Rob, Scott, and Lee explore the requirements of FAR 61.129 for obtaining a commercial pilot certificate and discuss the challenges pilots face when pursuing this rating.

• Breaking down the 250 total flight hours needed for commercial certification
• Analyzing the cross-country time requirements and how most pilots struggle to accumulate enough
• Discussing instrument training requirements and instructor qualifications
• Exploring complex aircraft options and the 10-hour training requirement
• Addressing the anxiety around night flying requirements and safety considerations
• Lee sharing his adventure flying a Super Cub cross-country through turbulence and challenging conditions
• Examining the differences between part 141 and part 61 training approaches
• Discussing the concept of a premium tailwheel-focused flight school
• Debating the value of learning to fly in tailwheel aircraft for developing better stick-and-rudder skills

Check out https://forum.pilotground.com/t/142-commercial-pilot-requirements-far-61-129/89 to connect with other aviators and continue these discussions!

* Episode title and description brought to you by AI

https://GetTailNumbers.com

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Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

The crew returns after a long hiatus to catch up and dive into Lee's journey of airplane shopping, focusing on his decision between an Aviat Husky and a Piper Super Cub.

Watch the unedited livestream of this episode here:

https://rumble.com/v6puyds-far-aim-podcast-aviation-small-airplanes-drinking-ketohol.html?e9s=src_v1_ucp

• Lee explains how he shifted his aircraft mission from family transportation to personal enjoyment
• Detailed comparison between Husky's modern design and better cruise speed versus Super Cub's lighter weight and heritage appeal
• Scott advocates for the humble Cessna 150 as the practical alternative that meets the same basic mission
• Discussion of the emotional aspects of airplane ownership that often override practical considerations
• Lee reveals his final choice: a 90-horsepower Super Cub with no electrical system, weighing just 760 pounds
• Examination of recent aviation accidents including the Blackhawk/CRJ collision and runway incursions
• Safety discussion about treating all propellers as "hot" regardless of ignition switch position
• Debate about whether AI air traffic control could prevent accidents in the future
• The hosts reflect on why NOTAMs have returned to being "Notices to Airmen" rather than "Air Missions"

Scott is drinking his new synthetic alcohol (R 1,3 butanediol) so we'll see how that goes.

The FAR AIM Podcast will continue on an occasional basis - likely quarterly - as the hosts' schedules permit.

Episode title, description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Ready for a sky-rocketing adventure into the world of aviation? We've got an episode lined with intriguing insights and exciting tales of navigating through thunderstorms and airfield gradients. One moment we're dodging weather anomalies, and the next, we're making a calculated take-off from a challenging Virginia airport. Along the way, we'll share how flight simulator games aren't just for fun but can also be a practical tool to sharpen piloting skills.

As we soar through the skies of aviation, we also venture into the crucial aspects of flight safety. We zero in on the importance of proper gear from life jackets to Mustang Survival inflatable jackets, the role of planning for wind conditions, altitude, and the indispensable value of a life raft in emergencies. We even have an entertaining debate on the legality of drinking while flying an ultralight vehicle, making you rethink the implications of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

Our journey doesn't end there. We dip our toes into water activity preparations, discussing the essential gear for safe flying over bodies of water. Hear us compare Mustang and Gumby suits and their role in cold weather conditions. Plus, we've got a fun twist for you - a Bud Light comparison, German vs American. Now, who wouldn't want to know about that? Buckle up, and join us as we navigate the turbulent and thrilling skies of aviation.

Episode description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Big news coming your way, folks! Our very own Lee is embarking on a thrilling new journey with a large air carrier, stepping into a thrilling world that promises plenty of intriguing experiences. As he navigates the multi-month training process, we have a unique opportunity to peek behind the curtain of what it feels like to be typed on an aircraft larger than any Lee's been typed on before. Buckle up as we prepare to bring you the rollercoaster ride of Lee's new venture.

