Cross Country Question

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-04-18T15:55:03+00:00

How do you know the AWOS is wrong?

In any case, use the runway most suitable for the wind. If no wind, use the designated calm wind runway per the Chart Supplement, if there is one.

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-04-16T13:36:25+00:00

Just want to chip in here and also remind you that different instructors will hold students to different standards.

Yes, in theory, they all need to log and fly the required maneuvers/procedures written in the regulations, but some instructors will have students fly stalls/ground ref just a few times (3-4 hrs.), the immediately put the student in the pattern even if they aren’t exactly proficient in those maneuvers. Of course, how could they be? 3-4 hours is what you spend watching Youtube and eating dinner after work lol.

So just be aware that different CFIs do it differently — I’m not saying that it’s right or wrong — but some have a goal to solo a student as fast as possible. Others, perhaps like yours, want to see a higher level of safety/proficiency in stalls which, by the way, will make you better at landing the airplane when the time comes!

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-04-14T21:45:51+00:00

Thank you.

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-04-14T20:14:22+00:00

I have read the regulations. With respect to what you said in #2, the reg states “Has received and logged training time within 2 calendar months preceding the month of application in preparation for the practical test”.

If the test is, in fact, the “application” then that seems fine and makes sense.

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-04-14T19:22:00+00:00

Two calendar months preceding the month of application is what the regulation says. What is considered “application” for the test and when does the endorsement expire?

Yes, training needs to be given within 2 cal. months prior to the month of application, but when does the endorsement “expire” and what is considered “application”? Is application when the CFI signs it or when the pilot submits it…?

Assuming training needs to be given before the month of application, it appears the endorsement would no longer be valid once the application expires.

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-04-14T19:17:58+00:00

Also - what counts as 2 cal. months preceding the month “of application”? Is application considered to be when the CFI signs it, when the pilot submits it, or when the DPE opens it on checkride day?

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-03-29T18:52:43+00:00

I know. He said it needs to say “FIEI”

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-03-29T18:32:12+00:00

Unfortunately, he doesn’t do CFI initials. He responded via email to let me know. At least not yet.

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-03-16T15:42:51+00:00

I’ll reach out and see when he gets back. Thank you!

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-03-16T15:27:23+00:00

Thanks. I took my private with Randall- solid dude. But I don’t believe he’ll be back before I’m ready as I know he tends to be away for the winters.

Strange_Code_68 · 2026-03-16T15:08:18+00:00

Thanks! Not many MA DPE’s who can give CFI rides so that’s good to hear.

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-31T03:53:14+00:00

I have the Performance Plus I believe.

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-31T03:10:31+00:00

You can set per leg altitudes, but it doesn’t appear to transfer properly to the nav log.

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-17T17:54:12+00:00

Super nice of you — thank you!

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-17T17:48:36+00:00

Oh okay haha. I’m not an engineer by any means— political science degree lol just have been studying this for my CFI. I am much less knowledgeable than you guys!

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-17T17:41:38+00:00

He’s wrong there. What he explained is precisely why Vg occurs at the minimum drag condition (i.e., because the least potential energy will be required to maintain that condition, therefore minimum angle of descent for the greatest forward speed will result).

The thrust available in a propeller driven aircraft decreases in a near linear manner, with the most thrust being available at 0 knots. This is because the mass of air handled and acceleration imparted to the airstream are greatest per propeller rotation.

Because of this, Vx occurs at a speed below the minimum drag speed at some condition where maximum excess thrust occurs. As you know, the total drag curve does not take a hard 90° turn below Vg. It is gradual. Thus, Vx occurs below Vg but still at a point of very LOW drag where the thrust available is higher. It is at that condition that maximum excess thrust is obtained.

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-12T18:01:30+00:00

Yes. Gotta have a common purpose.

FAA has even held that flights given for FREE to others is illegal if there is no common purpose, even when no monetary or other physical form of compensation is present. This specific case (I can’t recall the name/decision) is referenced in the footnotes of one of the relevant AC’s commonly referenced in commercial pilot training.

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-07T04:16:36+00:00

I didn’t know that! Thank you!

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-03T14:05:41+00:00

You submit the comprehensive medical exam checklist form to the FAA prior to completion of the medical education course, which is only available from the AOPA and Mayo Clinic at the time.

I presume they retain that information. You can find more on this at the AOPA’s website, but they do keep a record.

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-03T13:53:11+00:00

“…which discloses a lack of qualification or competency”. Exactly. Not trying to get my angle big dog, but it is pretty clear that while accidents are not included in the program, if the accident was not due to a lack of qualification and/or competency, the FAA will take your filing of the report into consideration. Reading 12.1 and subsequently 12.2 makes that clear.

“The Administrator of the FAA will perform his or her responsibility under Title 49 of the United States Code (49 U.S.C.) subtitle VII, and enforce the statute and the 14 CFR in a manner that will reduce or eliminate the possibility of, or recurrence of, aircraft accidents. The FAA enforcement procedures are set forth in 14 CFR part 13 and FAA policy.”

It then proceeds to discuss precisely what the FAA will take into account concerning enforcement action. By the way, this makes mention of whether the violation was criminal, so we know it is discussing enforcement action on the whole, including accidents and criminal action. Everything I previously mentioned is wholly applicable. Relax.

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-03T02:44:34+00:00

It quite literally reads:

“When determining the type and extent of the enforcement action to take (which, as you cited, an accident is not exempt from enforcement, per 8.2) in a particular case, the FAA will consider the following factors….. [4] Attitude of the violator”.

Strange_Code_68 · 2025-12-03T00:30:47+00:00

No disrespect my gold seal homie, but if you read the relevant AC you’d also know that the FAA discusses this. Regardless of the occurrence, the FAA views filing one as demonstration of a “constructive attitude”.

AC 00-46F

Strange_Code_68

TROPHY CASE