Runway Excursions, Non-Standard Climb Gradients, and Weather Radar Tips

Runway Excursions, Non-Standard Climb Gradients, and Weather Radar Tips

Author: Seth Lake April 27, 2025 Duration: 1:08:12

In this week's episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, we dig into three real-world flying topics pilots must know:

    Runway Excursion Mitigation: A deep dive into Advisory Circular 91-79B, how to avoid overruns, and a real-world discussion led by Ryan Bow about common landing errors and risk factors.

    Non-Standard Climb Gradients: Learn how to spot non-standard missed approach climb requirements, how to calculate if your aircraft can meet them, and why ignoring climb gradients is reckless even under Part 91 operations.

    Weather Radar Layers Explained: Understand the differences between composite radar and lowest tilt radar on ForeFlight, and how they impact your decision-making in-flight.

As always, we wrap up with a live Q&A from Discord and YouTube covering logbook tips, Starlink for in-flight weather, advice for new commercial pilots, and power-off 180 strategies.

🔗 Join our free Discord for exclusive podcast companion threads, Q&A access, and a trusted CFI network: https://vsl.aero

Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction

03:33 – AC 91-79B: Runway Excursion Mitigation Overview

12:41 – Guest Discussion with Ryan Bow on Landing Risk Factors

15:50 – Applying Runway Excursion Risk Management to GA

18:48 – Understanding Precision vs Accuracy in Landings

24:40 – Non-Standard Climb Gradients Explained (RAIL Approach Example)

32:19 – Objective Area Analysis with ForeFlight

37:44 – Radar Layers: Composite vs Lowest Tilt on ForeFlight

46:18 – Live Q&A: Logbook Comments, Starlink for Weather, Networking for Low-Time Pilots

52:36 – Commercial Checkride Tips: Power-Off 180s and Flap/Slip Techniques

57:45 – IFR Taildragger Training Challenges

59:47 – How to Get a Tower Tour (Operation Raincheck Discussion)

01:02:22 – Closing and Aftershow Invitation

Links:
Link to Discord: https://vsl.aero

FAA AC 91-79B
https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_91-79B_FAA.pdf

FAA Weather Handbook
https://www.faa.gov/regulationspolicies/handbooksmanuals/aviation/faa-h-8083-28a-aviation-weather-handbook

FAA Safety Team website: https://www.faasafety.gov

Optional: Link to the Part 135 operator list download if you want to include that too
https://www.faa.gov/about/officeorg/headquartersoffices/avs/faa-certificated-aircraft-operators-legal-part-135-holders


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

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