More Than Skin Deep: Enhanced Preflight Inspection for GA Pilots | Seth Lake Safety Seminar
In this detailed safety seminar, DPE and CFI Seth Lake walks pilots through an enhanced preflight inspection process—going beyond the surface-level checks most pilots perform. Using real NTSB accidents from Arkansas, Seth highlights how minor oversights—like frayed throttle cables, loose spark plugs, or degraded exhaust components—can result in catastrophic failures. You’ll learn practical, actionable techniques to integrate deeper inspections into your routine, including: How to test your autopilot and detect early signs of control cable issues Why checking static RPM on takeoff matters A simple method for detecting exhaust leaks using soapy water What to look for under the cowl—fire sleeves, linkages, baffling, and more Fuel system checks, selector testing, and collapsed bladder detection Critical brake, nose gear, and wiring issues pilots often miss When and how to do a proper mag check and fuel selector shutoff test 🔧 Designed for renters, owners, and CFIs alike, this seminar will help you build a smarter monthly inspection routine that can catch hidden risks early. 📎 BONUS: Includes discussion of checklist accuracy, placard requirements, and how STCs affect airworthiness. 🛠️ Don't just walk around—dig deeper. Risk is always present, but better habits can minimize it. #PreflightInspection #AviationSafety #SethLakeDPE #PilotTraining #GeneralAviation #FlightSafety #NTSB #CheckridePrep #OwnerOperator #AircraftMaintenance #EnhancedPreflight #CFITips Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspection 02:47 Analyzing Past Accidents for Learning 06:08 The Importance of Thorough Pre-Flight Checks 09:01 Autopilot and Control Cable Inspections 11:57 Engine Checks: RPM and Exhaust Leak Tests 15:13 Critical Components: Carburetor and Linkages 18:05 Fire Safety and Engine Baffling 20:56 Final Thoughts on Pre-Flight Inspections 25:18 The Importance of Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspections 29:12 Fuel System Checks and Common Issues 32:33 Overlooked Areas in Aircraft Maintenance 36:49 Panel Blind Spots and Electrical Safety 40:41 Final Thoughts on Safety and Maintenance Practices
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Live Q&A: CFI Renewals, MEI Training Tips, Wet vs Dry Leases, Aircraft Ownership & More
In this live Q&A session of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth Lake tackles a wide range of pilot questions from Discord, Instagram, and YouTube. Topics include: CFI Gold Seal renewals and FISDO processing Understanding static pressure and pitot systems Preparing for Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) training Teaching depth for CFIs and avoiding information overload Building student pilot confidence with maneuvers CFII certification without a CFI Instrument checkride common weak spots Wet lease vs dry lease explained Aircraft ownership considerations for personal missions Home simulators for IFR training FAA Wings program and proficiency tips Whether you’re a student pilot, instructor, or experienced aviator, this episode provides practical insights to help you improve your skills and understanding of FAA rules. 👉 Join the conversation: vsl.aero → Discord Community 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts / Spotify 👍 Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review to support the show! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Q&A Format 01:21 Gold Seal Flight Instructor Status 02:18 Understanding Airspeed Indicators 03:43 Tips for MEI Training 05:11 Endorsements and Legal Considerations for MEIs 07:08 Defensive Posture in Multi-Engine Instruction 10:55 Targeting Knowledge Depth for Students 14:13 Handling Student Challenges in Flight Training 15:39 Mock Orals and Preparation for Checkrides 18:58 Skipping CFI for CFII 21:48 Using E6B vs. Flight Computers 22:37 Common Mistakes in IFR Checkrides 25:57 Utilizing GPS and Autopilot in Flight Training 27:13 Updates on CF-II Regulations and Instruction 30:33 Understanding Wet and Dry Leases in Aviation 35:21 Navigating Part 135 Operations and Pilot Training 37:15 Preparing for Instrument Check Rides 41:02 Engaging with the WINGS Program for Pilot Proficiency 43:57 Experiencing Actual vs. Simulated IFR Training 45:22 Principles of Aircraft Ownership and Mission Planning
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Checkride Insights Ep. 4 — Jeremy Lashbrook on Airworthiness, Checkride Errors, and CFI Rolls
In this episode, Seth sits down with Jeremy Lashbrook, a seasoned pilot and Designated Pilot Examiner with over 26 years of U.S. Army aviation experience. Jeremy brings unique insight from his extensive background flying both rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft, EMS helicopter operations, and type ratings in multiple complex aircraft. Together, they discuss common applicant mistakes, tips for smoother checkrides, airworthiness pitfalls, understanding endorsements, oral and flight maneuver trends, and key lessons for CFIs to better prepare students. Jeremy also shares his experience with ATP and type rating checkrides, plus valuable advice for pilots moving into professional aviation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Check Ride Insights 03:10 Administrative Preparation for Check Rides 05:58 Understanding Endorsements and Airworthiness 09:02 Navigating Type Ratings and Avionics 12:06 Oral Exam Challenges and Airworthiness Knowledge 15:03 Flight Maneuvers and Practical Test Expectations 31:37 Understanding Power Changes During Maneuvers 34:07 The Importance of Pylon Selection 36:45 Addressing Stall Maneuvers in Training 40:04 Navigating Instrument Check Rides 43:28 Common Pitfalls in Instrument Flight Planning 46:57 Understanding Special VFR and Weather Minimums 52:32 Personal Minimums and Decision Making 57:46 Final Thoughts on Readiness for Check Rides