In light of these developments, our regular episodes may become a bit sporadic. But fear not, we are committed to keeping the quality of our content as high as ever. In fact, we're sitting on some extra content that we can't wait to share with you. Think unusual audio clips, intriguing insights, and a whole lot of aviation thrill. As Lee settles into his new role and shares his adventures, we're certain that the richness of his experiences will add a new dimension to our show. So, thank you for sticking with us and get ready for a period of radio silence which promises to return with hitherto unheard tales from the sky!

Episode description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Are you ready to take your flying skills to the next level? Today, we bring you an in-depth guide on how to become a certified flight instructor. We unpack all the crucial elements, from the differences between a flight review and a biennial, to the nuances of flying different aircraft, such as the 150 and 172. We also walk you through the process of obtaining a CFII and emphasize the importance of continuous practice and skill refinement.

Have you ever wondered why biannual flight reviews are so crucial? Stick around as we dive into the nitty-gritty of energy management, slips, and the imperative of practicing takeoffs and landings. We also break down complex maneuvers like deep turns, slow flight, and stalls, and differentiate their execution in banner and non-banner planes. As a bonus, we reveal the necessity of rewriting the POH and the secret of landing with the flaps in the last five feet.

In our final segment, we lay bare the strategies for flying into a Bravo airspace and the associated costs. We stress the need for a constant scan during steep turns and caution against the risks of using landmarks for landing. We delve into airport anxiety and discuss the practicality of the application template. Wrapping up, we explore the concept of a legend flight and address the common fear of thunderstorms among pilots. Trust us, you don't want to miss this!

Episode description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Join us for an electrifying conversation with Lake Erie Island's flight legend, Jeff Danevich, a former student of Lee, as we venture through the exhilarating yet nerve-racking universe of flight instruction and solo aviation. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, perspectives, and first-hand anecdotes, making it a must-listen for aspiring pilots, experienced instructors, or just anyone who admires the boundless skies. Our dialogue navigates the enigmatic journey from ground zero to a successful first solo flight, addressing the instructor's apprehensions, illuminating safety protocols, and setting the stage for an unforgettable flight experience.

As part of the journey, we dive into the nitty-gritty of flight lessons, pilot prerequisites, and the financial investment involved in gaining your wings. We throw light on the medical compliance necessary for professional pilots while reflecting on the crucial first 10 hours of training. Not just that, we also explore the myriad of possible repercussions if the medical requirements are not fully understood and adhered to by the students.

Our exploration doesn't stop there! We take our conversation even further by discussing flight instruction strategies, the criticality of lesson planning, and the periodic re-up checks that ensure a continuous learning journey. We touch upon the art of instilling confidence in students, the intricacies of teaching aviation skills, and delve into the dynamic process of student evaluation. Tune in as we bring to life the mesmerizing world of aviation instruction, painting the clear sky with tales of flight and dreams of soaring high!

Episode description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Looking to fly high with your own set of wings but not sure where to start? Get ready to soar as we unravel the complexities of buying an experimental home-built aircraft. From novice-friendly Aircoupes to iconic J3 Cubs, we rummage through various models, their unique features, and the hard-to-find parts that keep them airborne. We even delve into the auditory aesthetic of the propeller hum, a soothing soundtrack for the skyward journey.

We then switch gears to the realm of Piper Tri-Pacers and Globeswift aircraft, using a 1957 Piper Tri-Pacer as our specimen. This powerful bird, armed with a 150 horse engine, is up for grabs for a cool $34,000. We ponder over the pros and cons of buying such a whimsical machine and compare it with its pre-1980 and post-1980 counterparts. And let's not forget the all-important panel and manifold pressure gauge of the Tri-Pacer, a vital aspect for any potential buyer.

