Flight Training
If you've ever dreamt of becoming a commercial pilot, or flying a plane for recreation, flight training is the first step to getting those dreams off the ground. Flight training consist of in-air training that focuses on the mechanics of steering an aircraft and ground training, which teaches the practical aspects of safe flying. Flight training can be ongoing, as pilots need to renew their licenses ever few years or may take specialized training to further their careers.
Anyone who wants to become a pilot must take part in a certified fight training program, log a specific number of flight hours and pass a combined written, oral and practical exam to receive a pilot's license, also referred to as an Airman's Certificate. The Airman's Certificate can be issued at several different levels of skill and specifies what class and category of aircraft the pilot is qualified to fly. Classes of airplanes include single- or multi-engine, land or sea, while categories include airplanes, gliders and balloons.
The number of flight hours and required components of the flight training program vary from country to country, and depending on the type of pilot's license you want. Some licenses require only 35 hours of in-flight training, but others require as much as 250 hours. In Canada, pilot's licenses are issued by Transport Canada, in the United States they are governed by the Federal Aviation Administration, and in the United Kingdom they're approved by the Civil Aviation Authority. Visit the website of your country's organization to verify the requirements for your area and ensure that they endorse the training program you plan to use.
Many different Airman's Certificates are available including student, sport, recreational, private, commercial and airline transport pilot's licences. Regardless of which license you pursue, ground training should cover basic aspects of flying like principles of flight, flight regulations, meteorology, navigation, radio communication, flight instruments, human factors, and medical certification. Some licensing agencies expect ground training to take place in a classroom. Others will accept home study through online learning or correspondence courses.
The most common types of flight schools are college centred programs, flight centre schools, and smaller independent schools. College programs are best for students who want to complete a two or four year degree with a well-rounded knowledge of the aviation industry while obtaining their flight training. Large flight centre schools are usually run out of an airport and may lead to employment opportunities with a particular airline or company, making them ideal for commercial and private pilots. Independent schools are run out of smaller airports and aerodromes and may be able to provide training specifically tailored to the needs of each student more easily than larger programs. These schools are also suitable for those wanting a commercial or private license.
When choosing a flight school start by obtaining information on all the flight training schools in your area that fit your needs. Narrow your selections down to about three or four schools and visit them in person. Talk with former graduates and instructors to get their impressions of the program. Consider the cost of each program and what you'll be receiving for your money. Flight training takes time and can be expensive. It pays to do some research before you take to the sky.