Huafei Wang CFI

Modern avionics are becoming increasingly reliable compared with the legacy vacuum driven gyro instruments. However, the primary flight display could still fail due to electrical problems or sensor failures. In this practice instrument approach, we simulated the loss of the G3x primary flight display so the instrument student had to rely on the standby G5 and the GNS430W to continue the instrument approach and landing.

Practicing instrument procedures in mountainous areas under VFR is a great way to appreciate the details embedded in these procedures. The flight path can be incredibly close to the mountains yet these instrument procedures guarantee the obstacle clearance as long as the pilot has properly configured the aircraft systems and each segment of the procedure has been followed precisely. The most challenging portion in this instrument approach into Mariposa, surprisingly, is the final visual segment where the pilot needs circle to land with a continuous and smooth descending turn.

A beautiful day flying over the Golden Gate Bridge. An inspiration to pursue aviation as a hobby or career. Thanks Logan Lange for this gorgeous photo taken during our recent discovery flight.

Navigating through scattered thunderstorms is an essential skill for both VFR and IFR pilots who want to competently fly real-world cross-country flights, especially in the summer months over the high deserts in the western America. Strategic and tactical preflight preparation and planning, effectively judging the proximity to the dangerous thunderstorm cells and understanding the limitations of the ADSB radar overlays are critical to the safe flying near these unfavorable conditions.

As a certificated private pilot and an owner / operator of an aircraft, you're allowed to conduct preventive maintenance and approve the return to service per 14 CFR Part 43. The most common preventative maintenance task is the oil change. This not only helps save money and extend the service life of the engine, but also serves as a great opportunity to learn more about your airplane and understand how the different systems and subsystems work under the cowling.