Aviation safety expert and keen pilot Fletcher McKenzie has interviewed 23 Kiwi pilots who have worked around the world and are record-breakers of different kinds. Put yourself in the pilot seat and experience the intense thrills, the pleasures and the near misses of lifetimes spent in the air!The pilots represent a range of flying eras, aircraft and experiences - from the Second World War to the present day, from one of the original Dambusters to flying Richard Branson's private jet. Stories involve gliders, fighter jets, private aircraft, top-dressing planes, helicopters and many military aircraft, including the famous F-18 from Top Gun. Read more

Mastering Paragliding is a new approach to learning to fly cross country by paragliding guide Kelly Farina. Kelly approaches pilot progression in a systematic, logical way. From understanding the basics of paraglider handling to thermalling techniques and high-level cross-country advice, he breaks the sport down into manageable stages with achievable goals. From finessing your launch technique to becoming a master of the air, the book is designed to help you progress safely through the sport. Volume 1 (this one) contains lots of techniques and how-to-fly information, while Volume 2 is about how to apply those techniques in real-world flying situations. Read more

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Seldom has a long-established hobby been transformed more than radio controlled model aircraft flying has been with the development of light-weight, inexpensive electric power systems. After decades of dominance by glow and gas powered internal combustion engines, the hottest thing in RC flying today is electric powered model aircraft.Energy dense lithium polymer batteries, powerful brushless electric motors and the digital devices that control them have taken the radio control hobby by storm. With them has come a veritable tsunami of molded foam models of nearly every type of airplane imaginable. Warbirds like the P-51 Mustang, aerobatic aircraft like the Edge 540 and a variety of trainers similar to the Cessna 172 fill the online marketplaces and the shelves of local hobby shops around the world. Traditional models, too, are being developed or converted to fly with electric power systems.These models have their own body of knowledge. Instead of tinkering with the needle valve settings of internal combustion engines, now modelers are computing watts, managing amps, determining volts and shopping for components that maximize power without exceeding the electronic limits of their model’s components.RC Ground School provides you with the information you need to get started in the exciting hobby of model aviation. You’ll get answers to these and other questions:What should I consider in choosing a model aircraft?What kind of transmitter should I consider?Should I go with a ready-to-fly kit or an almost-ready-to-fly model?What if I need to teach myself to fly?How can I find an instructor?How do I operate my model safely?How do electric models work? Come join the thousands of other modelers enjoying this fun and interesting hobby. RC Ground School is the perfect tool to help you get started.Already flying glow or gas airplanes? Thinking about converting to or adding an electric model to your hangar? The second half of the book is a deeper dive into what makes up an electric model's power system and what you'll need to know to convert that old friend to electric power or at least keep up with the conversations at the field. Read more

Take to the (virtual) skies with help from Microsoft Flight SimulatorMicrosoft Flight Simulator has offered a great way to fly aircraft of all sizes without ever leaving the ground for nearly 40 years. With help from Microsoft Flight Simulator For Dummies, you'll take to the skies in everything from tiny two-seaters to huge commercial airliners. Plot your course and deal with realistic wind and weather as you fly pond hoppers, 747s, and everything in between all around the world. In this book, you'll learn how to: Start with getting a feel for the controls of a small plane before moving on to larger airlinersGet familiar with the instrument panels of all sorts of planesDeal with virtual emergencies, dynamic weather, Maydays, and more!Great for anyone just getting started with Microsoft Flight Simulator, Microsoft Flight Simulator For Dummies is also the perfect book for existing players looking to get the most out of their time with this awesome game. Read more

