Straight in Approach vs. Straight in Landing

What’s the difference?  You make a straight in approach to a straight in landing, right? No so fast.  While these two terms seem to be nearly identical they actually have a completely different meaning. Straight-In Approach:  An instrument approach wherein final...
Approach Plate Pilot Briefing

Approach Plate Pilot Briefing

Now that you’ve seen what’s available in the margin data of an approach plate, it’s time to look at the pilot brief section of your chart. The pilot brief section may be the most important part of your approach plate.  This section has all of the...
Approach Plate Margin Data

Approach Plate Margin Data

Now that you’ve seen an overview of approach plate basics, it’s time to dive in to the individual components of an approach plate.  This lesson starts with the margin data. Many pilots dismiss the margin data on FAA approach plates as simply being the...
Approach Plate Basics

Approach Plate Basics

  Understanding Instrument Approach Charts is a fundamental skill of instrument flying.  Without approach charts, landing in an instrument environment becomes impossible. Let’s start building that foundation and learn what the major components of an...
Low Visibility in SFO

Low Visibility in SFO

On a clear day in San Francisco, nothing is more beautiful than the 28L or 28R approach over the bay toward the city.  You can see everything the city has to offer and usually marvel at the aircraft just a short distance off your wing paralleling you on final. This...