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The Map Is a Big Deal at the Academy-

Start Early

A short, guided video to help you understand the Non-radar map components so you can begin to build familiarity before you arrive at the FAA Academy.

Reduce overwhelm by learning the map early
Build comfort through early exposure( no cramming)
Start developing confidence before training begins
Know what to look for when you arrive at the Academy

The Map Is a Big Deal at the Academy-

Start Early

A short, guided video to help you understand the Non-radar map components so you can begin to build familiarity before you arrive at the FAA Academy.

Reduce overwhelm by learning the map early

Build comfort through early exposure( no cramming)

Start developing confidence before training begins

Know what to look for when you arrive at the Academy

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Questions? Reach out to Tom at tomhanes@sidebysideatc.com .

Most Students Wait Too Long to Start Learning the Map

In the early part of the Academy training, students are asked to learn a lot quickly- and the map is one of the first things that can feel overwhelming.

The goal of this video isn't to make you "memorize everything" today.

It's to help you start recognizing the components and layout now, so you feel more confident when training begins.

A few minutes of exposure over time can make a big difference.

Be consistent now and you won't have to cram later.

What You'll Learn

Understand the Components and Layout

See how the map is organized and what you're actually looking at.

Learn a Simple Approach

How to use short, repeated exposure to build familiarity without stress.

Start the Right Habit Early

A realistic way to build confidence before you arrive at the Academy.

How to Use the Video (The Right Way)

Watch it once just to get familiar. Then use short sessions:

Watch 3-5 minutes at a time
Pause and point out what you recognize
Rewatch small sections over a few days
Focus on exposure, not perfection(yet)

Consistency builds familiarity. Familiarity builds confidence.

How to Use the Video (The Right Way)

Watch it once just to get familiar. Then use short sessions:

Watch 3-5 minutes at a time

Pause and point out what you recognize

Rewatch small sections over a few days

Focus on exposure, not perfection(yet)

Consistency builds familiarity. Familiarity builds confidence.

Created by a Former FAA Controller & Academy Instructor

I'm Tom Hanes-- former FAA controller and former FAA Academy Lead Instructo9 radar and non-radar). I created Side by Side ATC to help students prepare with structure, confidence, and mentorship before and during the Academy training.