What If Mastering Golf Could Transform Your Life?Imagine stepping onto the green for the first time, brimming with confidence, equipped with all the skills and knowledge to play like a seasoned golfer. Golf is more than just a game—it’s a lifestyle that fosters mental clarity, physical fitness, and stronger personal and professional relationships. But for beginners, it can often seem overwhelming.That’s where "How to Play Golf for Beginners" comes in. This ultimate guide takes you by the hand, breaking down the essentials into an easy-to-follow roadmap. Whether you’ve never picked up a club or are looking to sharpen the basics, this book will transform you from a novice into a confident player.Why You Need This Book:Tired of Guessing Your Way Through the Game? Learn the step-by-step techniques that eliminate confusion and build your skills from the ground up.Feel Left Out in Social or Business Golf Circles? Equip yourself with the knowledge to join any game and impress peers and mentors.Struggling to Understand the Rules and Etiquette? Avoid embarrassing mistakes with clear, beginner-friendly explanations that set you up for success.Here’s What You’ll Discover:The Fundamentals Made Simple: Master the rules, scoring, and key terminology without feeling overwhelmed.The Essentials of Swinging and Driving: Learn how to perfect your swing, increase power, and land accurate shots.Decoding the Golf Course: Navigate fairways, greens, hazards, and bunkers easily.The Right Tools for Success: Discover how to choose the best clubs, understand golf balls, and tailor your gear to your needs.The Mental Game of Golf: Cultivate focus, resilience, and a mindset for overcoming challenges on and off the course.Etiquette Simplified: Learn when to speak, where to stand, and how to make a great impression on your fellow players.A Sustainable Training Plan: Follow a week-by-week guide to build your confidence, skill, and consistency over time.Unlock the Hidden Benefits of GolfPlaying golf isn’t just about technique; it’s about personal growth. As you progress, you’ll experience:Improved Health: Enjoy low-impact exercise that’s easy on the joints while walking courses and swinging clubs.Mental Clarity: Refresh your mind in the serene outdoors and develop strategies for overcoming obstacles.Stronger Bonds: Forge new friendships and build professional connections in the social hubs of clubhouses and greens.What Sets This Book Apart?Unlike other guides, "How to Play Golf for Beginners" focuses not only on the mechanics of the game but also on its rich history, its future trends, and how it connects people. You’ll even uncover fun, shareable trivia about golf’s past to impress your friends.Take the First Step Toward Your Golf JourneyDon’t let inexperience hold you back from enjoying this timeless sport. With this book, you’ll gain everything you need to step onto the course with confidence and play your way to success.Grab your copy today and start hitting the green with confidence! Read more

Martín es un abuelo sin nietos, pero con una vocación inmensa por compartir su experiencia de vida con las nuevas generaciones. En esta segunda temporada, lo acompañamos en su historia de amor por el deporte, una pasión que lo ha acompañado desde su infancia y que se convierte ahora en puente para conectar con jóvenes que buscan guía, inspiración o simplemente alguien que los escuche.Desde las canchas improvisadas de su juventud hasta las piscinas donde sigue entrenando con entusiasmo, Martín nos demuestra que el verdadero deporte del alma es mantenerse activo, con el cuerpo y con el corazón. En cada cuento, transmite enseñanzas de vida a través de conversaciones sinceras, en ese banco de parque que se ha convertido en su trinchera y su templo.Un libro que habla de deporte, pero también de valores, de legado y de segundas oportunidades para quienes aún tienen mucho por dar. Read more

The unwritten Code of the Air directs aviators to come to the aid of all who share the sky. But does this obligation end even when man-made wings become eternal ones?Ever since he could remember, Tom Rawlings has had his sights set on becoming a pilot. Growing up around a small-town airport, he soaks up everything he can about flying from the ragtag community of pilots who become his makeshift family.But Tom’s dreams are almost cut short after a near-fatal midair collision, one that was only avoided by the wise words of a mysterious man, Richard Clarke. He’s a gone-but-not-forgotten pilot legend and becomes Tom’s mentor.As Tom moves from awed rookie to commercial airline captain, he soon learns that his dream job comes with real life-or-death stakes, and being a pilot is about much more than just technical skills. As he advances in his career, he finds himself guided by unexplained encounters with mysterious airmen from bygone days known as the Couriers. Even as aviation technology progresses, the timeless wisdom of the Couriers endures.Drawn into a secret fraternity, Tom questions how far he will go to decipher the mystic signs and join the ranks of the dead who never fully depart.Based on actual events, The Couriers of Herodotus maneuvers into the balance between age-old wisdom and technology, community and solos, and aviation’s past and future. Soar along with Tom and rediscover the magic that first took flight in the pioneering days of aviation. With vivid historical detail and dashes of high-flying fantasy, this is a novel for dreamers of all ages.Strap yourself in and unlock the magical mysteries of the skies. Read more

