subject: Learning To Fly A Plane And Obtaining A Pilot License [print this page] Today, the aviation sector is growing at a breakneck speed. Vast improvements in aviation technology and sophistication have happened during the past few decades. Likewise, the number of people who use flights for their travel has been increasing by leaps and bounds. So, there is a huge demand for competent pilots. Considering the potential of the aviation sector, many people wish to learn to fly to become pilots. If you want to learn flying a plane, you should first get introduced to this experience by scheduling an introductory flight.
You should first obtain a private pilot license, also known as the PPL. There will be a flight school examination before obtaining this license. For passing this examination, you need to undergo a ground training course in which you will learn aerodynamics and all about the aircraft systems. In addition to them, you will study airport operations and regulations allied with radio communications. You should prepare well for the test because the examination will cover all the materials you are taught in the class. Likewise, you cannot take the test for the pilot license without the written authorization of your flight instructor.
Before taking the test, you should have had flight training of at least 40 hours. The instructor should have been present with you in the cockpit for a minimum of 20 hours. You should have undertaken at least 3 hours of cross-country flight and 3 hours of night flight. There should be 10 takeoffs and landings during the night flights. Flight training should also consist of three hours of instrument training. You should have devoted a minimum of three hours for preparing yourself for the practical skills test. Your flight instructor will use the remaining hours for giving you focused tips for maneuvers, if he feels that there is such a necessity. It is better you devote more hours than these prescribed hours so that you can take the test confidently.
Once you complete the airman knowledge test that may cover all the materials you have learned during your ground-training course and the practical skills test, you will be issued a temporary pilot license. You should remember that the practical skills test will have an oral examination and a "check ride". The examiner of your knowledge test will have found out your weak areas from your performance in the test and hence, your oral test will mostly focus on these weak points. So, you should put forth all your efforts and be thorough with whatever you have learned in your ground-training classes. During the "check-ride", the examiner of the aviation department will ride along with you when you will be piloting the plane. The examiner may observe your operational skills and check if you follow the regulations strictly. Only if the examiner is satisfied with your skills, you will get your temporary pilot's certificate that is valid for 4 months.
