Pilot articles, editorials and views from the field

Pilots Have to ‘Fess Up When It Comes to DUI

FAA Plays Big Brother in Aviation   We all know that drinking and driving don’t mix well, but the combination can have double the repercussions for pilots. When it comes to motor vehicles and alcohol incidents, all pilots must send a Notification Letter to FAA’s Security and Investigations Division within 60 calendar days of the date of an alcohol-related conviction or administrative action.   The DUI/DWI compliance program began in...

FAA User Fees Rile General Aviation

The Eternal User Fee Debate   Just when general aviation pilots were hoping the debate was over, the proposed federal budget for 2011 is calling for aviation “user charges.” The White...

WAAS: The Quiet Changeover to a Satellite System

FAA Certifies 1000th WAAS Approach   The Federal Aviation Association (www.faa.gov) recently hit a major milestone in the move toward a satellite-based air traffic control system with the...

General Aviation: The Changes Since 9/11

In the wake of the September 11, 2001 tragedy, general aviation security was immediately thrust into scrutiny.  The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the pilot community, and the...

The Pilot’s Vision Check-Up: Good Sight for a Safe Flight

The Certified Pilot’s Aviation Medical Exam   Federal regulations require that all certified pilots undergo an aviation medical exam every six months to three years to keep their current...

Why Do Pilots Face Radiation Risks?

The Scary “R” Word: Radiation   It ends up that pilots have some potential health concerns beyond odd sleep schedules and noise exposure. Pilots and air crewmembers are exposed to levels...