These are tough times for pilots in flight training with our inability to “social distance” safely in little planes while flying. For this reason, doctors advise against sharing the same “respiratory space” in a small plane with untested students and passengers. But solo flying seems to me to be available and encouraged (and therapeutic). Pilots thrive on the freedom of flight and most controllers will actually appreciate a little company at the (mostly empty) airport; go flying solo! Please be careful to check for fuel and FBO services at the smaller fields, since most are suffering from lack of traffic. And there is that nagging question of whether it is legal to drive in some locked-down states (not my call!)

We do know that federally-funded airports cannot be closed by state or local laws and the federal guidance on “essential services” protects “flight training” and aiports specifically. If you are qualified to fly solo – as a student or as a certificated pilot – going flying by yourself is a great break from the home-bound routine. And we all need to keep both our skills and the aviation infrastructure lubricated. It is too easy to get rusty with a layoff of even a few weeks so please take an opportunity to go stretch your wings (solo) and preserve our freedom to fly as aviators.

Other great ways to stay mentally sharp and connected to aviation is the wonderful library of resources. AOPA has put together a collection specifically targeting aviation addicts during this quarantine.

Also, this next week SAFE will be collaborating with Gold Seal Ground Schools to offer a live substitute for the canceled Florida Flight Expo. Check here for times and channels. This launches Tuesday at 15:00 on Gold Seal Facebook, YouTube and GoldSealLIVE. See you soon (LIVE) and support aviation excellence with SAFE.


SAFECFI-PRO™ workshop  is open to every aviation educator at every level (even if you are working on your CFI?) June10/11 at Sporty’s Pilot Shop.

Join SAFE to support our safety mission of generating aviation excellence in teaching and flying. Our amazing member benefits pay back your contribution (1/3 off your ForeFlight subscription)! Our FREE SAFE Toolkit App puts required pilot endorsements and experience requirements right on your smartphone and facilitates CFI+DPE teamwork. Our CFI insurance was developed by SAFE specifically for CFIs (and is the best value in the business).

About the author 

David St. George (Lifetime Member)

David St. George learned to fly at Flanders Valley Airport in 1970. Proving that everyone is eventually trainable, he became an FAA Gold Seal Flight Instructor for airplanes (single and multi, instrument, and glider) and serves the Rochester FSDO as an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. In this capacity, he gives flight tests at any level from sport pilot to ATP and CFI. For 25 years David was East Hill Flying Club's 141 Chief Instructor and manager. David holds multi and single engine ATP pilot certificates, with pilot ratings for glider and seaplane and several jet type ratings. He recently earned his 13th renewal as a Master Instructor and owns an Aeronca Champ so he can build hours for that airline job! http://learnturbine.com

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SAFE at #OSH22!

SAFE at #OSH22!
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