kevgardner83

Some projects can be grueling, and it can be tough to stay the course and see it through to the end. Many who undertake building their own small plane begin with a lot of enthusiasm but very little idea of what the project will actually be like. The process can become unpleasant, either boring or frustrating, and many will give up before they're halfway done. But there are some tried and true methods to make the process of building a small plane much more pleasant and enjoyable. 1. Get Creative One of the biggest problems a beginner builder will run into is that the image they had in their head of what the plane would look like and how it would all come together doesn't match how things turn out in real life. A good way to avoid this, along with many headaches down the road, is to build virtually first, by using a 3D rendering program like X-Plane. This will allow you to plan out your build and see how it looks, and even take it for a virtual flight. Visualizing is a big part of any creative process, so get some coffee, turn on some MSNBC live streaming and let the creative juices flow. Another great way to prep yourself for the build is to take an online class on plane building or check out a few books from the library. You'll find information on every aspect of plane building, and you'll get some great ideas for your own build, too. Inspiration is important when undertaking a big project, so don't skimp on this preliminary step. 2. Find Connections You may see this project as a solo endeavor, and maybe you prefer to work alone. But there will always be a point in any build where you just don't know what to do next. Whether it's issues with the kit design or difficulties with materials, nobody has all the answers. It's important for avoiding undue stress halfway through the build that you find a way to connect with other builders. There are a few great ways to do this, from online forums to local meetups. By having a resource when you run into trouble, you'll be able to stay on track with your build and feel supported along the way. You may even be able to find local members of aircraft associations that can come help you with some of the heavy lifting towards the end of your build. Whatever your problems might be, having the support of fellow builders will be a priceless tool in your belt. 3. Budget Correctly Even if you're a retiree with plenty of cash to pour into a project like this, there will be some surprise costs during your build that might throw a wrench in the works if you're not prepared. Budgeting for a plane build could involve paying for anything from housing structures to the materials themselves, along with any special software you want and the kit you use, if you choose to use one. Beginners will often buy the kit and raw materials and believe they're all done, but frequently will wind up needing backup parts or towing vehicles that can end up exceeding the original budget. The other commodity you'll need a lot of during the build is time. If you're working full time and only have building time on weeknights or weekends, it can be tough to realistically project when the build might be completed. Frequently, a build will be abandoned part of the way through because the builder got tired of pushing the deadline forward over and over again. It's important to be realistic about your time, both the time you have available and the time you're actually willing to spend building. These tips might not include a lot of fun, but by getting these tasks out of the way before you start your build, you'll be more likely to enjoy the process and actually end up with your own home-built plane in the end.

Airline pilots seem to have it all—a glamorous lifestyle, everyone's respect and the ability to fly all over the world. However, the reality is that this profession is stressful, demanding and is often characterized by certain health issues. Pilots spend almost the entirety of a flight in a small cockpit sitting for hours at a time. Coupled with long and sometimes scattered shifts, they need the means to stay physically and mentally content. Here are six ways airline pilots can maintain a healthy lifestyle. Get Proper Nutrition With long and sporadic shifts, it's no wonder a pilot's nutrition is put on the back burner. With limited choices for meals, flight crew are usually at the mercy of airport restaurants and eateries wherever they land. Many times they arrive after-hours and simply eat what's available. It's important for pilots to find a way around this by seeking out healthier offerings like salads, fruit and yogurt. Another options is to use a nutritious, easy-to-pack weight loss plan like the one in le-vel thrive reviews. Protect the Sinuses When flying, the quality of air on a plane is cold and dry. This aggravates the sinuses and can lead to frequent infections. When a change in cabin pressure occurs, the pain can be excruciating. If a pilot is prone to chronic sinusitis, he or she can benefit from nasal rinses before and after long flights. They should also avoid touching their face, use plenty of hand sanitizer and stay well-hydrated. Steer Clear of Fatigue Due to the schedule of certain flight routes, a pilot's circadian rhythm can be easily knocked off kilter. It's not uncommon for pilots to experience sleep deprivation when traveling, and insomnia on their days off. Both of these situations can lead to extreme fatigue. To avoid complete burn-out, doctors recommend that pilots get quality sleep before a flight. On the job, they should use caffeine at appropriate times, but never before sleep. Plenty of interaction with crew members can also prevent fizzling out. Stretch Often Pilots are subject to cramped quarters in the cockpit. Sitting for long periods of time isn't healthy and can lead to a condition called deep vein thrombosis. This happens when a blood clot forms in the lower leg or sometimes in another part of the body. To prevent this from happening, pilots should get up and stretch their legs at least once every hour. In more serious cases, compression socks can be used to counteract blood pooling up in the lower legs. Avoid Skin Cancer Skin cancer might be the last thing you'd think of as an airline pilot hazard, but remember, they're seated in front of a window for the entire flight. Above the clouds, it's always sunny and with the higher elevation, the sun's ultraviolet rays aren't filtered like they are on land. To combat the risk of sun damage, it's necessary to use sunscreen like you would anywhere else. Pilots should also report any new spots or moles to a physician as soon as possible. Combat Stress Stress is a big part of a career in aviation. Juggling irregular and long shifts, dealing with foul weather patterns and worrying about getting diverted isn't for the faint-at-heart. Plus, pilots are responsible for every single person on board. To keep stress from sabotaging their career, pilots must know how to anticipate problems and formulate solutions ahead of time. Maintaining good communication with the rest of the crew is also key in avoiding tension. Take Advantage of Company Wellness Programs Many airlines and healthcare insurances will cover mental and physical health costs. Talking to a therapist or counselor to talk through the stress and weight of the world can help clear your mind and think more positively. Using a gym membership or nutritionist to help find good balance will help you feel better. Many insurances and airlines will use crm for small business to keep track of health care costs and employee and customer health. They want to invest now in helping, rather than waiting for more serious problems to occur. Manage the Best Job Ever While airline piloting is one of the most admired professions ever, it doesn't come without risks. Fatigue, stress and a poor diet are just another part of the job. Luckily, pilots know there's an effective way to manage these dangers through proper rest, communication and nutritional weight loss plans. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, pilots get to continue to relish what is often considered the best job in the world.

Running an airline is a potentially lucrative endeavor, but it also requires a lot of hard work and attention to detail. The miracle of flight is something that requires an immense amount of preparation and consideration, and that is reflected in the businesses that offer flight as a service. These are the tips you’ll need to run an airline successfully. Data Storage and Security The operations of an airline will require you to collect a variety of information, and storing if safely is a major priority for airlines. First and foremost, there are documents regarding the operation itself, including flight records, black box recordings, etc. Financial records are also of the utmost importance. Last, but certainly not least, airlines will collect the personal information of customers, and this last point is what makes many businesses particularly juicy targets for hackers. To protect your customers and your company, you’ll need to invest in network security. Hiring on a cybersecurity specialist to help you navigate all of the top-of-the-line security measures is a good place to start, because cybersecurity is a complex field, and a solid security system will need to be pieced together with several pieces of software. Network traffic monitoring alone will require the correct software and a well trained analyst, and investing in that kind of expertise will serve you well. Safety Procedures There are many safety considerations at play within the airline industry, because there are many things that could potentially go wrong, and you can’t afford mistakes thousands of feet in the air. While flight is actually on average safer than riding in a car, a lot of people have an irrational fear of flying, and that presents a logistical problem on top of the existing safety protocols. First and foremost, this means that many safety features on modern passenger planes have to be hidden in plain sight so that the safety of passengers can be all but guaranteed without the need to remind passengers of the potential dangers awaiting them. All of that being said, something like turbulence is a fairly common occurrence, and it can range from totally innocuous to fairly dangerous. More importantly, it disrupts the status quo of a flight at the best of times, and this can trigger anxiety among nervous flyers. For that reason, the personnel of an airliner prioritize the use of calm and collected demeanor to calm passengers in the event of mild turbulence. Maintenance Airplanes are complex machines and, as such, need to be maintained in order to stay operational. Machines made up of many moving parts inherently experience wear and tear with use, and this will culminate in total mechanical failure if left alone. While this is a universal truth, it’s all the worse for airplanes. Where cars can pull over to the side of the road when they break down, typically resulting in minimal harm, an airplane that experiences that kind of failure will almost certainly crash. Airplanes need to be inspected annually to comply with the law, but you’ll want to ensure the highest level of safety by having its inner workings assessed a bit more often. It’s also of the utmost importance that warning signs of any kind should be taken seriously and should be followed by inspection and maintenance so that potential problems can be eliminated before they have a chance to cause an incident. It’s also worth noting that these preventative measures are also good for your finances, because a full on mechanical failure, even a minor one that doesn’t result in an accident, will incur higher repair costs than preventative fixes. Owning and operating a business is always a tricky affair, but airlines are uniquely positioned to be highly rewarding but have much higher stakes than the average business. However, these risks can be mitigated in order to secure a profit. These tips will provide some proven techniques that will ensure the safety of your staff and your clientele so that your business can be a successful one.

One of the major impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic has been that far fewer people are traveling due to the health risks involved. This reduction in travel has had a major impact on the airline industry. These are eight of the ways airlines have been affected by COVID-19. 1. The CDC Has Said Traveling On Airplanes Increases the Risk Of Coronavirus Transmission Being indoors for long periods of time within proximity to other people is one of the highest risk activities for coronavirus transmission, per the CDC. Because flying requires people to spend time in security lines and airport terminals and social distancing is challenging to maintain inside an airplane, it is recommended that people avoid air travel when possible and wear a mask when not. Passengers who can not avoid air travel may want to take extra precautions, such as boosting their immune function with products such as red superfood. 2. Two-Thirds Fewer People Are Traveling By Air According to TSA data, only about one-third of the amount of pre-pandemic travelers are traveling by air. Travel numbers rebounded somewhat during the late summer and early fall when the pandemic appeared to be improving, but surging numbers of cases and new evidence that flying may be riskier than initially thought has caused numbers to drop again. 3. Expect Fewer and More Expensive Flights With demand at all-time lows, current fares are down as much as 40%. However, airlines have long relied on frequent, full-fare flights by business travelers to make it possible to offer leisure travelers frequent, discounted flights. With ticket sales to business flyers down more than 85%, airlines may be forced to cut flights to less popular destinations and increase prices. 4. The Environment Is Benefiting A silver lining linked to the reduction in travel is an over 8% drop in global CO2 emissions compared to last year. The decrease in air travel is credited with 13% of that drop. While the decrease in emissions caused by ground travel far exceeds air travel, every little bit helps. 5. Many Airlines Are Struggling Financially Government-mandated shutdowns have forced many airlines to cancel flights and refund fares to passengers. Researchers expect it to take two to six years for the industry to return to pre-COVID-19 levels of passenger demand. As a result, it is estimated that the airline industry could lose between $63 and $113 billion in revenues. Many airlines have responded by reducing the size of their fleets, laying off employees and filing for bankruptcy. 6. Millions Of Jobs Are at Risk It is estimated that as many as 4.8 million jobs may be lost in the airline industry, representing a 48% reduction in the workforce. Additionally, the reduction in air travel could put as many as 46 million jobs in industries that support airlines in jeopardy. Another 26.4 million jobs in the tourism industry as a whole are expected to be impacted by the reduction in air travel. 7. More Government Bailouts Will Be Needed The United States government handed airlines $32 billion in relief through the Cares act, which passed in March of 2020; however, that is not expected to be enough to save the industry. Another $45 billion is earmarked for transit agencies, including airlines, in the current round of COVID-19 relief negotiations, though additional airline bailouts are unpopular with the public and some legislators. 8. Changes Made to Reduce Transmission May Be Permanent Some of the changes airlines have made to reduce the chance of coronavirus transmission during the pandemic may be permanent features. Examples include touchless check-in counters, health screening and changes in boarding procedures. Conclusion Travel restrictions and fears of coronavirus transmission have had a huge impact on the airline industry and the industries that rely on air travel. While the industry is expected to recover eventually, air travel will likely look different for years after the pandemic is over.

As air travel continues to grow in popularity, and the size of airports continues to increase, expanding their carbon footprint, there is mounting pressure for airports to contribute to climate change efforts by increasing their sustainability practices. Some of the most eco-friendly airports in the world, such as Seattle-Tacoma, Zurich International and Stockholm Arlanda International, have major goals that focus on reducing their environmental impact by reducing emissions, decreasing all types of pollution, lowering the use of natural resources and protecting wildlife. Other airports around the world are making moves towards greater sustainability through the following practices. Alternative Power Airports are finding ways to use solar and wind power, through buying solar panels and wind turbines, to decrease their energy usage. While they can't harvest enough energy to power the entire airport yet, it greatly reduces the amount of energy needed to sustain the airport. Stockholm Arlanda airport uses a biofuel system through the use of water collection and an aquifer to power the heating and air conditioning throughout the year. 6-foot-tall wind turbines are installed at the Boston Logan Airport that provides three percent of the airport's energy needs. Airports are finding many creative ways to combine these alternative power sources to reduce their consumption by up to third of the total energy usage. Recycled Building Materials As new airports are built and old ones are upgraded or replaced, the building materials used are recycled steel and other materials. Eighty percent of the building materials used for the Galapagos Ecological Airport were recycled. Volcanic ash can be mixed with concrete to produce an environmentally friendly option used when paving runways and parking lots. Using this type of concrete requires less heat during construction, which lowers the energy usage of the construction equipment used. Reduce Pollution The amount of air, light and noise pollution produced by airports is another area where airports are increasing sustainability efforts. To reduce pollutants in the air, airplanes are starting to use greener biofuels instead of traditional jet fuels. Many airports are implementing low emissions guidelines for the aircraft and all other ground transportation at the airport. At the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, they've made guidelines for their taxi fleet as well. Each taxi must have a minimum fuel economy of 45 MPG or use alternative fuel. Taking it a step further, they've placed those guidelines on any Uber or Lyft vehicles that enter the airport to pick up passengers. The Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport only uses battery-powered vehicles to transport passengers around the airport. Noise pollution affects the people and wildlife close to the airport. Zurich International Airport has made concerted efforts to reduce noise pollution by taxing aircraft based on the amount of noise they produce. Reduce Energy Usage While airports are finding alternative power sources to supply energy, they are also determining how to lower the use of energy throughout the airport. Some ways airports are doing this include switching traditional lighting for LED lighting, having light sensors in bathrooms and reducing air conditioning and heating needs. The Singapore Changi airport has reduced its energy usage by adding skylights throughout the airport to reduce the need for lighting. They've also positioned air conditioners closer to the floor to help them work more efficiently. The Oslo Airport in Norway had a creative idea to store snow from the long winter to use as a coolant during the summer months, saving plenty of energy in the process. Recycling Inside the airport, recycling bins are a practical way to reduce the amount of trash headed to the landfill. Reducing plastic consumption is a major goal at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. They want to eliminate all single-use plastics, such as straws, packaging and cups to help with trash reduction. It's not quick or easy to create an environmentally friendly airport but, with slow and steady progress, airports are making gains. With continued efforts towards sustainability, and loads of creativity and innovation, airports are reducing their impact on the globe.

In the last ten years, innovations in the airline industry have resulted in safer and more efficient aircraft. Although air travel has improved considerably, the industry suffers from sustainability issues that could take several years to correct. With nearly 3% of the world’s carbon emissions attributed to air travel, consumers have increasingly pressured airlines to reduce their environmental impact. Developing a more sustainable model for worldwide air travel is a challenging prospect, but airline executives are cautiously moving forward on greener initiatives. Some of the eco-friendly measures the airlines are adopting include renewable energy, sustainable fuel, emissions reduction and electric power. 1. Renewable Energy With a few exceptions, aircraft rely heavily on petroleum to provide power. A plane’s engines burn cleaner than those of the 20th century, but air travel has proliferated, and the increased volume of commercial and private flights have negatively affected air quality. To lower the impact of aircraft construction, some airlines have adopted renewable energy to power manufacturing plants. Solar power has emerged as the preferred form of green energy, and large airlines like Singapore Air have expanded their operating budgets to buy solar panels. With a solar power system, airlines can become more independent from utility companies by generating their own power. Replacing a standard energy source with solar power at a production facility reduces the manufacturing process emissions. Advanced solar cells and improved battery systems have made energy production more efficient, and with federal and state incentives, airlines can spend less to install massive solar power systems. 2. Sustainable Fuel Aircraft require a large fuel supply to fly passengers to their destinations safely, and aeronautical engineers have made efforts to find alternative fuels that are less harmful to the environment. Sustainable fuel can be produced from municipal waste, used cooking oil, algae and plants. In 2019, a Boeing 787 was powered by mixing standard airline fuel with biofuel. The biofuel was created by using the Salicornia plant from the Abu Dhabi Desert. Although more companies experiment with biofuel for their fleets, the fuel is not cheap enough to compete with petroleum fuel. As more industry leaders adopt biofuel, the production cost will decrease and the fuel will become more widely accepted. Unlike standard jet fuel, biofuel produces fewer emissions and can be manufactured without using fossil fuels. 3. Emissions Reduction Environmental activists criticize the aviation industry for being slow to react to emissions issues. The industry has improved its manufacturing process to lower emissions, but traditional aircraft continue to damage air quality with petroleum-based fuels. In 2009, the International Air Transport Association sought to address the problem by setting lofty goals for the industry. The plans include a carbon-neutral growth initiative after 2020 and a 50% carbon emissions reduction by 2050. Carbon-neutral growth involves keeping carbon emission rates at their current levels even when air travel increases. Although analysts are skeptical that the industry can meet these goals, over 81 countries have pledged to accomplish the feat and follow the recommendation made by the United Nations CORSICA plan. The Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation plan allows airlines to purchase carbon offsets to reduce emissions. When a company buys carbon offsets, it pledges to compensate for their emission levels by reducing emissions in other areas of operation 4. Electric Power The aviation industry plans to reduce emissions with innovative aerodynamic designs, electric power sources and hybrid engines. To reduce fuel consumption, Airbus is testing a prototype named Maveric that consumes 20% less fuel than a standard single-aisle plane. Other firms like ATR have experimented with turboprops rather than jet engines. ATR’s new model was developed to make short trips and consume 40% less gas than a comparable plane. Although electric and hybrid aircraft haven’t matched the range of a standard plane, MagniX plans to test an electric model in December 2020, and Smartflyer is scheduled to test a hybrid plane in 2022. Conclusion The plan to gradually restructure the aviation industry into a more sustainable enterprise is a challenging goal that may take several decades to complete. However, the industry has worldwide support for its green initiatives and continues to make progress.

While it has become commonplace in the modern era, flight remains a logistical improbability and a bit miraculous. While it is a common fear, flying an airplane is, statistically, safer than driving a car. However, this fact depends heavily on the staff of a given airline, and there are a lot of factors working against them. These are the tips an airline staff will need in order to ferry their precious human cargo as safely as possible. Maintaining Energy and Alertness Airlines are so abundant almost exclusively because they can transport people long distances in a relatively short amount of time. However, the length of even a single flight can put a pilot's energy levels to the test, and a drowsy pilot is a no go. In order to make sure they stay awake and alert, pilots will need to provide their body with the highest base amount of energy and may even then supplement their energy level with caffeine. The problem with caffeine, however, is that it only does the body so much good before it causes a crash, leaving the pilot even drowsier before, leading to an endless chase. On the other hand, you can look into Gundry MD Proplant shake reviews in order to find a dietary supplement that can help you address your energy needs without the crash later on. When it comes to a proper diet, it’s important to note that carbohydrates give the body energy, but simple, processed carbs like sugar provide that energy in much the same way that coffee does: a lot of energy for a short time before a crash. Starting your days with a breakfast rich in complex carbs will keep you going much longer. Tending To Passengers As stated above, a lot of people are terrified of the flight experience, and that means that the actions and demeanor of the pilots and flight attendants needs to remain measured and calm at all times in order to ease the minds of fearful flyers. In addition to this, flight attendants need to have the interior of the plane mapped out pretty thoroughly in their minds’ eyes, because there are many safety features on a given airliner that are hidden in plain sight. When and if there’s an issue, the airline’s staff will need to be able to conjure safety mechanisms out of thin air to give passengers what they need while keeping them out of sight and out of mind until they become necessary. All of this dialed up to 11 when you consider how disconcerting turbulence can be, even though it’s typically a minor hiccup in the grand scheme of things. Taking Off and Landing The most dangerous situation for a plane to be in is, unfortunately, one of the most common by design, and that’s being in close proximity to other planes. This is non issue almost entirely for most of a given flight, but it necessarily becomes a major problem when entering or leaving an airport. This is a logistical nightmare without the assistance of dedicated air traffic controllers. These personnel focus entirely on the relative positions of multiple planes using radar tracking in order to communicate between each of the planes in close proximity, the end goal of which is to give pilots instructions that can ensure that none of them crash into each other. This job is not difficult, per se, but it can take a mental and emotional toll on controllers who hold the lives of others in their hands on a daily basis. Airlines provide the safest possible version of what can be and has been fairly dangerous. While airplanes do occasionally crash, the statistic that airplanes are, in aggregate, safer than cars is a testament to the quality of aircraft design and the hard work and attention to detail of an airline’s staff. Whether you’re a pilot or a passenger, you can rest easy knowing that all of the work that goes into manning a flight has worked spectacularly.

Whether you're a seasoned expert or a beginner dabbling in a new craft, building your own airplane is an exciting adventure. But it can also be incredibly expensive and stressful, costing thousands of dollars for design software, materials, and housing structures alone. However, there are options that can make a build cheap enough for anyone to attempt. This article will give you a few great ways to save some money and worry on your next build so you can focus on the fun part and get in the air as soon as possible. 1. Starting Costs Before you begin, there will be some baseline costs you'll need to cover that are virtually unavoidable. From the materials to the kit you choose to build, there will be some charges up front that may take you by surprise if you're not financially prepared. And there are bound to be unexpected costs along the way that don't fit perfectly into your budget. There are a few ways to creatively come up with the extra cash for these costs, if money is an object for you. If you're serious about your build and are prioritizing it, you could look into auto financing and get a loan easily that way. Or, you could try going the more creative route and try to raise the money on Kickstarter or another such platform. You might be surprised how many people are willing to pitch in to help another person fulfill their dreams. 2. Room to Grow When you begin your build, it'll be easy enough to fit what you're working on in your garage or even your kitchen table. But if you don't plan ahead, you may find your airplane is outgrowing your home, and you'll need a backup plan. It's essential that you have something to house your build, to keep it safe from rain or other damaging exposure. The most ideal situation would be a large shed or barn where you would have ample space for your build, plus any extra materials and equipment you'd like to have along. Another option would be to set up a tent or canopy, and even draping some tarp would do in a pinch. But don't skimp on this part if you don't have to, since it would be an enormous waste of your time to invest in a build just to let it fall apart due to exposure. 3. Being Realistic Frequently, a beginner in any craft starts with a lot of enthusiasm, but very little preparation. This results in burnout when the project doesn't go as planned and frustration builds. It's important for the success of your build that you think carefully about what kind of project best suits your current level of skill and the resources you have available. And keep in mind what you want your plane to do, once it's completed. A cross-country plane will have very different building needs than one meant to go a few minutes away. 4. Doing the Research Once you've made these decisions, it's time to do some careful research. Know the manufacturers of your materials and the company designing your project. Find out who else has used the same company and try to get their opinion. And make sure these companies are still in existence, since getting halfway through a build with no support to contact in case something goes wrong would be extremely frustrating. By knowing the build inside and out, and having some external support, you'll have a good safety cushion as you start your project. There are plenty of message boards and other resources for airplane builders to get feedback and ask questions, and these can be incredibly helpful in keeping you inspired and reassured. Conclusion It might be hard to think practically about your build when you're so excited to get into the air, but in the long run doing the preliminary steps will save you a lot of money and stress. Use these tips to get off on the right foot with your airplane build.

Flying an airliner or private plane may be one of your ambitions, but first, you have to complete flight school to become a licensed pilot. To make your time at flight school more productive, you can engage in preliminary studies and activities. Although the experienced instructors will teach you the necessary skills to fly, it helps to get a broad understanding of flight controls, emergencies, radio communications and federal regulations before attending flight school. You can use the following tips to prepare for training and an eventual career as a pilot. Study Textbooks Before entering flight school, you can study pilot training textbooks to get a basic understanding of controlled flight. Although commercial air travel has existed since the early 20th century, you should review a recent textbook to understand the latest innovations and techniques. Some topics like learning the parts of air craft haven’t changed drastically, but other subjects like computer-assisted landings and safety protocols have changed dramatically in the past twenty years. An excellent resource for free instructional texts is the FAA’s website. Learn the Phonetic Alphabet The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) created the NATO phonetic alphabet to make radio and telephone communications easier to understand for pilots and air traffic controllers. Regardless of their native language, every pilot uses the system and must know it by heart to communicate safely and efficiently. After memorizing the terms, you can work on increasing the speed of your delivery. Flight students often have challenges adapting to the NATO alphabet, but if you practice for a few weeks before your first class, you’ll have an advantage over your classmates. Listen to Live Air Traffic Control To get a feel for the phonetic alphabet and how it’s used between pilots and air traffic controllers, you can listen to live broadcasts from busy airports. On LiveATC.net, you can choose from a list of airports and listen to the broadcasts with a phone or connected device. When you listen to tower broadcasts for the first time, they may seem incoherent or foreign to your ears. It may take some time to become accustomed to the phonetic system, but communicating with the tower will become second nature with a little practice. Learn From Other Pilots Online One of the best ways to prepare yourself for flight training is to learn from other skilled pilots. Whether they have a military background or experience in the commercial industry, veteran pilots can relay valuable knowledge that you can’t find anywhere else. If you have a friend or family member who’s a licensed pilot, you can set up a meeting to learn about their experiences and ask questions about what to expect. You can also view online videos and pilots’ blogs to gain insights into the aviation industry and learn tips that may help you in flight school. Pass the FAA Written Exam To become a licensed pilot, you’ll have to pass a written exam in addition to your flight training. By taking the exam before your scheduled training sessions, you’ll have a better understanding of basic flying skills, avionics, emergency procedures and communications. With the exam out of the way, you can focus entirely on your flight training and improving your skills. Take Ride Along Flights If you’ve already paid for flight training, you can contact your instructors to see if they’ll permit you to join them in a training session. Most instructors are willing to have you as a guest as long as you’re respectful to the instructors and students. Bring along a notepad or tablet to take notes but refrain from interrupting the session with frequent questions or observations. Fly Simulators Flight simulators have been used by the commercial aviation industry since the 1960s. Beginning in the 1980s, anyone with a personal computer could use a flight simulator. You can purchase a state-of-the-art simulator for your computer or tablet to get practice flying a multitude of military and civilian aircraft. If you’re planning on attending flight school, you can use the previous tips to enhance your training and raise your confidence before entering the cockpit.

If you're trying to build your own airplane, you probably don't know where to start first. There are so many cool kits to look at and so many finished builds to admire, and it's hard to get your head out of your clouds to actually start the project. This article will give you a few tried and true tips for starting your first build and staying focused along the way. 1. Think Logistically One of the biggest challenges in building an airplane is finding the space and the right equipment for the job. You can easily start a smaller kit in your own garage, and could tinker away with your smaller components before finding that you've outgrown the space and need a crane rental Seattle service to come move you to the next field over. It's best to know where you'll be building before you get started, and have the right equipment already there before you need it. Many plane builders will use large open fields for their project, since that will offer an abundance of space and won't get damaged by the heavy materials and equipment. But that can present challenges if you live in a damp or rainy area and a tarp just won't cut it. Look around for spaces like unused barns, or look into buying your own event-sized canopy. This can be a great investment, since it can be moved around somewhat easily and can be added on to if you need more coverage. 2. Be Realistic You probably have a few kits already picked out, with a few dream builds in mind. But it's important to keep your head on your shoulders. For a first build, going simple is always the best plan of action. It's very common for new builders to get partway into a project before they realize it's just too complicated, then have to abandon it when they've already invested a lot of time any money. It's also important to choose a kit from a company that still exists, so you can ring them for information and support if you hit snags. There are message boards for builders to discuss their current projects, as well, that can be a fantastic resource when you're trying to stay enthusiastic and optimistic. And just make sure to ask yourself before you begin: do I really want to still be working on this in two to five years? If the answer is a resounding yes, you're ready to start. 3. Know Yourself As well as financial limitations, it's also important to be realistic about the kind of person you are and what strengths and weaknesses you have. If you're someone who is easily frustrated or discouraged, make sure you're really ready for this challenge before you invest your money. There will be moments where huge mistakes are made, and you'll have to learn how to come back from these moments quickly. Knowing your personal goals for the airplane is also very important, as the kind of flights you're hoping to take will dictate the sort of plane you'll need. You should also know before hand how much time you have or want to dedicate to the project. A retiree with tons of free time will likely have a different project timeline from someone with a full time job and a family. And if you're someone who likes to socialize on the weekends, you may only have a few hours here or there to work on the build. Know your limitations and plan your project around them. At the end of the day, focusing on the original goal you had for the build will help you to stay the course and carry out your plans. Building your own airplane is an enormous undertaking, but it can be incredibly fulfilling and enjoyable along the way. Use these tips to get inspired, while still having the tools you need to get off on the right food.

If you're in the airline industry or work with airlines, you've probably been involved in a discussion about whether or not you should be "going green". It may seem like too daunting a task to undertake all at once, or not worth the cost of replacing every component of the airline with eco-friendly counterparts. But going green has many benefits that outweigh the potential costs. This article will help you understand how going green can be a win for both your airline and the planet. 1. Reduced Energy Costs It makes some sense that if you reduce your energy expenditure, you'll reduce your energy costs. By installing a few solar panel systems powered by a solar panel battery, you'll be able to trap the sun's energy during the day for use during the night. Airlines in particular need to be operational 24/7, so a system like this one is frequently the best option. Another great green way to save costs is by switching all lighting in airports from incandescent light bulbs to fluorescent. They may not be as aesthetically pleasing, but fluorescent bulbs will last much longer than their traditional counterparts, and can save an enormous amount of money over time. Other eco-friendly measures, such as going paperless by offering online boarding passes, can save significant everyday costs over time. It may seem like a pain at first, but going green is the economic choice long term. 2. Increased P.R. Opportunities If your airline is looking for ways to increase good P.R., going green is an excellent opportunity to do so. Entire brands are made by being the eco-friendly option, proving that some customers are willing to pay more for their ease of mind. Large businesses and corporations like airlines have a more difficult time building a brand that has strong core values, so by going green you'll have an opportunity to prove to your clientele that your airline cares about the environment. Particularly with the boom of social media as a marketing strategy, advertising your airline as an eco-friendly, progressive, future-oriented option will be a cinch. You'll be a cut above the competition simply by making this one change, and can now become the leading standard in your industry. 3. Tax Cuts and Advantages Many large businesses are constantly looking for ways to cut down on taxes every year. By going green, your airline may be in line for a tax credit that can cover a large portion of the costs for switching to sustainable options. Tax deductions are also a possibility, so it's clear to see that going green can be beneficial in many ways. By having a green strategy in place going into your next fiscal year, you'll be prepared to take advantage of these opportunities. 4. Better Work Environment In order to attract the best possible candidates for any job opening, your airline must stand out in some significant way. Going green will be a magnet for new talent that can take your business to the next level. You'll also have the added benefit of giving your employees something to rally around, increasing morale and making for a healthy work environment. Going green can also literally make a work environment a healthier place to be. By installing better air filtration systems and showing your concern for their health in other ways, you'll be making your workers feel cared for. This will result in their being more willing to give their all for their jobs. Something as simple as recyclable coffee cups in the break room might be enough to make an employee feel proud to work for your airline, and happy employees are always an asset to a business. If you're considering taking your airline to the next level by going green, take action today. The benefits will continue to roll in year after year, and you'll have the added satisfaction of knowing that you're doing your part to take care of the planet.

Flight attendants have busy, demanding schedules, making it even more challenging to work on your fitness. If you are in this position, it is easy to get frustrated with the lack of time and motivation. Here are the best ways to stay in shape while managing such a taxing career. Focus On Nutrition What you eat has a massive correlation with how you feel. When you are out of state working, eating unhealthy may be more convenient. However, your nutrition is a significant factor in meeting your goals. The decisions you make with your food can also help give you an edge when your workouts aren't as strenuous. Ultimately, when all else fails, your nutrition must reign supreme. If you have been googling "What is Thrive" you have likely found how supplements, along with other healthy habits, can help you get weight loss under control, along with many other improvements. That said, it is essential to note that staying in shape has a lot to do with what you eat, but there are other ingredients for success— staying active, for example. Find Time For a Workout Making time for a run while you are on a trip is easier said than done. While you are away, you can take advantage of your hotel's weight room or do what you can with a small space workout. When space and time are tight, fitness seems to take the back burner. While this is frustrating when your job gets in the way of your efforts to stay in shape, you have to remember to make the best of what you have on hand. Your attitude has a big effect on how you view your situation and where your motivation stands while you are out on a long trip. You may be surprised by how a tweak in your frame of mind can make a world of difference in how productive you are. All the same, there are few better ways to boost your mood than by releasing endorphins in a much-needed gym session. Rely On Your Routine It is far more difficult to focus on your health when you aren't relying on a routine for your time at home and when traveling. It will significantly lower your stress and anxiety if you have some familiarity with your days, especially considering you will be away for several days at a time. The following ideas may be useful to add to your daily regimen to help keep all your ducks in a row: Going to bed and waking up at similar times Keeping your home stocked with healthy food Stay on top of your chores around the house While routines differ from person to person, the benefits are universal. Be patient while using a trial and error method to figure out what will work best for you. It may also give you some insight by asking your co-workers what they do to stay on track. Give Yourself Grace As a flight attendant, you have limited resources because of the travel that is required for your job. Instead of comparing your efficiency to someone who is home throughout the entirety of the workweek, be proud of how well you are fighting the odds. It is no mean feat to keep a grasp on your priorities when you are bouncing around from city to city, so it certainly deserves a pat on the back. If you ever have a bad day (you inevitably will) be sure you are giving yourself grace. You must be able to leave mistakes in the past and start each day fresh. The Main Takeaway There are plenty of perks that come from being a part of a flight crew, especially if you enjoy visiting new places. The key to managing your work obligations with staying focused on your health is consistency. If you are on track more often than not, you will be happy with your results.

Legislation and compliance are inherent aspects of aviation. A pilot doesn't just need to know how to fly a plane. He or she also must understand their legal responsibilities regarding his or her aircraft, cargo and most importantly passengers and crew. Here are six reasons legal counsel is an important resource for airline companies. 1. Understanding Aviation Law A large airline company will want to build a relationship with a team of aviation lawyers or an aviation law firm in order to stay updated on the legal landscape and have quick access to legal counsel if a situation calls for it. Whether your company hires or outsources its legal resources, counsel is as important a part of the aviation industry as it is in most other industries. Aviation lawyers will help you understand aviation law and take care of the day-to-day minutia of legal counsel, with tools such as legal automation software. 2. Regional and International Relations By nature, air travel allows people and goods to reach destinations all over the world very quickly. As a result, regional and international policies are an incredibly important aspect of aviation law. Different countries and different regions within countries will have varying regulations for international statutes, aircraft registration and air traffic control, among other things. An international regulatory body called the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) exists to help countries come to agreements regarding topics such as shared airspace. You should seek out aviation lawyers familiar with international aviation policies. 3. Compliance Aviation law is an umbrella term covering all aspects of aviation from pilot licensing requirements to aircraft design and maintenance. It also covers international and domestic air travel both for passenger airlines and cargo shipping. If airline companies don't comply with extant aviation laws, they will put people and goods in danger. Your employees may not need to know all the details of these laws to do their jobs, but they do need to understand the basics and have resources available in case they do need to check details. Aviation lawyers can act as a check during workflows to ensure compliance with existing standards, policies and regulations. 4. Useful Cross-Industry Experience Because understanding at least basic aviation law is an integral part of working in the airline industry, it's actually relatively common for aviation lawyers to have experience working directly in the industry, including roles as pilots or flight dispatchers. This cross-industry experience means aviation lawyers have a deep passion and an in-depth understanding of the industry and its regulations. Having a relationship with such legal representatives encourages other employees to deepen their understanding of aviation law and to ask your company's aviation lawyers questions and for advice. 5. Regulation In the US, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are the main regulatory bodies for aviation. To legally operate an airline, you must ensure your company operates within the regulations set by these administrations. All degrees, licenses and certificates must be issued in accordance with FAA guidelines. Additionally, the FAA, not congress, passes laws through the Federal Register as part of the Department of Transportation and sends everyone involved in the aviation industry regular updates on legislation and regulations. Legal counsel is essential to ensure you understand correspondence from the FAA and TSA. 6. Environmental Law Environmental law and other emerging areas of focus are important in the modern aviation industry. If you're working on a development project for an airport or proposing legislation for increased safety or cleaner energy in the aviation industry, you must confer with legal counsel to ensure you're acting within legal bounds. As clean energy becomes more mainstream, environmental law will likely become an increasingly important aspect of aviation law. Conclusion As in any industry, there are many reasons for airline companies to build relationships with legal counsel. Aviation lawyers can help your company understand and adhere to legislation and regulation, keep up to date on emerging laws and debates and provide useful cross-industry experience.

Where flight was once novel, it is now commonplace. However, its ubiquity in the modern era stems from the fact that it has revolutionized the world around you. More specifically, it has given people a way to travel greater distances in a shorter amount of time, and that has had major ramifications for both recreational travel and commercial shipping. Designing an airplane is a potentially lucrative endeavor, because the ability to fly will always be in demand, but there are certain factors that need to be taken into account before you can get a new aircraft off the ground. Here’s what you need to know. Assembling a Team Designing and building an aircraft is no easy feat. Aeronautics alone is a complex field, and the design of an aircraft will take numerous skills from various disciplines. Unless you're a Renaissance man or woman, you're almost certainly going to come up against some obstacles that are insurmountable with your current levels of skill and knowledge. That means that you'll need the expertise of various professionals in order to create a competent design that addresses all the needs of a certified aircraft. For example, the design of any vehicle depends on engineering expertise, and flight in particular requires an understanding of aerodynamics. Bringing together a team that encompasses all of the disparate skills required to actualize an aircraft is a necessary part of producing a comprehensive design. Patenting Your Design Designing an aircraft, like designing any other product, entails creating an IP that can be valuable to bad actors. Therefore, you'll need to consult with IP attorneys in order to go through the proper channels to protect your design. Failing to protect yourself from IP theft, your design will need to be patented. More people than ever are familiar with the concepts of copyrights and trademarks, and patents operate in a similar way; each of them protect the intellectual property of individuals and businesses. However, the design of a product falls under the purview of patents, whereas the name of the product would require trademark protection. This matters all the more if your aircraft design incorporates parts of your own design, because each of those designs would need to be patented individually, as well. However, modern patent law doesn't offer these protections for "ordinary innovation," a method of invention that hinges on combining two technologies together in a fairly obvious way. Safety In addition to preventative safety measures such as quality hardware and design, you’ll also need to account for in flight safety measures. Oxygen masks are essential safety features on commercial airplanes, because the access to oxygen is scarce at high altitudes. Airplanes are designed with that scarcity in mind and feature pressurized hulls. However, when the pressurization of the plane is compromised, that lack of oxygen will become a problem that will impact the health of your passengers. The ensuing lack of oxygen can quickly cause health problems to passengers, but the access to oxygen is also crucial for keeping passengers calm during an emergency situation. Nothing can drive a situation from bad to work like a panic. Beyond the well known safety features that are shared with passengers, it’s common practice for airlines to hide safety features in plain sight in order to protect their passengers without constantly alerting them to the potential for danger. This is because flying is a fear for many, despite being safer than driving a car, on average. Telling your passengers too much too soon can actively feed into that irrational fear when it’s otherwise not necessary. Starting an airline is a sound business decision, because people will always need the miraculous service that airlines provide. There are numerous challenges that running an airline entails, and failing to address them can land you in hot water. However, these tips will help you tackle the safety of your company, your equipment, and your precious human cargo.

If you're working towards your pilot's license, you can't wait for the freedom of flying wherever you want in your own plane. Whether your dream about soaring over the coast or gliding over mountains, there are a few things you need to know about your craft's engine before you take off on your own. Educate yourself about these parts of your engine long before your first solo flight. Learn the Different Parts There are many different parts of air craft, and you must understand how they all work together. That way, if something goes wrong, you have an easier time diagnosing and addressing the problem. Although the location and appearance of each part vary based on your airplane's model, each engine shares the same basic components. Inside the cockpit, you determine the engine's operation with the throttle and prop control. In the engine itself, the carburetor provides your engine with the fuel and air it burns, and the magnetos power the spark plugs. In addition to these components, your engine has a fuel-burning chamber called a cylinder, several pistons, a crankshaft, and a propellor. Learn How Engines Work While your engine looks different from that of a car, it works the same way to produce the energy necessary to keep your plane in the air. When you open the throttle, air enters your engine through the carburetor, where it blends with fuel. Newer models sometimes have fuel-injected engines that do not have carburetors; instead, the air blends with the fuel inside each cylinder. Regardless of which model you have, once the fuel and air are in the cylinder, the piston compresses them and the spark plug causes them to combust. As the gases burn, they expand, moving the piston out of the cylinder, where it turns a crankshaft, which makes a propeller rotate. The motion of the propeller gives your plane its energy. Learn About Common Problems Now that you know the basic parts of your airplane's engine and how they work, you need to learn about common problems that engines develop. If you have a carbureted engine, watch out for carb ice. As you allow air to pass over the carburetor with your throttle, it gets cold so quickly that it sometimes freezes on your carburetor's interior. When this happens, air and fuel don't get to the engine as efficiently, resulting in engine failure if you don't address the problem. Another issue that you might overlook is running out of fuel. While you could forget to check the fuel gauge before you take off, it's more likely that your fuel gauge is broken. Dip your tank before you take off to ensure that your gauge's reading is accurate. Similarly, depending on your plane's size, you may have to flip a switch to move your fuel source from one tank to another. If you forget this critical step, the first tank runs out and your engine stops working because it doesn't have access to the rest of your fuel. Learn How to React During Engine Trouble You've learned that most engine problems are preventable, but that doesn't mean they won't happen to you. Thankfully, if you keep a level head and follow these steps, engine troubles don't have to end your career as a pilot. It's helpful to recognize the source of your engine problem, but unless you can immediately rectify it, don't worry too much about figuring out what's wrong. For example, if the problem is that you forgot to switch tanks, do so immediately, but if your carburetor is icy, you can't do anything about it now. Instead, get your plane ready to glide and identify a safe landing site, such as an empty field. Once you've made your emergency landing, call for help on your radio or address the engine problem on your own. As a new pilot, it's critical that you understand these aspects of your plane's engine so that you can safely take to the sky.

