The Finer Points - Aviation Podcast
Education & Explainer
About
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
- Safety is a Mindset - Aviation Podcast
If you didn't know, the answers to aviation safety are already out there. The path has been paved by pilots who learned the lessons—sometimes the hard way. If you want to stay off the Blancolirio channel, you don't need to guess. You need…
- What TRULY Happens Inside Of A Hot MOA? - Aviation Podcast
This episode features insights from a former Air Traffic Controller and a former Military Pilot, detailing events within a busy Military Operations Area (MOA) and Military Training Routes.
- MOAs, MTRs, and Interceptions, OH MY - Aviation Podcast
This episode of The Finer Points Aviation Podcast discusses flying through Military Operations Areas (MOAs), Military Training Routes (MTRs), and aerial interceptions. It addresses whether it is advisable to fly through an active MOA, desp…
- Understanding Turns and Turning Stalls - Aviation Podcast
This episode reviews the aerodynamics of turns, explaining how to differentiate important factors, and discusses turning stalls.
- What They Didn't Tell You - Aviation Podcast
This episode of The Finer Points discusses how pilots can find local procedures for airports they are not familiar with before arriving. The goal is to help pilots fly their best by being prepared.
- How Can I Get Better? - Aviation Podcast
This episode of The Finer Points discusses alternative paths to improving flying skills after obtaining an instrument rating. It suggests that pursuing a commercial certificate is not always the necessary next step, especially for those no…
- You Should Know This About Aerodynamics - Aviation Podcast
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!
- Failed Electrical Systems CAN Destroy Engines?! - Aviation Podcast
This is important information for anybody who flies an aircraft with a Continental Engine. Fly Your Best!
- Fatal Accident at Grass Valley CFI Debrief - Aviation Podcast
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…
- The MYTH DEFYING 70/50 Rule For Takeoff - Aviation Podcast
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?…
- Decommissioning Safety - Aviation Podcast
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…
- Talkin' Safety at Sun N Fun - Aviation Podcast
What will truly fix our safety problem and why does it matter? Let's talk.
- Shockingly Hot - Aviation Podcast
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 B…
- Flying Out Of The Spin - Aviation Podcast
On a recent CFI Club call, I was asked about how I teach spins. This is what I said ... Fly Your Best!
- Just Dry This - Aviation Podcast
THIS is how you save time and money in training. Become a safer, more confident pilot. Fly Your Best!
- When It All Goes Down - Aviation Podcast
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!
- Talkin' With Nick Wegner - Aviation Podcast
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 enj…
- Shed A Teardrop For Me - Aviation Podcast
In this episode, we talk about the "teardrop" into a 45 on a non-towered pattern entry. Fly Your Best!
- JP Schulze "The Point Of No Return" - Aviation Podcast
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!
- When Are You Ready To Go Pro? - Aviation Podcast
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!
- Turn And Face The Changes - Aviation Podcast
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
- The MYTH of Wind - Aviation Podcast
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
- To CFI or not to CFI - Aviation Podcast
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
- Talkin' with Dr. Mike Jones - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, we talk with Dr. Mike Jones about why some airports fail and some succeed. What makes an airport ... good? Please enjoy!
- Learn Your Lesson - Aviation Podcast
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
- Check Your List - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, we discuss how to use checklists, which to use, and how to make your own. Please enjoy!
- TFP Mail Call - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, we cover: How to best transition from High Wing to Low Wing How to best approach CFI Training 2 Year CFI -- How to best train other CFIs Please enjoy! Jason
- Pop UP IFR? - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, we cover A LOT. We're coming live from TFP Office Hours which happen every Friday at 12pm Pacific via Zoom. In this session, we covered: Pop Up IFR Practice Approaches VFR Flight Plans IFR Flight Plans Search and Rescue ..…
- TFP Mail Call - Aviation Podcast
Hello Aviators! In this episode, we discuss listener questions about: logging time as a safety pilot why AOA is "not" taught more should you hold student solos to ACS standards why might an approach not be authorized at night? Please enjoy!
