Tushar Gupta

I am a FAA/DGCA CPL Holder with Multi-Engine and Instrument Rating. I've flown the C-152, the C-172 and the Tecnam P2006T over almost 300 hours of my flight training. I am a true fan of the Boeing 777 and 737 and can talk about planes and F1 for hours.

Articles By Tushar Gupta

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8/18/2025•23 min read

From Arrival to Final Checkride: What Flight Training in the USA Looks Like

Just landed in the U.S. for pilot training? Here’s the full journey, the Do's and Dont's for a seamless experience from your first TSA approval to your final checkride.

7/18/2025•14 min read

A Guide To Documentation and Formalities for Flight Training in the USA

Planning to train as a pilot in the US? This straight-talking guide covers everything you need to know- M1 visa, TSA clearance, FAA medicals, housing, banking, and more. Just real steps from a pilot who has done it himself.

7/17/2025•18 min read

Flight Training in the USA vs. India: Which Skies Should Aspiring Pilots Choose?

This in-depth guide compares flight training in the United States versus India, covering everything from cost and infrastructure to instructor quality, airspace exposure, license conversion, and career prospects. Whether you're an aspiring airline pilot deciding where to train or someone exploring aviation as a career, this article breaks down the pros and cons of each path based on real-world experience and operational realities.

7/9/2025•6 min read

Exploring Runway Condition Codes and their importance

A clear and practical guide to understanding Runway Condition Codes (RWYCC), how they're reported, what each digit means, and why they matter in real-world flying. From runway contamination types to ATC communication and pilot decisions, this article breaks down how a single number can impact every phase of landing and takeoff.

7/8/2025•7 min read

The Secret Logic of Airport Runways: Why Their Numbers Aren't What You Think

Ever wondered why runways aren’t just laid out in random directions or why they’re numbered the way they are? There’s a method behind the markings. From the invisible push of prevailing winds to the logic behind runway numbers, everything is calculated for safety and efficiency. In this piece, we break down why some runways seem "misnumbered," how wind dictates alignment, and the hidden design choices that shape every takeoff and landing.

7/7/2025•7 min read

The One Hour That Could Save Your Life: Understanding Dangerous Approaches

Most aviation accidents happen on approach, often because the warning signs are missed. This piece breaks down the key red flags: unstable profiles, rushed descents, visual illusions, and mental traps. With real-world context like Paro Airport and a simple decision-making framework, it’s essential reading for any pilot flying into challenging airfields

7/6/2025•17 min read

How to Read a METAR Like You Actually Know What You're Doing

Most pilots can read a METAR, but using it effectively is another story. This guide cuts through the clutter to help you actually interpret METARs, SPECI, SIGMETs, and TRENDs, not just for exams, but for real flying. From spotting windshear risks to knowing when a CAVOK isn’t as perfect as it seems, this is the weather decoding skillset every serious pilot needs. Whether you're a student or in the right seat, it's time to move beyond memorization.

7/5/2025•8 min read

Microbursts: The Invisible Threat You Must Never Underestimate

Microbursts are violent downdrafts that have brought down airliners and stunned pilots. Discover how they form, why they're deadly, and how you can spot and survive them.

7/5/2025•6 min read

FAA’s New U.S. Agent for Service Rule for International Certificate Holders

Thousands of pilots with foreign addresses risk suspension as the FAA’s new U.S. Agent rule takes effect. Here's what every FAA certificate holder abroad must know before the July 7, 2025 deadline. Missing this update could cost you your license.

7/5/2025•15 min read

✈ Fit To Fly? A No-Nonsense Guide To DGCA Medicals

From Class 2 to Class 1, DGCA medicals aren’t just formalities,they’re your boarding pass to the cockpit. This guide breaks down everything: when to apply, how to prepare, what tests to expect, and how medicals shape your flying journey. We cover renewals, reinitials, over-40 changes, and common slip-ups that could delay your career. Read this before ground school.

7/3/2025•9 min read

A Pilot's Guide to Monsoon: Must know information about India’s most dynamic season

The Indian monsoon isn’t just rain,it’s one of the most unpredictable flying seasons out there. Whether you're studying or flying the line, knowing how it works can mean the difference between control and chaos. From CBs to hydroplaning, ITCZ shifts to tropical jetstreams, this guide covers the science, threats, and cockpit tactics every pilot needs. Monsoon flying isn’t just weather,it’s a skill.

7/2/2025•4 min read

DGCA Takes Over RTR Exam: A New Dawn for Aspiring Pilots

For years, RTR(A) was every pilot’s nightmare, confusing, corrupt, and unpredictable. But from December 2025, DGCA takes over, promising a cleaner, fairer exam. Why was it so dreaded? What’s changing? And what does it mean for future pilots? Here's the short version of a long-overdue fix.

7/2/2025•6 min read

SkyHop Soars : India’s First Big Leap into Seaplane Travel

India’s first big seaplane airline is here, SkyHop Aviation is gearing up to fly where no one else can. With rugged Twin Otters that land on water and land, they're targeting remote islands, coastal villages, and hill towns that regular airlines can’t touch. No airports? No problem. Backed by new DGCA reforms, SkyHop could transform tourism, emergency access, and regional travel in India. Is this the future of Indian aviation? Here's what you need to know →

7/1/2025•4 min read

Indigo sets foot in Europe with new 787 service

IndiGo just went long-haul. On July 1, it launched its first widebody flight from Mumbai to Manchester using a leased Boeing 787 Dreamliner, marking a bold shift from domestic LCC to global contender. Amsterdam service kicks off next. Hot meals, seatback screens, and 56 “Stretch” seats, this isn’t your usual IndiGo. CEO Pieter Elbers calls it a major milestone, with more 787s and even A350s in the pipeline. Is IndiGo about to rewrite the rules of low-cost international travel? Read here