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Check latest episodes from The VSL Aviation Podcast podcast
Illegal Charter, Operational Control, and Protecting Your Certificate – with Attorney Edward Hadley
2025/11/15
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth sits down with aviation attorney and pilot Edward A. Hadley of AeroLegal Advocates to talk about the legal traps commercial pilots face—especially around illegal charter, operational control, and holding out.
Edward walks through what actually happens when the FAA starts looking at you or your operation: from that dreaded "call the tower" instruction or ramp check, through the investigation phase, to 709 rides, legal enforcement, ALJ hearings, and NTSB appeals. He explains why you should get an aviation lawyer involved early and why on-the-record statements can come back to haunt you.
For commercial pilots flying Part 91 "pilot services," Seth and Edward dig into:
What operational control really means and why it often overlaps—but isn't identical to—PIC authority Dry vs. wet leases, 91.501, and how the NBAA small aircraft exemption fits into all of this How an owner or manager can unknowingly create an illegal transportation package (plane + pilot) even when "everyone at the airport does it this way" Why "goodwill" and time-building can still count as compensation, even if no money changes hands How holding out actually works, and why a business card or "I'm a commercial pilot" post is not the problem—the transportation package is They also cover risk management from the pilot's side:
Using the AOPA Legal Services Plan as "legal insurance" How PRIA and your employment history interact with being a whistleblower Red flags with Part 135 operators (falsified records, paper crews, pressure flights) and when it's time to walk away Practical advice on documenting concerns, using internal reporting channels, and knowing which hills are worth dying on If you're a commercial pilot, aspiring commercial pilot, or flying Part 91 for a business owner, this episode will help you ask better questions, spot bad structures, and protect your certificate and livelihood.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Aviation Law and Pilot Regulations
02:48 Understanding FAA Investigations and Pilot Violations
05:22 Legal Resources for Pilots
08:24 Operational Control in Aviation
11:02 The Importance of Operational Control for Commercial Pilots
13:58 Navigating Dry and Wet Leases
16:44 Understanding Holding Out in Aviation
19:38 Compensation and Goodwill in Aviation Operations
22:07 NTSB Cases and Legal Precedents
24:48 Business Aircraft and Goodwill
39:03 Navigating the NBAA Exemption
40:59 Understanding Entry-Level Aircraft and Pilot Experience
43:52 Compliance and the Role of the FSDO
46:22 Whistleblower Protections in Aviation
49:10 The Importance of Legal Consultation for Pilots
51:39 The PREA and Reporting Obligations for Pilots
54:41 Credibility and Ethical Considerations in Aviation
57:30 Resources for Pilots: AOPA and NBAA
AOPA Legal Services Plan https://pilot-protection-services.aopa.org/
NBAA and the small aircraft exemption https://nbaa.org/flight-department-administration/aircraft-operating-ownership-options/nbaas-small-aircraft-exemption/
AC 91-37B https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_91-37B.pdf
AC 61-142 https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_61-142.pdf
AC 120-116 https://www.faa.gov/documentlibrary/media/advisory_circular/ac_120-116.pdf
NTSB Blakely V Murray https://www.ntsb.gov/legal/alj/OnODocuments/Aviation/5061.pdf
NTSB Babbitt V Wallace https://www.ntsb.gov/legal/alj/OnODocuments/Aviation/5461.PDF
AeroLegal Advocates / contact info for Edward Hadley
https://www.aerolegaladvocates.com/
Legal or Illegal? The Real Rules Behind Pilot Compensation
2025/11/10
In this episode of The VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth lays the groundwork for understanding one of the most confusing topics in aviation: pilot compensation and illegal charter operations. He breaks down key definitions like operator vs. pilot in command, commercial activity vs. commercial operation, and the meaning of holding out. Seth explains how compensation, contracts, and operational control intersect, clarifying what's legal under Parts 61, 91, 119, and 135. This is the first part of a multi-episode series that every commercial pilot, CFI, and aircraft owner should hear.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pilot Compensation and Illegal Charter
04:09 Understanding Operational Control and Pilot Responsibilities
10:10 Commercial Activity vs. Commercial Operation
13:47 The Role of Contracts in Aviation
18:37 Private Carriage vs. Common Carriage
24:59 Clarifying Holding Out in Aviation
32:40 Aircraft Size and Legal Operations
37:28 Conclusion and Future Discussions
Links:
https://www.reddit.com/r/flying/comments/1kesimg/what_pilots_get_wrong_about_private_carriage_and/
https://sethlakedpe.substack.com/p/operational-control-where-legal-flights?r=j12c3
https://sethlakedpe.substack.com/p/the-history-and-importance-of-holding?r=j12c3
Professionalism and Culture in Aviation: Building a Safer Cockpit Environment
2025/09/12
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives into two closely connected themes: professionalism and culture in aviation. Using relatable analogies like libraries and football stadiums, Seth explores how environment shapes behavior and why developing a professional safety culture matters for every pilot—from student to ATP. Joined by John, a CFI/CFII/MEI and FAASTeam Rep, the discussion covers how instructors and flight schools can intentionally build culture, how friendships and professionalism can coexist in training, and lessons from both the military and airlines on creating a cockpit environment where safety comes first. The episode also features live Q&A from Discord and YouTube listeners, covering topics such as instructor-student relationships, right-seat solo policies, instrument approaches, transitioning to ATP training, and even the value of single-engine ATP certification.
