The Pilot's Handbook of Staying Alive: Essential Safety Habits for Every Flight

How do you actually become a safer pilot?Not just by the book—but in real life, where weather changes fast, pressure builds, and complacency creeps in.In this practical, no-nonsense guide, bush pilot and aircraft mechanic Ryan Farran shares what over a decade of flying in Papua New Guinea has taught him—not just about airplanes, but about decision-making, mindset, and margin. From engine start to shutdown, flying is a mental game. And the difference between a good pilot and a great one often comes down to habits, not heroics.This book walks you through the critical mindset shifts and practical tools every pilot needs to fly with safety, clarity, and confidence. You’ll learn how to:Build a personal safety mindset that sticksUnderstand why risk isn’t random—it’s predictableRecognize and fight back against complacencyManage pressure in the cockpit, before it manages youProtect your margins and make smart decisions under stressStay sharp with strong situational awarenessUse automation wisely without becoming dependent on itPractice Single-Pilot CRM to manage workload and mental capacityIdentify and avoid the five hazardous attitudesApply the I’M SAFE checklist for personal readinessUse Threat and Error Management throughout every phase of flightCreate your own personal Safety Box and Standard Operating ProceduresAdopt a mindset of continual improvement for long-term survivalWhether you're a student, a private pilot, or a professional flying single-pilot IFR, this book gives you a proven framework to operate with clarity—no matter what type of flying you do.Because being a safe pilot isn’t automatic. It’s intentional. Read more