This week on the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives into three major topics that affect pilots across the training and professional spectrum. First, he breaks down the difference between wet and dry leases — why it's critical to understand operational control, how to avoid illegal charter situations, and what lease paperwork needs to be in place. Then he addresses a crucial question: should you get a second opinion before a checkride? (Spoiler: Yes.) Finally, he tackles a deep-dive into manifold pressure gauge requirements, clearing up widespread confusion using ECFR archives and FAA history.
Other topics include:
Tips for MEI and Commercial Multi Add-On Checkrides
Minimum takeoff fuel logic for commercial ops
Partial panel IFR approaches: realistic failures
Required checkride stall scenarios and types of hypoxia
Thoughts on aviation YouTube channels
Scenario-based checkride prep advice
Join us live on YouTube or Discord next time, and submit your own questions at https://vsl.aero!
Discord: https://discord.gg/YnkV4pxm
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro & John's Co-Host Introduction
03:10 – Wet Lease vs Dry Lease Explained
12:48 – How Lease Agreements Can Protect You from Certificate Action
14:36 – Truth-in-Leasing Questions Pilots Should Ask
17:32 – Why Every Student Pilot Needs a Second Opinion Before a Checkride
22:12 – Virtual Mock Checkrides & New Coaching Services
23:26 – Manifold Pressure: Who Needs the Gauge and Why
28:02 – How Turbochargers & Superchargers Actually Work
41:46 – Using Historical ECFR to Find Manifold Requirements
50:20 – MEI and Multi Add-On Checkride Tips
01:01:32 – Logging Approaches: VMC vs IMC Clarified
01:03:46 – Commercial Checkride Scenario: Minimum Takeoff Fuel
01:10:46 – Partial Panel: What's Realistic Today?
01:16:20 – Stalls in Turns vs Straight Flight – What the ACS Requires
01:18:47 – Hypoxia Types: What You Actually Need to Know
01:21:00 – Closing Thoughts & Post-Show Discord Hangout
Links:
Truth in Leasing – AC 91-37B
https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_91-37B.pdf
Flying Light Twins Safely
https://www.faasafety.gov/files/notices/2015/Nov/FAA_P-8740-66.pdf
Airplane Flying Handbook – Chapter 13 (Multi-engine operations)
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/14_afh_ch13.pdf
FAA Info for Operators 150-12 (IFR Approach Logging)
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/InFO15012.pdf