Personal Minimums, Risk Management, and 135 Checkrides: What You Need to Know

Personal Minimums, Risk Management, and 135 Checkrides: What You Need to Know

Author: Seth Lake June 22, 2025 Duration: 1:00:59

In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives deep into the often-misunderstood topic of personal minimums—how to build them, stick to them, and apply them on checkride day. Using FAA guidance and practical examples, he outlines real-world risk management techniques, including when to cancel a flight and how to safely mitigate marginal weather.

He also covers the training and testing requirements for Part 135 operators, breaking down the key differences between 293, 297, and 299 checks. Whether you're planning to move into a 135 role or preparing for your next checkride, this episode has the insights you need.

Finally, the episode wraps with a lively Q&A session covering:

    Eights on pylons tips

    Diversions and checkride discontinuations

    Handling fuel leaks on test day

    What ADM concepts are often overlooked

    Proper decision-making around inop equipment

    Whether you can build time in experimentals

    And much more...

🛠️ Tools & References:

    ACS personal minimums sections

    FAA Risk Management Handbook (Ch. 2)

    Advisory Circular 91-67A

    FAA Safety Briefing (Mar/Apr 2015 edition)

Check the VSL Discord for links to all referenced materials and join the ongoing discussion.

Chapters:

00:00 Setting Personal Minimums for Pilots

22:49 Understanding Risk Management in Aviation

29:55 Exploring Part 135 Training

30:23 Preparing for Part 135 Cargo Interviews

34:13 Understanding Part 135 Regulations and Checkrides

38:02 Navigating Checkride Procedures and Diversions

40:26 Communicating in Congested Airspace

43:44 Inoperative Equipment and Risk Management

49:01 Differences in Pre-flight Assessments

52:19 Aeronautical Decision Making in Training

56:07 Memorization vs. Reference in Aviation

59:56 Weekly Recap and Community Engagement


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
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