Title:
Hangar Talk Saturdays (KVNY) Night Flying
Topic:
Planning, Visual Illusions, and Risk Management for Safe Night Flight Operations
Speaker(s):
Richard Mend - ATP SEL/MEL CFI-AI FAASTeam Representative
Brief Description:
When the sun goes down, are you still flying VFR—or are you relying more on your instruments than you realize? Night flying offers some of the most rewarding views in aviation, but it also introduces unique hazards that can catch even experienced pilots off guard. Reduced visual cues, changing weather, optical illusions, and limited emergency landing options require a different approach to planning and decision making.
This seminar examines the practical aspects of flying after dark, including preflight planning, aircraft lighting, night vision, visual illusions, weather considerations, navigation, emergency preparedness, airport operations, and risk management. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical techniques for making every night flight safer and more enjoyable.
Select Number:
WP01145724
Location of Seminar:
LA Flight Academy
7900 Balboa Blvd
G6 Prop Park West
Van Nuys, CA 91406
Directions to Venue:
Easy access from Balboa Blvd. Plenty of free parking. Seminar length approximately 2 hours.
View Map
Seating:
50
seats at the facility,
49
remaining for online registration.
Registration Information:
Sponsoring Division:
FAASTeam
Additional Event Information & Acknowledgement of Industry Sponsor(s):
Why Attend:
Night flying is often described as one of aviation's greatest pleasures, but it demands greater discipline and preparation than daytime operations. Whether you're building night experience, maintaining proficiency, or simply looking to become a safer pilot, this seminar will provide practical techniques you can apply on your very next flight.
Space is Limited - Advance Registration Encouraged
Pre-registration helps ensure seating availability and supports timely FAA WINGS credit processing. Questions regarding the seminar may be directed to Richard Mend at 818-636-1021 or mendaviation@sbcglobal.net.
What to Bring:
Please bring something to take notes with (pencil and paper recommended). The seminar is held inside an airplane hangar, so we recommend wearing light, comfortable clothing, as it can become warm during the summer months.
About the Speaker:
Richard Mend ATP SEL/MEL CFI-AI - FAASTeam Representative - Longtime professional instructor in the LA Basin area with extensive experience at nearly every local airport. Mr. Mend has conducted flight and ground training for all ratings over several decades and also brings valuable aircraft mechanical knowledge to his instruction.
Program Support:
Kris Hughes CFI CFII AGI IGI - FAASTeam Representative - Supporting seminar coordination, FAA WINGS participation, and pilot proficiency initiatives for the Hangar Talk Saturdays (KVNY) series.
Equal Access Information:
The FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) is committed to providing equal access to this meeting/event for all participants. If you need alternative formats or services because of a disability, please communicate your request as soon as possible with the person in the “Contact Information” area of the meeting/event notice. Note that two weeks is usually required to arrange services.
Credit Applicability:
1 Credit for Basic Knowledge Topic 1
FAASTeam Project Information:
National Project:
In-Person Safety Promotion to GA Pilots and Flight Instructors
Additional Event Documents:
