Attending aviation school is an exciting adventure. During your time learning, it is up to you to make the most of the experience. To help you do just that, here are a few tips that you can use.
Obtain the Right Gear
Regardless of the aviation school you are attending, there will be equipment requirements that you must meet. Failing to do so could leave you trailing behind your peers. The requirements can vary by school, so inquire about the necessary gear a couple of months before starting.
If you are unable to afford the gear, talk to a school counselor about financial aid programs. There is a possibility that a grant or scholarship is available to help you pay for the gear.
Practice & Study
Practicing outside of class in a plane could prove to be a challenge. That does not mean you should give up on trying to become more familiar with the controls. You can rely on flight simulation equipment and even practice while sitting in a chair.
If practicing in a chair, pretend you are in the plane piloting it. Practicing which controls to push, pull, or flip can help you become more familiar with the process. Once you are in a real plane, you will be better prepared to handle the experience.
Do Not Skip the Pre-Flight Check
The pre-flight check might seem like one of the less exciting parts of learning to flight, but it is one of the most important. Even if you are familiar with the plane or are taking over right after another student pilot, you need to run through the steps of checking out the plane.
Knowing how to conduct a pre-flight check is a skill that will be utilized throughout your entire piloting career. If you are unfamiliar with the checklist, ask for help. Take the time to study it to ensure you are fully ready to pilot.
Pay Attention to the Post-Flight Briefing
Following the flight, your instructor will provide you with a post-flight briefing. It can sometimes be challenging to pay attention after experiencing the thrill of flying, but it is a must.
During the briefing, you need to take notes and ask questions about any critiques that you do not understand. You also need to record your flight times in your log.
Consult with your counselor to learn of other ways you can succeed while in aviation school, or you can visit resources like https://aviation.parkland.edu/.
