CFI Hour Myths, MEI ROI, and Avoiding Illegal Charter: Live Q&A

The VSL Aviation Podcast

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28d ago 1:00:44

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In this live Q&A edition of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake dives into a wide range of topics submitted by the aviation community. From the myths around required CFI ground training hours to advice on whether getting your MEI is worth the investment, Seth provides practical, experience-based insights. He also tackles how to avoid inadvertently participating in illegal charter ops, how commercial pilots can understand operator responsibility, and answers listener questions about time-building, hypoxia training, and spatial disorientation.

If you're a student pilot, a CFI, or a seasoned commercial pilot brushing up on the regs, this episode is packed with value. Don’t miss the tips on interpreting Part 135 eligibility and how to recover after a long flying hiatus.

📌 Key Topics Covered: Regulatory Knowledge

Misunderstandings around minimum CFI ground training hours
How to validate endorsements with AC 61-65J
Clarification on operational control vs. holding out (AC 120-12A)
What Part 119.1(e) actually allows without a certificate
Tips on checking if an aircraft is listed under a Part 135 certificate

Professional Development

Cost/benefit analysis of pursuing an MEI
How to maintain continual learning as a pilot
FAA CAMI training options: hypoxia chamber, PROTE, vestibular illusions

Career Guidance

Time-building strategies that airlines value
Stage check failures: how to report and recover
Advice for applicants to the DPE program

Practical Scenarios

Instrument checkride failure from altimeter misreading
Transitioning back to flying after a year-long break
Risk of complacency in experienced pilots

44 episodes

#Seth Lake #Faa #Checkrides #Flighttraining #Multiengine #Twinengine #Aviation #Lifestyle #Podcasting Education #ACS #CFI #DPE