Like most children, they are confident to do and try out anything because they know that their parents are right beside them. Our parents are always with us, looking over us and making sure that we do not get ourselves into any kind of trouble. That is the same scenario in aviation. Students get the chance to fly planes for the first time, but not without a Certified Flight Instructor, or CFI. Their instructors must always be with them because they are not yet that skillful to be left alone. There is still a high chance that a problem might occur. If ever this happens, at least, the CFI can man the wheel, and will prevent further damage.
Along the course of a student's training, there will be a time when he has learned enough, and can be independent. But, how will you show that to your instructor? The answer is through getting your private pilot certificate. You have to successfully pass the private pilot check ride to earn it. Jason Schappert, a successful pilot, was nervous, but fought it and worked hard to get the certificate, which he did. He stood by the belief that there are three things that you must do and have with you.
One of the keys to success is preparation. Hone your skills to the sharpest you can. Store as much knowledge as possible. Ask yourself questions that might be asked of you. It is good to think of possible problems that might happen, and look for solutions for them. Do not rely on your lessons and mental ability. You also have to pass the "application" part. There is no such thing as "too much" when you are preparing for that big test. Actually, that is more advisable.
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.
Because you are still a student, no one expects you to know everything. Therefore, it is absolutely normal and fine to make mistakes. Be humble. Admit that you still need to learn some more, or that you forgot one important lesson. That will not make you less of a pilot. You are just starting out, anyway.
It's time for you to Learn to Fly! Don't know where to start? I recommend The Private Pilot Blueprint as a great free resource.
categories: aviation, aerospace, flying, hobbies, airplane, pilot
