How to Prepare for Flight School
If you’ve made the decision to get your pilot’s license you’re likely preparing for flight school. Whether you’re pursuing a career as a commercial pilot, or just getting your private license, there are some things you can start doing now before you start flight school. They aren’t required, but they can help you feel more prepared and confident once you begin your flight school training.
Math and Physics Review
The math you’ll encounter during flight school is not overly complicated. However, if you’re out of practice it can feel overwhelming. Try to practice mental arithmetic, review basic geometry, and look at center of mass calculations. Just revisiting these and sharpening your math muscles can really help out a lot once you encounter math and physics during your training.
Practice on a Desktop Flight Simulator
Desktop flight simulators will not give you the same experience as the flight simulators you’ll find on campus, but they’re a great intro into how simulators work. They’re also a lot of fun. If you can read and learn the pre-fligh lessons you’ll come to flight school with a leg up. Adding a joystick and rudder pedals will give you the best home flight simulator experience.
Study the Phonetic Alphabet
You’ll need to memorize the phonetic alphabet. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. You’ll get to the point where you’ll say it instinctevely. Get comfortable with saying terms like “Bravo 4” and “Hotel Echo Foxtrot.” Print the phonetic alphabet out and try practicing it on your friends.
Buy a Flight Journal
Your flight journal is as important as your logbook. Flight journaling will become a part of your daily routine every time you fly. Going over your flight and actively recalling your performance gives you mental imagery and feedback that leads to future improvement. It’s just like athletes that review game film.
Keep a Schedule
Depending on your goals flight school can be intensive and time-consuming. It’s hard work and you’ll need to schedule appropriate study time and review time for lessons. Studying reinforces lessons, and builds your confidence. The more detailed and organized you are, the better pilot you’ll be.
Are You Ready for Flight School?
CTI has two campuses to choose from. We have one in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and another in Memphis, Tennessee. Schedule a tour and see in person what we have to offer. There’s nothing more exciting than a career in aviation!