4 Steps to Building Your Flight Training Foundation

There are 4 basic steps to excel in flight training. By following these steps you will build yourself a clear foundation and have a higher chance at a solid future in aviation. In order to learn to fly, you must always have a plan.

Step 1: Write down your flying goals

You need to have a clear understanding of why you want to fly. Is your passion for flying related to business, or a career? You need to have an exact picture of what you want so you can choose a flight training program that is right for you. You will never succeed in anything unless you begin with the end goal in mind. Ask yourself if the cost of your flight training is your priority, or whether you want the most quality education, and what kind of facilities you would like to have access to, or if you want a location close to home.

Step 2: Earn your Recreational or Private Pilot Certificate

You may receive your Recreational or Private Pilot Certificate is the first certificate you will receive at the minimum age of 17. The Recreational Pilot Certificate will allow you fly as Pilot In Command (PIC) with several restrictions. These include:

• Sharing the cost of flight with passengers
• Cannot accept charge or compensation for flight
• Only 1 passenger at a time
• Only fly during the daytime
• No flying farther than 50 miles
• No flying at airports that require radio communications

The Private Pilot Certificate offers much less restrictions and is therefore a more popular choice among novice pilots in training. This certificate is similar but allows you to be Pilot In Command, carry multiple passengers, and fly during day or night.

Step 3: Instrument Rating

The next step towards building your flight training foundation is Instrument Rating. This allows you to fly under Instrument Flight Rules, where you will hone your flying skills in all weather conditions. You will train to learn to control and navigate an aircraft entirely by flight instruments rather than outside environmental reference. Instrument Rating will equip you with the experience and skills to fly in low ceiling or visibility condition. It is required for a career.

Step 4: Multi Engine Rating

The fourth basic step to honing your flight training foundation is obtaining your Multi Engine Rating. This will allow you to fly a plane built with more than one engine. While require for a career as a professional pilot, this rating will teach you how to safely navigate and land the airplane in case one of the engines fails.
By building a foundation with a particular set of skills, you will increase your chances of having a successful career in aviation. By mastering these techniques and obtaining these certificates, you will be well on your way towards becoming a successful pilot.