The Finer Points - Aviation Podcast
The Finer Points is the original educational aviation podcast. Launched in 2005, TFP delivers expert CFI wisdom from award winning certified flight instructor, Jason Miller. Over the last 20 years Jason has been working to perfect the art of flight instruction. He was named FAA Wester Pacific CFI of the year in 2009 and 2016, works as an AOPA Air Safety Institute instructor, and writes monthly columns for FLYING magazine. Jason is passionate about conveying accurate, meaningful information to pilots.
Episodes
In this espisode we discuss how to understand Induced Drag and Ground Effect as well as why Maneuvering Speed changes with weight. These are two aerodynamic concepts that are critical to understand and many pilots get wrong. Fly Your Best!
This is important information for anybody who flies an aircraft with a Continental Engine. Fly Your Best!
Last week we had a fatal accident at KGOO. We have no information yet but I was planning to meet the pilot to begin instrument training and I think there are some valuable initial takeaways. Let's discuss them for the sake of learning.
Fly Your Best!
Jason
In this podcast we talk about the 70/50 rule for determining takeoff performance. The rule says, "if I don't have 70% of the required speed by the halfway point of the runway, I should abort the takeoff". Is this a myth? Does it hold true? If you do have the speed, does it mean you should go? Let's discuss on this episode of The Finer Points, Fly Your Best!
The FAA is proposing the removal of all Remote Communications Outlets in the lower 48. These RCOs are the only way to establish search and rescue in flight when you don't have a cellular signal. This would be a HUGE mistake. Please leave a public comment at the Federal Register using this link:
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/03/27/2025-05167/notice-of-intent-to-decommission-flight-service-remote-communications-outl...
What will truly fix our safety problem and why does it matter? Let's talk.
In this podcast, we talk with legendary mechanic and founder of Savvy Aviation, Mike Busch. Mike explains how shock cooling is not really a thing but we should all be concerned about shock heating! Please enjoy The Finer Points!
Fly Your Best,
Jason
On a recent CFI Club call, I was asked about how I teach spins. This is what I said ...
Fly Your Best!
THIS is how you save time and money in training. Become a safer, more confident pilot. Fly Your Best!
On our recent Canyons of the Southwest Airplane Camp trip, one aircraft experienced an engine failure and had to execute a forced landing. In this podcast, we talk to both pilots and discuss what we learned. Please enjoy The Finer Points!
In this podcast, we talk with Nick Wegner, one of the founders of Flight Schedule Pro. Nick and his team have announced a major effort to streamline the way flight training works for Schools, CFIs, and the pilots that fly there. Please enjoy The Finer Points!
In this episode, we talk about the "teardrop" into a 45 on a non-towered pattern entry. Fly Your Best!
At Oshksoh 2024 I had a chance to catch up with JP Shulze to discuss his adventures. Live from the AOPA Lounge, here is the podcast as we recorded it yesterday. See y'all at #OSH25!
In this podcast, we discuss the Commercial certificate. What are the real goals here and how do we put Commercial applicants ahead of the game and make them ready for the professional environment? Fly Your Best!
This podcast discusses the upcoming changes to many of the ACS. Special guest, John Ewing is an author, CFI, and former DPE join us as we discuss some of these changes that will impact us all.
Fly Your Best!
Jason
Apart from gusts, once the airplane leaves the ground it knows no wind. Agree? Let's discuss on this episode of TFP!
Fly Your Best,
Jason
In this episode, we join another Office Hours discussion on whether or not to become a CFI, how to make great lesson plans, and more! Please enjoy!
Jason
In this podcast, we talk with Dr. Mike Jones about why some airports fail and some succeed. What makes an airport ... good? Please enjoy!
In this podcast, we answer a few listener questions and drop in with this week's Office Hours to discuss the practical application of lesson plans.
Fly Your Best!
Jason
In this podcast, we discuss how to use checklists, which to use, and how to make your own. Please enjoy!
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