00:00 Introduction to Professionalism and Culture in Aviation
02:32 Understanding Safety Culture in Aviation
07:24 The Library and Football Stadium Analogy
12:42 Building a Professional Safety Culture
18:36 Instructor-Student Relationships and Professionalism
23:43 Setting Expectations and First Impressions
33:25 Sole Practitioner Culture of Safety and Professionalism
46:13 Creating a Comfortable Checkride Environment
48:00 Professionalism and Safety Culture in Aviation
50:02 Teaching Instrument Approaches Effectively
52:54 First Impressions for DPEs
58:01 Military Experience and Civilian Transition
01:01:55 Communication with ATC for Training
01:06:11 Resources for Transitioning to ATP Training
01:12:41 Addressing ATC Challenges in Training
01:21:03 Single Engine ATP: Worth It?
01:23:11 Balancing Checkride Preparation and Pilot Competence
Bird Strikes: Lessons, Tools, and Survival Strategies
2025/08/23
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake shares a live seminar from the North Little Rock Airport on the realities of bird and wildlife strikes. Drawing from Arkansas accident cases, military and airline experience, and FAA safety resources, Seth explores the history of bird strikes, why Arkansas sees higher numbers than average, and what pilots can do to prepare. Topics include risk tools like BAM and AHAS, mental rehearsal for worst-case scenarios, practical recovery steps after a strike, and the importance of reporting. Whether you fly GA or professionally, this episode gives you insights and strategies to handle one of aviation's most unpredictable hazards.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bird Strikes
01:24 Understanding Bird Strike Statistics
03:44 Case Studies of Bird Strikes
05:51 Analyzing a Fatal Helicopter Accident
10:25 Bird Avoidance Models and Tools
12:23 Avian Hazard Advisory System Explained
18:09 Reporting Bird Strikes and Their Impact
23:21 The Importance of Studying Bird Strikes
23:50 Mental Preparedness for Emergencies
26:41 Understanding Bird Strikes and Their Implications
29:58 Engine Failures and Bird Strikes
33:59 Controllability Checks After Bird Strikes
37:37 Wildlife Hazards Beyond Birds
41:54 Reporting and Mitigating Bird Strikes
More Than Skin Deep: Enhanced Preflight Inspection for GA Pilots | Seth Lake Safety Seminar
2025/08/06
In this detailed safety seminar, DPE and CFI Seth Lake walks pilots through an enhanced preflight inspection process—going beyond the surface-level checks most pilots perform. Using real NTSB accidents from Arkansas, Seth highlights how minor oversights—like frayed throttle cables, loose spark plugs, or degraded exhaust components—can result in catastrophic failures.
