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