Archive for the ‘learn’ tag
Aopa Flight School Search
Aopa Flight School Search
Start Flying Lessons: A Step-by-Step Guide
Taking the initiative to start flying lessons is relatively easy but unfortunately the steps to getting there are not very clear, and if you don’t do your homework, you might run into obstacles further down the road. There are two types of flight schools (Part 61 and 141) and it’s important to know the difference. Part 141 follows a strict syllabus and monitored closed by the FAA. Part 61 doesn’t require a syllabus and the FAA doesn’t monitor them as closely as compared to a Part 141 school.
Step 1: Locate Nearby Schools
I would recommend using a combined search on Google and on AOPA’s Flight Training Directory. You can find the link to this at the end of the article.
Step 2: Selecting a Quality School, Not Quantity
Review their websites, avoid any offers that you sense are misleading, and call up the schools to take a tour of their facility.
Step 3: The Tour
Your goal is to get a feel for the operations at the flight school, flight training aircraft, and the employees. I suggest trying to meet the flight instructors individually as opposed to a group setting. You should ask him/her questions to get a feel for their values and goals in aviation. Some examples include:
1. “How long have you been instructing?”
2. “What are your goals in aviation?”
3. “How long does it normally take to attain a Private Pilot Certificate?”
Those are some basic but key questions you want to ask the CFI.
When looking at the aircraft the flight school uses, don’t be afraid to ask questions. It is beneficial for you and good feedback for the flight school.
Step 4: Take an Introductory Flight
Now that you have a flight school in mind and possibly an instructor, ask to take an Introductory Flight.
If you are satisfied with the flight school, the instructors, and the aircraft then you are ready to move on to…
Step 5: Take on an Exciting Adventure
Now it’s up to you to follow your flight instructor’s guidance by purchasing books, headset, and other essential items to use throughout your rating.
I wish you the best of luck in your flying endeavors!
AOPA Flight Training Directory - http://flighttraining.aopa.org/learntofly/school/flight_schools/
About the Author
An alumnus of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL, where he majored in Aeronautical Science (Professional Pilot). He is now a Professional Flight Instructor operating out of Greenville Downtown Airport in Greenville, SC.
Anthony Larson
http://www.greenvilleflighttraining.com
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