Terrie Mead

The trek from runway to runway is well-trodden for many general aviation pilots.

As a flight instructor, one of the first lessons I teach is the imperative of pilot weather reports (pireps) in aviation safety.

In aviation, where safety is paramount, one of the most pivotal yet often underutilized tools available to pilots is the pilot weather report, commonly known as a pirep.

The allure of vertical flight has been an enduring fascination, with helicopters at the forefront of this intrigue.

The wisdom of John Wooden, an iconic figure in American basketball, resonates far beyond the hardwood. His well-known adage: “Failure to prepare is preparing to fail,” holds profound significance in general aviation, especially when faced with the daunting prospect of an off-airport forced landing.

In a gripping account of quick thinking and teamwork, the story of a Cessna Caravan’s near miss shows the importance of preparing passengers for emergencies.

As wildfires intensify across the United States, today’s student pilots face the increasing probability of inadvertently encountering smoke.

With global temperatures rising, pilots in the western United States are witnessing an uptick in the frequency and intensity of wildfires.

All pilots must be on guard against complacency, allowing attention to detail to slip or relying on memory for procedures.

Mechanical failure accounts for about 20 percent of all airplane accidents. How can we avoid landing among those counted in that statistic?

Winter flying, while scenic, can bring turbulence and the risk of airsickness. Being prepared—and proactive—enhances passenger comfort.

Ah, winter flying during the holidays! The skies shimmer with silvery hues, and airfields sparkle under a blanket of white.

With nearly 864,000 drones now registered with the FAA, chances are increasing that you may encounter one in flight.

In the vast expanse of the azure sky, it's not just birds, clouds, and aircraft you could encounter. With the ubiquitous rise of drone technology, pilots increasingly cross paths with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

In the vast expanse of the azure sky, it’s not just birds, clouds, and other airplanes you could encounter.

As a pilot in training, you’ll be required to plan a flight and then fly the plan for at least one night cross-country.

The AOPA Air Safety Institute has been at the forefront of promoting aviation safety, and our Focused Flight Review (FFR) initiative serves as a testament to this commitment. The FFR is an innovative learning tool designed to address individual pilot needs to bolster flight safety.

The first time you climbed into the left seat, you couldn’t help but feel a rush of adrenaline and excitement.

There’s something alluring about flying at night. The stillness of the air, the faint glow of city lights, and the seemingly endless expanse of darkness all combine to create a mesmerizing experience for many pilots.

When we climb into the cockpit for the first time with pilot certificate on board, a profound sense of exhilaration and freedom fills us. It’s a moment where we realize our student days are over, and we’re embarking on a journey as full-fledged aviators.