Dean Zakos

Laughing with the Wind: Practical Advice and Personal Stories from a General Aviation Pilot Dean Zakos

After a private pilot passes the written exam and check ride, the real learning begins.
Laughing with the Wind is a collection of articles and stories written by a general aviation pilot for general aviation pilots, filled with useful information for both seasoned and new pilots.

Part I deals with less common emergencies: ill or agitated passenger, loss of power on takeoff, asymmetric flap failure, or blowing a tire on landing. Other articles examine circumstances leading to emergencies such as night disorientation, neglecting to pay attention to details, or deferring to a more senior pilot.

Part II invites the reader to pull up a chair and be a part of some "hangar flying." Many of the subjects in Part II receive little or no coverage in the wider aviation media. How does a GA pilot cope with fear? Contend with ethical challenges? Know when it is time to stop flying?

Laughing with the Wind is about a passion for flying - flying safely and flying well.