Vapor and Cuckoo are former military pilots and current advanced flight instructors who rant about issues they see in General Aviation and provide solutions on how to do better. Pete "Vapor" Reddan is retired Air Force Pilot having flown the KC-10, T-6 and C-17. Mike "Cuckoo" Kloch is a retired US Marine Pilot who flew the F-18. Both logged combat sorties over Iraq and/or Afghanistan an they apply their unique perspectives to General Aviation Training to help better the community. Sometimes ...
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Uprt Podcasts
Join me, Trent Robinson, an experienced Head of Operations, flight examiner, and charter pilot with over 30 years of experience, as we delve into the fascinating world of aviation. Based in Darwin, Australia, this podcast is designed for aviators of all levels, from beginners to advanced professionals. While our discussions have an Australian focus, the insights and knowledge shared are applicable to aviators worldwide. Expect a variety of content, including insider tips, discussions on flig ...
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Ep 191 - Interview: UPRT Australia - Stall Training: What's Changed??
59:35
59:35
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59:35Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Back in 2023 I spoke with our guests UPRT Australia's Shane Tobin and Jeremy Miller about UPRT training as a whole. Today we are going to talk specifically about stalling and stalling accidents, and the differences from the Day VFR Syllabus and the current Part 61 MOS and instructors understanding. U…
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Ep 192 - CFIT vs LOC-I Two Labels, One Outcome: Terrain
39:05
39:05
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39:05Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Today we’re going to break down what CFIT and LOC-I actually mean, why they’re still such a stubborn problem, what the leading causes look like across airlines, helicopters, and general aviation, and how we train to mitigate them — including the tricky bit: risk versus reward in training, and where s…
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Episode 15 - Advice for CFIs and their Clients
1:09:14
1:09:14
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1:09:14Send us a text Today we rant about what new CFIs, and our Clients, should expect during training with regards to customer service, preparation and the overall training experience. https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ Support the showBy Vapor Reddan and Cuckoo Kloch
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Episode 14, The Pursuit of Excellence in 2026!
58:09
58:09
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58:09Send us a text Today we rant about the pursuit of excellence, or lack there of, in to days General Aviation community. https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ Support the show Support the showBy Vapor Reddan and Cuckoo Kloch
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Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! I recap my Broome trip, Answer your questions plus an Exercise Pitch Black update for 2026 and your chance to win 1 of 10 free digital logbooks! GELP vs AELP Which Pathway is best for you? Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia…
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Send us a text Today we rant about integrity and give our thoughts what that means in aviation. https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ Support the showBy Vapor Reddan and Cuckoo Kloch
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Ep 189 - Tropical Cyclone Fina and Securing Aircraft in Storms
28:45
28:45
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28:45Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! In this episode we’re talking about something a little closer to home: Tropical Cyclone Fina, which has just passed through Darwin Nov 22nd. Patreon Black Friday sale - 30% off Patreon subscriptions - Code BLACKFRIDAY Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://co…
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Ep 188 - Mailbag - Logbooks, RPL Endorsements, CPL Hour Building
22:48
22:48
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22:48Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Who can certify a logbook? RPL endorsements Best tips for CPL hour building And a few questions about me! Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.com.au Affiliate Links: Pilot Logbook Digital Excel spreadsheet logbook for a one …
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Ep 187 - Engine Failure Training Risk Mitigations
33:09
33:09
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33:09Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Air North Brasilia accident ATSB Report E55 Baron accident ATSB Report Patreon Discount Code - BIRTHDAY4 Pilot Logbook Digital Excel spreadsheet logbook for a one off payment. Podcast listeners get 20% Off!! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commi…
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Episode 12 - The Impossible Turn and Other Random Rants
1:04:41
1:04:41
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1:04:41Send us a text Today we rant about the so called "Impossible turn" (a terrible name) and give our thoughts on that maneuver. We also discuss climbing after takeoff and our thoughts on several issues relating to ground operations and how they can be better. https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ Support the show…
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Ep 186 - CASA CAR 5 to Part 61 Conversion and Digital Wallets
17:23
17:23
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17:23Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! The CAR 5 licensing system served Australian pilots for decades. But it’s now officially closed. As of 1 September 2025 CASA set this as the end of the simple conversion process. So if you haven’t converted, what now?? Plus I’ll run you through the process digital licences and medicals I’ll run you t…
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Ep 185 - Understanding Scenario Based Training
18:46
18:46
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18:46Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Too many pilots are being trained to pass a test, not to survive the real world. And that, my friends, is a serious problem. Today we’re talking Scenario-Based Flight Training — what it is, why it matters, and how we can implement it across all levels of flight training from recreational to commercia…
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Ep 184 - Corporate Air Federal Court Decision and How it Affects You
21:16
21:16
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21:16Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! In a short but significant ruling, Australia’s High Court has dismissed Corporate Air Charter’s appeal against a Full Federal Court decision confirming that standby duty is considered “work” and must be factored into a pilot’s average weekly hours. So what does this mean for pilots and operators? Sup…
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Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! We discuss and train for inflight emergencies all the time. But have you ever really thought about what you would do in the event of an emergency or crash. landing? Do you have enough food and water? Do you know how to operate an ELT or EPIRB?? Nav & Co Flight Bag Lite - Use the coupon code FTAPODCAS…
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Ep 11 - Part 2... Brief, Fly, Debrief, Repeat
1:17:04
1:17:04
