takes to safely operate at unpaved airports, join us for this seminar.

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 2,000 hours into at least 130 different California airports. He is the current Executive Director of the Upwind Foundation, famous for its Upwind Summer Scholarship Program. In 2015, Herb was named a Master Instructor by the National Association of Flight Instructors.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Fly to Chico (KCIC) and Witness Where History Took Place in 1961
2020-12-13 - 2020-12-31 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
According to some “official” sources the first air hijacking attempt on American soil happened on July 31, 1961 when pipeline worker Bruce Britt, Sr., boarded and attempted to commandeer a Pacific Airlines flight at the Chico Municipal Airport, in Chico, California, intending to return to his home in Smackover, AK. CLICK HERE First U.S. skyjacking attempt was in Chico

Getting FAA Approved to Fly A Vision Jet
2020-12-12 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing

Many of us have flown in a jet, albeit in the passenger compartment or maybe in a flight simulator. A dream for some is to pilot a jet, and the process is not easy. It takes lots of skill, advanced training, and comprehensive review of systems and operations to fly them.
San Carlos Flight Center invites experienced pilot Kyle Harmon, a new Cirrus Vision Jet owner and type-rating holder to describe the process he took to become certified to fly a this exciting new aircraft. In this seminar he will discuss the two week process he spent at Cirrus Vision Center in Knoxville, TN and the preparation needed to pass his SF50 type rating checkride to ATP standards. Then he will talk about the series of long cross-country flight he took to build time and competency in the aircraft and to relocated the aircraft back to its new home.
Join us to learn about the operations of the first single engine light jet of its kind and the undertaking needed to fly it both locally, and transcontinentally. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity.

Kyle Harmon a commercially-rated pilot with a newly minted SF50 type rating, whom works in the tech industry and has been flying in the Bay Area since 2009. Prior to purchasing his new Vision Jet he primarily flew a Cessna P210. He is excited to share his aeronautical experiences as an owner of this one of a kind jet.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Investigating Airplane Ownership
2020-12-09 19:00 - 20:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

At some time, most pilots consider owning their own plane. Have you? Because of the large investment and the risks associated, buying a plane can be as daunting as buying a small home. What costs should you expect? Will owning save you money over renting? What about buying an airplane with partners?
In this seminar, Nick Williams, aircraft owner and commercial pilot along with Alessandro Franco, owner of the San Carlos Flight Center, will share the advantages of buying your own airplane. They will discuss choosing the right airplane, how to navigate the purchase process, and what to consider when inspecting a potential airplane. The challenge of owning an airplane doesn’t end after the initial purchase. It is important to recognize the cost of required maintenance as well as other future expenses. Nick will also highlight how airplane ownership benefited him as a pilot by providing him an opportunity to have a deeper understanding of your airplane systems and maintenance as well as allowing him to further develop as a pilot.
If you ever considered purchasing your own airplane and want to hear firsthand about airplane ownership and learn from the experiences of others, join us for this unique opportunity to become enlightened about airplane ownership.

Nick Williams is an instrument rated commercial pilot with about 300 hours, half of which are in his Cessna 152, which he has flown from Redding CA to the Mexico border and dozens of airports in between. He’s been a member of SCFC since summer 2018 and is currently studying for the CFI exams. Outside of aviation, he’s a project management professional in the software industry, and lives in Noe Valley with his wife and dogs.
Alessandro Franco is a pilot and the owner of San Carlos Flight Center. He manages the leaseback program and works closely with aircraft owners on a variety of matters, including leaseback contracts, maintenance, and aircraft sales.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Handling an Electrical Failure while IFR in Busy Airspace
2020-12-05 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about special sign-in instructions for this seminar

The Los Angeles area is one of the most challenging and diverse airspaces to operate in, in the entire country. Pilots flying around Southern California experience the stress of dealing with busy air traffic controllers, navigating busy airspace, while simultaneously managing the aircraft. Often while operating under such a workload, we do not consider what could happen if we were to experience a systems failure, but if that happens, how would you handle the situation?
San Carlos Flight Center invites Instrument rated pilot David Mackler to recount his flight to Southern California and his encounter with an electrical system failure while IFR. David will describe at what point in his planned route that he encountered the failure and then share his decision making process and how he evaluated the risk posed by the electrical failure. David will also lead this as a case-study discussion and invite you to put yourself in his place, what decisions you would have made and when, how you would have responded, and how it might have turned out differently. Based on this experience, David will describe the changes he made to his flight planning process, and lastly will stress the importance of effective communication with ATC about inflight threats, especially while operating in close vicinity of a presidential TFR in which David also experienced that day.
Flying long distance and in new challenging complex areas can be fun, but it is important to recognize how as pilots we need to prepare for all outcomes, and be ready to handle the unexpected. Join us for a first-hand account of a pilot’s viewpoint of a complex situation – and how to make the right decision.