Rounding off this aeronautical adventure, we consider the much-debated purchase of a Cessna 150. With a 1974 model, equipped with an O200 engine, going over Time Between Overhaul (TBO) and listed for $37,000, we ponder on the cost-effectiveness of this buy. Unearth the potential insurance pitfalls and other possible aircraft options like the 1966 Cherokee 180, 1979 Warrior, and the 2021 Vans RV 9A. So buckle up, it's going to be a wild ride!

These are episodes that are better watched than listened to!
https://rumble.com/v38bxsd-139-online-airplane-shopping-with-lee-griffing-part-2-of-2.html

Episode description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Ever wondered if the Piper Colt aircraft, with its fabric construction, is a hidden gem in the aviation market? We're convinced it is, and we're here to tell you why! With its 4,000 total flight hours and 700 cents major overhauls, the Colt boasts a unique appeal, perfect for amateur flyers or those wanting a cost-effective entrance into the world of aviation. And with a price tag of 20 grand, it's a steal compared to the 25 grand you'd shell out for a Cessna 150 or 152.

Now, we know the fabric construction may raise some eyebrows amongst those familiar with the dominance of metal-cased planes. Thus, we've decided to take a deep dive into the world of fabric-based aircraft. We're discussing the costs, the necessary flight hours, and the maintenance issues you need to consider. Is it a risky venture or an exciting opportunity to experience a unique piece of aviation history? Well, that's for you to decide after listening to our lively debate comparing fabric planes and metal-cased ones. Strap on your seatbelts, folks - we're about to take off into an intriguing exploration of the Piper Colt aircraft!

See Video Of What We Are Talking About Here:
https://rumble.com/v36dvip-online-airplane-shopping-with-lee-griffing-video-link-in-description-if-you.html

Episode description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Are you ready to take off on a thrilling journey into the captivating world of aviation? Strap in as we demystify processes like reserving tail numbers with the FAA (yes, we have our own official one - 151 Whiskey Whiskey) and navigate the high-stakes communication between ATC and pilots. We promise an informative, engaging, and exciting conversation ranging from the trials of aviation life, to the nitty-gritty details of Bore Cycle's parts.

Imagine trying to get flight following over Lake Michigan, and now imagine being told ATC is too busy to respond. That's a reality we explore, discussing the challenges of communication in high workload environments. Always prepared, we also talk about unconventional safety measures like life jackets and milk jugs as flotation devices, and the importance of a solid audio setup. After all, the last thing you need during an emergency is a microphone glitch.

And speaking of emergencies, ever wondered what goes into handling an engine failure? From static brake checks to the use of the accelerator pump, we lay it all out. We also delve into the importance of honesty in admitting the cause of such a situation, and the precision needed with fuel selector valves. We wrap up with a little fun - sharing stories of our favorite drinks and basics of aviation math. A splash of Coke in rum anyone? Join us for this riveting conversation, and let's take to the skies together!

Episode title, description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Ever wondered about the intricate dance of communication that takes place in the skies? Strap in tight, because we’re about to embark on an exciting journey through the world of aviation communication with our expert guide, Scott Bores. From examining a mock flight to discussing the complexities and importance of precision, we're taking off on a fascinating flight into the world of cockpit communication. 

Our trip starts on the ground as we explore the nuances of taxi instructions and the integral role of transponders for a Class Bravo airport. Scott unravels the layers of precision required and pushes us to consider how updates to the system could make it more efficient for pilots. We then transition into the adrenaline-pumping takeoff, where we learn the specifics of switching frequencies, the phraseology of the tower controller, and the significant implications of the phrase 'line up and wait.' 

As we soar through the skies, we engage in thought-provoking discussions on how to communicate effectively with air traffic controllers and other pilots. We delve into the critical nature of calling out aircraft positions, the different scenarios of calling out left or right base in a mock flight, and the impact of aircraft speed profiles on the flight pattern. This is not just an episode; it's an enlightening journey that promises invaluable insights for anyone interested in aviation communication. So, fasten your seatbelts, folks, and prepare for a thrilling ride through the skies!

Episode title, description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM