Aviation Training Guides
Written by airline pilots, for student pilots
Most Popular
Our most-read articles based on real traffic
Mastering Climb Gradients on IFR Departures
How to calculate and fly required climb gradients on departure procedures.
JFK Jr Plane Crash & Spatial Disorientation
An FAA Gold Seal flight instructor analyzes the JFK Jr. crash through the PAVE checklist framework. Learn how pilot, aircraft, environment, and external pressure factors combined — and how to prevent it.
Holding Pattern Entry Guide
Master holding pattern entries with interactive calculators. Learn Direct, Parallel, and Teardrop entries, holding speeds, and timing rules.
Approach Setup and Brief
Step-by-step guide to setting up the avionics and briefing an instrument approach.
New Pilots
11 guides for student pilots starting their journey
Foreign Pilot License Conversion
Convert your foreign pilot license to an FAA certificate without a checkride. Step-by-step guide to 14 CFR 61.75 for international pilots.
Part 61 vs Part 141 Flight Training
Compare FAA Part 61 and Part 141 flight schools — pros, cons, and which is right for your pilot journey.
Crosswind Component Guide
Interactive crosswind calculator with chart visualization. Learn to calculate crosswind components and establish personal minimums.
Julian Alarcon's Journey
How Aviator.NYC's founder went from student pilot to airline captain.
Cost of Private Pilot Certificate
Complete cost breakdown for PPL training in NYC — from minimum costs to realistic budgets.
How Often Should You Take Flight Lessons?
Optimal flight training frequency for busy professionals. Learn why 2-3 lessons per week is ideal and how to succeed with just one lesson weekly.
IFR Training
20 guides for instrument-rated pilots
Efficient Cross Country Flying for Instrument Rating
How to plan and fly IFR cross countries efficiently for training.
VOR Navigation Guide
Master VOR navigation with interactive diagrams and a practice simulator. Learn radials, the HSI, intercepting courses, and common mistakes.
What It Was Like Getting My Instrument Rating
Personal story of earning an instrument rating in the NYC area.
When Should You Configure on an Instrument Approach?
Two professional methods for timing flaps, gear, and speed on IFR approaches. Learn the Two-Mile FAF method and Half-Dot Glideslope technique used by airline pilots.
Garmin Approach Activation Navigation Tips
Avoiding common mistakes when loading and activating approaches on Garmin avionics.
Can Vintage Aircraft with Aftermarket GPS Fly LPV Approaches?
RNAV equipment requirements for Cessna G1000 and older aircraft with GTN750 or GNS530W installations. Includes FAA Form 337 documentation requirements.
General & Resources
Safety, community, and practical resources
Spirit Airlines Shut Down — Free Simulator Training for Displaced Pilots
Our airline pilot instructors are volunteering free G1000 simulator time and part-time CFI positions to Spirit Airlines pilots affected by the May 2026 shutdown.
Tri-State Flight Training Sales Tax Guide
Understand flight training sales tax rules across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Quick reference for tri-state pilots.
EAA Chapter 501
Learn about EAA Chapter 501 and youth aviation programs in NYC.
Comm Radio Setup
How to set up and manage frequencies on modern avionics.
Best Aviation Gifts
Perfect aviation gifts for aspiring pilots of all ages.