Air Journal

1. How I failed my IFR Practical Test Twice

   How I failed my IFR Practical Test Twice
   Air Facts Journal

   I decided after two attempts to not take the Instrument practical again. The examiner was gracious and realized that, being over 55, I did not have plans for commercial flying and certainly not airlines (ATP). He reminded me it is not easy to stay current with an Instrument Rating and flying IFR by yourself can be challenging even for the most proficient pilot, especially if you do not have an autopilot. 

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2. A Night Flying Experience I’ll Never Forget

   A Night Flying Experience I’ll Never Forget
   Air Facts Journal

   We were monitoring the tower frequency at Erie, and we could hear a disturbing dialogue. A pilot was lost in the dark, in and out of the clouds. His voice sounded on the verge of panic. The controller calmed him, vectoring him out of the clouds and on to a heading for the airport. Soon his anxiety changed to immense relief as he found himself rolling out on short final at his home airport.

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3. Ask Mr. Pilot

   Ask Mr. Pilot
   Air Facts Journal

   This informative little column answers questions from non-pilots, and helps them understand the strange world of the “aileron,” the “empennage,” NOTAMs and even the word “niner.”

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4. Announcing the 2025 Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots

   Announcing the 2025 Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots
   Air Facts Journal

   The Richard Collins family has once again partnered with Sporty’s to offer The Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots. To qualify, the writer must be a pilot (including student pilot) who is 24 years of age or younger. The article must be original, not previously published, and no longer than 1,500 words. The topic should be "my most memorable flight."

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5. The pros and the cons: Cirrus SR22

   The pros and the cons: Cirrus SR22
   Air Facts Journal

   Cirrus had a controversial reputation early on, and to this day it’s the butt of some jokes. But it’s also the best selling piston airplane in the world for 20 years straight, a lone bright spot among small airplane companies who otherwise seem to be surviving on a few big flight school orders. And as I’ve repeatedly observed, the most vocal Cirrus critics are usually the ones who have never flown one.

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