Webinar

Short for Web-based seminar, a presentation, lecture, workshop or seminar that is transmitted over the web. A key feature of a Webinar is its interactive elements -- the ability to give, receive and discuss information. Contrast with Webcast, in which the data transmission is one way and does not allow interaction between the presenter and the audience.

Tonight I took part in my very first webinar. The FAAST safety seminar was hosted by Gene Benson. The live, on-line seminar (webinar) was intended to help general aviation pilots avoid maneuvering flight accidents. A high percentage of maneuvering flight accidents happen right in the traffic pattern. Actual maneuvering flight accidents were presented and discussed.

The webinar is produced and sponsored by Bright Spot, Inc. and is presented by FAASTeam Lead Representative Gene Benson. Gene has more than 30 years experience and 8,000 hours dual given as a general aviation flight instructor and has credentials including dean of an aviation college and instructor for a major domestic airline. The webinar lasts approximately one hour forty-five minutes and is worth 1 credit toward the Basic Phase of the FAA WINGs Pilot Proficiency Program.

The webinar is interactive and can be viewed on either a PC or a Mac. A high speed Internet connection is required. Speakers are required. A microphone is required to participate or ask questions, but not required otherwise. No technical skills are needed. Registration on FAASafety.gov is not required for the events.

The next scheduled event is "How to Prevent Little Problems From Becoming Big Problems!" Developing 'Abnormal Procedures' checklists for general aviation scheduled for Thursday, February 25, 2010, starting at 7:00 pm.

The live webinar will take a look at how sometimes a relatively small problem can develop into a major problem and possibly result in an accident! It demonstrates how airline-type procedures can be easily adapted for use in general aviation.