Flying

The sharp wit and experienced judgment of Flying’s experts cover all the challenges and rewards that aviation offers to all flying enthusiasts. From industry news updates, regulations, trends, air shows and events to carefully researched reports on all categories of airplanes, helicopters, avionics, products, technology, accessories and equipment to pilot technique, flight training, safety, weather, operations and maintenance.

Flying • ISSUE 973 August 2026

THE FUNDAMENTALS • Mastering basics and discipline of tailwheel flying sharpens pilot skills, regardless of aircraft

DECADES OF CESSNA 140 JOY • Lifelong reader shares memories of ‘Katie,’ his beloved 1947 model

THIS MONTH’S PICKS • These standout aviation products and services are worth a closer look

SOLO ENDORSEMENT TRAPS • Essential requirements and common misconceptions can ground student pilots and CFIs

SIMPLER WAY TO FLY • Modern aircraft controls are designed to be remarkably intuitive, making the cockpit less intimidating for beginner pilots

MISSION READY • Purpose-built scenarios challenge pilots to think critically, adapt, and apply their skills

EMBRACING THE ‘WHAT-IF’ PHILOSOPHY • Master instructor instilled importance of preparation and trusting your training

WEST LAFAYETTE, INDIANA (KLAF) VOR-A • Old-school approach and circling procedures must be navigated to reach Purdue University Airport

AUTOMATION SURPRISES • Focusing on the immediate future remains the key to safe instrument flying

DUTY TO SPEAK UP • Air traffic controller offers perspective on flight safety and communication

Speedster Worth Watching • JMB Aircraft VL3 high-performance trainer poised for MOSAIC era

Home Field Advantage • Four college-owned airports embrace their storied histories and modern aviation training

Ultimate Pilot Test • Flying a tailwheel requiresa recalibration of your flying brainto master takeoffs and landings

A PILOT LOOKS AT 60 • Three-year journey to earn a PPL late in life teaches that preparation—not age—is the true measure of an aviator

CESSNA 172 SKYHAWK • Why aviation’s most familiar trainer still wins over pilots

STOP DROWNING IN DATA • Use funnel approach in preflight briefing to organize overwhelming flow of weather information

OFF TARGET • It wasn’t that important to get it right

UNEXPECTED CLASSROOM • Decades of pilot experience began not in a sim, but with a book, a mentor, and a high school job

FOREFLIGHT • Sentry ADS-B receiver family helps elevate cockpit awareness

GARMIN PILOT • View real-time engine data to stay on top of potential maintenance issues

GREAT LEGACY