As my personal journey progressed, everyone wanted to know how I did it. I always share that the path was not straight and narrow, but it has been an adventure. Friedrich Nietzsche said it best, “He who would learn to fly one day must first learn to stand and walk and run and climb and dance; one cannot fly into flying.“
Flight school is an exciting and challenging experience. It requires a significant investment of time, effort, and money, but the rewards of becoming a pilot are immeasurable. If you’re considering enrolling in flight school, it’s important to prepare yourself as much as possible. Here are five ways I would recommend to prepare for flight school.
- Research Flight Schools
The first step in preparing for flight school is to research the different flight schools available to you. Look for flight schools that have a good reputation and are accredited by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). You can also read reviews from current and former students to get a better idea of what to expect.
Consider the location of the flight school as well. If you’ll be relocating to attend flight school, make sure to research the area and find out what housing and transportation options are available. It all depends on what environment you thrive in. There are smaller flight schools that offer a more personal touch, as well as larger schools that offer excellent resources and have a larger training fleet.
- Learn the Basics of Aviation
Before you start flight school, it’s a good idea to learn the basics of aviation. This will give you a head start and help you better understand the concepts you’ll be learning in flight school. You don’t need to be an expert, but understanding airport codes, and radio communications will free up brain-bytes to absorb everything else when you start flying.
Some great resources to start with include books like the FAA’s Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge and the Airplane Flying Handbook. You can also take online courses or attend seminars to learn more about aviation. There are a great number of free resources to help you get started.
- Take a Discovery Flight
If you’re still unsure about whether flight school is right for you, consider taking a discovery flight. These flights are typically short flights with a certified flight instructor, and they can give you a taste of what it’s like to fly. It’s a great way to determine if you have a passion for flying before committing to flight school.
- Practice Your Math Skills
Math is an essential part of flying. You’ll need to be able to calculate things like fuel consumption, weight and balance, and flight time. To prepare for flight school, brush up on your math skills. Practice basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. This will help you better understand the mathematical concepts you’ll encounter in flight school. If you can sharpen your skills, what we call ‘pilot math’ will become second nature.
- Save Money
Flight school is a significant financial investment. Make sure you have a solid financial plan in place before you start. Research the cost of tuition, fees, books, and supplies, and make a budget. Look for ways to save money, such as applying for scholarships or grants.
Consider getting a part-time job or starting a side business to help you save money. You can also look into financing options like student loans, payment plans, or scholarships offered by the flight school.
Preparing for flight school is an important step towards becoming a pilot. By researching flight schools, learning the basics of aviation, getting in physical shape, practicing your math skills, and saving money, you’ll be well-prepared to start your journey towards becoming a pilot. Remember that flight school is a challenging experience, but with dedication and hard work, you can achieve your dream of becoming a pilot.
JetSetGOConnor 