The VSL Aviation Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 4 Sep 13, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake dives into Cross Country Flight Planning, a critical task in the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS). Seth breaks down the 2024 ACS updates, including the use of electronic flight bags (EFBs) like ForeFlight, and how to navigate the challenges of VFR flight planning. He also shares insights on risk management, altitude selection, fuel planning, and how examiners evaluate your skills during a check ride. Whether you're preparing for your check ride or looking to sharpen your flight planning skills, this episode has you covered.

Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 3 Jul 26, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to VSL Aviation's series, where we delve into the intricacies of the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS)! I'm Seth Lake, your guide on this journey to mastering aviation standards. In Part 3 of our series, we'll dive in-depth into Task C - Weather Information. This episode covers the essential weather knowledge every pilot needs to ensure safe and effective flight operations. We'll also discuss the recent updates to the ACS document, effective May 31, 2024, and highlight the formatting changes in the latest version of the ACE Guide. This episode is a must-watch for student pilots, instructors, and aviation enthusiasts eager to enhance their understanding of weather information and stay updated with the latest standards. Join us as we explore this critical aspect of aviation, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to excel in your aviation journey. Don't miss out on this valuable addition to our comprehensive ACS guide!

Chapters: 01:06-ACS Changes Overview 06:03-New ACS Format 06:48-New ACE Guide Format 09:29-Knowledge Topic 1 - Weather Sources 10:20-Knowledge Topic 2 - Weather Products 16:30-Knowlege Topic 3 - Meteorology 31:56-Knowledge Topic 4 - MFD WX 33:40-Risk Management Topic 1 - Go/No-GO 37:52 -Risk Management Topic 2 - Using WX equip 41:30-Weather Skills 1-3

Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 2 Jan 20, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to VSL Aviation's series where we delve into the intricacies of the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS)! I'm Seth Lake, your guide on this journey to mastering aviation standards. In Part 2 of our series, we'll continue unraveling the complexities of Airworthiness Requirements. Building on the foundation laid in our first episode, we'll dive deeper into the critical aspects and regulations every pilot must know. This episode is essential for student pilots, instructors, and aviation enthusiasts eager to enhance their knowledge and ensure the highest safety and performance standards. Join us as we navigate through these pivotal regulations, equipping you with the understanding and confidence needed to excel in the aviation world. Don't miss out on this insightful continuation of our comprehensive guide through the ACS!

Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 1 Jan 13, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to the first episode of our new series at VSL Aviation! I'm Seth Lake, an experienced FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, and in this video, I'm going to break down the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS) like never before. This series aims to provide detailed insights and practical tips for aspiring pilots. Whether you're a student pilot, an instructor, or just an aviation enthusiast, this series will deepen your understanding of the ACS, helping you become a more knowledgeable and confident pilot. Stay tuned for more episodes where we'll dive even deeper into the world of aviation standards and training!

Chapters: 00:50 - ACS Guide 01:40 - Part 61 Qualifications 03:35 - ACS Element Decoding 06:09 - Use of Written Test Report 07:40 - Checkride Script 10:22 - Introduction to Task A 12:32 - Scenario-Based Questioning 22:40 - BasicMed 25:25 - Private Pilot License (PPL) Limitations 28:13 - Discussion on Illegal Cost Sharing 46:40 - Closing Statements

DPE Ultimate Pilot Q&A: Mastering Check Rides, STCs, ACS vs PTS, and More! Nov 15, 2023

Show notes

Join Seth Lake, a designated pilot examiner, in this comprehensive Q&A session where we delve into key topics every aspiring pilot needs to know for their check ride and beyond. Packed with insights from my extensive experience, this video is an invaluable resource for pilots at all levels.