David Mackler is an instrument rated private pilot out of Reid-Hillview and a refugee from the tech industry. He enjoys flying for recreation and occasionally for transportation. Although a late starter to flying, David is working hard to make up for lost time.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

WAAS or GPS Failures when Flying RNAV Approaches
2020-12-02 19:00 - 20:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

Instrument approaches have evolved greatly over the years. From the old VOR/DME approaches to ILS, and RNAV GPS approaches. With each new type of approach came more precision. GPS and WAAS-based instrument approaches have changed the way we fly. These approaches are very precise and have decreased our reliance on ground-based navigation facilities. But what happens if they fail?
San Carlos Flight Center invites Assistant Chief Pilot Brian Eliot to discuss what to do when you are flying an RNAV approach, and encounter an RNAV or WAAS failure. These RNAV approaches are easier to fly and more precise than the traditional approaches. With WAAS and GPS services available 99.99% of the time, it is hard to think about what would happen if they were to fail. Sometimes failures do happen, and it is crucial that we know how to handle them.
Join us, as Brian discusses what to do and how to train for these rare occurrences. You will then be prepared to handle this outage like a pro.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

The Sacramento Trilogy
2020-12-01 - 2020-12-14 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Anytime during the first 2 weeks of December fly to Sacramento California and land at all 3 towered airports in one day. Sacramento International (KSMF), Sacramento Executive (KSAC) and Sacramento Mather (KMHR). Submit a 1 sentence description of your flight to flyoutgroup@gmail.com so we can all compare all of our experiences. Don’t forget to beware of valley fog.

Understanding and Avoiding Graveyard Spirals, An Exploration of In-Flight Illusions
2020-11-28 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

In primary training, pilots learn that visual and vestibular sensations do not necessarily reflect the actual position, speed and attitude of the aircraft they fly. If not recognized and remediated promptly, the discrepancy between sensation interpretation and aircraft circumstances can lead to loss of situational awareness, with possible catastrophic consequences.
San Carlos Flight Center invites Michel Vidal-Naquet, an FAA Advanced Ground Instructor, to explain common sensory illusions such as the graveyard spin, the graveyard spiral, the leans and much more. During this seminar he will describe how these illusions lead to specific accident trajectories, and discuss how they may be recognized. Learn how to positively control your aircraft during all phases of flight, to prevent from these unexpected illusions from happening.
This exploration will help pilots intimately understand the nature of common illusions experienced during different phases of flight, how these illusions relate to specific accidents, and how they can be recognized and overcomed in the future. With this knowledge, attendees can become safer pilots with a reinforced understanding of the danger of sensory illusions.

Michel Vidal-Naquet is an advanced and instrument ground instructor, and an instrument rated, commercial pilot with over 700 flight hours. He started flying in 2013 after settling in the Bay area to work as a computer scientist and engineer. His passion for aviation began during his early childhood when his family first took him on international flights. He brings a scientific point of view to his flying, and is always learning.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

Thanksgiving - NO SEMINAR
2020-11-25 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
There will be no Safety Seminar on Wednesday, November 25th due to Thanksgiving. Go out and enjoy your Thanksgiving with family and friends!
Join us back for our next seminar on Saturday, November 28th.
-SCFC Seminar Team

Insights of Preventative Maintenance from an A&P
2020-11-21 12:00 - 13:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

Preventative Maintenance is often a topic that is confusing for most pilots, including who can perform the work, what work can be done, and how to make it legal. Mechanics work on airplanes daily and are familiar with all types of maintenance, and it’s crucial that pilots are aware of how to properly perform preventative maintenance.
San Carlos Flight Center invites A&P Tim Davis to discuss what preventative maintenance actually is, how pilots can actually perform it, and how to do so safely. In this seminar, Tim will discuss what tools you should have and how to use them safely, along with providing example scenarios based around the limitations of preventative maintenance for pilots. Furthermore, Tim will cover the basics of how to perform simple maintenance on aircraft including how to remove and install cowlings, install safety wires and cotter pins, put clamps on hoses, and including the all important logging procedure.
If you have ever wondered about how to perform preventative maintenance, or want to have a strong understanding of 14 CFR 43, this is the seminar for you.

Tim Davis is an aircraft mechanic at San Carlos Flight Center. A Bay Area native, he worked as a Quality Analyst for Electronic Arts and Blizzard Entertainment before completing aircraft maintenance training at City College of San Francisco and earning his A&P licence shortly after.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.

SpaceX launch of a Falcon 9 Block 5 Rocket - Vandenberg AFB
2020-11-21 09:00 - 10:00 | Vandenberg AFB
Take a plane down to the Vandenberg area to watch a SpaceX launch of a Falcon 9 Block 5 Rocket.
Click on the link below for more details: https://www.spacelaunchschedule.com/launch-schedule/launch-details.php?id=1311

Note: Date and Time may vary so check the link for updates

IFR and G1000
2020-11-18 19:00 - 20:30 | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, this seminar will only be available for online viewing. IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED.**
Click here to learn more about online viewing.

The G1000 offers a plethora of features that are used by both VFR and IFR pilots. All pilots should have a basic level of competence in operation of their G1000 equipped airplane, but it is even more relevant for IFR pilots because of the intricacies of the G1000 and the impacts of failures under IFR.
San Carlos Flight Center invites Brian Eliot, Assistant Chief Pilot, to discuss the most efficient use of the interface. This will improve pilot awareness of the various G1000 modes and understanding of incipient system failures. During this seminar Brian will cover the fundamentals of IFR flight using the G1000 interface, explain how to efficiently use the G1000 for instrument flight, and how to handle failures.
Join us if you are an aspiring IFR pilot and want to know how the G1000 will be a useful aid in your training, or if you are a seasoned IFR pilot looking for a refresher on the G1000 interface.

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 2019 as a Distinguished Flight School.
SCFC is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our regular safety seminars and guest speaker programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home, or recorded at a later date. Click here or contact a SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 for more information about online access.
