Rob, Scott, and Lee explore the requirements of FAR 61.129 for obtaining a commercial pilot certificate and discuss the challenges pilots face when pursuing this rating.

• Breaking down the 250 total flight hours needed for commercial certification
• Analyzing the cross-country time requirements and how most pilots struggle to accumulate enough
• Discussing instrument training requirements and instructor qualifications
• Exploring complex aircraft options and the 10-hour training requirement
• Addressing the anxiety around night flying requirements and safety considerations
• Lee sharing his adventure flying a Super Cub cross-country through turbulence and challenging conditions
• Examining the differences between part 141 and part 61 training approaches
• Discussing the concept of a premium tailwheel-focused flight school
• Debating the value of learning to fly in tailwheel aircraft for developing better stick-and-rudder skills

Check out https://forum.pilotground.com/t/142-commercial-pilot-requirements-far-61-129/89 to connect with other aviators and continue these discussions!

* Episode title and description brought to you by AI

https://GetTailNumbers.com

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Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

The crew returns after a long hiatus to catch up and dive into Lee's journey of airplane shopping, focusing on his decision between an Aviat Husky and a Piper Super Cub.

Watch the unedited livestream of this episode here:

https://rumble.com/v6puyds-far-aim-podcast-aviation-small-airplanes-drinking-ketohol.html?e9s=src_v1_ucp

• Lee explains how he shifted his aircraft mission from family transportation to personal enjoyment
• Detailed comparison between Husky's modern design and better cruise speed versus Super Cub's lighter weight and heritage appeal
• Scott advocates for the humble Cessna 150 as the practical alternative that meets the same basic mission
• Discussion of the emotional aspects of airplane ownership that often override practical considerations
• Lee reveals his final choice: a 90-horsepower Super Cub with no electrical system, weighing just 760 pounds
• Examination of recent aviation accidents including the Blackhawk/CRJ collision and runway incursions
• Safety discussion about treating all propellers as "hot" regardless of ignition switch position
• Debate about whether AI air traffic control could prevent accidents in the future
• The hosts reflect on why NOTAMs have returned to being "Notices to Airmen" rather than "Air Missions"

Scott is drinking his new synthetic alcohol (R 1,3 butanediol) so we'll see how that goes.

The FAR AIM Podcast will continue on an occasional basis - likely quarterly - as the hosts' schedules permit.

Episode title, description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

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Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM

Ready for a sky-rocketing adventure into the world of aviation? We've got an episode lined with intriguing insights and exciting tales of navigating through thunderstorms and airfield gradients. One moment we're dodging weather anomalies, and the next, we're making a calculated take-off from a challenging Virginia airport. Along the way, we'll share how flight simulator games aren't just for fun but can also be a practical tool to sharpen piloting skills.

As we soar through the skies of aviation, we also venture into the crucial aspects of flight safety. We zero in on the importance of proper gear from life jackets to Mustang Survival inflatable jackets, the role of planning for wind conditions, altitude, and the indispensable value of a life raft in emergencies. We even have an entertaining debate on the legality of drinking while flying an ultralight vehicle, making you rethink the implications of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

Our journey doesn't end there. We dip our toes into water activity preparations, discussing the essential gear for safe flying over bodies of water. Hear us compare Mustang and Gumby suits and their role in cold weather conditions. Plus, we've got a fun twist for you - a Bud Light comparison, German vs American. Now, who wouldn't want to know about that? Buckle up, and join us as we navigate the turbulent and thrilling skies of aviation.

Episode description, transcript and chapter markers brought to you by AI...

https://GetTailNumbers.com

-----------

Things change as the years go on. Regardless of what was said in the episode that you are listening to, the best way to reach out to the hosts in 2025 (and chat with other listeners) is by joining (for free) the Pilot Ground Forum here:

https://forum.pilotground.com

The best way to be notified of livestreams in 2025 is to subscribe to the Rumble channel (and turn on notifications) here:

https://rumble.com/FARAIM