Air travel has progressed in leaps and bounds since its origins in the early 20th century. With innovations in aeronautics, navigation and material science, modern planes are safer and more efficient than their predecessors. Building an airplane is a massive undertaking that involves engineers, technicians and specialized mechanics. Larger aircraft like airliners take less than two weeks to construct, but the design and testing phase sometimes takes several years. For more complicated military aircraft, the entire process takes even longer. The following paragraphs explain how airplanes are built. Planning The planning phase of airplane construction takes a significant amount of time to complete. Designers research the newest technological innovations and determine how they can benefit their plans. Since innovations are developed rapidly, engineers must stay updated on the latest trends and continuously modify their design schemes. A team of engineers then draws up blueprints and submits their proposals to a chief engineer for approval. The chief engineer may spend months analyzing the blueprints before deciding on the best design. When a final blueprint is chosen, the team moves on to creating 3D models of the blueprint. Modeling Modeling allows the designers to view the plans in three dimensions and decide what changes need to be made. The models go through several modification stages until a final design is completed. To determine if the model is aerodynamic, designers place the model in a wind tunnel. The model is then modified further until a final design is agreed upon. Next, software engineers develop a simulator program based on the design, and pilots will begin testing the simulator. Experienced pilots offer their suggestions to designers after the simulated test flights, and designers will use the pilots’ tips to make final modifications before construction begins. This step in the process didn’t exist before computer simulators, and it’s responsible for potentially saving countless test pilots’ lives and minimizing the occurrence of accidents or crashes during test flights. Construction For airliner construction, massive teams of workers are assigned separate sections of the plane to build. Aircraft manufacturers use an advanced casting process to create the plane’s fuselage, wings, tail and other essential sections. Casting involves designing a mold and pouring molten steel into the mold to create a new part. After one team assembles the fuselage, another team will immediately install advanced avionics and electrical systems. Each piece is inspected before it’s put through a rigorous testing process. Although smaller private companies take much longer to build their aircraft, the construction process is similar but limited to a smaller crew of engineers. For military aircraft, the building plan is more complicated due to the addition of top-secret software, radar shielding and advanced weapons systems. Assembly Once all the separate parts are constructed, workers begin assembling the aircraft. Electrical systems, safety measures and hydraulic lines are connected after the plane’s components are assembled together. Then, the plane is covered with a protective coating and painted in test colors. The plane’s final color scheme is not implemented until the plane finishes the testing process. Although professional companies construct most aircraft, the United States allows amateur enthusiasts to design and build planes. Amateurs aren’t required to have prior building experience, but their aircraft must meet the FAA’s strict guidelines before they are deemed airworthy. Testing Depending on the type of aircraft and its use, the testing process can last several months or years. Since military aircraft are more intricate, some models may take a decade or more to finish testing. The military tests its planes more rigorously to simulate war-like conditions. Unlike commercial planes, an Air Force jet is subjected to higher levels of stress and speed. Test pilots complete several simulated tests before flying the aircraft, and engineers will make adjustments to the plane based on the pilots’ comments. Modern aircraft manufacturing is an engineering marvel. Designers have strived to improve the safety and efficiency of aircraft. Judging by recent FAA reports, they have succeeded.

Traveling is a great way to spend time as a family. It's a chance to build great memories and to learn from new adventures. A trip can help enhance your child's knowledge of the world as he or she learns of different cultures, historical perspectives, and geographic diversity. With all the good things associated with travel, perhaps one of the toughest aspects is the flight from point A to point B. If you're concerned that your child may find the time on the flight challenging, you are not alone. Fortunately, other parents have paved the way before you. Here are some tips parents commonly use to help make long flights easier on their children. 1. Fly Early or Late A mid-day flight can be the most challenging for a child since it's during the time they are wide awake. If you book your flight for early morning or late evening, you can encourage your child to sleep. Time has a tendency to pass faster when you're asleep. Pack a small pillow and a cozy fleece fabric for your child to snuggle up in. Sleep with your child so he or she doesn't suspect you're leaving them out on something fun. 2. Bring the Comforts of Home For many children, experiencing something different, such as their first time flying, can make them start missing home a lot sooner. To help your child feel connected to home, there are several things you can pack in his or her carryon: His or her favorite stuffed animal A favorite small toy His or her most comfortable house shoes A photo pillow of their favorite pet What else do you have at home that would be easy to bring on your journey? Every child is different, so what one might favor, another may not. 3. Bring Activity Books That fold down tray in the seat in front of you is there for a reason, and with kids, it's purpose will be well served. Pack a few different activity books for your children along with some crayons or colored pencils. Make sure you provide a variety of activities. One book could be for coloring, and another for puzzles and games. For shorter flights, these activities may fill the entire time you're on the plane. For longer flights, they will at least take up a nice chunk of time. 4. Bring Snacks The snacks the airline provides aren't always the most attractive to young children. Pack some small, healthy snacks for a break halfway into the flight. It will be a welcome distraction from the other activities your child has been engaging in. After all, a child's attention span is only so long. 5. Play a Geography Game There will be times during your flight when you can see the land below. Allow your child to have the window seat and allow him or her to guess where you are based on the terrain. Give clues and hints. Of course, this game works best for children 5 years and up. Once your child has made the correct guess, extend the guess to ask them to name three things they know about that location. This is an opportunity to teach your child something new or discover what they already know. Of course, with careful planning ahead of the flight you can make this game even more fun. Casually drop bits of information about areas you'll be flying over without telling your child why. Your child will enjoy the game even more if he or she is able to correctly answer some of the questions. Flying with your child or children doesn't have to be like the horror stories you've heard of or even experienced before having your own children. With some careful planning and imagination, flying can be a part of the adventure your children look forward to participating in. It can even be dedicated family time, and that's something that is good for everyone.

Airline pilots and flight attendants have some of the most unique work schedules and responsibilities. As a result, many find these professions fascinating, both as a potential career path and for having a general understanding of what's going on behind the scenes on a flight. Here is a typical schedule for many airline pilots. Getting Ready for a Shift There are legal requirements for how much rest flight crew members need in relation to how long they've flown. Because of this, pilots often need to be ready to spend the night at their destination in a hotel booked by the airline. For long flights, this can mean they'll spend several days or weeks in a city, so they'll need to be prepared for more than just their day of work. Pilots usually become masters at packing efficiently, as they often only bring a small suitcase and a small bag to keep with them in the cockpit. Many times they put some food in this bag, because while eating out is fun for a week or so, it gets old for those who have to eat at airports regularly. In addition to the unusual eating situations, even if they fly domestically, so much traveling between time zones and odd eating schedules can cause problems such as digestion issues, so they may want to pack a supplement such as to help with this. Pre-Flight Preparation Long before your flight is scheduled to take off, pilots and flight attendants meet to discuss the flight plan and get to know each other. After that, pilots will review the maintenance records for the plane they'll be flying. This allows them to look for any sections that need to be double checked before takeoff or monitored closely during the flight. They also look over weather reports and the flight plan to see if there is a possibility of inclement weather or turbulent areas they need to be prepared for. Once they sign off on that, the pilots and the rest of the crew perform safety checks and prepare the plane for takeoff. As passengers are arriving, pilots program the flight management system (FMS). This can take a long time, but it's very important that they do this with accuracy and attention to detail so that the flight will go as smoothly as possible. Once they complete this and go over their pre-flight checklist one more time, it's time for takeoff. During the Flight There are quite a few technical responsibilities that pilots have once in the air, but they're also tasked with keeping in communication with air traffic control, the rest of the flight crew, and the passengers. The pilots update each group regularly and listen for any instructions from air traffic control. They also need to actively monitor the instruments and programs, create radio and satellite reports, and update any navigational systems as needed. During long flights, pilots usually have bunks where they can get some sleep while a backup crew takes over. This not only makes the extended period of time in the air more bearable, but it allows them to get the rest they need to stay alert and ready to respond to any unexpected events. During the rest of their shift, they're allowed to take breaks to walk around to get some coffee and often enjoy chatting with their copilots and taking in the bird's-eye view that they get to enjoy every day of work. After Landing Once the pilot's guide the plane to a safe landing, it's their job to welcome the passengers to their new destination and remind them that they need to stay seated until the plane has stopped completely. After the passengers have disembarked and the pilots have shut down the plane, it's off to another meeting with the crew, and then, if they don't have any more flights for the day, they get to head to their hotel for some much-needed down time. Working as a pilot brings many responsibilities, but it also comes with adventure and the chance to travel the world, making it an incredibly rewarding profession.

A private plane is seen as a luxury around the world, but who knew it could be so useful for your business, too? Everyone hates going through security at airports and dealing with delayed flights, and all these time-wasters and distractions can impact how you conduct your business. If you're considering buying a private plane, here are five ways this purchase can help your business as well. 1. Save Time When you have your own plane, you're not restricted to the travel schedules of commercial airlines. You can travel when you want, even last minute, and you don't have to waste time waiting in crowded airports. You also will be able to fly direct, unrestricted by the typical flight paths of other air traffic. When you land, you shouldn't have to wait to disembark, get your luggage and find transport. You can simply arrange for a car or limo to meet you at the airport and move from one mode of transportation to the other without hassle. 2. Increase Productivity If you've ever tried to get work done on a commercial airplane, you know how difficult working and flying can be. Time is precious, and if you already have systems like sales automation in place to increase efficiency in your business, chances are you value productivity. In a private plane, you're not sharing the same recycled air with hundreds of other people, you're not crammed into a small seat with no legroom, and you're not restricted to the typical, depressing airplane food. When you're comfortable and able to focus, you can actually get work done in the air. 3. Get More Options Flying by private plane allows you to travel to different airports that commercial planes don't have access to. When your travel time is limited, landing in an airport closer to your destination can make a huge difference. Not only can you choose your travel time and your airports, but you can also choose your pilot and crew, which can go a long way in making you feel safe. If you have a fear of flying, you may feel more comfortable knowing who is flying the plane and taking care of your needs in flight. This way, you can easily check pilots' qualifications and only hire the best. 4. Save Money Buying and using a private plane requires a certain level of wealth, but flying by private plane can also help you save money. Flying your team via commercial airline for an important meeting may mean you need to spend a day traveling because the airport is busy, the flight was delayed or full, and there was a mixup with the cars you rented. Once you land at your destination, it may take another hour just to get to the hotel, where everyone will eat meals the company has to pay for. Once you attend your event or hold your meetings, you may need to pay for another night at the hotel before another full day of travel, during which no one is accomplishing any real work, and therefore not making the company any money. With a private plane, you can fly your team out as needed, meet with clients, and fly back to the office the same day. 5. Impress Clients A private plane will likely indicate that your company is successful, but it also signals other things about you. It shows your dedication to meeting with clients, hosting events and accomplishing tasks and deals in a timely manner. It shows your willingness and even excitement to conduct business on a global scale, which can increase your client base in a big way. Flying in comfort is a big selling point for a private plane, but all the comfort and convenience can also help your business. If your company requires lots of travel and adding another element of efficiency to your workforce is important to you, a private plane could make a huge difference in future growth.

