In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives deep into the often-misunderstood topic of personal minimums—how to build them, stick to them, and apply them on checkride day. Using FAA guidance and practical examples, he outlines real-world risk management techniques, including when to cancel a flight and how to safely mitigate marginal weather.
He also covers the training and testing requirements for Part 135 operators, breaking down the key differences between 293, 297, and 299 checks. Whether you're planning to move into a 135 role or preparing for your next checkride, this episode has the insights you need.
Finally, the episode wraps with a lively Q&A session covering:
Eights on pylons tips
Diversions and checkride discontinuations
Handling fuel leaks on test day
What ADM concepts are often overlooked
Proper decision-making around inop equipment
Whether you can build time in experimentals
And much more...
🛠️ Tools & References:
ACS personal minimums sections
FAA Risk Management Handbook (Ch. 2)
Advisory Circular 91-67A
FAA Safety Briefing (Mar/Apr 2015 edition)
Check the VSL Discord for links to all referenced materials and join the ongoing discussion.
Chapters:
00:00 Setting Personal Minimums for Pilots
22:49 Understanding Risk Management in Aviation
29:55 Exploring Part 135 Training
30:23 Preparing for Part 135 Cargo Interviews
34:13 Understanding Part 135 Regulations and Checkrides
38:02 Navigating Checkride Procedures and Diversions
40:26 Communicating in Congested Airspace
43:44 Inoperative Equipment and Risk Management
49:01 Differences in Pre-flight Assessments
52:19 Aeronautical Decision Making in Training
56:07 Memorization vs. Reference in Aviation
59:56 Weekly Recap and Community Engagement