AVIATION ARTICLES & MEDIA
Throughout my flying career, I've benefited from the experience and lessons shared by other pilots. Writing and speaking about aviation gives me an opportunity to pass along some of what I've learned.
These articles and podcasts focus on aviation safety, risk management, and developing the judgment and proficiency needed for real-world flying.
I hope you'll find something here that's useful for your own flying.
PUBLISHED ARTICLES
The Instrument Cross-Check Is Bigger Than You Think
IFR Focus | October 6, 2026
A look at how the traditional instrument cross-check has evolved into managing the aircraft's flightpath, automation, and avionics throughout every phase of flight.
Before the Frequency Gets Busy
IFR Focus | September 1, 2026
Practical ways to prepare for busy airspace, anticipate ATC instructions, and stay ahead of the airplane before the workload increases.
Make the CAPS Decision Before You Need It
Air Facts Journal | September 7, 2026
A discussion of why Cirrus pilots should establish their CAPS decision criteria before departure, particularly when flying at night or in IMC, when an engine failure or other emergency may leave few alternatives.
The Checkride Was the Easy Part
IFR Focus | June 30, 2026
Passing an instrument checkride is an important milestone, but developing the judgment, proficiency, and confidence needed for real-world IFR flying takes continued practice and experience.
When Do You Declare Minimum and Emergency Fuel?
COPA Pilot | October 2021 | Safety Issue
An examination of when pilots should advise ATC of minimum fuel or declare a fuel emergency, with practical guidance for making those decisions before options become limited.
Improving Safety in Glass Cockpits
Plane & Pilot | July 2010
A discussion of the safety advantages of modern glass cockpits and why aircraft-specific training is essential to realizing their full potential.
INTERVIEWS & FEATURES
Hot Starts One-on-One with Tim Decker: Personal Minimums
Hot Starts | Video Interview
A conversation about personal minimums and their role in managing risk and making sound decisions as a pilot.
Fuel Management and Flying the U-2, with Tim Decker
Sporty's Pilot's Discretion | Episode 56
A conversation about flying the U-2, lessons learned from military and airline aviation, and the importance of fuel management and sound aeronautical decision-making.
Familiarity to Backup Safety Draws Tim Decker to the Cirrus
COPA Pilot | June 2022 | Member Spotlight by Kim Blonigen
A personal look at my aviation background, how I came to fly and teach in Cirrus aircraft, and why their approach to safety appealed to me.