Advanced Paragliding by Cloudbase Mayhem podcast host Gavin McClurg is packed with insight from some of the very best paraglider pilots in the sport. Aimed at all intermediate pilots up, it will help all pilots build solid foundations and progress in the sport. The book draws on over eight years’ of in-depth interviewing with over 100 of the world’s best pilots and covers aerology, meteorology, psychology, safety and risk-management. If you have 100 hours or more and want to go places in paragliding, this is for you.This ebook edition was published in 2023 in three volumes, each designed to capture the flying genius and practical know-how of some of the world’s best pilots in easily digestible chunks.Vol 1 includes interviews with Adel Honti, Alex Robé, Armin Harich, Bruce Goldsmith, Chrigel Maurer and Cody Mittanck. Plus chapters on: How to build a solid foundation; When to move up; How to progress safely; How to navigate intermediate syndrome; How to manage risk; How to avoid accidents; An advanced pilot’s first aid kit. Read more

Soar into the complete Microsoft Flight Simulator experience with this visit-exploring guide. If you are a first-time pilot just embarking on your experience or a seasoned flyer refining from your advancement, this guide is your best hit to mastering the simulator in all aspects.What the Book Provides: 1. Tutorials for All Skill Levels - Covering from basic pre-flight checks to higher navigation and maneuvers. Ideal for beginners and advanced pilots, to glide smoothly through their learning curve.2. New - All the high-end newest missions, new aircraft, and environmental updates, with very detailed scenery that takes a lot better AI and weather simulation to set this new version apart.3. Making Real World Aviation Concepts Understandable - Simple and straightforward explanation of key concepts such as aerodynamics, flight planning, and cockpit instrumentation that apply very easily in the simulator and outside.4. Greatly Beautiful Around the World - Explore breathtaking flights through very strong landmarks and part of the world very few people will ever visit. It will highlight all of these destinations and provide some tips for making your very own custom scenic tours.5. Missions and Challenges- Master various exciting missions like search and rescue, transporting cargo, and firefighting. You will learn to face realistic scenarios that will test your skills under pressure and decision-making.6. Customization and Public Engagement - Learn how to enhance your experience with mods, participate in multiplayer sessions, and be part of a vibrant community of aviation enthusiasts.7. Practical Tips for Optimization - Maximize performance and realism with expert advice on hardware, settings, and troubleshooting common issues.Why You Need This Book: For Aspiring Pilots: Build confidence in the cockpit and develop a deeper appreciation for aviation.For Simulation Enthusiasts: Get the best out of the advanced features of Microsoft Flight Simulator.For Adventure Seekers: Feel the excitement while flying high and exploring the earth's surface.Take your virtual flying sessions and turn them into lifetime experiences with Mastering Microsoft Flight Simulator.Ready for takeoff. Your journey meets the sky here! Read more

Drone Racing is the sport of the future. Nothing else combines high speed aerial manoeuvres with the thrill of competition like First Person View (FPV) racing. Now it’s your turn to carve up the airspace.Designed for the beginner, Drone Racing Guide outlines the knowledge, gear and skills you need to start racing: Fundamental principles on how drones work; choosing the best drone for beginners; safety issues; and piloting techniques. Detailed diagrams and step by step instructions make it easy for you to master the vital skills needed to race drones. Go from newbie to drone pilot with Drone Racing Guide! Read more

Sometimes called a gyrocopter, a gyroplane has a rotor like a helicopter and a propeller like an airplane. It's a unique kind of aircraft—and uniquely fun to fly. This non-technical book is for persons who are interested in gyroplanes, especially those who may not know much about them, but are curious to discover more. Even persons who think they know a lot about gyroplanes may be surprised to learn about developments that are making gyroplanes better, safer, and more inviting to fly for novices new to aviation as well as pilots who fly all kinds of aircraft. In brief, whether you’re avidly interested in gyroplanes or simply curious, this book is for you. Here’s some of the information you’ll find in this book. A description of light-sport gyroplanes How light-sport gyroplanes compare to other aircraft A brief history of gyroplanes Regulations for light-sport aircraft Regulations for the Sport Pilot license Considerations for gyroplane training The most important issue confronting the future for light-sport gyroplanes A directory of gyroplanes by manufacturers and models A collection of resources for additional information about gyroplanes The author, Ira McComic, is a US pilot with ratings for airplanes, helicopters and gyroplanes and is a Certified Flight Instructor. From Amirado Publishing Visit www.LightSportGyroplanes.com Read more

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A dead soldier, a pilot haunted by his past, and the largest regional military exercise about to get under way...From the author of FLYING NAKED comes an exciting addition to the Emerald World series of aviation adventures!When a paratrooper dies in a jump over the Panama Canal Zone, one pilot elects to see for himself what draws otherwise sane human beings to leap from a perfectly good airplane. Along the way he discovers the culture of skydiving, a fellow aviator haunted by his own past, and a new way of viewing both life and flight.Based on Michael Bleriot’s own experience as a counter-drug pilot in Latin America, WINGS OF BLUE is a thrilling aviation adventure over the jungles of Central America."The best flying adventure stories in 50 years..." - Dave Schlener, ATP"A FUN READ COVER-TO-COVER... Bleriot is an excellent storyteller!" - Jeffrey Miller, author of The Panama AffairFans of Dale Brown and Vince Flynn will love the military and aviation realism, while admirers of Ernest Gann, Richard Bach, and Antoine de Saint Exupery will soar in the studied appreciation of the flying world.If you like aviation adventure and an inside-baseball look at military and pilot life, you'll love this thrilling flying memoir from Michael Bleriot!Order today with one click for Kindle or print! Read more

Come along on an incredible journey where we had no idea where the adventures were. We just let the airplane take us there. The exciting part is, you never know what’s next. As a ferry pilot, you don’t get to choose what airplanes to fly, the destination, or the weather. And you don’t get to choose the life-threatening complications. Sanford has been lucky enough to spend a great deal of his flying career in what we call bush country. The wilderness in the northern region of the United States and Canada is beautiful but non-forgiving. Classroom training is useful, but there is no better reward in life than the real experience of successfully flying over the wilderness to destinations most people will never see or go. There are no airport terminals, airline schedules, or rental car services at the most pristine places in the world! 9-1-1 simply doesn’t exist! Special planning becomes routine, life-saving survival gear is standard equipment. Diverting to a local airport while in route to avoid some rough weather, or stop to stretch your legs and have a soda pop, is not an option. It is definitely not for everyone. But if you are willing and capable to step outside, where there are no warning labels that tell you how to wash your hands, in this little so-called safe world, where somebody else is taking you by the hand and leading you through life, the rewards are endless!Airplanes have opened up the world to us, and we have seen and visited so many places that we may never have known about. The journey is never the same. The risks seem high, but are worth the rewards. We had no one to share these incredible experiences with, until now. Read more

Learning To Fly Gliders provides you with a clear picture of the decision-making skills and flight maneuvers you must master to become a competent soaring pilot.Learning to fly well is a big job. As with many big jobs, the best way to accomplish it, is to break it down into a series of little jobs, so that you can concentrate on one job at a time. This book does that for you. I have organized the book so that each section treats a specific area of flight training. Within each section, not only is a big job divided into lots of little jobs, but the little jobs are presented in progressive order. Structuring each section in this way provides you with a logical, progressive, step-by-step approach to building your flying skills. It also affords you the opportunity to look ahead and prepare for your next lesson before you get into the glider. Put another way, you will always know where you are in your flight training program, and what comes next in your program as well. That is the information that a high-quality training syllabus provides, and that is precisely what this book delivers. Learning To Fly Gliders consists of fifty lesson plans, written in plain, easy-to-understand language. In each lesson, you learn the objective, why the objective is important for you to learn, and how your instructor will present the material to you. Most lessons also list common student errors, so that you will be forewarned against them... as well as not too discouraged if you find yourself temporarily frustrated by them. Finally, each lesson contains a descriptive Completion Standard, so that you can measure and record your progress, and take justifiable pride in your accomplishments.When I was learning to fly gliders, no book like this was available. I often wished for one. Welcome to the sport of soaring, and I hope this book helps make your dream of motorless flight come true!Safe soaring, Bob WanderAuthor of the thirteen books in the Gliding...Made Easy! SeriesEditor & Publisher of the nine books in the Gliding Mentor series Read more

