THE SCHIFF SHOW Episode 21 – “ "High-Tech - High Risk? When Avionics Bite Back"”
Hosted by renowned pilot and aviation expert CAPTAIN BRIAN SCHIFF
In this episode of THE SCHIFF SHOW, Captains Brian Schiff and Mike Jesch have a practical discussion about the equipment that can make flying safer—but only when pilots truly understand how to use it. We’ll examine a recent fatal accident involving a YouTube creator whose escalating pitch-control difficulties and confusion about autopilot and trim operation led to pilot-induced oscillations and a loss of control. The NTSB found no evidence of a mechanical problem that would have prevented normal operation.
We’ll focus on the procedures, techniques, training habits, and technology-management skills that help prevent an automation surprise from becoming an emergency. Whether you have just upgraded your panel or have been flying behind sophisticated avionics for years, join us to learn why knowing the modes, annunciations, trim requirements, limitations—and how to hand-fly when necessary—is essential before relying on the system in real-world flight.
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The Schiff Show is a monthly aviation education variety show hosted by Brian Schiff and sponsored by AVEMCO. It is offered for FAA WINGS credit. Brian will discuss a specific theme across five program segments on the second Thursday of each month. The themes will be chosen from a hit list of common accident causes. Each episode will be one hour long and focus on a particular causal accident factor, and will include the following segments:
Registration is not required. Go to TheSchiffShow.tv at 7:00 PM Central Time on the second Thursday of the month and join the show. All episodes are archived on TheSchiffShow.tv and available to watch (for WINGS credit) anytime after the original air time. (NOTE: you must be watching live to participate in the game show portion.)
The Schiff Show promises to be an hour well spent, which will fly by while you have fun and learn to be a safer pilot.
COURSE RESOURCES for "High-Tech - High Risk? When Avionics Bite Back"
TO ACCESS EACH RESOURCE - CLICK ON THE RELATED LINK BELOW
Brian Schiff is a captain for a major US airline and is type-rated on the Airbus A320, Boeing 727, 757, 767, DC-9 (MD-80), CL-65, LR-JET, and G-V. Schiff’s roots are deeply planted in general aviation where he has flown a wide variety of aircraft. His total flying time is over 21,000 hours.
He is a Gold Seal flight instructor and FAASTeam Representative and holds several flight instructor ratings. He is recognized for his enthusiasm and ability to teach in a way that simplifies complex procedures and concepts. He has been actively instructing since earning his flight and ground instructor certificates in 1985. Schiff also has been an FAA-designated examiner.
He attended San Jose State University, and earned his B.S. degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and his M.S. Degree in Aviation Safety from the University of Central Missouri. He regularly teaches and conducts seminars about aviation safety and techniques to student and professional pilots.
CLICK HERE to learn more on Captain Schiff's Website!
Captain Mike Jesch is an accomplished aviator with over four decades of flying experience. At work, he’s a Captain on the Boeing 787 for a major U.S. Airline, overseeing long-haul flights with expertise and precision. But Captain Jesch's roots in the GA world are deep and enduring.
He earned his first pilot license while still in high school, and his instrument rating in a Cessna 150 equipped with vacuum tube radios. Mike has been a CFI for over 40 years and still actively teaches flying. He is a two-time Master CFI and became a Designated Pilot Examiner earlier this year. For over twenty years, he has owned a Cessna 182 which he recently renovated with all-new Garmin avionics. Mike captivates and engages his audience with his relaxed teaching style.
Recognizing his dedication and commitment to aviation, Captain Jesch serves as a FAASTeam Lead Representative in the Long Beach (California) District, and was named the 2026 National FAASTeam Representative Of The Year, a testament to his unwavering enthusiasm and contributions to aviation safety.
SINGLE WINGS CREDIT
Click below to access the course quiz and earn immediate WINGS Credit
CLICK HERE to go to the WINGS Quiz
Step 1 - Login to your FAASafety WINGS account
Step 2- Take Quiz - Receive Immediate WINGS Credit
If you are not registered on the FAASafety website you may do so below
CLICK HERE to register on the FAA Safety website
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FLIGHT REVIEW / PHASE OF WINGS
The contents of this program can be used to complete a flight review.
A WINGS based flight review helps assure both student and instructor that a complete and well documented flight review in category and class of aircraft has been accomplished.
CLICK HERE to access a copy of the Theme Based TSS #21 Flight Review and Phase of WINGS Guide
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Not all aircraft insurance policies and premiums are the same. As the only direct writer in the market, Avemco never works through third-party insurance agents. Instead, Avemco connects every pilot directly with an aviation underwriter who is ready to solve problems and approve coverage based on the pilot's individual situation.
This direct model allows Avemco to deliver one of the most personalized experiences in general aviation insurance. Your U.S.-based Avemco underwriter works one-on-one with you to understand your aircraft, your experience level, your training, and how you actually fly — giving you faster answers, clearer communication, and attentive service.
Avemco is rated A++ (Superior) by A.M. Best, reflecting exceptional financial strength and long-standing stability. Backed by decades of aviation expertise, Avemco delivers clear policies, fast quotes, exceptional customer service, and coverage built around the way you fly.
Call 800-276-5199 for your free quote, or get started online at www.avemco.com/5199-owner for Aircraft Owner Insurance or www.avemco.com/5199-nonowner for Non-Owner Aircraft Insurance.
Our U.S.-based Aviation Underwriters are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM ET, to answer your questions and help you find the right coverage.
Be sure to mention you’re a Schiff Show listener to save 5%!
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*Premium credits are subject to underwriting guidelines, including Avemco-recognized training and memberships.
CLICK HERE to view past presentations and earn WINGS Credit!