Flight Training

From the moment you decide to become a pilot, you commit to a lifelong goal of continuous aviation learning.


Introduction

Introduction
  • The evolution of flight has an illustrious history
  • You too can become a pilot and follow in the footsteps of those before
  • A Flight training syllabus will guide prospective pilots through the academics and flight maneuvers required to be ready for the practical test
  • The practical test is therefore the culminating event that results in the certification or rating to perform a given operation
  • Analyzing performance allows for mistakes to be caught, conditions reviewed, and lessons to be learned

History of Flight

History of Flight
  • From prehistoric times, humans have watched the flight of birds and longed to imitate them but lacked the power to do so
    • Logic dictated that if the small muscles of birds can lift them into the air and sustain them, then the larger muscles of humans should be able to duplicate the feat
    • No one knew about the intricate mesh of muscles, sinew, heart, breathing system, and devices, not unlike wing flaps, variable-camber, and spoilers of the modern airplane that enabled a bird to fly
    • Still, thousands of years and countless people lost their lives in attempts to fly like birds
  • The first "bird-men" who fitted themselves with wings and leaped off cliffs to fly is lost in time. However, each failure only fueled more interest
    • Where had the wing flappers gone wrong? Philosophers, scientists, and inventors offered solutions, but no one could add wings to the human body and soar like birds
    • During the 1500s, Leonardo da Vinci filled pages of his notebooks with sketches of proposed flying machines, but most of his ideas were flawed because he clung to the notion of birdlike wings
    • By 1655, mathematician, physicist, and inventor Robert Hooke concluded that the human body does not possess the strength to power artificial wings
    • He believed human flight would require some form of artificial propulsion
  • The quest for human flight led some practitioners in another direction
    • In 1783, the first manned hot air balloon, crafted by Joseph and Etienne Montgolfier, flew for 23 minutes
    • Ten days later, Professor Jacques Charles flew the first gas balloon
    • A madness for balloon flight captivated the public's imagination, and for a time, flying enthusiasts turned their expertise to the promise of lighter-than-air flight
    • But for all its majesty in the air, the balloon was little more than a billowing heap of cloth capable of no more than a one-way, downwind journey
  • Balloons solved the problem of lift, but that was only one of the issues of human flight. The ability to control speed and direction eluded balloonists
    • The solution to that problem lay in a child's toy familiar to the East for 2,000 years but not introduced to the West until the 13th century-the kite
    • The kites used by the Chinese for aerial observation, to test winds for sailing, as a signaling device, and as a toy, held many of the answers to lifting a heavier-than-air device into the air
  • One of the men who believed the study of kites unlocked the secrets of winged flight was Sir George Cayley
    • Born in England 10 years before the Mongolfier balloon flight, Cayley spent his 84 years seeking to develop a heavier-than air vehicle supported by kite-shaped wings
    • The "Father of Aerial Navigation," Cayley discovered the basic principles on which the modern science of aeronautics is founded; built what is recognized as the first successful flying model; and tested the first full-size man-carrying airplane
  • For the half-century after Cayley's death, countless scientists, flying enthusiasts, and inventors worked toward building a powered flying machine
    • Men, such as William Samuel Henson, who designed a huge monoplane that was propelled by a steam engine housed inside the fuselage, and Otto Lilienthal, who proved human flight in aircraft heavier than air was practical, worked toward the dream of powered flight
    • A dream turned into reality by Wilbur and Orville Wright at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on December 17th, 1903
  • The bicycle-building Wright brothers of Dayton, Ohio, had experimented for four years with kites, their homemade wind tunnel, and different engines to power their biplane
    • One of their remarkable achievements in flight was proving the value of the scientific, rather than a build-it-and-see approach
    • Their biplane, The Flyer, combined inspired design and engineering with superior craftsmanship
    • By the afternoon of December 17th, the Wright brothers had flown a total of 98 seconds on four flights
    • The age of flight had arrived

Becoming a Pilot

Becoming a Pilot
  • Flight training begins with setting a goal and finding a flight school
    • There are several types of ratings available to prospective pilots, and it will depend on an individuals situation as to which is better for them
    • Pilot Requirements/Aviation Foundations
    • With a goal in mind, get a feel for aviation by taking a few lessons before considering how you want to manage your cockpit
  • The course of instruction a student pilot follows depends on the type of certificate sought
    • It should include the ground and flight training necessary to acquire the knowledge and skills required to safely and efficiently function as a certificated pilot in the selected aircraft category and class
  • 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs), Part 61, outlines the specific knowledge and skill areas for each category and class of aircraft
    • The CFRs include eligibility, aeronautical knowledge, proficiency, and aeronautical requirements
      • Recreational Pilot, see subpart D
      • Private Pilot, see subpart E
      • Sport Pilot, see subpart J

Setting a Goal

Setting a Goal
  • Setting a goal begins with understanding your constraints:
    • What do you want to accomplish?
    • What is your budget?
    • Are you a pilot already but have spent too much time out of the cockpit?