You'll learn practical, actionable techniques to integrate deeper inspections into your routine, including:
How to test your autopilot and detect early signs of control cable issues
Why checking static RPM on takeoff matters
A simple method for detecting exhaust leaks using soapy water
What to look for under the cowl—fire sleeves, linkages, baffling, and more
Fuel system checks, selector testing, and collapsed bladder detection
Critical brake, nose gear, and wiring issues pilots often miss
When and how to do a proper mag check and fuel selector shutoff test
🔧 Designed for renters, owners, and CFIs alike, this seminar will help you build a smarter monthly inspection routine that can catch hidden risks early.
📎 BONUS: Includes discussion of checklist accuracy, placard requirements, and how STCs affect airworthiness.
🛠️ Don't just walk around—dig deeper. Risk is always present, but better habits can minimize it.
#PreflightInspection #AviationSafety #SethLakeDPE #PilotTraining #GeneralAviation #FlightSafety #NTSB #CheckridePrep #OwnerOperator #AircraftMaintenance #EnhancedPreflight #CFITips
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspection
02:47 Analyzing Past Accidents for Learning
06:08 The Importance of Thorough Pre-Flight Checks
09:01 Autopilot and Control Cable Inspections
11:57 Engine Checks: RPM and Exhaust Leak Tests
15:13 Critical Components: Carburetor and Linkages
18:05 Fire Safety and Engine Baffling
20:56 Final Thoughts on Pre-Flight Inspections
25:18 The Importance of Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspections
29:12 Fuel System Checks and Common Issues
32:33 Overlooked Areas in Aircraft Maintenance
36:49 Panel Blind Spots and Electrical Safety
40:41 Final Thoughts on Safety and Maintenance Practices
Live Q&A: CFI Renewals, MEI Training Tips, Wet vs Dry Leases, Aircraft Ownership & More
2025/08/02
In this live Q&A session of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth Lake tackles a wide range of pilot questions from Discord, Instagram, and YouTube. Topics include:
CFI Gold Seal renewals and FISDO processing
Understanding static pressure and pitot systems
Preparing for Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) training
Teaching depth for CFIs and avoiding information overload
Building student pilot confidence with maneuvers
CFII certification without a CFI
Instrument checkride common weak spots
Wet lease vs dry lease explained
Aircraft ownership considerations for personal missions
Home simulators for IFR training
FAA Wings program and proficiency tips
Whether you're a student pilot, instructor, or experienced aviator, this episode provides practical insights to help you improve your skills and understanding of FAA rules.
👉 Join the conversation: vsl.aero → Discord Community
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts / Spotify
👍 Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review to support the show!
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Q&A Format
01:21 Gold Seal Flight Instructor Status
02:18 Understanding Airspeed Indicators
03:43 Tips for MEI Training
05:11 Endorsements and Legal Considerations for MEIs
07:08 Defensive Posture in Multi-Engine Instruction
10:55 Targeting Knowledge Depth for Students
14:13 Handling Student Challenges in Flight Training
15:39 Mock Orals and Preparation for Checkrides
18:58 Skipping CFI for CFII
21:48 Using E6B vs. Flight Computers
22:37 Common Mistakes in IFR Checkrides
25:57 Utilizing GPS and Autopilot in Flight Training
27:13 Updates on CF-II Regulations and Instruction
30:33 Understanding Wet and Dry Leases in Aviation
35:21 Navigating Part 135 Operations and Pilot Training
37:15 Preparing for Instrument Check Rides
41:02 Engaging with the WINGS Program for Pilot Proficiency
43:57 Experiencing Actual vs. Simulated IFR Training
45:22 Principles of Aircraft Ownership and Mission Planning
Checkride Insights Ep. 4 — Jeremy Lashbrook on Airworthiness, Checkride Errors, and CFI Rolls
2025/07/31
In this episode, Seth sits down with Jeremy Lashbrook, a seasoned pilot and Designated Pilot Examiner with over 26 years of U.S. Army aviation experience. Jeremy brings unique insight from his extensive background flying both rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft, EMS helicopter operations, and type ratings in multiple complex aircraft.
