My training program follows a logical sequence. Each skill that you learn in the begining will provide a solid foundation for another skill that you learn later in the course. This ‘building block’ method provides a solid foundation for your future piloting experiences. Since each phase builds on what you have learned before, it is important that you complete the phase in proper sequence. However, sometimes a degree of flexibility is necessary. Weather and other factors may make it impractical to conduct a particular flight scenario while another is possible. In this case and ‘out of sequence’ lesson may be completed.
Step 1: Learning when to say NO.
The first thing that we are going to cover is the Preflight. The preflight covers two areas: the aircraft and yourself. I’ll teach you how to make safe “go / no-go” decisions based on a wide variety of situations ranging from the weather, to how you feel, to whether the aircraft is legally airworthy and most importantly safe to fly.
Step 2: Learning your Airplane
In this phase you will learn what makes your airplane fly, and how to control your airplane in flight. This will include ‘basic’ maneuvers like taxiing, takeoffs, flying the aircraft straight and level, turns, climbs and descents, changing airspeeds, “trimming the aircraft”, and flap usage.
Step 3: Improving control
Here you will add to your skill set the “cornerstone” maneuvers that allow you to fly more precisely. You hone the basic skills you have already learned, and develop safety habits that will serve you well through your flying career. You should also have gotten your medical examination done by this stage.
Step 4: Takeoffs and Landings
After you demonstrate proficiency with the “cornerstone” maneuvers, we will cover airport operations, radio communications, airport traffic pattern operations, and take offs and landings. We will also review stalls, slow flight, and steep turns from time to time to make sure that you don’t forget how to do the maneuvers.
Step 5: Your First Solo!!
Once you can demonstrate consistent SAFE landings, as well as proficiency with airport operations and radio communications, you will then be given the ability to fly the aircraft on your own. This is a decision that I don’t take lightly, and I will NOT force you in to flying the aircraft on your own until you feel comfortable doing so. Everyone is nervous the first time they solo, I know I was way back when, but the feeling you get once you’ve actually done it, is truly indescribable and you will cherish that memory for the rest of your life.
Step 7: Cross Country Flights
Up to this point, you have learned how to control the aircraft, and learned the theories of cross country planning, and navigation. In this step you will use all that you have learned so far into practice, and fly to destinations that will fill your training requirements. Once you demonstrate proficiency in utilizing the skills you will learn, you will then be allowed to perform your “Solo Cross Country Flight”.
Step 8: Flying at Night
In this phase you will discover what night flying is all about, by taking both local and cross country flights at night so that you become aware of the safety aspects of night flying
Step 9: Polishing your skills, and you Check Ride
While we are working on cross countries, I will also have to solo the aircraft from your base airport to other airports in the local area to satisfy your solo hours requirement. Once you have performed your solo cross country we will do a few review flights and ground sessions to prepare you for your check ride. The check ride is absolutely nothing to worry about. I have personally selected a few examiners that I find to be especially un-intimidating and extremely fair. Once you complete your check ride you will be a fully certified Private Pilot! You’ll look back on your journey and be glad you took it!