  • Your First Certificate:

    • Depending on your mission will inform the appropriate certificate to seek, be it recreational, sport, or a private pilot
    • Each certificate will qualify you as a licensed pilot however, the path in which to get there, and the privileges/limitations will vary
    • For some with a pilot certificate, the goal may be to get back into flying

  • AOPA Rusty Pilot Program:

    • The Rusty Pilot Program put together by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is designed to reintegrate pilots back into aviation after spending time out of the cockpit
    • The program is FREE and accounts for the ground potion of your Flight Review (BFR)
    • For more information please visit their website at:
    • See also the FAA's Flight After a Period of Inactivity bulletin

Flight Training

Flight Training
  • Flight training pipelines will be different from flight school to flight school
  • Generally speaking, there are two or three aspects of a syllabus:

  • Academics:

    • The knowledge-based portion of training is obtained through FAA handbooks, textbooks, and other sources of training and testing materials
    • The CFI may also use commercial publications as a source of study materials
    • Getting started requires an understanding of the aviation framework and the role of the FAA
    • Aerodynamics and performance will introduce prospective pilots to the physics of flight, building a foundation from which to conduct safe maneuvers
    • An introduction to human factors/decision-making in the flight environment helps pilots understand the physical experience and how to manage risk
    • Part of the safe operation of an aircraft entails the learning of aircraft components/equipment
    • Safety is a critical concern within aviation; the regulations and procedures of which must be understood and applied during flight operations
    • Sharing the sky with others while offsetting hazards to those on the ground require detailed knowledge of airspace classification
    • Aircraft operations are conducted in an environment that requires standardization, both within the United States and internationally, as well
    • Everything in the aviation environment is subjected to the effects of Weather, requiring a keen understanding to apply reports and forecasts
    • Orderly flight operation would not be so without regulations to keep pilots and passengers safe
    • Navigation and flight planning is a compilation of all aviation tenants which culminate in the precise execution and response to variables during flight operations

  • Flight Maneuvers:

    • The selected category and class of aircraft determines the type of flight skills and number of flight hours to be obtained. There are four steps involved in learning a flight maneuver:
      • The CFI introduces and demonstrates the flight maneuver to the student
      • The CFI talks the student pilot through the maneuver
      • The student pilot practices the maneuver under CFI supervision
      • The CFI authorizes the student pilot to practice the maneuver solo
    • Operations include:
      • Airwork
      • Traffic Pattern
      • Solo
      • Navigation
      • Checkride Preparation

    • Flight Simulators:

      • Simulators provide an introduction to maneuvers/procedures without the expense or weather limitations
      • While simulators reduce the cost and allow pilots to practice in a safe environment, they are costly and uncommon among general aviation flight schools
      • Alternatively, pilots may elect to set up their own flight simulation environment to practice procedures

Knowledge and Skills Tests

Knowledge and Skills Tests

  • Knowledge Tests:

    • The knowledge test is the computer portion of the tests taken to obtain pilot certification
    • The test contains questions of the objective, multiple-choice type. This testing method conserves the applicant's time, eliminates any element of individual judgment in determining grades, and saves time in scoring
    • The FAA publishes Airman Knowledge Test Samples and Guides for every type of pilot certificate address most questions you may have regarding the knowledge test process
    • When To Take the Knowledge Test:
      • The knowledge test is more meaningful to the applicant and more likely to result in a satisfactory grade if it is taken after beginning the flight portion of the training. Therefore, the FAA recommends the knowledge test be taken after the student pilot has completed a solo cross-country flight. Operational knowledge gained through solo cross-country flight gives the student an advantage in the knowledge test. The student pilot's CFI is the best person to determine when the applicant is ready to take the knowledge test

  • Practical Test:

    • Once the student pilot has shown proficiency in the required knowledge areas, flight maneuvers, and accrued the required amount of flight hours, the CFI endorses the student pilot logbook, which allows the student pilot to take the written and practical tests for pilot certification
    • The FAA has developed PTS for FAA pilot certificates and associated ratings. [Figure 1-25] In 2015, the FAA began transitioning to the ACS approach. The ACS is essentially an "enhanced" version of the PTS. It adds task specific knowledge and risk management elements to each PTS Area of Operation and Task. The result is a holistic, integrated presentation of specific knowledge, skills, and risk management elements and performance metrics for each Area of Operation and Task. The ACS evaluation program will eventually replace the PTS program for evaluating and certifying pilots
    • FAA ASIs and DPEs administer the practical tests. Title 14 CFR part 61 specifies the areas of operation in which the applicant must demonstrate knowledge and skill. Since the FAA requires the conduct of practical tests according to the appropriate PTS and the policies outlined in the Introduction section of the PTS book. The pilot applicant should become familiar with this book during training
    • The PTS book is a testing document and not intended to be a training syllabus. An appropriately-rated flight instructor is responsible for training the pilot applicant to acceptable standards in all subject matter areas, procedures, and maneuvers. Descriptions of tasks and information on performing maneuvers and procedures are contained in reference and teaching documents such as this handbook. A list of reference documents is contained in the Introduction section of each PTS book. Copies may be obtained by:
      • Downloading from the FAA website at www.faa.gov
      • Purchasing print copies from the GPO, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, or via their official online bookstore at www.access.gpo.gov
    • The flight proficiency maneuvers listed in 14 CFR part 61 are the standard skill requirements for certification. They are outlined in the PTS as "areas of operation." These are phases of the practical test arranged in a logical sequence within the standard. They begin with preflight preparation and end with postflight procedures. Each area of operation contains "tasks," which are comprised of knowledge areas, flight procedures, and/or flight maneuvers appropriate to the area of operation. The candidate is required to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in all tasks for the original issuance of all pilot certificates
    • When To Take the Practical Test:
      • 14 CFR part 61 establishes the ground school and flight experience requirements for the type of certification and aircraft selected. However, the CFI best determines when an applicant is qualified for the practical test. A practice practical test is an important step in the flight training process
      • The applicant will present the following documentation:
        • FAA Form 8710-1 (8710.11 for sport pilot applicants), Application for an Airman Certificate and/or Rating, with the flight instructor's recommendation
        • An Airman Knowledge Test Report with a satisfactory grade
        • A medical certificate (not required for glider or balloon), a Student Pilot Certificate, and a pilot logbook endorsed by a flight instructor for solo, solo cross-country (airplane and rotorcraft), and for the make and model aircraft to be used for the practical test (driver's license or medical certificate for sport pilot applicants)
        • The pilot logbook records
        • A graduation certificate from an FAA-approved school (if applicable)
      • The applicant must provide an airworthy aircraft with equipment relevant to the areas of operation required for the practical test. He or she will also be asked to produce and explain the:
        • Aircraft's registration certificate
        • Aircraft's airworthiness certificate
        • Aircraft's operating limitations or FAA-approved aircraft flight manual (if required)
        • Aircraft equipment list
        • Required weight and balance data
        • Maintenance records
        • Applicable airworthiness directives (ADs)
      • For a detailed explanation of the required pilot maneuvers and performance standards, refer to the PTS pertaining to the type of certification and aircraft selected. These standards may be downloaded free of charge from the FAA at www.faa.gov. They may also be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents or GPO bookstores. Most airport fixed-base operators and flight schools carry a variety of government publications and charts, as well as commercially published materials
    • Who Administers the FAA Practical Tests?
      • Due to the varied responsibilities of the Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), practical tests are usually given by DPEs. An applicant should schedule the practical test by appointment to avoid conflicts and wasted time. A list of examiner names can be obtained from the local FSDO. Since a DPE serves without pay from the government for conducting practical tests and processing the necessary reports, the examiner is allowed to charge a reasonable fee. There is no charge for the practical test when conducted by an FAA inspector

  • Role of the Certificated Flight Instructor:

    • To become a CFI, a pilot must meet the provisions of 14 CFR part 61. The FAA places full responsibility for student flight training on the shoulders of the CFI, who is the cornerstone of aviation safety. It is the job of the flight instructor to train the student pilot in all the knowledge areas and teach the skills necessary for the student pilot to operate safely and competently as a certificated pilot in the NAS. The training includes airmanship skills, pilot judgment and decision-making, and good operating practices
    • A pilot training program depends on the quality of the ground and flight instruction the student pilot receives. The flight instructor must possess a thorough understanding of the learning process, knowledge of the fundamentals of teaching, and the ability to communicate effectively with the student pilot. The use of a structured training program and formal course syllabus is crucial for effective and comprehensive flight training. It should be clear to the student in advance of every lesson what the course of training will involve and the criteria for successful completion. This should include the flight instructor briefing and debriefing the student before and after every lesson. Additionally, scenario-based training has become the preferred method of flight instruction today. This involves presenting the student with realistic flight scenarios and recommended actions for mitigating risk
    • Insistence on correct techniques and procedures from the beginning of training by the flight instructor ensures that the student pilot develops proper flying habits. Any deficiencies in the maneuvers or techniques must immediately be emphasized and corrected. A flight instructor serves as a role model for the student pilot who observes the flying habits of his or her flight instructor during flight instruction, as well as when the instructor conducts other pilot operations. Thus, the flight instructor becomes a model of flying proficiency for the student who, consciously or unconsciously, attempts to imitate the instructor. For this reason, a flight instructor should observe recognized safety practices, as well as regulations during all flight operations
    • The student pilot who enrolls in a pilot training program commits considerable time, effort, and expense to achieve a pilot certificate. Students often judge the effectiveness of the flight instructor and the success of the pilot training program based on their ability to pass the requisite FAA practical test. A competent flight instructor stresses to the student that practical tests are a sampling of pilot ability compressed into a short period. The goal of a flight instructor is to train the "total" pilot

  • Role of the Designated Pilot Examiner:

    • The Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) plays an important role in the FAA's mission of promoting aviation safety by administering FAA practical tests for pilot and Flight Instructor Certificates and associated ratings. Although administering these tests is a responsibility of the ASI, the FAA's highest priority is making air travel safer by inspecting aircraft that fly in the United States. To satisfy the need for pilot testing and certification services, the FAA delegates certain responsibilities to private individuals who are not FAA employees
    • Appointed in accordance with 14 CFR part 183, section 183.23, a DPE is an individual who meets the qualification requirements of the Pilot Examiner's Handbook, FAA Order 8710.3, and who:
      • Is technically qualified
      • Holds all pertinent category, class, and type ratings for each aircraft related to their designation
      • Meets requirements of 14 CFR part 61, sections 61.56, 61.57, and 61.58, as appropriate
      • Is current and qualified to act as PIC of each aircraft for which he or she is authorized
      • Maintains at least a Third-Class Medical Certificate, if required
      • Maintains a current Flight Instructor Certificate, if required
    • Designated to perform specific pilot certification tasks on behalf of the FAA, a DPE may charge a reasonable fee. Generally, a DPE's authority is limited to accepting applications and conducting practical tests leading to the issuance of specific pilot certificates and/or ratings. The majority of FAA practical tests at the private and commercial pilot levels are administered by DPEs
    • DPE candidates must have good industry reputations for professionalism, integrity, a demonstrated willingness to serve the public, and must adhere to FAA policies and procedures in certification matters. The FAA expects the DPE to administer practical tests with the same degree of professionalism, using the same methods, procedures, and standards as an FAA ASI

Staying Ahead of the Aircraft

Staying Ahead of the Aircraft
  • Staying ahead of the aircraft is a common term in aviation, meaning to anticipate what is next
  • Pilots may get ahead of the aircraft by chair flying, utilizing cockpit management, etc.
  • If there is a lull in the flight, such as in cruise, think about what will be coming at the destination/approach
  • When behind the aircraft, its not always realistic or necessary to do everything faster - thats where mistakes occur
    • Instead, prioritize the tasks at hand, and if necessary, request vectors or delays to catch up with the aircraft

  • Chair Flying:

    • Chair flying is the act of walking through the flight while on the ground (in your chair)
    • This can be accomplished by talking yourself through tasks of a particular phase or the entire flight to executing the flight in a flight simulator to do the same
    • Anticipating events and practicing or mitigating those challenges allow the actual flight to go smoother, and for the pilot to keep up with tasks

Analyzing Flight Performance

Analyzing Flight Performance
  • Nflightcam Cockpit Video Kit for GoPro
    Amazon, Nflightcam Cockpit Video Kit for GoPro
  • It is difficult to recall every detail of every flight
  • This is especially true if you are not under instruction and therefore do not have an instructor or additional pilot paying attention to debrief points
  • This can be done, however, by reviewing flight data recorded by a GoPro [Amazon] or other recording [Amazon] system