Together, they discuss common applicant mistakes, tips for smoother checkrides, airworthiness pitfalls, understanding endorsements, oral and flight maneuver trends, and key lessons for CFIs to better prepare students. Jeremy also shares his experience with ATP and type rating checkrides, plus valuable advice for pilots moving into professional aviation.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Check Ride Insights
03:10 Administrative Preparation for Check Rides
05:58 Understanding Endorsements and Airworthiness
09:02 Navigating Type Ratings and Avionics
12:06 Oral Exam Challenges and Airworthiness Knowledge
15:03 Flight Maneuvers and Practical Test Expectations
31:37 Understanding Power Changes During Maneuvers
34:07 The Importance of Pylon Selection
36:45 Addressing Stall Maneuvers in Training
40:04 Navigating Instrument Check Rides
43:28 Common Pitfalls in Instrument Flight Planning
46:57 Understanding Special VFR and Weather Minimums
52:32 Personal Minimums and Decision Making
57:46 Final Thoughts on Readiness for Check Rides
High Altitude Ops: Oxygen Systems & Pressurization Explained
2025/07/26
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth takes a deep dive into high altitude operations, breaking down FAA requirements, oxygen systems, and cabin pressurization from both a technical and checkride prep perspective. Whether you're a Commercial, CFI, or ATP applicant, you'll gain practical insight on:
• The types of oxygen systems you'll encounter in GA aircraft
• How to calculate oxygen requirements for your flight
• FAA Part 91.211 rules and what "if installed" really means on a checkride
• Physiological risks of flying without oxygen above 10,000 feet
• Best practices for maintaining and using onboard oxygen systems
• Real-world stories, Q&A, and prep tips for earning your high altitude endorsement
Plus, Seth outlines how to use AC 61-107B as a ready-made lesson plan and shares additional resources including the FAA's O2 brochure, SkyOx system specs, and pressurization system maintenance best practices.
💬 Join the conversation in the Discord companion thread, ask questions live, and get featured on the next show.
Show Links:
High Altitude Operations:
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/training/Appendix_3-E_HighAltOperations.pdf
Airline Upset Recovery:
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/training/AP_UpsetRecovery_Supplement.pdf
AC 61-107B:
https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_61-107B_CHG_1_FAA.pdf
High Altitude Endorsement:
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/part-61/section-61.31#p-61.31(g)
FAA Oxygen Equipment Info:
https://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pilotsafetybrochures/media/oxygen_equipment.pdf
Aerox Pamphlet:
https://www.aerox.com/content/2022%20Use%20and%20care%20-%20Sky-ox.pdf
Reddit Question:
https://www.reddit.com/r/flying/s/yQOTAo3yNd
Oxygen in General Aviation Paper:
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/data_research/research/med_humanfacs/oamtechreports/AM66-28.pdf
Discord Server Link:
https://discord.gg/46zt3N8ckx
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to High Altitude Operations
02:47 Understanding Oxygen Systems
06:08 Pressurization Systems Explained
09:02 Training and Resources for High Altitude Operations
11:57 Physiological Effects of High Altitude Flight
14:47 Flight Planning for High Altitude Operations
17:53 Oxygen Delivery Systems in Aviation
20:38 Calculating Oxygen Requirements
24:02 Human Physiology at High Altitude
42:30 Understanding Altitude and Physiology
44:55 Hypoxia: Causes and Effects
52:16 Monitoring and Managing Hypoxia
01:01:48 Oxygen Systems and Maintenance
01:09:30 Emergency Procedures and Best Practices
Checkride Insights Ep. 3 — Nick Adcock on Preparation, Common Pitfalls, and Checkride Mindset
2025/07/03
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake interviews Nick Adcock, a designated pilot examiner (DPE) with a rich background in military and commercial aviation. They discuss common pitfalls applicants face during checkrides, including logbook issues, airworthiness checks, and the importance of preparation. Nick shares insights on the oral exam, highlighting knowledge gaps and stress management techniques. The conversation also covers challenges during flight tests, particularly in pattern work and decision-making, as well as common mistakes seen during instrument checkrides. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and understanding of regulations to ensure a successful checkride experience.
takeaways
Preparation is key to reducing stress during checkrides.
Logbook audits should be done before the test.
Airworthiness checks require a compliance list for ADs.
Applicants often forget basic knowledge from private pilot training.
Situational awareness is crucial during pattern work.
Decision-making should be the applicant's responsibility during tests.
Understanding the ACS is essential for success.
Common mistakes include improper handling of procedure turns.