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1:17:04Send us a text https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828 Support the show…
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Ep 182 - When to use FCOM's, Checklists and Flows
22:01
22:01
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22:01Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Today we’re diving into a topic that every pilot, from the brand-new student to the most seasoned airline captain, deals with every single flight: checklists, flows, and memory items. These tools are the backbone of cockpit discipline and standardisation—but when do you use a flow? When do you pull o…
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Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Today we’re talking about something every single one of us can relate to — how to be a better pilot. Whether you’ve just passed your RPL, or you’ve been flying for decades, the truth is: none of us ever really stop learning. And that’s exactly what this discussion is about. What are the habits, the s…
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Ep 180 - Top Tips and Tricks for Job Seekers in GA
27:25
27:25
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27:25Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Today we’re diving into job interviews for general aviation — what operators are really looking for, the top tips to stand out, and the technical questions you’ll need to be ready for and the most common mistakes being made. Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training ht…
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Ep 179 - Aviation Summit, Awards night and VJ Day Anniversary at Coomalie Creek Fly-in
22:44
22:44
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22:44Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Australian Aviation Summit Review Aviation Aviation Awards for 2025 Coomalie Creek VJ Day Anniversary Fly-in CASA Wings awards nominations are now open for 2025 https://www.australianflying.com.au/wings-awards Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.fl…
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Send us a text https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828 Support the show…
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Ep 178 - Mandatory Radio Calls OCTA and Cadetships: Are They Worth it??
27:08
27:08
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27:08Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! CTAF radio calls – Mandatory vs Recommended Flight Training Cadetships – are they worth it? Plus a few bits on the side! Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.com.au Affiliate Links: Pilot Logbook Digital Excel spreadsheet log…
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Ep 177 - Maintaining VMC in Australian Airspace
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20:20
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20:20Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! In this episode we’re going to talk about something we all learn early in our flight training… but might not always apply as well as we think — and that’s Visual Meteorological Conditions, or VMC. Link to the CASA Airspace structure PDF - CASA Airspace Structure and VMC Guidance Support the show Emai…
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Ep 176 - Understanding Aerodrome Lighting
32:07
32:07
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32:07Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Whether you’re training at a country airstrip or taxiing out at Sydney International, understanding aerodrome lighting isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. So today, we’re going to break it all down: from the humble pilot-activated lighting at your local strip to the full lighting suite at major intern…
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Send us a text https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828 Support the show…
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Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Understanding the ATIS and AWIS when starting out can be quite overwhelming. And even for seasoned pilots sometimes some new info pops up which can cause confusion. In this episode I'll break down examples of both to help make your life easier whether you are starting out or just need a refresher! Su…
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Ep 8 - Aerobatics (a.k.a. Vitamin G) For All My Friends
1:05:11
1:05:11
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1:05:11Send us a text https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828 Support the show…
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Ep 174 - Mastering the Circuit and Straight in Approaches
29:36
29:36
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29:36Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Struggling to fly a tidy circuit? Does your final approach feel more like guesswork than precision? Or maybe your base turns are more like a coin toss — literally. Today, we're breaking down how to fly accurate circuits and consistent landings — no matter what aircraft you’re in and start flying like…
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Ep 173 - Aviation Awards and Darwin Airport Fee Increase!
31:19
31:19
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31:19Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Australian Aviation Awards Finalists Announced for 2025 Darwin Airport Landing Fee increase Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.com.au Affiliate Links: Pilot Logbook Digital Excel spreadsheet logbook for a one off payment. P…
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Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! What would you do if you had a complete electrical failure? No radios, no gear power, no flaps, nothing!! Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.com.au Affiliate Links: Pilot Logbook Digital Excel spreadsheet logbook for a one …
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Episode 7 - An "Epic" Week and Fiction Mirrors Reality
34:33
34:33
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34:33Send us a text https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828By Vapor Reddan and Cuckoo Kloch
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Ep 171 - Dealing with Issues in Flight School
24:16
24:16
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24:16Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Have you had issues with your flight school? Struggled to get lessons booked in regularly? Can’t get a flight test date? Struggling to get an exam date? Looking to change flight schools? Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.c…
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Ep 170 - Broome Recap, CIRRIS Reports, Garmin Screen Failures & What Not to Say at Interviews
18:15
18:15
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18:15Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Broome recap What’s a CIRIS Report? G500 and 1000 screen failures and What are the things that make HOO’s say no instantly to an applicant? Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.com.au Affiliate Links: Pilot Logbook Digital Ex…
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Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Preparing for a flight review when rusty Discussing career progression with your employer Single or Multi engine instrument rating first And what exactly is the airspeed velocity of an unladen African sparrow??? Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.…
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Ep 168 - What's Happening with the DC3 and Robbo's Rants!