Flight Training Tools

Flight Training Tools

Life-Long Flight Training

Life-Long Flight Training
  • Flight training is often associated with earning the next certificate or rating, but its a life-long dedication
  • Remember practicing slow flight is about learning to control the aircraft precisely
  • Traffic patterns enhance your ability to see and avoid, talk, fly, and adjust to constantly changing conditions
  • Practicing emergency procedures is a skillset that will never pay itself back until you absolutely need it
  • Pilots are encouraged to challenge their knowledge about aviation and seek additional certificates and ratings:

    • Instrument Rating:

      • Is an instrument rating necessary? The answer to this question depends entirely upon individual needs. Pilots may not need an instrument rating if they fly in familiar un-congested areas, stay continually alert to weather developments, and accept an alternative to their original plan. However, some cross-country destinations may take a pilot to unfamiliar airports and/or through high activity areas in marginal visual or instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Under these conditions, an instrument rating may be an alternative to rerouting, rescheduling, or canceling a flight. Many accidents are the result of pilots who lack the necessary skills or equipment to fly in marginal visual meteorological conditions (VMC) or IMC and attempt flight without outside references.
      • Pilots originally flew aircraft strictly by sight, sound, and feel while comparing the aircraft's attitude to the natural horizon. As aircraft performance increased, pilots required more in-flight information to enhance the safe operation of their aircraft. This information has ranged from a string tied to a wing strut, to development of sophisticated Electronic Flight Information Systems (EFIS) and flight management systems (FMS). Interpretation of the instruments and aircraft control have advanced from the "one, two, three" or "needle, ball, and airspeed" system to the use of "attitude instrument flying" techniques.
      • Navigation began by using ground references with dead reckoning and has led to the development of electronic navigation systems. These include the Automatic Direction Finder (ADF), Very-High Frequency Omni-Directional Range (VOR), Distance Measuring Equipment (DME), Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN), Long Range Navigation (LORAN), Global Positioning System (GPS), Instrument Landing System (ILS), Microwave Landing System (MLS), and Inertial Navigation System (INS).
      • Perhaps you want an instrument rating for the same basic reason you learned to fly in the first place-because you like flying. Maintaining and extending your proficiency, once you have the rating, means less reliance on chance and more on skill and knowledge. Earn the rating-not because you might need it sometime, but because it represents achievement and provides training you will use continually and build upon as long as you fly. But most importantly it means greater safety in flying

      • Instrument Rating Requirements:

        • A private or commercial pilot must have an instrument rating and meet the appropriate currency requirements if that pilot operates an aircraft using an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan in conditions less than the minimums prescribed for visual flight rules (VFR), or in any flight in Class A airspace.
        • You will need to carefully review the aeronautical knowledge and experience requirements for the instrument rating as outlined in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 61. After completing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Knowledge Test issued for the instrument rating, and all the experience requirements have been satisfied, you are eligible to take the practical test. The regulations specify minimum total and pilot-in-command time requirements. This minimum applies to all applicants regardless of ability or previous aviation experience.