Communication with ATC during instrument checkrides is important.
A positive attitude can enhance the checkride experience.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Checkride Insights
01:47 Common Checkride Pitfalls
06:13 Logbook and Endorsement Essentials
11:36 Airworthiness and Compliance Checks
18:18 Navigating the Oral Exam
24:13 Flight Planning and Alternate Requirements
26:07 Understanding Alternate Planning in Aviation
30:16 The Importance of Conversational Checkrides
36:33 Navigating Pattern Entry and Situational Awareness
40:40 Instrument Checkride Challenges and Best Practices
Checkride Insights Ep. 2 — Adam Boyd on Airworthiness, Instruction, and Checkride Readiness
2025/06/29
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth interviews Adam Boyd, a designated pilot examiner (DPE) with extensive experience in aviation. They discuss the importance of preparation for check rides, common pitfalls applicants face, and the significance of briefings and debriefings. Adam shares insights on airworthiness, endorsements, and the oral exam process, emphasizing the need for instructors to teach students effectively. The conversation also covers flight maneuvers, instrument rating challenges, and multi-engine procedures, highlighting the critical skills necessary for success in aviation training.
Editor's Note:
At 49:54, Adam stated there is "no high altitude endorsement." What he meant to say is that there is no high elevation endorsement. His point was that pilots who primarily operate at sea level may not receive adequate training on high density altitude operations, and there is no regulatory requirement mandating such training. The takeaway: if you don't feel proficient in a particular environment or task, seek additional training—regardless of your certificate level.
Takeaways
Preparation is key for check rides.
Briefings and debriefings enhance learning.
Airworthiness knowledge is essential for pilots.
Endorsements must be clear and accurate.
Understanding weather is crucial for instrument pilots.
Energy management is vital for commercial maneuvers.
Teaching should focus on real-world applications.
Instructors must prepare students for unexpected scenarios.
Calmness in emergencies can save lives.
The future of aviation depends on quality training.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Check Ride Insights
01:48 Examining Experience and Background
03:45 Preparing for Check Rides
10:05 Effective Teaching Techniques for CFIs
15:08 Learning Through Examination
18:04 Importance of Paperwork
22:03 Understanding Endorsements
32:09 Airworthiness and Safety in Aviation
37:23 Understanding Airworthiness and Pilot Responsibility
38:19 Navigating Weather as an Instrument Pilot
42:04 Icing Conditions and Instrument Ratings
44:25 Commercial Pilot Expectations and Energy Management
46:47 Multi-Engine Performance and Decision Making
50:34 Correlation in Flight Training and Maneuvers
56:48 Examining Flight Maneuvers and Instructor Responsibilities
01:02:28 Instrument Approaches and Adaptability in Flight
01:08:05 Engine Shutdown Procedures and Calm Decision Making
Checkride Insights Ep. 1 — Tom Guillebeau on Setting Expectations and Avoiding Pitfalls
2025/06/25
In the premiere episode of Checkride Insights, Seth sits down with Tom Guillebeau, a seasoned Designated Pilot Examiner and C-130 instructor pilot with the Arkansas Air National Guard. Tom shares his journey from mowing lawns for flying lessons to becoming a military evaluator, and gives practical advice for checkride applicants—from setting expectations to avoiding the most common mistakes. Whether you're prepping for your first ride or sharpening your CFI game, this conversation is packed with insight.
✅ Common issues DPEs see on checkrides
✅ What examiners really expect from applicants
✅ The value of clear communication and scenario thinking
This series is part of the VSL Aviation Podcast and supports the FAA's national CFI–DPE Forum initiative.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Check Ride Insights
02:51 Common Check Ride Pitfalls
06:43 Understanding Aircraft Systems
12:17 The Importance of Decision Making
19:58 Personal Minimums and Safety
32:44 Final Thoughts and Resources
33:13 Navigating Gusty Conditions
35:16 Personal Minimums and Risk Management
38:03 Cancellation Policies and Student Preparedness
40:38 Examiner Flexibility and Weather Challenges
43:18 Maneuvers and Flight Skills
44:17 Pilotage and Dead Reckoning
46:54 Stalls and Slow Flight Techniques
53:06 Emergency Procedures and Checklists
56:18 Ballistic Parachute Systems and Safety
01:00:07 Final Thoughts and Preparation Tips
Personal Minimums, Risk Management, and 135 Checkrides: What You Need to Know
2025/06/22
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives deep into the often-misunderstood topic of personal minimums—how to build them, stick to them, and apply them on checkride day. Using FAA guidance and practical examples, he outlines real-world risk management techniques, including when to cancel a flight and how to safely mitigate marginal weather.
