Have you ever thought about learning to fly an airplane? There is no reason that anyone who can drive a car, and has the available time and money, shouldn’t be able to learn to fly. However, piloting an aircraft is not an undertaking that should be taken lightly; there are common-sense precautions that smart pilots take, starting with their selection of a training program, which can make the difference between a long career as a recreational pilot and disaster.
Check For FAA Certification
The most important qualification your flight-training school must have is certification from the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA regulates flight training North Carolina-, Florida-, and New York-based, as well as in other states, throughout the nation. The administration notes that many universities and colleges offer courses that prepare individuals for careers as commercial pilots, as well.
The FAA states that there may be instances where schools and pilots not certified by the administration are able to offer a high level of instruction, but that some may find it “impractical” to register. Still, insisting on FAA certification goes a long way toward avoiding potential horror situations, later on. Perhaps receiving signature instruction in exotic techniques provided by well-known and competent instructors not endorsed by the FAA would be more suitable to pilots who have already completed an FAA-approved course, giving them a solid base in the industry.
All Pilots Pass Same Testing
Important to note is that, since the FAA oversees and administers the testing and licensing of all pilots, even those who complete non-approved courses must meet the same testing standards. However, students of non-FAA-approved courses are required to complete additional hours of flight training. As an example, private pilots are required to complete 40 hours of flight training; this number is reduced to 35 for those who complete their schooling with a certified provider.
The FAA suggests that location will likely be the first factor most people consider when choosing a flight school, and suggests that the most expensive program is not always the best. Speaking with prior students, reading industry magazines, and visiting different schools is a great way to learn information. Ask questions of representatives of each school before making a final decision.
Practice Essential For New Pilots
Those interested in pursuing careers in commercial aviation will complete a more-extensive course of study than those whose goal is to gain a recreational license. It is recommended that new pilots fly as often and regularly as possible, in order that skills be retained through practice.
Some may be confident completing their FAA license after 35 or 40 hours of flight training, while others may prefer to continue to train until a higher level of comfort, knowledge, and confidence is achieved. Airplanes need to be piloted by people who are properly trained, 100 percent confident, and operating in a state free of duress. If flying an airplane is your goal, make sure you are this pilot.