Strap in for Hot Topic #7 on the Black Box Aviation Podcast with Tom & Mike! This week, we’re going back to basics with a beginner-friendly walkthrough of a standard traffic pattern—something every pilot in training will experience on their first flight toward earning a Private Pilot License (PPL).

With Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Mike sharing real-world insights from thousands of instructional hours, we break down the entire first flight experience—from taxiing out, taking off, and entering the pattern to nailing the landing. Learn about:

✈️ Pre-flight mindset & taxiing tips
✈️ Radio calls: who’s handling what
✈️ P-Factor, rudder, and initial climb
✈️ Downwind leg, spacing, and situational awareness
✈️ Final approach, flare, and smooth landings
✈️ And yes—checklists!

Plus, we share two must-have resources for any aspiring aviator:
📘 FAA Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
📕 The ASA Complete Private Pilot by Bob Gardner

📬 Questions or feedback? Reach us at:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 Instagram/X: @the_black_box01
📞 Hotline: (203) 699-6792 (Leave your name—we might play your question on the show!)

Whether you're just getting curious about flying or you're already deep into your training, this episode will give you a clear picture of what to expect—and how to stay safe and sharp in the sky.

Black Box Aviation: Where aviation meets adventure.