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High Altitude Ops: Oxygen Systems & Pressurization Explained
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth takes a deep dive into high altitude operations, breaking down FAA requirements, oxygen systems, and cabin pressurization from both a technical and checkride prep perspective. Whether you're a Commercial, CFI, or ATP applicant, you'll gain practical insight on: • The types of oxygen systems you’ll encounter in GA aircraft • How to calculate oxygen requirements for your flight • FAA Part 91.211 rules and what “if installed” really means on a checkride • Physiological risks of flying without oxygen above 10,000 feet • Best practices for maintaining and using onboard oxygen systems • Real-world stories, Q&A, and prep tips for earning your high altitude endorsement Plus, Seth outlines how to use AC 61-107B as a ready-made lesson plan and shares additional resources including the FAA’s O2 brochure, SkyOx system specs, and pressurization system maintenance best practices. 💬 Join the conversation in the Discord companion thread, ask questions live, and get featured on the next show. Show Links: High Altitude Operations: https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/training/Appendix_3-E_HighAltOperations.pdf Airline Upset Recovery: https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/training/AP_UpsetRecovery_Supplement.pdf AC 61-107B: https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_61-107B_CHG_1_FAA.pdf High Altitude Endorsement: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/part-61/section-61.31#p-61.31(g) FAA Oxygen Equipment Info: https://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pilotsafetybrochures/media/oxygen_equipment.pdf Aerox Pamphlet: https://www.aerox.com/content/2022%20Use%20and%20care%20-%20Sky-ox.pdf Reddit Question: https://www.reddit.com/r/flying/s/yQOTAo3yNd Oxygen in General Aviation Paper: https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/data_research/research/med_humanfacs/oamtechreports/AM66-28.pdf Discord Server Link: https://discord.gg/46zt3N8ckx Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to High Altitude Operations 02:47 Understanding Oxygen Systems 06:08 Pressurization Systems Explained 09:02 Training and Resources for High Altitude Operations 11:57 Physiological Effects of High Altitude Flight 14:47 Flight Planning for High Altitude Operations 17:53 Oxygen Delivery Systems in Aviation 20:38 Calculating Oxygen Requirements 24:02 Human Physiology at High Altitude 42:30 Understanding Altitude and Physiology 44:55 Hypoxia: Causes and Effects 52:16 Monitoring and Managing Hypoxia 01:01:48 Oxygen Systems and Maintenance 01:09:30 Emergency Procedures and Best Practices
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Checkride Insights Ep. 3 — Nick Adcock on Preparation, Common Pitfalls, and Checkride Mindset
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake interviews Nick Adcock, a designated pilot examiner (DPE) with a rich background in military and commercial aviation. They discuss common pitfalls applicants face during checkrides, including logbook issues, airworthiness checks, and the importance of preparation. Nick shares insights on the oral exam, highlighting knowledge gaps and stress management techniques. The conversation also covers challenges during flight tests, particularly in pattern work and decision-making, as well as common mistakes seen during instrument checkrides. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and understanding of regulations to ensure a successful checkride experience. takeaways Preparation is key to reducing stress during checkrides. Logbook audits should be done before the test. Airworthiness checks require a compliance list for ADs. Applicants often forget basic knowledge from private pilot training. Situational awareness is crucial during pattern work. Decision-making should be the applicant's responsibility during tests. Understanding the ACS is essential for success. Common mistakes include improper handling of procedure turns. Communication with ATC during instrument checkrides is important. A positive attitude can enhance the checkride experience. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Checkride Insights 01:47 Common Checkride Pitfalls 06:13 Logbook and Endorsement Essentials 11:36 Airworthiness and Compliance Checks 18:18 Navigating the Oral Exam 24:13 Flight Planning and Alternate Requirements 26:07 Understanding Alternate Planning in Aviation 30:16 The Importance of Conversational Checkrides 36:33 Navigating Pattern Entry and Situational Awareness 40:40 Instrument Checkride Challenges and Best Practices
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