“Managing Distractions”   Distractions and interruptions can severely compromise flight safety if they occur during critical phases of flight. To help prevent this, the General Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC) recommends awareness training on how to properly cope with interruptions and distractions while flying. General aviation pilots are particularly at risk because they usually do … Continued

Hurricane Prep CheckList for Your Plane     As your insurance company, we are offering some practical recommendations about how to plan for hurricanes, and advice on securing your plane before a storm makes landfall. Please note that these recommendations do not constitute directives for our insured customers. Your insurance policy is the sole and … Continued

BPA’s Own Ron Timmermans Named National Certificated Flight Instructor of the Year   The General Aviation Awards Program is a cooperative effort between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and sponsoring organizations from the aviation industry. For more than 50 years, the Program has recognized aviation professionals in the fields of flight instruction, aviation maintenance, avionics, and … Continued

Autopilot Dilemmas! By Capt. Michael J. “Mick” Kaufman In my last column Captains Corner, I wrote about amending clearances on your GPS navigator, as well as issues I have seen in my own personal experience, especially using a touch screen in turbulence. I commend Avidyne in making their box capable of using touch screen or … Continued

1. The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) specifically encourages pilots to turn on their landing lights when operating below 10,000 feet, day or night, and especially when operating: A. In Class B airspace B. In conditions of reduced visibility C. Within 10 miles of any airport D. Both B and C   2. When making routine … Continued

William “Bill” Horan, MD, FACS ATP, CFII, Senior AME / Cessna Citation 500 Type Rating 13,500 Hours   BPT:  What first attracted you to aviation – and why? BH:  I still have a certificate dated 1949 from American Airlines that my mom gave me. It says that I’m a member of the “Sky Cradle Club.” … Continued

Join us this Fall 2021 for the return of in-person, live weekend BPT Clinics in: Oklahoma City, OK [KHSD] September 17-19, 2021 Fresno, CA [KFAT] October 8-10, 2021 Norfolk, VA [KORF] November 5-7, 2021 Each unique weekend experience includes a comprehensive in-person ground school, followed by type-specific, full-immersion training in your aircraft. Clinics are custom-designed … Continued