Whether we like it or not, all of us have to face Examination or ‘test’ flights at some time in our flying career, and they are a necessary part of becoming and remaining a safe and competent pilot. As pilots gain and maintain additional ratings and maybe instructor / examiner qualifications, the number of potential …
Learning to fly is expensive. Take a look at our post on the cost of becoming a pilot for evidence of that. One tip we have for keeping your costs down is to invest in one of the top PPL Starter Packs. Flight training study kits bundle together important equipment, which works out much cheaper …
Once you have your finances in order and you’ve committed to the PPL(A), you’ll begin to feel a mixture of excitement and nerves. Something you’ll ponder is: “What’s the hardest or most challenging parts of the PPL(A) course?” or, “What’s the most difficult aspect of the PPL(A) to get your head around?”. These are precisely the …
Here’s a question that’s asked by just about everyone that’s interested in flying: “how much does it cost to learn how to fly?” or “how much does it cost to become a pilot?”. And rightfully so — learning to fly is a huge financial commitment. In this post we’re going to run you through all …
When most people talk about obtaining a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL), the default tends to assume that this will be done on a fixed wing aeroplane. Planes have been around a while longer than helicopters, so perhaps this is natural. Attempting to change a well-established thought process will be no mean feat! However here’s a …
When you begin your Private Pilot Licence (PPL) course it’s hard to know what flight equipment you really need to buy. Apart from a few aviation blogs and forums, there isn’t much information on this topic. But I’ve been in this position myself — and I’m able to advise you on what flight equipment is …
If you haven’t yet read our Introduction to Flying, then we recommend giving it at least a precursory browse. What follows is a Q&A outlining precisely what’s involved in the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) course from start to finish. What Is The Private Pilot Licence (PPL)? PPL stands for ‘Private Pilots Licence’, and it’s effectively the aviation equivalent …
As a pilot you’ll be flying in UK, and perhaps other nations’ airspace. Some parts of that airspace are under the jurisdiction of air traffic control units, whilst other parts aren’t. The aviation community must be aware of the procedures & principles outlined, and abide by them. These rules (or “procedures”) are there to ensure that …
As a pilot it’s imperative that have a clear perspective of your aircraft’s capabilities. It’s crucial that you know how well — or how badly — your aircraft is performing during the different phases of flight. By studying flight performance & planning during your PPL(A) you’ll learn to understand the performance potential and limitations of your aircraft. Recommended …
Private Pilots operate as the pilot in command (PIC) of a single pilot aircraft. But they must also be the navigator, too. So it’s critical that they’re able to apply the correct practices to navigational tasks — especially during cross country flights. Developing navigational skills is the very essence of single pilot flying; hence the importance of the …
Weather affects flying. That’s why the PPL(A) course includes a specific examination in Meteorology. The subject aims to ensure that throughout their flying career, pilots make informed decisions based on prevailing or forecast weather conditions. All Pilots must understand weather theory and be able to interpret weather briefing forms or “documents”. Recommended Books £16.10 From Amazon …
Human factors influence the safety and efficiency of flying operations. A thorough understanding of the ‘Human Performance & Limitations’ subject is therefore an essential part of the PPL(A) syllabus. Pilots need the knowledge taught in this part of the course to develop high standards of airmanship. These skills carry through from private pilot all the way …
The ‘Communications’ PPL(A) subject focuses on VHF (Very High Frequency) Communications. In this module students learn the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for using radio telephony (RT) equipment. This course is suitable for students who have no prior knowledge or experience of RT. Recommended Books £20 From Amazon Communications PPL(A) Overview The course familiarises students on: The Civil …
As a pilot you’ll be flying in UK, and perhaps other nations’ airspace. Some parts of that airspace are under the jurisdiction of air traffic control units, whilst other parts aren’t. The aviation community must be aware of procedures & principles outlined, and abide by them. These rules (or “procedures”) are there to ensure that pilots are …
The PPL(A) Aircraft General Knowledge course is theoretical and covers the essential components of a modern light aircraft. Learning the basics of an aircraft’s electrical, mechanical and hydraulic systems, as well its engine and instrumentation, are all part of the syllabus. Recommended Books £16.10 From Amazon Aircraft General Knowledge PPL(A) Overview The course …
Principles of Flight is a scientific PPL(A) subject covering all aspects of operating aircrafts in a safe manner. It aims to ensure that pilots stay within the confines of the manufacturer’s guidelines for the given aircraft type. Recommended Books £16.10 From Amazon Principles Of Flight PPL(A) Overview To be successful at this module students need …
The MR-1 Diversion Ruler/Plotter was developed to assist both student and experienced pilots in navigation under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions. It makes flight diversions easy. It’s the perfect tool for aviation students undertaking their Private Pilot Licence (PPL), or Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) — especially if you’re getting towards the end of your navigation experience (see Navigation …
All pilot licences require a medical certificate or medical declaration. You’re allowed to have trial flights and initial lessons prior to completing your medical examination. But if you intend on committing to a full training programme then it’s wise to have your medical check done beforehand. Introduction to Flight Medical Requirements The medical certificate is not …
It’s confusing when you’re starting out as a student pilot. There’s so much information to absorb. Hopefully this post will clarify one big question: “What’s the difference between the PPL and LAPL?” A PPL vs LAPL comparison follows… 1. Training EASA LAPL: 30 hours flight training, 6 hours solo of which 3 hours must be …
Aircrafts are divided into two categories for licencing purposes: EASA Aircrafts, and Non-EASA Aircrafts. This classification applies to types of aircraft, not individual aeroplanes. So who are the EASA? The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is an agency within the European Union. They’re responsible for regulatory and executive tasks in the field of civilian aviation safety. European pilots …