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
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This is part 1 of at least a 3 part series on the Instrument Pilot ACS. Join me as I take a deep dive into the ACS from an examiner's perspective and discuss how I use this document to conduct an instrument checkride. If…
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In this episode of the VSL Aviation podcast, I detail what you should know for the navigation tasks you will have to perform during your private pilot checkride. Most applicants I see don't fully understand that pilotage…