Completely updated for 2025, the Skydiver’s Information Manual (SIM) is the premier source for information on how to skydive safely and enjoyably, whether you’re just learning to skydive or have been in the sport for decades. The United States Parachute Association—a not-for-profit membership organization run by skydivers, for skydivers—produces the SIM as the foundational textbook and reference manual for all skydivers, from beginner to highly experienced. The SIM provides the organization’s Basic Safety Requirements (the commonly accepted safety standards to which USPA members must adhere), and well as more in-depth information about the sport, including:Curriculum for student skydivers (the USPA Integrated Student Program)General recommendations for all skydivers on emergencies, currency training, equipment, weather and more.Recommendations for advanced skydiving such as freefall formation flying, night jumps, wingsuit flying and advanced canopy piloting.Exhibition jumpingLicenses, ratings and awards programsGuidance on Federal Aviation Administration documents that relate to skydiving Read more

You may be a brand new Private Pilot or an Airline Transport Pilot with decades of flying experience. In either case, you appreciate the fact that the certificate you have earned sets you aside from the vast majority of the faces in the crowd. You’ve known anticipation, joy, and perhaps a bit of fear with your first solo, and a growing pride as your flying skills developed and improved. Some of you remember the first time you filed IFR into actual instrument weather with your new instrument rating. Even after all the time that has passed since you started training, you still get excited each time you see a runway stretched out ahead of you as you advance the throttle for takeoff roll. The airplane slowly transforms itself from the world’s worst means of ground transportation into what it was really meant to do: Fly. “Now, this is a thrill!” you think, with each takeoff you make.It is all of that, but there are many other thrills in aviation still available to you. This manual was written specifically for you, the licensed (or soon-to-be licensed) airplane pilot, who has decided to pursue ground and flight training in gliders. Your previous airplane experience will stand you in good stead as you pursue glider flight training.Why learn to fly gliders in the first place? I logged my first dual flight instruction in airplanes as a 14-year-old about 61 years ago now, (it even sounds old to me). But, what these years have taught me is that getting any new rating gave me knowledge and skills which could be transferred to every category and class of aircraft I fly. And don’t write off sheer pleasure! Some people have asked me what getting your first good thermal feels like. I tell them that it feels unreal: It’s as if you could squat down, put your fingers under the insteps of your shoes, and lift yourself off the ground. It feels like something is happening that is impossible. In short, it feels like something never to be forgotten.I invite you, on behalf of the many thousands of glider pilots worldwide, to join us in this silent world of flying pleasure. I guarantee that learning to gliders will enhance your performance and ability in every category and class of aircraft in which you are already involved.I hope that my book helps you to pursue your dream of silent flight! - Murray Shain. Read more

Learning how to fly is the dream that everyone has had since childhood and thanks to this book you can see how easy it can be. In fact, a particular type of flight is described: the one performed with ultralight aircrafts, a way of flying accessible to everyone for both cost and ease of piloting. In particular in the book amphibious ultralight flight with seaplane represents the apotheosis of freedom because it allows you to land on lakes, rivers or even in the sea even immediately after having extracted the landing gear on a classic airfield! Every flight can turn into an adventure full of emotions...In this book the authors both explain in detail the various technical aspects of this type of flight for which it tries to be a manual, and share with the readers some of their travel experiences that turn the manual into a pleasant book to read and reread before starting flying for real. Read more

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