subject: Follow The Footsteps Of Your Flight Instructor [print this page] An aspiring pilot, before he gets where he is at today, passes through a couple of hardships. That is why it is as if he is floating on Cloud 9 when he is up there in the sky, almost literally speaking. Most of the time, that sheer bliss and confidence come from the fact that there is a Certified Flight Instructor, or CFI, who is at your side.
There will surely come a time that you know in your heart, soul, and mind that you are ready. But, how can you convince your instructor that you really are? This is another challenge that students face as they get their private pilot certificate. One pilot, Jason Schappert, recalled his experience, and believed that there are three essentials that will help you get that very much coveted certificate. He, too, had a hard time, but his readiness got the better of him. As a result, he passed.
Of course, it is important to prepare yourself. Master what can be mastered. Be an expert of whatever you can be an expert of. It is enough that you know a lot. You must also be able to apply them and show them during your practical examinations. Put yourself in "what if" scenarios, and imagine yourself as if you are in an emergency. Run different procedures through your head. You never know what question might be asked of you.
Also, it is enough that you are pure knowledgeable. You must also be adept in applying the lessons that you learned. Knowing everything about the cross- country route, especially its flight plan, is very helpful. Anticipate the worst, and prepare back- up plans. Being overly prepared and well- informed is not a bad thing at all because any kind of question can be thrown at you, and you must answer it at all costs.A private pilot check ride is very much likened to a job interview. You are judged and considered according to your appearance and performance.
Therefore, you must win the hearts of your instructors with your confidence, vast knowledge, and professionalism. Once you are inside the cockpit, it is pure business. Just fly the plane as you were taught how to do so, and do not mess around.As a student, it is definitely a plus point when you have humility. It is understood. You are just starting out. You are figuring out your way on how to operate things and do them for real. It is completely to have a temporary mental block, and forget a lesson or two. However, you have to be humble enough to admit this. Also, acknowledge the fact that you still need to learn some more. You, together with your examiners, should not expect that you will become an expert pilot overnight.
