Shane, I'm sorry to read your reaction. I strive for precisely the opposite of what you claim; my goal is that of an advocate for professional aviation. Oftentimes I'm forced into bluntness I'd otherwise expand upon with more allotted space. I'd be happy to address your point-of-view personally, if you wish. Daniel.Fahl@flightaware.com

(Written on 09/06/2013)(Permalink)

My apologies if that's the case. To any students reading out there, this is aimed at seasoned pilots who's talent has had time to shine through. LIke I said, most have what it takes to make it through the pipeline - it's the occasional few that shouldn't, but do.

(Written on 09/04/2013)(Permalink)

Fair enough, RIc. Some aircraft do in fact have integrated EFB's, and it's a nice setup. The next best thing in aircraft without the real estate for additional integration is to mount the EFB on the side window chart holder (where paper was once displayed). It's quite ergonomic and not a problem. I think the concern for staying apprised of changes is something that has been considered and weighed against the alternative of keeping things the way they've always been. Each change we get contains a "revision summary" file like you mentioned. If these changes are significant enough to warrant a commitment to working knowledge and/or memory, a tutorial that is followed by a pass/fail exam will also be required. Myself and most of the folks I fly with, especially on long flights, typically look forward to new files to read and pass the time when workload is low. Responsibility for keeping up with the Joneses ultimately boils down to professionalism of the individual pilot.

(Written on 08/05/2013)(Permalink)

That's a valid concern. Battery power is the biggest concern. EFB's used in the airlines are required to be supplied with either a backup battery or be hard-wired into the aircraft electrical system. Overall software and device stability is the next concern. Aside from having two or even three EFB's on the flight deck, the devices in question undergo detailed scrutiny to earn FAA certification. In the extremely rare event that all devices were to fail, the information contained in them is accessible through communication with ATC or airline operations directly from the cockpit.

(Written on 08/05/2013)(Permalink)

Absolutely

(Written on 07/27/2013)(Permalink)

Dan I think maybe I pulled your gear a few months back actually. If you are who I think you are, I had a good time flying with you, and I'm quite shocked at your comment. I'm certainly not awesome, but my career path is what it is. As a staff writer I'm asked to cover certain topics, my career path being the most recent. Feel free to peruse the spectrum of my contributions by clicking on my name, or visit CNN.com for more. This article isn't geared toward someone such as yourself, it's aimed at folks seeking inspiration to begin a career in aviation, or even those who've always wondered what it takes. Sure I could paint the picture of an industry that has the capability of beating people down resulting in attitudes such as yours. I've had my struggles and I've definitely got a long career ahead of me that is sure to present new challenges. But my role here at Flightaware and as a writer in general is to inspire and enlighten. I rely on guys such as yourself to fill the gaps.

(Written on 07/06/2013)(Permalink)

"The journey I’ve walked you through is typical, but there are pilots who’ve certainly traveled different roads; some smooth and others filled with potholes." Maybe you missed that part? I'm glad that despite your bitterness you still have enough passion to peruse the squawks page. Thank you for your criticism, your thoughts have been noted.

(Written on 07/05/2013)(Permalink)

Shawn, Great question. There are some fantastic aviation universities across the country that will prepare you for a career in aviation and really boost your knowledge in aeronautics. However, a degree in AVIATION is NOT required. I would have appreciated this insight when I was in your shoes. In retrospect I would have earned a business degree or anything unrelated to aviation. It's always good to have a plan 'B' to fall back on should you lose your flying job due to medical or a myriad of other reasons that make a professional flying career unstable. A majority of pilots boast a college degree, but it's generally not a requirement when seeking an entry level airline job. On the other hand, the more competitive flying spots such as with a major carrier, typically would require a college degree. It's not uncommon for junior pilots at the commuter or regional level to earn an online bachelors degree after they've been hired in anticipation of working for a major one day.

(Written on 07/02/2013)(Permalink)

Mike, you're absolutely in the "right" correcting me. There are a few grammatical errors in this article and it's my fault for rushing to get this out to our valuable readers. I saw an opportunity to publish this during the FOUL weather that plagued the Midwest last week and as it was, flying and posting this article at the airport was a challenge! Going forward, this will not be a common theme. Thanks for your feedback.

(Written on 03/26/2012)(Permalink)

All, I have received numerous requests for access to my previously submitted articles. I'm providing a link here that when visited, will open a page that allows you to view all of my past articles. Thanks for reaching out! http://flightaware.com/user/DanielFahl/squawks

(Written on 03/02/2012)(Permalink)