28:23
28:23
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28:23Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! We've had an incredible few weeks ferrying and consolidating in the DC3 around Darwin! I share some highlights and update you on when operations will commence. Plus some pet peeve for 2025, or should I call it Robbo's Rants?!?! Let me know what you think. Support the show Email: info@trentrobinsonavi…
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Ep 6 Quality Upset Prevention and Recovery Training
1:10:13
1:10:13
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1:10:13Send us a text https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828By Vapor Reddan and Cuckoo Kloch
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Ep 167 - Flying to the Next Level - Storm Fenech BVR Performance
51:41
51:41
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51:41Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! My guest today is the director of BVR Performance, a qualified flying instructor with the Royal Australian Air Force, and an aviation performance coach. Storm brings a wealth of experience to the table, currently specializing in advanced pilot training on the Pilatus PC-21 aircraft. Throughout his ca…
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Episode 166 - When Low Flying Goes Wrong – The Weight of Responsibility
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22:50
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22:50Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! This week I'm looking into an investigation currently before the courts with a pilot's licence hanging in the balance. Plus what every pilot needs to understand about decision-making, risk and strict liability. ATSB Report here Plus CASA Wings 2024 Winners Strike Aviation Pilot Maintenance course, re…
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Ep 165 - Avalon Airshow Accident Takeaways - Precision, Training, and Discipline
14:19
14:19
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14:19Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! In this episode, I’ll explore what it takes to be an airshow pilot, the level of training and discipline required, and how human factors come into play. More importantly, I’ll discuss how this applies to every pilot, from private and commercial pilots to flight instructors and airline captains. Becau…
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Ep 164 - Spatial Disorientation and Pilotlogbook Partnership Announcement
24:59
24:59
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24:59Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! In this episode I want to discuss one of the most insidious threats to pilots—spatial disorientation. We’ll break down a recent ATSB report on a serious incident, explore the human factors behind disorientation, and discuss how we as pilots can prevent and recover from it. Get your Pilotlogbook speci…
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Ep 163 - Broome Trip Recap & Avoiding Landing Gear Mishaps
20:29
20:29
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20:29Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! I chat about my recent trip to Broome and today we’re talking about retractable undercarriage aircraft, the risks of landing gear-related accidents, and how to avoid them. Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.com.au Affiliate…
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Ep 162 - IFR Circling Area Guidance - March 20 Changes
24:14
24:14
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24:14Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Circling approaches are one of the most dangerous manoeuvres an IFR pilot can fly, however most have never flown one in actual circling conditions before. Solid Understanding of the procedures to be followed and how to fly the aircraft safely are prudent – day or night! In this episode, I review the …
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Send us a text https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828By Vapor Reddan and Cuckoo Kloch
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Ep 161 - What do Holding Points Really Mean?
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23:32
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23:32Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! The holding point. Sometimes a single yellow solid and dashed line, sometimes a double. There could be flashing lights, stop bars, taxiway signage, or painted markings. Some airports there’s nothing at all! But what do they actually mean, and why is failing to understand or respect them so dangerous?…
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Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Mayday, mayday, mayday! It’s the call every pilot hopes they never have to make. But when things go wrong, no matter what you’re flying, your training, knowledge, and experience are all that stand between you and possible disaster. Will you rise to the challenge—or become another cautionary tale? And…
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Ep 159 - DC3 Adventure Update and GA Transition Course - Do You Need It?
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18:45
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18:45Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! I had the privilege of helping fly a DC3 from New Zealand to Australia!! I address some of your questions here!! Plus what is the GA Transition Course all about? Do you need it?? Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.com.au Af…
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Send us a text https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828By Vapor Reddan and Cuckoo Kloch
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Ep 3 - Emergencies or, in other words, read the AFM/POH for your aircraft!
52:01
52:01
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52:01Send us a text https://vaporglobalaviation.com/ https://www.specializedaeroworks.com/ https://mikekloch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/specialized_aero_works/ https://www.instagram.com/vaporglobalaviation/ https://www.facebook.com/SAWFlyers https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063695354828By Vapor Reddan and Cuckoo Kloch
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Ep 158 - Decision Making and Why Pilot's are Currently Struggling with Making Them
1:04:40
1:04:40
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1:04:40Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Joining me will be two experienced instructors now airline pilots to discuss a growing concern in flight training—students & pilots struggling with decision-making. We’ll explore why this is happening, how instructors can better nurture decision-making skills, and what general aviation pilots can lea…
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Ep 157 - Aviation Careers for Over 40's, Choosing the Right Headset, Beneficial Hour Building and Top End Hiring Update
23:55
23:55
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23:55Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! Changing careers into aviation after 40, Choosing the right headset for flight training, Building hours effectively and I’ll give you an update on recruitment movements in Darwin. Support the show Email: [email protected] Online Training http://courses.flighttrainingaustralia.com.au A…
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Ep 156 - Safety Culture in Flying Operations
24:51
24:51
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24:51Would you like to know more? Flick me a message! We’ve all seen operations manuals, standard operating procedures, and safety management systems (or SMS). These frameworks are the backbone of how we’re supposed to operate. They provide clarity, ensure consistency, and most importantly, protect lives. But here’s the challenge: what happens when thes…
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