Flight training consists of a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-fly training. Pilot school takes only 18 to 24 months to complete, and upon graduation, the pilot receives private and commercial pilot certificates, as well as an instrument rating and a multi-engine rating. Classroom instruction is fairly straightforward, and students should expect to learn practical application methods of concepts taught during the courses during flight training.
Aerodynamics, airplane systems, airports, airspace, airplane performance, aeromedical factors, and aircraft weight and balance are among the subjects covered in flight school. Students should expect to learn about the conditions that affect the plane, such as weather and meteorology, in addition to learning about the plane itself. Additionally, pilot students must learn how to control the airplane, which can be learned through courses in navigation, flight operations, and cross-country flying. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations must be followed at all times, and students should expect to learn about the FAA and its rules during flight training.
For a pilot to succeed, basic math skills and simple algebra are required. During a flight, he or she will be able to estimate climbs and descents using this information. Modern aircraft, of course, usually have management systems that can crunch the numbers for you, but it’s always good to know the basics in case the technology fails or an emergency situation necessitates quick calculations.
Prospective pilots will become comfortable on the plane and eventually in the cockpit during the aviation training component of a flight training program. Students should expect to begin flight training by inspecting the aircraft before each flight, at least at first. Eventually, aspiring pilots will be able to assist with taxiing to the runway, flying around the airport traffic pattern, communicating via radio, flying in a variety of weather conditions, and landing the plane. The flight student will begin by observing a more experienced pilot perform these tasks. As the student gains confidence and skill, the instructor should gradually hand over control to him or her.
When a student flies alone for the first time during flight training, he or she should expect to be supervised by the pilot; if all goes well, the student can then fly alone and unsupervised, gaining confidence as a result of the experience. The flight student should practice at the airport several times in various weather conditions. Cross-country flight practice, which involves broadening one’s aeronautical horizons, is the next step in flight training for students. The student is now ready to take the pilot exam. If he or she passes, the flight student receives a pilot license and is now qualified to fly an airplane.