91. Why owner-performed maintenance is essential, with Jeff Simon

A critical shortage of A&Ps means airplane owners have no choice but to get involved in maintenance. Mechanic, pilot, and writer Jeff Simon explains how to get started, how to find the right shop, and what the impact could be from proposed FAA rules on remote maintenance. Jeff is also the founder of SocialFlight, so he shares his tips for keeping flying fun and involving family in the adventure—including his “no magenta line” trip. In the Ready to Copy segment, Jeff talks about why you should never jump start a dead battery, why the compass is no longer needed, and his lessons learned from building an airplane in his living room.

• Remote maintenance rules: https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2024/october/17/faa-puts-disruptive-determination-on-hold
• Five rules of engine monitoring: https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2022/november/07/aircraft-maintenance-the-five-pillars-of-engine-health-monitoring
• SocialFlight on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SocialFlight
• Sporty’s 2025 Pilot Training Courses: https://www.sportys.com/learntofly