Honest aviation writing on flight training, aircraft ownership costs, and smarter decisions for pilots in Central Iowa and beyond.
Aircraft Ownership & Finance
The six variables that determine leaseback profitability, a complete C172 P&L example, and why stress-testing utilization is non-negotiable before you sign.
Aircraft Details · OwnershipFixed costs, variable costs, engine reserves, CAPS repack cycles, and what the Trade-A-Plane listing doesn't tell you about SR22 ownership.
Ownership · Hangar TalkThe purchase price is just the entry ticket. A guide to the hidden costs of aircraft ownership and why proper modeling before you buy is non-negotiable.
Flight Training & Education
A CFI's honest, complete breakdown — aircraft rental, instruction, gear, exam fees, and why Part 61 training often costs significantly less than flight school.
Education · SafetyMeeting the FAA's legal minimums doesn't make you a sharp, safe pilot. The real difference between currency and proficiency — and what to do about it.
Education · Student PilotsThe essential FAA publications every student must own — what each one is for, why it matters, and how to actually use them in your training.