As the world becomes more aware of the environmental impacts of everyday activities such as travel, work and entertainment, industries have looked at how they can adjust for more sustainability. The airline industry has looked at ways to have less of an environmental impact through airports, planes and airline practices including using renewable energy sources, carbon offsetting and alternative fuels. Not only does this make air travel more appealing to the environmentally conscious, but it can also reduce overhead for airlines and make flying more affordable for the average consumer. Renewably Powered Airports One of the biggest changes airports are making all over the world is putting in a solar power system to power the building as well as act as a solar farm for the surrounding area. This can help reduce energy costs for airports as well as reduce their carbon footprint. As solar panels are becoming more effective and less expensive, airports of all sizes can start with a small system and upgrade it over time. This solar energy is used to power everything from the lights and security features to the baggage carousels and transportation carts, keeping fuel use to a minimum and keeping a healthier bottom line for the airport. Engine Efficiency Not only are airlines improving the efficiency of aircraft engines with every new model, but they are also improving the ways in which fuel is used before take off and after landing by lightening the loads, using electric haulers and much more. This can further reduce the impact that air travel has on the environment and on the bottom line as less fuel use means lower costs. While modern power storage technology is dangerous to include in aircraft, plugging airplanes into electrical systems on the ground for maintenance and taxiing can help increase fuel efficiency as well. Alternative Fuels Alternative fuels such as biofuels are gaining traction in the airline industry with many companies making a full transition. These fuels work with increased energy efficiency of aircraft engines to further reduce the carbon footprint of national and international travel. Electric powered airplanes are still far into the future, but with increased battery safety and efficiency, you can find solar terminal busses, baggage carts and other transportation to and around your local airport. Resource Friendly Building Recent and ongoing innovations in building design and construction are making newer airports and upgrades more resource friendly than ever before. Much of the asphalt, concrete and metal used in construction contain some percentage of recycled materials and building crews are sourcing as locally as possible to reserve transportation resources and reduce carbon footprints. One recent development is that of self-healing concrete, which uses bacteria and water to flow into microcracks in small constructions to avoid the need to completely remove and replace barricades, retaining walls and other features. There are even national and international consulting firms dedicated to making new buildings as resource friendly as possible, including airports, parking garages and office complexes. Carbon Offsetting Offsetting your carbon footprint means doing things which will take carbon out of the atmosphere equal to the amount put into it through burning fossil fuels. Airlines are doing this by participating in initiatives designed to be carbon neutral or even by investing in the development of carbon negative practices and technologies. Many local airports are finding ways to give back to the environment by planting trees, reinvigorating natural habitats and even researching the ways in which noise pollution affects wildlife and carbon offsetting is becoming one of the fastest growing initiatives around the world. Environmentally conscious companies are on the rise and many surprising industries are starting to lead the way toward sustainability. The airline industry has had one of the biggest carbon footprints in almost every country and is starting to invest in technology, practices and policies to reduce emissions while increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Some of the ways airports can curb emissions include investing in solar power, increasing fuel efficiency and carbon offsetting.

So you've decided you want to build your own airplane. Whether you choose to build from scratch, sourcing all your own materials and assembling yourself, or build from a kit, it can be a daunting endeavor. Once the initial excitement has worn off and you're faced with hours of hard labor and unexpected costs, you might even regret taking it on in the first place. Having the right backup plans and safety nets in place before you begin will help you avoid a lot of headaches. 1. Financial Safety A homebuilt aircraft can be incredibly expensive, with used engines costing up to $25,000. Even finding the cheapest possible materials can add up over time, and for obvious reasons it's undesirable to sacrifice quality when building an airplane. If you spend money on a detailed kit, you may begin this project already in some amount of debt. This is where utility billing services come into play. Having a billing service that will help you roll out your project efficiently and come up with a payment plan will considerably cut down the factors that cause many homebuilders to quit before the project is complete. You'll be able to cut down costs and have a completed airplane that is up to your own standards. 2. Available Space One of the biggest factors in deciding what kind of airplane project you'd like to undertake is knowing how much space you have available for building. Some builders have large industrial garages or open fields for putting together large projects, while others will only have their two car garage. Make sure that large pieces, like wings and engines, have a safe, waterproof space to stay before the plane is assembled. Whatever your situation is, there's a project that's the right fit for you. 3. Personality and Skill Level Building an airplane is a long-term project that will require the builder to stay focused and determined in order to complete it. The right personality will be able to overcome obstacles and stay determined in the face of setbacks. If the idea of having a six month project turn into a two year project seems daunting to you, it might be good to consider if this project is right for your personality. Another consideration is your skill level. While building something as complex as a plane does require a lot of time and hard work, there are builds for every level of skill, from a high school project to an accomplished and experienced engineer. Don't let your lack of skill put you off from trying out a homebuild - if you want it badly enough, it's within your reach. 4. Starting Out Don't be afraid to take your time preparing before you begin your build. Dip your toe in the water first by building model planes with kits similar to the ones for full size planes, or make easier projects using various materials to get an idea for what you might want to use. You could also attempt to build a small part of your larger kit, such as the tail, and see if the kit is detailed enough for you or if the costs are worth the end result. A good kit will frequently have online forums that you can visit to get tips and tricks from other builders, and see where they went wrong so you can avoid their mistakes. However exciting the idea may be, it's best to be realistic about how much time, money, and space you're willing to invest in a build and see if it's right for you before you make that investment. Whatever your end decision may be, if you're truly determined to build your own plane, no obstacle is big enough to keep you from succeeding. Use these tips to prepare for a successful build that will leave you with a plane of your very own, and a priceless sense of accomplishment.

Technological advancements have improved air travel dramatically. Although aircraft are safer than ever before, pilots must frequently train for emergencies and consistently monitor pre-flight and post-flight checklists. Malfunctions and poor weather conditions can test a pilot’s ability to maintain steady flight. Some problems that occur during flight can be corrected, but serious issues many necessitate an emergency landing. By remaining calm and reacting quickly, you can assess the situation and avoid a possible disaster. The following sections examine the ways that pilots can prepare for emergencies. The Severity of the Problem Air traffic controllers, pilots and engineers work tirelessly to keep air travel safe. Accidents and fatalities are far less common than they were in the last decade, but every pilot should prepare for the worst and realize that problems will occur at some point in their careers. Identifying the severity of a problem is the first step to formulating a solution. Some emergencies, like the loss of an engine, require immediate action to correct and often involve changing course to land safely, but pilots can fix or bypass minor issues during flight with help from ground control. Whether the problem is life-threatening or not, pilots must suppress anxiety and report any abnormal occurrence. Backup Systems Redundant systems are essential to air travel. If a malfunction occurs, a backup system can remedy the problem before an accident occurs. Many of the redundant safety features are part of a plane’s basic design. For instance, aircraft with multiple engines are engineered to function with the use of a single engine. If an engine fails in an airliner, the pilot can fly the plane and land safely with the remaining engine. Pilots have successfully landed with damaged engines, malfunctioning landing gears, ripped fuselages and reserve fuel. For all commercial and military aircraft, another important safety feature is the ram air turbine (RAT). The RAT is a wind turbine that generates power from the plane’s airstream during an emergency. Constant Communication In any emergency, pilots must immediately notify air traffic control (ATC). Emergency training drills prepare pilots for difficult situations, but ATC personnel are trained to assist with any problems. Before trying to remedy a small issue, a pilot can get expert guidance from the tower. If onboard communications are damaged, ATC can be contacted from a mobile or satellite phone. Situations may arise that aren’t thoroughly covered in training flights, and ATC can provide vital information to land the plane safely. Reassuring Crew and Passengers After assessing the problem and working on a solution, pilots should notify the crew and passengers about the emergency. Calming the passengers’ fears is a necessity for every pilot. Anxiety can become an issue when passengers are not informed why conditions on a flight are erratic. Although it may not be easy for people to hear that the plane is experiencing problems, most people appreciate the truth and dislike delayed announcements. Flight Crew Emergency Response Depending on the severity of the problem, pilots may have to reroute to another airport or attempt an emergency landing. A raised panel or malfunctioning landing gear may not require an immediate landing, but they will need instant correction before a minor issue becomes a life-threatening one. With adequate training and assistance from the flight crew and ATC, pilots and their team should react promptly to fix any issue regardless of the severity. In a potentially life-threatening event, the crew is critical in calming the passengers and maintaining order. Post-Flight Measures When a plane lands safely after an accident or malfunction, the aircraft should be thoroughly inspected by the pilot and engineers. Even a minor issue like a malfunctioning instrument panel should warrant a careful examination of the plane’s systems. Sometimes, a small problem can lead to a major issue if the problem’s source is not identified and corrected immediately. Pre-flight and post-flight checklists are designed to prevent potential accidents and should not be shortened or rushed through. Although training can help prepare for a possible emergency, a pilot must react quickly to unfamiliar problems and frequently communicate with the tower.