He also covers the training and testing requirements for Part 135 operators, breaking down the key differences between 293, 297, and 299 checks. Whether you're planning to move into a 135 role or preparing for your next checkride, this episode has the insights you need.
Finally, the episode wraps with a lively Q&A session covering:
Eights on pylons tips
Diversions and checkride discontinuations
Handling fuel leaks on test day
What ADM concepts are often overlooked
Proper decision-making around inop equipment
Whether you can build time in experimentals
And much more...
🛠️ Tools & References:
ACS personal minimums sections
FAA Risk Management Handbook (Ch. 2)
Advisory Circular 91-67A
FAA Safety Briefing (Mar/Apr 2015 edition)
Check the VSL Discord for links to all referenced materials and join the ongoing discussion.
Chapters:
00:00 Setting Personal Minimums for Pilots
22:49 Understanding Risk Management in Aviation
29:55 Exploring Part 135 Training
30:23 Preparing for Part 135 Cargo Interviews
34:13 Understanding Part 135 Regulations and Checkrides
38:02 Navigating Checkride Procedures and Diversions
40:26 Communicating in Congested Airspace
43:44 Inoperative Equipment and Risk Management
49:01 Differences in Pre-flight Assessments
52:19 Aeronautical Decision Making in Training
56:07 Memorization vs. Reference in Aviation
59:56 Weekly Recap and Community Engagement
Decoding the ACS | Part 5 - Mastering Airspace: Private, Commercial, and CFI-Level Scenarios
2025/06/18
This is Episode 5 in the Decoding the ACS series, where we break down the Airman Certification Standards one task at a time.
In this episode, we cover Area of Operation I, Task E: National Airspace System. Whether you're preparing for your Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, or CFI checkride, this session explains how this task is tested across all three levels—with a focus on scenario-based evaluation using ForeFlight.
You'll learn how to:
Interpret ACS objectives at all certificate levels
Plan routes through Class B, C, D, E, and G airspace
Evaluate MOAs, TFRs, and Part 93 Special Airspace
Use ForeFlight's aeronautical and profile tools
Apply risk management in real-world flight planning
Understand Special VFR rules and limitations
We also highlight useful FAA references, online courses, and tips for briefing airspace scenarios effectively on a checkride.
Referenced tools and documents are linked in the ACE Guide.
Chapters:
02:29 Objective Differences
04:57 Knowledge Topics
08:58 Risk Management
10:00 Skill Requirements
15:18 Scenario Flight Planning
16:10 ForeFlight Tools
16:31 MOA Avoidance
16:31 Restricted Airspace
26:37 SATR & SAFR
27:04 Flyway Charts
30:34 Training Courses
33:09 Airspace Examples
37:24 Class C & ADS-B
40:42 Class B & Clearance
47:48 Special VFR
CFI Myths, MEI ROI, and Avoiding Illegal Charter: Live Q&A
2025/05/29
In this live Q&A edition of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake dives into a wide range of topics submitted by the aviation community. From the myths around required CFI ground training hours to advice on whether getting your MEI is worth the investment, Seth provides practical, experience-based insights. He also tackles how to avoid inadvertently participating in illegal charter ops, how commercial pilots can understand operator responsibility, and answers listener questions about time-building, hypoxia training, and spatial disorientation.
If you're a student pilot, a CFI, or a seasoned commercial pilot brushing up on the regs, this episode is packed with value. Don't miss the tips on interpreting Part 135 eligibility and how to recover after a long flying hiatus.
