Last week we published the 26th edition of our Pilot’s Discretion podcast, marking one full year of episodes. This biweekly podcast brings you fast-paced and thought-provoking interviews with some of the world’s most interesting pilots, discussing everything from the latest technology to practical tips for safer flying. Each show ranges widely and ends with our rapid fire “ready to copy” segment, a listener favorite.
The response from pilots has been overwhelmingly positive. Pilot’s Discretion has been played hundreds of thousands of times, making it a top five aviation podcast. To celebrate, we thought we would look back over the last year and highlight some of our favorite episodes.
Busting maintenance myths, with Mike Busch
As aviation's best known mechanic, Mike has been leading the revolution in "reliability-centered maintenance." In this episode, Mike explains what that means, why more maintenance isn't always better, and how hot is too hot when it comes to cylinder head temperature.
How technology has changed flying, with Max Trescott
Max Trescott has strong opinions about pilots and technology, including: "the debate about the parachute is over" and "the autopilot is the glass cockpit." In this fast-paced episode, Max makes the case that technology has changed and pilots need to change too. He also shares tips for flying stabilized approaches, how to use an iPad to avoid terrain, and why the track vector on glass cockpits is often overlooked.
Debating “the impossible turn,” with Capt. Brian Schiff
The engine just quit on takeoff—should you try to turn back to the airport? Conventional wisdom says no, but airline captain and flight instructor Brian Schiff says the truth is more complicated than that. He explains why the so-called "impossible turn" isn't so impossible, and what pilots need to practice before considering the turn-back.
Writing America’s story from a Cirrus, with James Fallows
Flying a small airplane is “like being in a skyscraper that moves,” according to award-winning author James Fallows. He used that view to research his latest book, Our Towns, flying his Cirrus SR22 to more than 50 American cities that lie beyond the airline routes and highways. He explains how small airports can be a point of connection for these communities and why safety is so important for general aviation's image.
Controversial aviation opinions, with AOPA’s Dave Hirschman
Flight instructors should talk less. Experimental airplanes are clearly better than certified ones. Waterskiing an airplane is a terrible idea. Dave Hirschman, a well-known writer for AOPA and a pilot with a wide range of experience in everything from taildraggers to jets, doesn't think these are controversial opinions. He believes them because the facts support them, and more people should just admit it.
Listen to all episodes here >>
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