We have come a long way since the plane was first invented in the early part of the 20th century. It was an incredible engineering feat then, and they have only gotten more impressive. As part of your pilot training, you should get to know your aircraft inside and out – but here are the basic parts to get you started. The “Power Plant†One of the most complex parts of air craft, the power plant includes the propeller and the engine, which generate the power. This part of the plane lifts it into the sky and also creates hydraulic and electric power to operate the plane. The engine is covered by a cowling or a nacelle. This covering streamlines the flow of air around the engine while also helping to cool it. The Fuselage This is the body of the plane, which holds passengers and cargo. It is a structural connection for the wings and tail. Older types of planes had an open truss structure made of wood, steel, or aluminum tubing, but today a single shell structure is used. The Empennage The empennage is the tail of the airplane. It includes the rudder and the elevator. The elevator enables the plane to move up and down, and the rudder steers the airplane from left to right. The empennage also has trim tabs, which reduce control pressures. They may be on the rudder, the ailerons, and/or the elevator. The Wings Wings may come in different designs, shapes, and sizes, and the number of wings on a plane can vary. However, a common design has large wings in the middle of the fuselage as well as two smaller ones at the empennage. The large wings support the airplane and are the main lifting surfaces. Wings are made up of spars, ribs and stringers, which are reinforced by trusses, I-beams, tubing, and skin. The fuel tanks are also in the wings, and for very good reason. The enormous amount of fuel a plane needs makes up almost a third of the entire weight of the plane. Locating the fuel in the wings helps to keep the plane’s center of gravity where it is needed. It also works as a counter stress for the wings – without the added weight, the wings could break off during take off! And, the added weight makes the wings more rigid, reducing the “wing flutter,†which is the vibration of the wings caused by air flow. The Landing Gear The landing gear is important not just for landing, but for take off and taxiing. We are all used to the wheels we see on commercial airplanes, but some planes might have floats for water landings or skis so they can land on snow. Planes with wheels have three of them; two main wheels and a third at either the front or rear of the plane. Gear with a rear mounted wheel is conventional landing gear and that with a nose wheel (the wheel on the nose) is referred to as a tricycle gear. The Subcomponents These include the brakes, flight controls, airframe, and electrical system. The airframe is designed to withstand aerodynamic forces as well as the weight of any cargo and the crew. The electrical system generates, regulates, and distributes power throughout the plane. There are different power sources, such as AC generators, auxiliary power units, and external power. This power is used for essential systems, flight instruments, and cabin lighting for passenger comfort. Most modern airplane brake systems are made of caliper pads, which are squeezed toward each other hydraulically. There is a rotor (rotating disk) between them, and the pads put pressure on the rotor, which turns with the wheels. This friction slows the wheels down and stops them from turning. This is only a brief overview of all the parts it takes to make a plane work, but it is a start! Knowing as much as possible about how your plane works is an important part of becoming a pilot.

Flying is one of humanity’s greatest achievements, as it allows for the fastest and safest form of long distance travel. However, many are afraid of flying. In come cases, this is because of a fear or heights, or it may be because they perceive plane crashes to be much more common than they actually are. Here are some crucial life hacks that can make flights more tolerable. Relaxation There are a couple of very good reasons to sleep through a flight. While many simply aren’t bothered by flying and simply sleep through a flight, others would benefit from simply not being cognizant of the flying experience. If you have a fear of flying, you may already be using a medication such as Xanax to manage anxiety, but that can also help you sleep. Likewise, sleeping pills can help knock you out despite any worries you may have, and it can ensure a deeper sleep, meaning that even a worrywart can get the R & R they need to get through a flight. Sleep isn’t the only way to relax in the sky, however. You can also use Young Living Essential Oils to create a soothing sensation that can put you at ease. Mantras are a great way for some to reprogram their brains into thinking more positively. Some swear by this method, although many aren’t even willing to try it. Distraction A great way to avoid worrying about unimportant or frivolous concerns is simply not to think about them. While it may seem difficult to tune out the miracle of flight, there are many ways to do just that, one of which is baked into the airline experience. In flight movies can be a good way to distract yourself from worrying too much, as it allows you to use headphones to block out the noises around and engage with some interesting fiction. Likewise, reading a book can be a great way to keep your mind focused on something more pleasant and/or more interesting than your fears. Mobile gaming is also a popular method of passing time aboard airplanes for those who are interested in them, and casual games can be picked up and played by basically anyone, including those who have never played a video game in their lives. Mindfulness It’s easy to let initially small worries snowball into something more, up to and including a full blown panic attack. However, you can outright refuse to let this happen by staying self aware and mindful. When you start to feel worried, it helps to try to divert your negative thoughts in favor of positive ones. While it can seem difficult to do so, giving yourself a prompt and committing to it works wonders. Be aware of your breathing, as well. Rapid, shallow breaths often come with anxiety, and just like you can force a smile to trick your brain into being in a better mood, you can simply decide to take deeper, more deliberate breaths to trigger a more relaxed disposition. The most important thing is to be aware of the mistakes you’re making regarding your thoughts and your physiological responses and to try to counter them in order to stabilize yourself before your mental condition gets worse. Research As mentioned above, flights are often perceived as dangerous, most likely because of fairly selective media coverage and the visceral nature of the occasional plane crash. In reality, more mundane causes of death are much, much more prevalent than dying in a plane crash. By getting acquainted with the true statistics of flight, you can more easily dissuade your more negative and impulsive thoughts more easily in order to remain calm. While flying can be scary to some, the odds of a flight going south are pretty slim. Trying to ignore a legitimate danger is never a good idea, but learning to ignore irrational fears is key to living your best life. These handy tips will help you get through your flight, if not actively enjoy it, by tuning out negative thoughts and maybe even tuning into a movie.

While most people have had the unfortunate experience of traveling with an unhappy child, there are many steps that you can take to reduce the possibilities of full meltdowns. As parents, a long flight with kids may be one of the most anxiety-provoking aspects of traveling. You can help mitigate potential issues and prepare yourself for any major problems along the way. If being trapped in an airplane with your kiddos is causing you a lot of stress, get yourself prepared with these tips. Temperature Regulation On flights, you have very little control over the temperature aboard the aircraft. Everything from a child that is too hot to a child that is too cold can leave you with a combustible situation. To avoid temperature-induced issues, consider layers and versatile clothing and accessories. Materials like fleece fabric can be a great option as it offers the right amount of breathability and warmth that can prepare you for any temperature during the trip. You and your family will all be happy to have light layers that can get you ready for any circumstance. Snacks Having a significant supply of snacks will play a crucial role during your flight. You never know what your trip will have in store. Everything from poorly regulated blood sugar to delays to your travel schedule to frustrated children can be a recipe for disaster. Instead of dreading a potentially traumatic travel situation or spending too much on airport snacks, equip yourself with a few of their favorite snacks and bites that can tide them over to their next meal in the case that traveling does not happen as smoothly as you would hope. Something for Pressure Many travelers have felt the discomfort of pressure building in their heads on flights, particularly during the ascent and descent of the voyage. While many adults know to yawn, chew gum, suck on a candy or eat something, children are often unaware of this and this pressure can be even more painful and jarring for them. In preparing for your flight, make sure that you have something for your kiddo’s ears. Whether they are old enough for gum, candy or another snack, make sure that you pack something to help them during what can be a pressure building situation. Entertainment This may be an obvious step, but having toys, entertainment or other activities for your little one to engage with will play a critical role in their ability to enjoy the flight. Airplanes can be an exciting experience for children; however, they can also be pretty scary. The loud noises, pressure, crowded spaces and confinement can be a lot for children to process, and you will want to keep them occupied. Whether you pack some of their favorite toys, simple art projects, games or screens, make sure that you have plenty for them to do. If you are a parent who strays away from screen time, this may be a moment to make an exception. Particularly for small children, with short attention spans, a reasonable number of options will be key to their enjoyment and your survival. Conversations Ahead of Time You may be surprised at how impactful conversations with your children before your trip can be. Preparing your kids for the flight, letting them know what to expect and giving them a chance to ask questions will play a big part in their travel experience. Whether you sit them down to talk to them, read them a story about travel or build planes into their games and activities, you have plenty of chances to open up conversations with your kiddos. You can help them process a new environment, some of their fears and help them navigate a new experience through these conversations, reducing the chance of negative emotions, experiences and anxiety on the day of. While you cannot guarantee your child’s mood, the changes to your travel schedule or what will happen on the day of, you can help them process this new experience. Don’t forget to get yourself mentally, physically and emotionally prepared for the endeavor with just a few extra steps in the planning process so that you can set up your family for success.