As pilots taxi to or from takeoff or landing, especially at major commercial airports, markings on the taxiways and runways provide important guidance. Under normal operations, this guidance is mandatory, so pilots must recognize and know what these markings mean. Here we describe the runway markings in approximately the same sequence the pilot would see Read More…
In the United States, pilot certification is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA has various types of pilot ratings depending on logged flight time, experience and type of operation, such as airline travel or carrying persons or cargo for compensation or hire. The highest level of pilot certification available is an Airline Read More…
All pilots are subject to flight reviews to check their sills and to maintain their privileges to fly. Private pilots through Airline Transport Pilots (ATPs) must undergo a Biennial Flight Review (BFR) or other, often more frequent reviews, to maintain their flight privileges. The Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) is a flight review for pilots who Read More…
In 1972, the Army put out a call for a Utility Tactical Transport System, or UTTAS, helicopter. After its experiences in the Vietnam War, the Army was looking for a machine that was better able to operate under fire than the Huey. The Sikorsky S-70 was the answer to the Army’s request. It came with Read More…
During World War II, the military used helicopters for light duties that included surveilling the enemy and landscape and patrolling the seas against submarine attacks. In June 1945, U.S. helicopters were used for the first time to evacuate injured soldiers from the front lines and fly them to safe hospitals. It was the first time Read More…