Live Q&A: CFI Renewals, MEI Training Tips, Wet vs Dry Leases, Aircraft Ownership & More

Live Q&A: CFI Renewals, MEI Training Tips, Wet vs Dry Leases, Aircraft Ownership & More

Author: Seth Lake August 2, 2025 Duration: 52:04

In this live Q&A session of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth Lake tackles a wide range of pilot questions from Discord, Instagram, and YouTube. Topics include:

    CFI Gold Seal renewals and FISDO processing

    Understanding static pressure and pitot systems

    Preparing for Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) training

    Teaching depth for CFIs and avoiding information overload

    Building student pilot confidence with maneuvers

    CFII certification without a CFI

    Instrument checkride common weak spots

    Wet lease vs dry lease explained

    Aircraft ownership considerations for personal missions

    Home simulators for IFR training

    FAA Wings program and proficiency tips

Whether you're a student pilot, instructor, or experienced aviator, this episode provides practical insights to help you improve your skills and understanding of FAA rules.

👉 Join the conversation: vsl.aero → Discord Community
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts / Spotify
👍 Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review to support the show!

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Q&A Format
01:21 Gold Seal Flight Instructor Status
02:18 Understanding Airspeed Indicators
03:43 Tips for MEI Training
05:11 Endorsements and Legal Considerations for MEIs
07:08 Defensive Posture in Multi-Engine Instruction
10:55 Targeting Knowledge Depth for Students
14:13 Handling Student Challenges in Flight Training
15:39 Mock Orals and Preparation for Checkrides
18:58 Skipping CFI for CFII
21:48 Using E6B vs. Flight Computers
22:37 Common Mistakes in IFR Checkrides
25:57 Utilizing GPS and Autopilot in Flight Training
27:13 Updates on CF-II Regulations and Instruction
30:33 Understanding Wet and Dry Leases in Aviation
35:21 Navigating Part 135 Operations and Pilot Training
37:15 Preparing for Instrument Check Rides
41:02 Engaging with the WINGS Program for Pilot Proficiency
43:57 Experiencing Actual vs. Simulated IFR Training
45:22 Principles of Aircraft Ownership and Mission Planning


Seth Lake hosts The VSL Aviation Podcast, a conversation that feels like hanging around the hangar after a flight. It digs into the practical realities and pure joy of General Aviation, moving beyond textbook definitions to the lived experience. You’ll hear discussions about aircraft ownership, maintenance tips, navigating weather, and the stories that emerge from a life spent in the sky. The tone is approachable, whether you’re a student pilot, a seasoned aviator, or simply someone fascinated by flight. This podcast sits at a great intersection-it’s a leisure listen that feels like catching up with friends, yet consistently offers educational nuggets that stick with you. Episodes might explore a specific cross-country adventure, break down a common regulatory question, or feature a conversation with another pilot sharing their unique perspective. The result is a well-rounded look at the aviation community, delivered with genuine enthusiasm. Tuning in provides a regular dose of that flying mindset, the one that combines meticulous planning with the freedom of exploration. It’s the kind of show that makes you want to head to the airport, even if just to watch the traffic pattern. For anyone who finds magic in the hum of an engine and the view from above, this podcast feels like coming home.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 56

The VSL Aviation Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:28
Welcome back to VSL Aviation's series where we delve into the intricacies of the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS)! I'm Seth Lake, your guide on this journey to mastering aviation standards. In Part 2 of…
Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:46
Welcome to the first episode of our new series at VSL Aviation! I'm Seth Lake, an experienced FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, and in this video, I'm going to break down the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (AC…
Mastering FAA Ramp Inspections: Your Step-by-Step Guide [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:52
In this highly informative video, we equip you with the essential know-how to confidently navigate an FAA ramp inspection. Whether you're a private pilot, commercial aviator, or part of an aviation team, understanding th…
Airworthiness Directives - An Introduction [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:32
Join Seth Lake and Josh Campbell from @FreePilotTraining in a discussion on FAA Airworthiness Directives. This topic is a stumbling block for many new pilots, and our discussion will help you understand ADs better. Check…
Multi Engine Basics - Part 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:50
Join me as I continue the multi-engine add-on series. In this episode, I continue the discussion of the commercial ACS and how I use it to conduct the commercial multi-engine add-on checkride. Check out the podcast websi…
Multi Engine Basics - Part 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:41
Join me as I start the multi-engine add-on series. In this episode, I cover the training required for the multi-engine rating. I also get into the commercial ACS and how I use it to conduct the commercial add-on checkrid…
What Happens If You Fail A Checkride? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:44
Join me as I discuss the disapproval process, more commonly known as failing your checkride. Failure is always a significant cause for concern; however, I think the more you know about something, the less scary it is. No…
Commercial Pilot ACS Review - Part 4 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:28
Join me as I complete the Commercial Pilot ACS Series. The commercial pilot checkride is just like any other FAA practical test and uses the Airman Certification Standards. This test evaluates your knowledge and skills a…
Commercial Pilot ACS Review - Part 3 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:17
Join me as I continue the Commercial Pilot ACS Series. The commercial pilot checkride is just like any other FAA practical test and uses the Airman Certification Standards. This test evaluates your knowledge and skills a…