Learning to Fly

Flight training schools provide many people with the chance to realize their dreams of flying. Whether you’re interested in a career as an airline pilot, or just hoping to pursue flying as a recreational hobby, flight training schools are the first step on your journey. From beginning lessons on the ground, to in flight training and your first solo flight, flight training can give you the skills it takes to master the art of flying. If you’ve always yearned to take off into the wild blue yonder, consider enrolling at one of the many available flight training schools across the nation.

Getting a Pilot’s License

Just as with cars, you must be licensed to fly an aircraft. Additionally, your pilot’s license will specify which type of aircraft you are allowed to fly. Many flight training schools will assist you in securing a pilot’s license and directing you toward the right aircraft for your objectives. The requirements for a obtaining a license are set by the FAA. Similar to a driving exam, obtaining a pilot’s license requires taking a written exam and taking a test flight with an FAA examiner. In addition, you will need to log between 30 and 40 hours of flight time prior to taking your exam. Flight training schools will provide all the information and flying experience you need to pass your exam.

What to Expect from Flight Training Schools

Flight training schools are generally located at smaller airfields located across the country. Both ground training and flight experience are required to pass the FAA exam, and most flight schools have the facilities to provide both types of training. You can expect to learn all of the following at flight training schools:

* The principles of flight – Basic aerodynamics and physics relating to how airplanes are able to fly.

* Flight regulations – FAA mandated rules and laws governing all aspects of flight.

* Meteorology – How weather patterns affect the ability to fly and flying under difficult conditions.

* Navigation – How to expertly execute a course using the airplanes controls and equipment

* Radio communication – When and how to use the inboard communication systems to contact air traffic control and destination airports.

* Flight instruments – The usage and need for the instruments on the control panel.

* Human factors – How pilot error and correction contributes to the safety of flight

Prerequisites for Flight Training Schools

While flying is certainly an exhilarating experience, flight training schools can be an expensive endeavor. Many flight programs will offer you the opportunity to take an initial flight for a small fee before committing to the program to ensure that you are suited for flying. Additional things you should consider before registering for flight training schools include getting an aviation medical certificate and learning as much as you can about piloting without actually flying a plane. There are some valuable resources such as CD training programs and manuals that can assist you both before and during flight training.