Chapters:

[01:35] - Inop Equipment for Checkride [02:55] - ACE Inop Equipment Guide [04:47] - Flight Manual Supplements [08:19] - ARROW vs. SPARROW [09:42] - AGI and IGI before CFI [11:36] - CFII Weak Areas [14:04] - Top 3 Hardest Checkrides [15:28] - Instrument Rating – Now What? [18:58] - CPL Holding Out [24:46] - Best time to get SES and Tailwheel [26:16] - Flaps at the FAF [30:33] - Instrument weak areas [36:05] - Instrument Checkride Endorsements [40:43] - Private Pilot Diversion [45:03] - Flight Manual Supps for LSA [46:09] - Commercial Pilot Requirements [47:40] - ACS vs PTS [51:11] - Sheppard Air Test Prep [53:23] - Private Carriage Vs. Common [1:00:00] - Pitfalls of DPE Gouge

Whether you're preparing for your next check ride, looking to deepen your understanding of aviation regulations, or aiming to improve your flying skills, this video has something for everyone. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content like this!

- Follow me on:

- Discord: https://discord.gg/vkanc5ax - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vslaviation/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VSLAviation - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vslaviation?lang=en - Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/VSL_Aviation/

Your feedback is invaluable – drop your questions and comments below, and let's keep the conversation going!

Mastering FAA Ramp Inspections: Your Step-by-Step Guide Nov 06, 2023

Show notes

In this highly informative video, we equip you with the essential know-how to confidently navigate an FAA ramp inspection. Whether you're a private pilot, commercial aviator, or part of an aviation team, understanding the FAA's ramp inspection checklist is crucial for a successful evaluation. Using the FAA Order 8900.1 as our compass, we take you through each stage of the inspection process, outlining precisely what FAA inspectors will be looking for. With this comprehensive guide at your fingertips, you can ensure your aircraft and documentation are in impeccable order, leaving no room for surprises during the inspection. Watch now and arm yourself with the knowledge to ace your next FAA ramp inspection! Don't forget to hit that like button and subscribe for more valuable aviation insights. Safe flying!

Airworthiness Directives - An Introduction Mar 04, 2023

Show notes

Join Seth Lake and Josh Campbell from @FreePilotTraining in a discussion on FAA Airworthiness Directives. This topic is a stumbling block for many new pilots, and our discussion will help you understand ADs better. Check out @FreePilotTraining for a ton of great free content!

Check out the podcast website to find the interactive ACS for both commercial and instrument. https://vsl.aero/podcast

Check my new Patreon page, where I will be adding a lot of exclusive content. https://www.patreon.com/sethlake

Multi Engine Basics - Part 2 Feb 15, 2023

Show notes

Join me as I continue the multi-engine add-on series. In this episode, I continue the discussion of the commercial ACS and how I use it to conduct the commercial multi-engine add-on checkride.

Check out the podcast website to find the interactive ACS for both commercial and instrument. https://vsl.aero/podcast

Check my new Patreon page, where I will be adding a lot of exclusive content. https://www.patreon.com/sethlake

Thanks for watching the channel! I'm trying something new and building chapters for the shows so you can skip straight to things you might be more interested in. Let me know what you think!

Multi Engine Basics - Part 1 Nov 05, 2022

Show notes

Join me as I start the multi-engine add-on series. In this episode, I cover the training required for the multi-engine rating. I also get into the commercial ACS and how I use it to conduct the commercial add-on checkride.

Check out the podcast website to find the interactive ACS for both commercial and instrument. https://vsl.aero/podcast

Check my new Patreon page, where I will be adding a lot of exclusive content. https://www.patreon.com/sethlake

What Happens If You Fail A Checkride? Oct 28, 2022

Show notes

Join me as I discuss the disapproval process, more commonly known as failing your checkride. Failure is always a significant cause for concern; however, I think the more you know about something, the less scary it is. No one wants this outcome, but it happens and is simply a part of being a pilot. Luckily, it's usually not a big deal and will have few impacts on your long-term flying career. It won't be your favorite day in aviation, but you can easily overcome a checkride failure and have a good learning experience to take on afterward.

Thank you for all the feedback, I look forward to hearing more! If you have anything you would like to share, please email me at: sethlake@vsl.aero. I look forward to hearing from you!

For more information about VSL, including the option to purchase the interactive ACS and support the show, visit https://vsl.aero/podcast

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