      • Training for the Instrument Rating

        • A person who wishes to add the instrument rating to his or her pilot certificate must first make commitments of time, money, and quality of training. There are many combinations of training methods available. Independent studies may be adequate preparation to pass the required FAA Knowledge Test for the instrument rating. Occasional periods of ground and flight instruction may provide the skills necessary to pass the required test. Or, individuals may choose a training facility that provides comprehensive aviation education and the training necessary to ensure the pilot will pass all the required tests and operate safely in the National Airspace System (NAS). The aeronautical knowledge may be administered by educational institutions, aviation-oriented schools, correspondence courses, and appropriately rated instructors. Each person must decide for themselves which training program best meets his or her needs and at the same time maintain a high quality of training. Interested persons should make inquiries regarding the available training at nearby airports, training facilities, in aviation publications, and through the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).
        • Although the regulations specify minimum requirements, the amount of instructional time needed is determined not by the regulation, but by the individual's ability to achieve a satisfactory level of proficiency. A professional pilot with diversified flying experience may easily attain a satisfactory level of proficiency in the minimum time required by regulation. Your own time requirements will depend upon a variety of factors, including previous flying experience, rate of learning, basic ability, frequency of flight training, type of aircraft flown, quality of ground school training, and quality of flight instruction, to name a few. The total instructional time you will need, the scheduling of such time, is up to the individual most qualified to judge your proficiency-the instructor who supervises your progress and endorses your record of flight training.
        • You can accelerate and enrich much of your training by informal study. An increasing number of visual aids and programmed instrument courses is available. The best course is one that includes a well-integrated flight and ground school curriculum. The sequential nature of the learning process requires that each element of knowledge and skill be learned and applied in the right manner at the right time.
        • Part of your instrument training may utilize a flight simulator, flight training device, or a Personal Computer-Based Aviation Training Device (PCATD). This ground-based flight training equipment is a valuable tool for developing your instrument cross-check and learning procedures, such as intercepting and tracking, holding patterns, and instrument approaches. Once these concepts are fully understood, you can then continue with in-flight training and refine these techniques for full transference of your new knowledge and skills.
        • Holding the instrument rating does not necessarily make you a competent all-weather pilot. The rating certifies only that you have complied with the minimum experience requirements, that you can plan and execute a flight under IFR, that you can execute basic instrument maneuvers, and that you have shown acceptable skill and judgment in performing these activities. Your instrument rating permits you to fly into instrument weather conditions with no previous instrument weather experience. Your instrument rating is issued on the assumption that you have the good judgment to avoid situations beyond your capabilities. The instrument training program you undertake should help you to develop not only essential flying skills but also the judgment necessary to use the skills within your own limits.
        • Regardless of the method of training selected, the curriculum in Appendix B, Instrument Training Lesson Guide, provides guidance as to the minimum training required for the addition of an instrument rating to a private or commercial pilot certificate.

      • Maintaining the Instrument Rating

        • Once you hold the instrument rating, you may not act as pilot-in-command under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimums prescribed for VFR, unless you meet the recent flight experience requirements outlined in 14 CFR part 61. These procedures must be accomplished within the preceding 6 months and include six instrument approaches, holding procedures, and intercepting and tracking courses through the use of navigation systems. If you do not meet the experience requirements during these 6 months, you have another 6 months to meet these minimums. If the requirements are still not met, you must pass an instrument proficiency check, which is an in-flight evaluation by a qualified instrument flight instructor using tasks outlined in the instrument rating Airman Certification Standards (PTS).
        • The instrument currency requirements must be accomplished under actual or simulated instrument conditions. You may log instrument flight time during the time for which you control the aircraft solely by reference to the instruments. This can be accomplished by wearing a view-limiting device, such as a hood, flying an approved flight-training device, or flying in actual IMC.
        • It takes only one harrowing experience to clarify the distinction between minimum practical knowledge and a thorough understanding of how to apply the procedures and techniques used in instrument flight. Your instrument training is never complete; it is adequate when you have absorbed every foreseeable detail of knowledge and skill to ensure a solution will be available if and when you need it.

Logbook Endorsements

Logbook Endorsements
  • Flight instructors will endorse student pilot logbooks as listed below and sign accordingly: [signature] [date] John Smith 987654321CFI Exp. MM-DD-YYYY

  • Aeronautical Knowledge Test Endorsement Example:

    • "I certify that [First name, MI, Last name] has received the required training in accordance with § 61.105. I have determined [he or she] is prepared for the [name of] knowledge test"

  • Practical Test Logbook Endorsement Example:

    • "I certify that [First name, MI, Last name] has received and logged training time within 2 calendar-months preceding the month of application in preparation for the practical test and [he or she] is prepared for the required practical test for the issuance of [applicable] certificate"

Conclusion

Conclusion
  • From the moment you decide to become a pilot you commit to a lifelong goal of continuous aviation learning
    • The sky is the literal limit
  • Aviation is a dynamic environment, and flight training must therefore match
  • This means the training pipeline is going to differ from school to school, and instructor to instructor
  • This article is a mere introduction to the flight training process
    • Expectations for your situation begin here but must be solidified with your instructor, and/or flight school
  • FAA handbooks, textbooks, and other sources of training and testing materials are available in print form from the Superintendent of Documents, GPO, and online
  • A student pilot should follow the flight instructor's advice on what and when to study
    • Planning a definite study program and following it as closely as possible will help in scoring well on the knowledge test
    • Haphazard or disorganized study habits usually result in an unsatisfactory score
  • Always remember that a good pilot is continuously learning and practicing - flight training doesn't end with the practical test
  • The AOPA offers flight guides for students
  • The AOPA offers flight guides for instructors
  • Still looking for something? Continue searching:

References

References