- Exercise, Recency, and Effect - Aviation Podcast
The last in the series on the laws of learning this podcast will help you understand why it's important to stay current to stay proficient. Also, our special guest Rich Rafferty discusses how he approaches being a CFI on his way to the air…
- Are You READY? - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, we continue the series on the laws of learning. I will tell you a horror story about the law of readiness -- if you're not ready, you're not ready. Please enjoy!
- That was INTENSE! - Aviation Podcast
The 2nd in our series on the laws of learning, let's discuss the law of INTENSITY! Fly Your Best!
- The PRIMARY Thing - Aviation Podcast
The first in our Laws of Learning series in which we discuss the Law of Primacy. The most important of all the laws. Hear real-world examples of these learning laws affect (and have affected) you. Fly Your Best!
- UPWIND? or DEPARTURE? - Turns out it's BOTH! - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast we review the NEW guidance from the FAA in AC 90-66C which clearly describes whether or not the first leg of the traffic pattern is the "upwind" or "departure leg". Please enjoy The Finer Points!
- That's IMPOSSIBLE! A REAL ENGINE FAILURE on Departure - Aviation Podcast
Let's talk with former Harrier pilot, Pinto, about a recent engine failure he had at 300' AGL on departure. He was forced to execute an impossible turn ... with a successful outcome! Please enjoy The Finer Points! Jason
- Talkin' With Bryan Weathers - ATC / Pilot
Bryan Weathers has been an Air Traffic Controller for more than 13 years in over 5 different countries. He is also a photographer, author, and a pilot! Please join us as Bryan brings his unique experience to The Finer Points. Fly Your Best!
- The "Im" possible Turn - Aviation Podcast
Let's continue the conversation about whether or not you can/should try to turn back to the airport in the event of an engine failure. Fly Your Best! Jason
- On Glideslope and In The Trees?! - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, we continue to explore some of the nuances of approaches with vertical guidance and learn some pretty shocking things! Special guest: Tim Morgan, CFII Please enjoy! Jason
- Having FUN in the SUN Again - Aviation Podcast
On this podcast we discuss: The Sun and Fun airshow! What it's like and how to best plan for it. Also, we continue the IFR conversation about approaches with vertical guidance. Enjoy!
- Did YOU Know This? - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast we discuss: -why the EGT rises when you select one mag -what is a "precision" approach anymore? Please enjoy The Finer Points! Fly Your Best, Jason
- Good Instrument Training? - Aviation Podcast
In this episode we discuss: What Makes a Good CFII? Good Instrument Training? How to Best Use Simulators Please enjoy!
- TFP Mail Call - Aviation Podcast
In this episode, I answer listener questions on: Why do pilots tend to land left of the centerline? How to defuel an aircraft safely Please enjoy!
- READY For An Instrument Checkride? - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, I address how you know when you're ready for an Instrument check ride. We go over what you should be feeling going in and how you should cope with the ride itself. Please enjoy!
- Your FIRST 25 Hours - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, we review the importance of learning things correctly the first time and what it takes to change this if your CFI didn't cover it in your basic training. This is what I'd focus on in your first 25 hours. Fly Your Best!
- The Box Canyon Turn Continues - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Howard Donner to dig into some of the finer points I was unable to hit on the latest YouTube video about Box Canyon Turns. Please enjoy and Fly Your Best!
- Talk with ATC and ME - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, I'm joined by RH from the Opposing Bases podcast. We take listener questions and do a "lightning round" of ATC annoyances. Please enjoy!
- The Youngest YouTuber I Know - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, I talk with Carson Wagner, a 13-year old student pilot and the youngest YouTuber I know - as the host of "George Has The Wheel." Check out this kid! Way ahead of the game. http://podpage.com/ghtwhe We also review the old "…
- Changing Your Personal Minimums - Aviation Podcast
It's not easy to know when it's time to up your personal minimums ... or how you might go about that process. In this podcast, two Flight Instructors discuss their own minima and how we approach this for students. Please enjoy!
- Let's REVIEW The Flight Review - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, I answer a few questions - - How do I approach the Flight Review - How Does Standardization Work - What Would I Say To Somebody Who Doesn't "need" a Checklist Enjoy!
- A Very Special Case - Aviation Podcast
In this podcast, we discuss special VFR. What it is, how to obtain it, and most importantly how it is used in practice.