Odds are that none of us are unfamiliar with ForeFlight these days and as useful as it is, it still can’t do everything. The past few weeks I’ve been searching out some not-so-well-known resources that can either make planning your next flight more enjoyable, helping refresh perishable skills, or deciding if you are legal to take a night flight. Below is a list of resources that any pilot can add to their planning or training routine.
https://www.luizmonteiro.com/learning_vor_sim.aspx
For pilots still grappling with VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) navigation, Luiz Monteiro’s simulator is a fantastic learning aid. This interactive tool allows users to practice tuning into VOR stations, interpreting radials, and simulating cross-country flights—all from the comfort of their computer. It's an excellent way for students and rusty pilots to build confidence before hitting the skies.
Finding instrument approach procedures can be a hassle, but this website simplifies the process by providing a searchable database of approach plates for airports worldwide. Whether you're prepping for a cross-country IFR flight or practicing holds, this resource makes it easier to locate the procedures you need.
Pilots flying in regions with unpredictable weather know the struggle of relying on automated reports. The FAA’s weather cam network provides real-time images of weather conditions at various locations, giving pilots a visual reference to help make go/no-go decisions.
Operated by Leidos Flight Services, this site offers comprehensive flight planning tools, weather briefings, and flight plan filing. One of its best features is SMS weather alerts, allowing pilots to receive real-time updates via text message—great for staying informed before and during a flight.
General Aviation culture includes the famous "$100 hamburger" tradition—flying to a nearby airport just for a good meal. Fly2Lunch helps pilots discover restaurants near airports, making it easier to plan a fun food-based flight. It’s a fantastic tool for GA pilots looking to add a culinary adventure to their logbooks.
Rusty Instrument-rated pilots often struggle with holding pattern entries and clearances. This site randomly generates holding patterns and approach procedures, helping pilots practice their skills. Whether you're training for a checkride or just want to stay sharp, it’s an excellent way to challenge yourself.
Not every airport has a rental car counter, and that’s where this site shines. It offers a crowdsourced database of airports with free or low-cost courtesy cars. If you’re flying into a small-town airport and need a quick way to get into town, this site can save you time and money.
For pilots working toward night currency or training requirements, this site calculates official night times based on FAA regulations. Instead of guessing whether you can log your flight as night, you can plug in your location and get an exact answer.
If you love odd, obscure, and downright bizarre attractions, Roadside America is your go-to guide. Covering thousands of weird landmarks, this site helps road-trippers and pilots on cross-country find everything from giant fiberglass statues to haunted diners. Whether you're looking for an offbeat adventure or just a fun detour, it's an essential travel companion.
Wanting to log an IMC landing down to minimums? This website helps find the closest airports to you that are currently IMC and provides approach information including links to approach plates.
