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If you're a pilot looking to soar to the next level and share your expertise with prospective aviators, becoming a certificated flight instructor (CFI) could be your next great adventure. A flight instructor certification is not just a title—it's an invaluable credential allowing experienced pilots to train others for private or commercial ratings.  But what does it take to earn this certification, and what are the benefits? This comprehensive guide will take you under the wings of th …

Once a pilot has obtained their student pilot certificate, they’re ready to take the next step towards becoming a professional pilot. For many, that means acquiring their private pilot license. But before you start, there’s a lot you should know; eligibility requirements, how to apply, license restrictions, and much more. Luckily, the friendly pilots of Marv Golden are here to help you find your way! What Is A Private Pilot License? As the name implies, holding a private pilot licens …

The aviation industry is full of acronyms and technical language, which can get overwhelming or confusing when you’re just starting out in the field. However, understanding the main types of aviation lingo is essential for each pilot to fly safely in the friendly skies. Let’s walk through the meaning and significance of four different types of aviation wording, including the Phonetic Alphabet, VHF Communication Frequencies (VFR), IFR Clearance, and weather codes. Phonetic Alphabet Un …

People pick up strange ideas from movies, TV, or urban legends about what it takes to become a pilot. Here are five common myths about being a pilot, explained for those who have absorbed misinformation. All Pilots Must Have Perfect Vision According to the FAA’s guide for aviation medical examiners, the agency requires that first-class air transport and second-class commercial pilots have 20/20 distance vision in each eye with or without correction. Third-class private pilots must demonstr …

Are you thinking about getting an instrument rating? Most pilots will tell you that it can only help you and doesn’t really hurt you. There are many reasons to consider pursuing an instrument rating. The most obvious reason to pursue an instrument rating is so that you can fly in the clouds. Here in San Diego, we often have a marine layer in the mornings and it often doesn’t thin out at all in the winter. I was just starting my instrument training and my instructor and I were about t …

Congratulations on passing your private pilot checkride! Now you officially have a license to learn. Whether you are building time for the next rating or using your PPL to have some fun, you are now among the somewhat small group of individuals who can do what we do. Here are some suggestions for how to use that new license! You can now fly whenever you want (providing the weather is VFR), whomever you want, and wherever you want! The pilot community jokes about the $100 hamburger and now you ca …

So you’ve decided you want to start flight training? The first step is to find the best teacher to help you along your journey. Here are several tips to help you. Interview them: You should sit down one on one with every potential instructor and ask them a list of questions to help guide you to finding the right fit. Some questions that people might ask are about the instructor’s pass rate, their history as a flight instructor (brand new or very experienced), if they are planning to …

So you want to be a pilot? It can be very daunting getting started. Here are some ideas…  Find a flight school: Some people are limited by the number of flight schools in their region. Luckily here in San Diego, there is a plethora of flight schools as well as flying clubs. The best way to find a flight school is to go visit and learn about their program as well as the variety of instructors, planes, etc. You do not have to pick your flight instructor just yet, but it is a good …