March 2025

What is a Pitot Tube?

A simple definition for a pitot tube is a device used to measure the speed of a fluid, usually air. Pitot tubes are crucial for aircraft. They feed data to the airspeed indicator, which informs pilots as to how fast they’re flying relative to the surrounding air. A blocked or malfunctioning pitot tube can lead to incorrect readings, which can create serious flight safety risks. Pitot tubes are an important part on every aircraft. Quick Navigation to Pitot Tubes The Basics of Pitot Tubes: Exploring and Understanding Venturi Maintaining the Pitot-Static System More on the Pitot Tube Understanding How a Pitot Tube Works Understanding the Two Key Openings in a Pitot Tube: Front-facing (impact) opening (hole): Also known as the … Read more

Mar 14

Aircraft Lighting: Types, Importance, and Regulations

Aircraft lighting plays a critical role in aviation safety and operation. Lighting helps pilots navigate and communicate. Proper lighting is required to comply with FAA and ICAO regulations. From anti-collision lights to position lights, each system serves a unique function. Proper lights on aircraft ensure both commercial pilots and military aviators can fly safely in all conditions. In this guide, I examine the history, importance, and aspects of aircraft lighting while providing a guide for aviation enthusiasts, mechanics, and pilots. Quick Navigation to Aircraft Lights The Basics: Types and Regulations Functions and Safety Past, Present, and Future Types of Aircraft Lights and Their Roles There are two main types of aircraft lighting: interior and exterior. Interior lighting improves visibility inside … Read more

Mar 1

Ultralight Aircraft: Planes You Can Fly Without a Pilot License

What is an Ultralight Aircraft? A true ultralight aircraft is a lightweight, small, and typically single-seat airplane designed for recreational flying. People like these aircraft for their affordability, ease of use, and the fact that many models do not require a pilot license. However, in the USA, ultralight aircraft must meet specific FAA regulations. For example, a true ultralight cannot exceed the maximum empty weight of 254 pounds or a top speed of 63 mph (55 k/ph). Although we don’t train ultralight pilots here at Epic, I am often asked about them and thought it would be helpful to address them in this article. Under FAA Part 103 regulations, ultralight aircraft are subject to specific requirements to qualify as true … Read more