📌 Key Topics Covered: Regulatory Knowledge Misunderstandings around minimum CFI ground training hours
How to validate endorsements with AC 61-65J
Clarification on operational control vs. holding out (AC 120-12A)
What Part 119.1(e) actually allows without a certificate
Tips on checking if an aircraft is listed under a Part 135 certificate
Professional Development Cost/benefit analysis of pursuing an MEI
How to maintain continual learning as a pilot
FAA CAMI training options: hypoxia chamber, PROTE, vestibular illusions
Career Guidance Time-building strategies that airlines value
Stage check failures: how to report and recover
Advice for applicants to the DPE program
Practical Scenarios Instrument checkride failure from altimeter misreading
Transitioning back to flying after a year-long break
Risk of complacency in experienced pilots
Logging Time, Checkride Tips & Pilot Questions
2025/05/05
In this episode, we celebrate new pilot certifications 🎉, tackle common logbook questions 📘, explain how ForeFlight sources winds aloft 🌬, and clarify cross-country time rules 🗺. We also walk through a real listener landing scenario at KVNY 🛬, give a quick weather symbol refresher 🌦, cover what to do if ADS-B is inoperative 📡, and answer listener questions ❓. Stick around to the end for shout-outs and closing notes!
👉 Join the Discord for more discussions: vsl.aero
🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast app!
⏰ Chapters
00:00 🎙 Episode Introduction & Shout-outs
02:16 🎉 Celebrating New Pilot Certifications
03:42 📘 Logging PIC Time: Common Questions
06:22 🌬 How ForeFlight Sources Altitude Winds
09:44 🗺 Who Can Log Cross-Country Time
18:42 🛬 Listener Landing Scenario at KVNY
24:27 🌦 Quick Refresher on Weather Symbols
26:40 📡 ADS-B Inop
30:30 ❓ Q & A
➤ Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/46zt3N8ckx
➤ FAA ADS-B Deviation Tool: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/technology/equipadsb/adapt
➤ UND Magneto Trainer: https://aero.und.edu/aviation/current-students/trainers.html
➤ ForeFlight Winds Aloft Article: https://support.foreflight.com/hc/en-us/articles/203313449-How-are-winds-aloft-used-in-NavLog-calculations
➤ FAA Legal Interpretations (Gebhart, Hillard):
Gebhart:
https://drs.faa.gov/browse/excelExternalWindow/FAA000000000LEGALINTPR2009024PDF.0001
Hillard:
https://drs.faa.gov/browse/excelExternalWindow/FAA000000000LEGALINTPR2009033PDF.0001
Podcast reviews
Read The VSL Aviation Podcast podcast reviews
JackW4 2026/01/30
Best learning to fly podcast
Hope Seth makes more in the future. Going through my PPL right now and am listening to these over and over. Really hope Seth keeps them going.
Rocket305 2025/11/17
Deep Dive Into Important Aviation Topics
Seth Lake is a gift to the aviation community. He is totally committed to educating pilots, from student to ATP. While he does an amazing job explaini...
drews222 2025/11/16
Great Resource for Pilots
Seth provides some very up-to-date and extensive knowledge for those in aviation.
Hajvar 2025/07/31
Great podcast - don’t miss it!
Seth is an invaluable resource for the aviation community. Every episode is an opportunity to learn about something new.
EJ Nixon 2025/07/31
The go to podcast for all things General aviation
Seth takes his vast experience across aviation as a pilot and shares with those interested in pursuing aviation for a career or hobby. His work with t...
Mars Explore 2024/04/24
Methodical Instructor Who Is interested in your Success in Aviation
Seth makes good sense with his down to earth way of teaching aviation and when explaining how to fly airplanes.
WhitKraner 2024/03/04
Great content, easy to follow
I’m preparing for my private pilot
Checkride in a few weeks and the deep dive into the ACS has been really helpful. Excited for more episodes! Getting...
SoaringMidlo CFI-G 2023/12/08
Solid content
I am working toward my multi engine add-on and discovered the VSL podcast. Seth shares his wealth of experience in an organized and well produced way.
JB94083 2024/01/26
I wish…
I wish I would have had this level of instruction / information available when I was getting my ratings.
JB
KRKP
Jonny Klausmeyer 2023/10/05
Perfect!
I listened to the instrument ACS prep episodes before my instrument ride, and I truly feel that I wouldn’t have passed if I didn’t. AMAZING idea for ...
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